On 19 August 2024, ELFA Preschool was highlighted in The Straits Times Smart Parenting section. The article discussed the growing demand for programmes emphasising the Chinese language and culture in Singapore, a trend observed among local and expatriate families.

Some preschools, including ELFA, offer programmes that immerse children, starting as young as two months old, more intensively in Chinese. ELFA was spotlighted for our Chinese programmes and our engagement of children in Mandarin for the majority of the day. Beyond language, the article notes our introduction of Chinese culture to children through activities like calligraphy, traditional Chinese painting, Tang poetry, and Di Zi Gui—a historical guide on being a good pupil and child.

Expatriate parents enrolling their children in these programmes often seek to build a strong foundation in Chinese in preparation for Primary 1. Others, like Mr. Maxime Jouineau, a parent at ELFA Preschool, understand the challenges foreign learners face when acquiring Mandarin later in life. To give his son, Ayden, an early advantage, he and his wife, Ms. Sabrina Mimoune, enrolled Ayden starting from infant care and saw his promotion to the pre-nursery level.

There is also a growing awareness among parents that Mandarin proficiency is a valuable asset for today’s global citizens. With an increased focus on early language acquisition, more parents are starting their children’s Mandarin education in their early years. ELFA is ideal for parents looking to gift their children a strong Mandarin foundation.

Read the full article here.