SCCL Launches New Children’s Book to Foster Bilingual Reading

The Singapore Centre for Chinese Language (SCCL) recently launched its newest children’s book, “Oh Dear! Santa’s Reindeers Need a Break.” Written by Dr Cheng Wan-Ni and illustrated by Patrick Yee, this heartwarming tale, set against the backdrop of Christmas and infused with Singaporean cultural elements, aims to promote bilingual literacy in Chinese and English among preschoolers.

Dr Cheng Wan-Ni giving her opening speech and sharing her inspiration in writing the book.

The book launched at the Central Public Library attracted around 50 attendees, including parents, children, and staff. Dr Cheng Wan-Ni, Dean of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) and Senior Lecturer at SCCL, shared insights into the creative process and the book’s intended impact. Like all its earlier series, the theme anchors on the main character, Santa Claus, while uniquely integrating his tale into the much relatable Singapore’s context. This stirs the children’s curiosity to find out more about the story, expanding their imagination and evoke the love for reading.

This collaborative effort between SCCL and Kinderland is a meaningful exploration and practice of innovative approaches in early childhood Chinese teaching and learning. As a research and training institution established by the Ministry of Education and one of the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Centres, SCCL plays a pivotal role in enhancing the effectiveness of teaching Chinese as a second language in Singapore’s bilingual environment. Kinderland is honoured to contribute to promoting early childhood Chinese education, with our teachers bringing stories to life through dramatized performances to engage young learners.

Our Kinderland teachers all dressed up in costumes, dramatizing the story and bringing the story to life!

Kinderland’s teachers employed engaging and interactive storytelling techniques, captivating the young audience and encouraging active participation. With the young readers immersed in the storytelling with characters coming to life, this helps to build a positive interest in the language. The children’s laughter and excitement filled the room, demonstrating the book’s ability to spark joy and imagination.

Children were engaged and interacted with the teachers during storytelling period.

Through this book, Dr Cheng shared her wish to teach children empathy and compassion for people around them. She wants to spread the value of being kind to others and that one must always help others who need help.

This event aligns perfectly with Kinderland’s mission to develop every child to be Communicative. By inspiring children to read and communicate in multiple languages, we are laying a strong foundation for their future success.

This event was featured on 8world on 30 November 2024