How to learn from parents

[irealyhatepozers]

Hi guys,

This is my first post! I'm Chinese and was raised speaking some Cantonese with my parents/grandparents but I speak it very poorly. I started to study Mandarin at my University for a few semesters and now that I've graduated am studying by myself. I use Integrated Chinese Level 2 and ChinesePod Intermediate Level. I'm wondering how I could have my parents help me study (they speak fluently). I feel the most important part of my learning in class was the teachers guided instruction. I know my parents can answer my questions, but aside from that how could they be more helpful to me??

Thanks!

[Shelley]

Hello, I would consider speaking mandarin with them would be most helpful. As an English person in the UK, having someone to talk to is high on my list. I can do lots of studying on my own but my speech suffers as I don't practice with others. I found this one one attraction for taking classes, other people to talk to:) Good luck, Shelley

[xiaotao]

My parents speak Cantonese and English. I learned Chinese by listening to their conversation and watching Chinese TV with them. They did not go out of their way to teach me Chinese. My parents can't help in teaching the grandchildren Mandarin but they help in sharing their experience, answering specific questions. My kids enjoy going to Chinatown with grandma. Grandma is good for going to chinese restaurants and Chinese shops. It's fun to go to the herb shop with her. If your parents have some Chinese hobbies, that would be a great opportunity for you to join in. Some like to go to Chinese church, play chinese games, watch Chinese movies, etc. Go on a trip to Asia with them.

There are so many ways to learn Chinese. You can make lots of progress with with a class, Pleco, internet and self motivation.