Activities
Our camps invite our campers to experience multitudes of fascinating activities. There are so many that we decided to showcase some our terrific events!
We also have a team of reporters who interview the instructors and students after many of the amazing lessons.
Zoom Meetings
Teachers and TA's hold Zoom meetings for a variety of purposes.
Some of the meetings are held by a guest teacher, who brilliantly explains Chinese stories with interesting narration, then interacts with the students, asking questions, and creating fun conversations.
Sometimes, kids learn Chinese songs ranging from old cultural pieces to modern Chinese music. Usually, the campers are taught the intricate meaning behind the lyrics and to sing with each other. It's a buzz of excitement full of chirping voices. In the end, we make compilations of the kids singing together.
Campers sometimes play fun online quiz games, for example, Kahoot!. Kids are challenged with questions, testing what they've learned to compete against one another. Once our TA leader Joy even hosted Kahoot! games with over 100 campers willing to play!
Some Zoom Meetings teach campers Chinese arts and other cultural activities, such as how to create Chinese Papercutting or the Dragon Boat Festival special, ZongZi. It expands the campers' knowledge and curiosity about the deep roots of Chinese culture.
Wechat Interactions
Multiple days a week, camp teachers hold Wechat interactions with teachers, TA's, and campers. The interactions vary in each camp and its specific topic, from basic lecture-like chatting to sharing images and videos or having fun with Wechat's mini-programs. Teachers and campers express their opinions and expand their knowledge of Chinese history, art, festivals, and camp assignments. It's not mandatory that campers participate, but there is a large number of campers that always make sure to attend!
Traditional Activities
Each camp holds these special activities, and they've always been a huge success!
Opening Ceremony:
Briefly before camp begins, students send in an introduction by explaining to everyone who they are, their interests, and their excitement for the next 2 weeks. Others gladly welcome these students with conversations and cute stickers in WeChat. There is a detailed explanation of what to expect for the camp. It's the official beginning of the online summer camp!
Talent Show (as of 7/14 camps, there are no more talent shows)
Usually, in the first week of camp, there is a talent show for campers, TA's, and sometimes teachers to showcase their talents/hobbies. The structure of the event varies, but all in all, students send in videos or pictures of their talents, and everyone else gives their fullest attention. There are musical talents, Chinese dance performances, and unique activities that have bewildered the chats! It's a great way to deepen everyone's friendship!
Closing Ceremony
At the end of the camp, everyone congratulates each other. Though a bit saddening, it's still a heartwarming end.