Shanghai

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Extracurricular Activities

Sections

1. Academic Enrichment Programs

Shanghai is known for its strong emphasis on education, and there are numerous academic extracurricular options for children, teenagers, and adults.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

  • Programs Offered: Robotics, coding, math enrichment, science experiments, and engineering workshops.
  • Popular Providers:
    • First Code Academy: Offers coding and robotics classes for children aged 4–18.
    • RoboCode Academy: Focuses on robotics and AI for kids and teens.
  • Costs:
    • Group classes: RMB 200–500 per session.
    • Private lessons: RMB 500–1,000 per hour.
  • Enrollment: Visit the provider’s website or contact them directly. Many offer trial classes.
  • Local Considerations: STEM programs are highly competitive, and some may require an assessment before enrollment.

Tutoring and Test Prep

  • Programs Offered: SAT/ACT prep, IB/AP tutoring, and general academic support in subjects like math, English, and Mandarin.
  • Popular Providers:
    • New Oriental Education: Offers test prep and academic tutoring.
    • The Edge Learning Center: Specializes in international curriculum support.
  • Costs:
    • Group classes: RMB 300–800 per session.
    • Private tutoring: RMB 600–1,500 per hour.
  • Enrollment: Online registration or in-person at the center.
  • Local Considerations: Many tutoring centers cater to international school students, so ensure the curriculum aligns with your child’s school.

2. Arts and Creative Activities

Shanghai has a thriving arts scene, and there are plenty of opportunities for children and adults to explore their creative side.

Visual Arts

  • Programs Offered: Painting, drawing, sculpture, digital art, and photography.
  • Popular Providers:
    • Art+ Shanghai: Offers art classes for children and adults.
    • Craft’d Shanghai: Focuses on arts and crafts workshops.
  • Costs:
    • Group classes: RMB 150–400 per session.
    • Private lessons: RMB 500–1,000 per hour.
  • Enrollment: Book through their website or WeChat account.
  • Local Considerations: Materials are often included in the cost, but confirm beforehand.

Performing Arts

  • Programs Offered: Dance (ballet, hip-hop, traditional Chinese dance), music (piano, violin, guitar), and drama.
  • Popular Providers:
    • Concord Music: Offers music lessons for all ages.
    • Shanghai International Dance Center: Provides dance classes for children and adults.
    • Shanghai School of Drama: Offers acting workshops for teenagers.
  • Costs:
    • Music lessons: RMB 300–800 per session.
    • Dance classes: RMB 200–500 per session.
  • Enrollment: Contact the provider directly or register online.
  • Local Considerations: For music lessons, you may need to purchase or rent an instrument.

3. Sports and Physical Activities

Sports are an integral part of extracurricular life in Shanghai, with options ranging from traditional Chinese martial arts to international sports.

Martial Arts

  • Programs Offered: Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and Wushu.
  • Popular Providers:
    • Jingwu Sports Center: Offers traditional Chinese martial arts classes.
    • Shanghai Wushu Academy: Focuses on Wushu and Tai Chi.
  • Costs: RMB 150–300 per session.
  • Enrollment: Walk-in registration or online booking.
  • Local Considerations: Martial arts classes often emphasize discipline and cultural values.

Team Sports

  • Programs Offered: Soccer, basketball, rugby, and swimming.
  • Popular Providers:
    • Sport for Life Shanghai: Offers soccer and basketball programs for kids.
    • Shanghai Dolphins Swim Club: Provides swimming lessons for all ages.
  • Costs:
    • Group classes: RMB 200–400 per session.
    • Private coaching: RMB 500–1,000 per hour.
  • Enrollment: Register through their website or WeChat.
  • Local Considerations: Some programs are seasonal, so check schedules in advance.

4. Language Learning

Shanghai is a multicultural city, and language learning is a popular extracurricular activity for both children and adults.

Mandarin for Non-Native Speakers

  • Programs Offered: Beginner to advanced Mandarin classes, HSK preparation.
  • Popular Providers:
    • Mandarin House: Offers classes for children and adults.
    • That’s Mandarin: Focuses on immersive learning experiences.
  • Costs:
    • Group classes: RMB 200–400 per session.
    • Private lessons: RMB 500–1,200 per hour.
  • Enrollment: Online or in-person registration.
  • Local Considerations: Many programs include cultural activities like calligraphy or tea ceremonies.

Other Languages

  • Programs Offered: French, Spanish, Japanese, and more.
  • Popular Providers:
    • Alliance Française de Shanghai: Offers French classes for all ages.
    • Goethe-Institut Shanghai: Provides German language courses.
  • Costs: RMB 200–500 per session.
  • Enrollment: Register online or at the institute.
  • Local Considerations: Classes often follow the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

5. Cultural and Community Activities

Shanghai offers unique opportunities to explore Chinese culture and engage with the local community.

Cultural Workshops

  • Programs Offered: Calligraphy, Chinese painting, tea ceremonies, and traditional crafts.
  • Popular Providers:
    • Shanghai Culture Square: Hosts cultural workshops for families.
    • Mandarin House Cultural Programs: Includes cultural activities alongside language learning.
  • Costs: RMB 100–300 per session.
  • Enrollment: Book through their website or WeChat.
  • Local Considerations: These workshops are a great way to immerse yourself in Chinese culture.

Volunteer Opportunities

  • Programs Offered: Environmental conservation, teaching English, and community service.
  • Popular Providers:
    • HandsOn Shanghai: Connects volunteers with local projects.
    • Green Initiatives: Focuses on sustainability and environmental education.
  • Costs: Free or minimal fees for materials.
  • Enrollment: Sign up online or attend an orientation session.
  • Local Considerations: Volunteering is a great way to meet locals and give back to the community.

6. Enrollment Tips and Cultural Considerations

  • WeChat: Most providers use WeChat for communication, registration, and payment. Download the app and familiarize yourself with its features.
  • Trial Classes: Many programs offer trial classes for a small fee or for free. Take advantage of these to find the right fit.
  • Language Barrier: While many programs cater to expats and offer English-speaking staff, some may require basic Mandarin skills.
  • Seasonal Programs: Some activities, especially sports, follow seasonal schedules. Plan ahead to secure a spot.
  • Parent Involvement: For children’s activities, parents are often encouraged to participate or observe, especially for younger age groups.

Shanghai’s diverse range of extracurricular activities ensures that there is something for everyone, whether you’re looking to enhance academic skills, explore the arts, stay active, or immerse yourself in Chinese culture. With careful planning and an open mind, you and your family can make the most of these enriching opportunities!