Shenzhen

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Extracurricular Activities

Sections

1. Academic Enrichment Programs

Shenzhen has a strong focus on academic excellence, and there are numerous programs designed to supplement school education for children and teenagers.

Language Classes

  • Mandarin Chinese: Many language schools and cultural centers offer Mandarin classes for expatriate children and adults. These programs often include cultural immersion activities like calligraphy and Chinese history.

    • Popular Providers: Mandarin House, That's Mandarin, and local community centers.
    • Cost: RMB 150โ€“300 per hour for private lessons; group classes are cheaper (RMB 80โ€“150 per hour).
    • Enrollment: Online registration through the providerโ€™s website or in-person visits.
    • Cultural Note: Language learning is highly valued in China, and locals appreciate efforts to learn Mandarin.

  • English and Other Languages: For local students, English tutoring is popular. International schools and private tutors also offer French, Spanish, and other language classes.

    • Popular Providers: EF Education First, Wall Street English, and private tutors.
    • Cost: RMB 200โ€“400 per hour for private lessons.

Math and Science Tutoring

  • Math Olympiad and Advanced Math: Programs designed to prepare students for competitive exams and improve problem-solving skills.

    • Popular Providers: Kumon, Mathnasium, and local tutoring centers.
    • Cost: RMB 1,000โ€“2,000 per month for weekly sessions.
    • Enrollment: Contact the center directly or register online.

  • STEM-focused Academic Programs: See the STEM section below for more details.

Test Preparation

  • International Exams: SAT, ACT, IELTS, and TOEFL preparation courses are widely available for teenagers planning to study abroad.
    • Popular Providers: New Oriental Education, Kaplan, and local international schools.
    • Cost: RMB 5,000โ€“15,000 for a full course.
    • Enrollment: Online or in-person registration.

2. Arts and Creative Programs

Shenzhen has a vibrant arts scene, and there are many opportunities for children and teenagers to explore their creative side.

Music

  • Instrument Lessons: Piano, violin, guitar, and traditional Chinese instruments like the guzheng and erhu are popular choices.

    • Popular Providers: Yamaha Music School, Shenzhen Arts School, and private tutors.
    • Cost: RMB 200โ€“500 per hour for private lessons; group lessons are cheaper.
    • Enrollment: Contact the school or tutor directly.
    • Cultural Note: Music education is highly regarded in China, and many parents encourage their children to learn an instrument.

  • Choirs and Bands: International schools and local community centers often have choirs and bands for children and teenagers.

Visual Arts

  • Painting, Drawing, and Calligraphy: Art studios and cultural centers offer classes in Western and Chinese art styles.
    • Popular Providers: Shenzhen Art School, local art studios, and community centers.
    • Cost: RMB 100โ€“300 per session.
    • Enrollment: Visit the studio or register online.

Dance

  • Ballet, Hip-Hop, and Traditional Chinese Dance: Dance schools cater to a variety of styles.
    • Popular Providers: Shenzhen Dance Academy, local dance studios.
    • Cost: RMB 1,000โ€“2,000 per month for weekly classes.
    • Enrollment: Contact the school directly.

Drama and Theater

  • Acting Classes: Drama programs are available at international schools and private academies.
    • Popular Providers: Drama Kids International, local theater groups.
    • Cost: RMB 1,500โ€“3,000 per term.
    • Enrollment: Online or in-person registration.

3. Sports and Physical Activities

Shenzhen offers a wide range of sports programs for children, teenagers, and adults, reflecting the city's active lifestyle.

Martial Arts

  • Kung Fu, Taekwondo, and Judo: Martial arts are popular for building discipline and physical fitness.
    • Popular Providers: Local martial arts schools, community centers.
    • Cost: RMB 800โ€“1,500 per month.
    • Enrollment: Visit the school or register online.
    • Cultural Note: Martial arts are deeply rooted in Chinese culture and are a great way to connect with local traditions.

Team Sports

  • Soccer, Basketball, and Volleyball: Many international schools and sports clubs offer team sports programs.
    • Popular Providers: Shenzhen Youth Soccer League, local sports academies.
    • Cost: RMB 1,000โ€“2,000 per term.
    • Enrollment: Contact the club or school directly.

Swimming

  • Swimming Lessons: Available at local pools and sports centers.
    • Popular Providers: Shenzhen Bay Sports Center, local swimming schools.
    • Cost: RMB 100โ€“300 per session.
    • Enrollment: Register at the sports center.

Other Activities

  • Tennis, Badminton, and Table Tennis: Popular individual sports with lessons available at sports clubs.
    • Cost: RMB 200โ€“400 per session.

4. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Programs

Shenzhen, as a tech hub, offers excellent STEM programs for children and teenagers.

Robotics and Coding

  • Robotics Classes: Programs teach children how to build and program robots.

    • Popular Providers: First Robotics Shenzhen, RoboCode Academy.
    • Cost: RMB 2,000โ€“5,000 per term.
    • Enrollment: Online or in-person registration.

  • Coding Classes: Python, Java, and Scratch programming for kids and teens.

    • Popular Providers: Le Wagon Shenzhen, local coding academies.
    • Cost: RMB 1,500โ€“3,000 per term.

Science Experiments and Engineering

  • Hands-on STEM Workshops: Focused on practical experiments and engineering challenges.
    • Popular Providers: STEM Education Center Shenzhen, local international schools.
    • Cost: RMB 1,000โ€“2,500 per term.

5. Enrollment Procedures

  • Online Registration: Most providers have websites or WeChat accounts where you can register.
  • In-person Visits: Some smaller providers require you to visit their location to enroll.
  • International Schools: If your child attends an international school, many extracurricular activities are offered as part of the schoolโ€™s program.

6. Costs and Accessibility

  • Costs: Prices vary widely depending on the activity, provider, and whether the lessons are private or group-based. Discounts are often available for long-term commitments.
  • Accessibility: Many programs are available in English, especially those targeting expatriates. However, some local programs may only be offered in Mandarin.

7. Cultural Considerations

  • Parental Involvement: Chinese parents are often highly involved in their childrenโ€™s extracurricular activities, so you may notice a competitive atmosphere in some programs.
  • Punctuality and Discipline: Being on time and following rules are important in Chinese culture, especially in educational settings.
  • Festivals and Holidays: Some programs may pause during major Chinese holidays like Spring Festival.

8. Adult Programs

For adults, Shenzhen offers language classes, art workshops, fitness programs, and coding bootcamps. These are great opportunities to learn new skills and meet people in the community.

By exploring these options, you can find enriching extracurricular activities for children, teenagers, and even yourself in Shenzhen. Whether youโ€™re looking for academic support, creative outlets, or physical activities, Shenzhen has something for everyone!