West 72nd St Studios

HistoryLaurel Project (founded in 1997) believes that learning a new language leads to a different way of seeing the world. New language opens possibilities for cultural understanding and the exchange of ideas. Laurel Project is a Mandarin Chinese language educational program designed for American children to expand their cultural worldview and for Chinese-American children to connect with their heritage. Our mission is to inspire young children with a curiosity and enthusiasm to explore Chinese culture. At Laurel Project we cultivate an engaging environment for learning using folk dance and modern movement, music, drawing, games, and storytelling. The spoken language is emphasized and Chinese character writing is taught. We believe learning a new language leads to a different way of seeing the world. New language opens possibilities for cultural understanding and the exchange of ideas.SpecialtiesThe Laurel Project is New York City's premiere Chinese enrichment program, drawing on years of experience with a proven pedagogical method--engage, inspire and absorb! We train children through two languages: Mandarin and the universal language of dance. Incorporating cultural tradition into linguistic learning, we also provide an antidote to the sit n' screen culture so prevalent today. Under the personal guidance of Mei-Yin Ng, an accomplished dancer, choreographer, and educator, our children move, learning to speak, sing, and dance Chinese. The Laurel Project was founded for Chinese-American children to connect with their heritage and for American born children to expand their cultural worldview.