✏️ My First ESL Lesson in China

Culture Shock? Not Quite.

They were just as curious about me as I was about them. The children asked questions—so many questions!—but not the ones people back home might assume. They weren’t overly focused on how I looked or why I was different. What fascinated them most was that I was American and I spoke Mandarin. I could see the surprise melt into joy.

And let me tell you, their English was impressive. Many had already been exposed to the language through school, travel, or family. They wanted to show me what they knew. They wanted to connect.

Teaching Beyond Words

That first lesson was filled with the basics—greetings, names, colors—but the real lesson was deeper. I had to listen carefully. Not just to the English they spoke, but to the silences between their words. I watched their eyes for confusion, their body language for hesitation. And they watched me too.

We were building trust. They needed to know that I was there to help, not judge. That I would celebrate their small victories and scaffold their struggles. And I needed to know that even in a place so far from home, teaching could still feel like home.

Language as a Bridge

As someone passionate about language, I’ve always believed in its power to connect. But teaching ESL in China brought that belief to life in ways I didn’t expect. My students and I were both navigating new terrain. For them, it was mastering grammar, dictation, and comprehension. For me, it was adapting to a new education system, a new rhythm of daily lessons—four classes a day, five days a week—and a Friday “Fun English” course covering everything from holidays to shopping vocabulary.

Mandarin became more than a tool—it became a bridge. And English became our meeting point. The more I spoke to them in both languages, the more they opened up, and the more confident they became in using English to express themselves.

Living the Dream

Living and teaching in China had always been a dream for me—a blend of my love for history, language, and connection. From walking ancient ruins to joining parents and children at community festivals, this experience continues to surprise me. My son loves it here too. We travel back and forth during school breaks, and every time I return, I’m reminded why I came in the first place.

Contrary to the stereotypes, China is incredibly safe and family-friendly. People are direct but kind. They’re eager to share their culture and learn about yours. They’ll stop you on the street to practice English or offer help if you look lost.

Final Thoughts

That first ESL lesson was more than a class—it was a moment of connection, humility, and joy. I didn’t just teach my students that day. They taught me how to slow down, to listen more than I speak, and to find beauty in every “hello.”

When will I leave? That’s a story for another blog. I have my wedding to plan 😉

Stay tuned.