Ni Hao Kai-Lan

Ni hao Kai-Lan - which means "Hi Kai-Lan" in Mandarin - is Nick Jr.'s new show (launched the week of Chinese New Year) that is designed to introduce children to Chinese and Chinese-American culture, language and values. The main character Kai-Lan is an exuberant six-year old who, along with her friends, face a different "dilemma" in each episode. The show also features Kai-Lan's grandpa YeYe, whose mission is to pass along Chinese culture and traditions, as well as Kai-Lan's friends - Tolee the panda, Hoho the monkey and Rintoo the tiger. The characters are cute and entertaining, and each episode is intended to impart Chinese-American values including:

Mind-body connection - In many Chinese-American communities, the good thing to feel is often calmness and contentment.

Perspective-taking - In many Chinese and other East Asian families, children are encouraged to take the perspective of others to maintain harmony in relationships with other people.

Being a good member of the group - A key Chinese and Chinese American value is to be a good member of a group.

Social & Emotional Goals - Highlight cause-and-effect thinking about social and emotional issues relevant to preschoolers and to support their social and emotional development.

In each episode the characters also introduce a handful of Mandarin phrases; however, my one concern is that none of the characters translate those words and phrases into English. So, viewers are left to translate on their own based on the context of that scene and associated visuals. Lucky for me, I've still got the basics down...but it's probably not as easy for those who don't have that base knowledge to ensure they've got it right.

If you're a fan, be sure to check out the Nick Jr. site for games, crafts and other Ni Hao Kai-Lan related downloads. And for more on Karen Chau, a 30-year old graphic artist and the brains behind the show, read the New York Times profile.

Are your kids into this show? How are you using it as a teaching tool for yourself, and/or your children? Overall, what do you think - is it a keeper? Drop us a note, and let us know.