The moment that says it all
On the last day of camp, two sisters told their dad they didn’t want to leave Shanghai, and made him pinky-promise they’d come back. That’s the kind of goodbye we hope for: not relief that it’s over, but sadness that it’s ended, and a promise to return.
This is a look at the team behind those moments.
More than a Mandarin camp
At GoEast Kids, we believe learning a language and being genuinely cared for aren’t two separate things — they’re the same thing. A child who feels safe, seen, and happy is a child who’s ready to learn. So while our campers go home with new words and new confidence, our team’s first job every single day is simpler: make sure every kid feels good about being here.
Here’s who makes that happen.
Meet the team
Coffia, Camp Coordinator
Coffia is the person making sure the whole day fits together, so that nothing about your child’s experience is left to chance.
“We want every child to leave camp with a special memory, one they’ll carry for years. I put my thought and care into the little details: fun, engaging Chinese classes, healthy snacks, well-prepared Chinese meals, and outings that actually mean something.”
Fiona, Mandarin Teacher
In Fiona’s classroom, language isn’t a worksheet. It’s a tool the kids get to take out into the real world — ordering, asking, playing — until it starts to feel like their own.
“I don’t want them to just memorize Chinese — I want them to use it. The right level, real words, and then out the door to try it on a real person. Our goal is Chinese they can actually speak, not just recite.”
Maria, Activity Planner
Maria plans every outing and every meal with each child in mind, including allergies and dietary needs. So the adventures are safe as well as unforgettable.
“I know what every child can’t eat, and what they’ll fall in love with. I’ve taken them up the Pearl Tower, through the old lanes of Yu Garden, to their very first taste of Chinese food. My goal is a Shanghai they’ll remember with all five senses.”
Tracy, Camp Photographer
Tracy quietly documents the real moments, which means you get to see your child’s genuine joy — the giggles, the focus, the friendships — not staged smiles.
“Kids don’t pose. The best moments happen when they forget I’m there — and those are the ones I catch. So a year from now, this summer is still something they can hold onto.”
Lexi, Language Consultant
Lexi is your line to camp. Whether you’re across town or across the ocean, she makes sure you’re never guessing about how your child is doing.
“Parents shouldn’t have to wonder how their child’s day went. Every evening I share the wins, the funny photos, the little moments. So even when they’re far away, they never feel far away.”
And the rest of the team
Behind these five is a whole crew who make camp run — our Mandarin teachers Cynthia, Jewls, Anna, and Bella, and language consultants Yanyan, Miles and Lynn. Each brings their own warmth to the classroom and their own way of connecting with the kids, whether that’s a patient explanation, a well-timed joke, or just noticing when someone needs a little extra encouragement.
How we look after every camper, every day
Behind the fun, there’s a lot of quiet structure that keeps camp safe and smooth. Here’s what parents often ask about:
Small groups, tailored learning. Children learn in small groups of up to 6, placed by age and Chinese level, so every child is challenged at the right pace and no one gets lost in the crowd.
Teachers who really know kids. Every teacher on our team has years of experience teaching Chinese to children overseas. They know how to read different personalities, drawing shy kids out of their shell, and keeping energetic ones focused and engaged.
A day with rhythm. Each day follows a steady shape: Mandarin class in the morning (9:00–11:50), lunch together, then a cultural activity or local outing in the afternoon (13:00–16:00) — from the Oriental Pearl Tower to ink painting to the old lanes of Yu Garden. You can see a full sample two-week plan on our camps page.
Safety and peace of mind. Your child’s wellbeing is looked after throughout the camp day. Medical insurance is included for the camp period, with on-site first-aid support, structured check-in and check-out, teacher supervision, and a clear emergency response process. Nearby medical care is also easily accessible.
A warm, welcoming group from day one. One thing we’re proud of: our camp groups genuinely click. Kids arrive as strangers and quickly become friends, and our teachers are there to help every child feel included from the very first morning — gently drawing in anyone who’s shy or missing home, so no one is ever on the outside looking in.
What parents tell us
“The girls are feeling a little sad right now — they say they don’t want to leave Shanghai. Thank you so much to all the teachers for taking such good care of them. They truly enjoyed every part of it. They’ve already made us pinky-promise that we’ll come back.”
— Claire & Chloe’s dad
“A huge thank you to the whole GoEast Kids team! Victoria absolutely loved these two weeks at camp — she learned so much Chinese and had the best time trying all kinds of food. The teachers were patient, kind, and so good at connecting with every single student. You made her trip to China truly unforgettable, and we’ll definitely be recommending you to all our friends with kids.”
— Victoria’s mom
Come see it for yourself
The best way to understand how we care for your child is to watch it happen. Our Winter Camp kicks off on November 30 — a chance for your child to experience Shanghai, make new friends, and speak real Mandarin over the winter break. Spots fill quickly, so explore our camps and dates or reach out to our language consultant, and we’ll help you find the right fit for your child.