SOUTHFIELD – While some toddlers are still trying to master the English language, it’s hard to imagine that preschoolers and kindergarten students at Early Impressions School in Southfield have already received their first lesson in Chinese. Students were given their first glimpse of the language as the school hosted first-time author Christopher Lin to present his book”Mandy and Pandy Say Ni Hao Ma?” to the students on Feb. 20.

Inspired by his 2-year-old daughter Mandy, Lin created the book for children to learn some basic words and phrases of the Chinese language. Lin started the book project in September last year.

Mandy and Pandy ask “Ni hao ma” – which translates in English to “how are you?”- as they visit family members and friends, and take part in various activities.

“The book is not only unique to Mandy, but to all different children,” said Lin, who was raised in Troy and now resides in Ann Arbor. “I like the kids to come away with some key phrases. It’s a great way to learn because it’s fun and they’re excited about learning something new.”

Short sentences are on each page in English, while the Chinese translation sits just below for readers.

Lin hosted a slide show of the book, which is due for publication in April.As Lin taught the students new words in Chinese, Brad Hall, vice president of Infinite Web Design and Lin’s marketing director, dressed as a life size panda bear to entertain the kids.

“If they’re excited about learning, then they’ll have a passion for learning new things.” said Lin about his readers.

Lin also played a nursery rhyme CD and led the students in a sing-along to popular songs that the children were familiar with – but the words were in Chinese.

Nancy Sallen, director of curriculum at Early Impressions and a kindergarten teacher, said Lin’s book is a start to helping the students embrace unfamiliar surroundings.

“This makes them more aware of people in the world and understanding differences in the world,” said Sallen. “Understanding different cultures is paramount in our world.”

Sallen added that the students have created their own books, complete with diagrams, and have incorporated math, science and geography in some projects.

“It’s a logical approach to a variety of subjects,” said Sullen.

Lin’s book will be available in bookstores in April. To reserve a copy of the book, visit www.mandyandpandy.com.

You can reach Jennifer Brock at jbrock@candgnews.com or (586) 498-1058.