By love-89.com On October 18th, the Kinshan Bay Area Overseas Chinese Education Center Library hosted a lively “Story Time Halloween Special Event” that drew a large crowd. As Halloween approaches, festivities are in full swing. The event featured a special appearance by Li Na-ya, president of the Northern California Chinese School Association, who took on the role of “Ms. Kitty” and led the children in singing engaging witch songs, much to their delight. Volunteers and staff at the center joined in the fun by donning Halloween costumes and distributing small treats for a playful “Tricks or Treats” experience. The event was a resounding success, attracting nearly 100 families from the overseas Chinese community.
The center’s director, Chuang Ya-shu, made a grand entrance dressed as Barbie to enthusiastic applause. She emphasized that the overseas Chinese education center serves as a warm home for expatriates, and since launching the Story Time program in 2023, they have received incredible feedback from families in the community.
“This marked our first collaboration with the Northern California Chinese School Association,” Chuang shared. “Li Na-ya, a well-known children’s program host in Taiwan and the principal of the Bay Valley Chinese School, was our storyteller. We also included a Tricks and Treats activity to let children experience the joyful atmosphere of Halloween. We encourage families to visit the library for play and reading at any time.”
Dressed as a cat, Li Na-ya captivated the children with her lively storytelling and engaging songs. “It’s such a surprise to see so many Taiwanese moms and young children gather together,” she remarked. “It’s heartwarming to know that Story Time is so well-received. I’m glad that Taiwanese moms have a place to bring their young children for learning and socializing. The event is meaningful and enjoyable for both adults and kids.”
She noted that the children’s proficiency in Mandarin was impressive, even better than that of kids in a typical Chinese school. “The little ones were fully engaged listening to the Chinese stories and participating in the songs. Our storytelling session focused on Halloween stories and sing-along songs, creating a joyful experience for the morning as they absorbed the festive spirit.”
On the day of the event, all volunteers and staff were dressed in Halloween costumes, further enhancing the celebratory atmosphere as they handed out small treats. Looking ahead, the center announced that their Thanksgiving Story Time on November 14th will feature a special guest, “Montessori Mama in the Bay,” who will present her new picture book and engage parents in a discussion on Montessori education.