Bilingual Picture Book and Art Course (Chinese & German)
Age: 3–6 years
Languages: Chinese and German (no prior knowledge of Chinese required)
Schedule: Every Wednesday, 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Duration: 60 minutes per session, 10 sessions in total
Final event: An exhibition showcasing the children’s own picture books, illustrations, and stories
In a relaxed and playful atmosphere, children immerse themselves in engaging bilingual picture book stories in Chinese and German. This playful approach encourages their enthusiasm for language while strengthening their concentration and imagination.
Every picture book is like a little door into a wonderful world.
In our course “Painting with Stories,” children aged three to six explore the world through carefully selected picture books from China, Germany, and many other countries. The selection includes both timeless classics and modern stories inspired by children’s everyday lives and imaginations.
Together, we read and experience a carefully selected picture book in Chinese and German. Through stories, illustrations, voice, movement, and facial expressions, all children are actively involved in the experience.
No prior knowledge of Chinese is required. German-speaking children encounter the Chinese language in a playful way and naturally develop curiosity about a new language. Chinese-speaking children experience the joy of bilingual storytelling while expanding their language skills and ability to express themselves.
Afterwards, the stories come to life through colours, drawings, collages, and other creative techniques. The aim is not to draw “beautifully” or “correctly,” but to express personal ideas, feelings, and observations.
Through their artwork, each child tells their own story and gradually creates a unique little picture book world.
The course takes place once a week and consists of ten sessions.
Over the course of ten weeks, the children will not only become attentive listeners but also confident storytellers, imaginative artists, and young picture book authors.
At the end of the course, we will host a lovingly arranged “Little Picture Book Exhibition,” presenting the children’s own illustrations and stories and giving every creative idea a special place.
This course combines picture book reading, bilingual language development, artistic expression, and creative storytelling. In a relaxed and imaginative atmosphere, children can listen, explore, and create at their own pace. Stories open their eyes to the world, while art helps them express and develop their own unique personalities.
My name is Li Ran, and I work as an illustrator, designer, and calligraphy teacher. I am also a member of Illustratoren Organisation e. V., the German professional association for illustrators. In 2025, I further developed my expertise in children’s book illustration by attending a seminar led by Michael Wrede and Annabelle von Sperber.
In my artistic and educational work, I combine traditional Chinese art with modern design. My aim is to create a space where children can explore stories, light, colours, and lines while developing an appreciation for the beauty of art and the touching moments of everyday life.
Picture books are very special to me: they appeal to children and adults alike, as well as to the child that lives on in our memories. With their sincere and open-minded view of the world, they invite us to explore and dream. I therefore want to encourage children to immerse themselves in this special world, develop their imagination, and create unique visual worlds of their own.
