Top Chinese Baby Names, Books, and Zodiac Fun for Kids
From meaningful names to magical tales and animated animals in the zodiac, Chinese culture is full of wonders for kids to explore. If your child is learning Chinese or simply curious about China, these fun facts and lists are a perfect starting point!
Popular Chinese Names and Their Meanings
Chinese names are often filled with symbolism and beauty. Each name can carry wishes of peace, intelligence, or strength for the child. Here are some popular names and their meanings: Ah-lam – Like an orchid, An – Peace, Angua – Peaceful country, Anmang – Peaceful clarity, Mei-Lei – Pretty, beautiful, Kai-Ying – Exceptionally bright, Sarah – Princess (a Western name also popular in modern China), Ming – Dynasty or bright, Ai-Shi – Lover of poetry, Fabiana – Bean recorder (less common, sometimes used in modern contexts). Learning names can be a playful way to introduce children to Chinese characters and sounds!
Famous Chinese Movies for Families and Kids
Chinese cinema includes action-packed martial arts, heartfelt dramas, and colorful fantasy. These classics offer a glimpse into Chinese storytelling, tradition, and imagination: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), The Forbidden Kingdom (2008), Fearless (2006), Kung Fu Hustle (2004), House of Flying Daggers (2004), Curse of the Golden Flower (2006), Farewell My Concubine (1993), Raise the Red Lantern (1991), To Live (1994), and The Story of Qiu Ju (1992). Some of these are best for older kids or family viewing, while others like Kung Fu Hustle offer more humor and excitement for younger audiences.
Top Chinese Children’s Books (Ages 2–18)
Books are a magical bridge into language and culture. These titles—written by Chinese and Chinese-American authors—bring history, fantasy, and family life to life: The Great Wall of Lucy Wu by Wendy Shang, Historical Tales (A Story of Ancient China) by Jessica Gunderson, Fa Mulan by Robert D. San Souci, Nim and the War Effort by Milly Lee, The Magic Horse of Han Gan by Chen Jiang Hong, Beautiful Warrior by Emily Arnold McCully, In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson by Bette Bao Lord, Coolies by Yin, and The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin. Many of these are available in libraries or bookstores around the world and can be great companion reads for bilingual learning.
The Chinese Zodiac: What Animal Are You?
The Chinese zodiac follows a 12-year cycle, with each year represented by an animal. Each animal has its own personality traits and symbolism, and many children love finding out which year they were born in! Year of the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Unlike Western astrology, which is based on birth months, the Chinese zodiac is based on your birth year. Kids love discovering their zodiac animal—and comparing it with friends and family!
Learn More with Dinolingo
If your child is curious about Chinese culture, Dinolingo makes learning the language fun, playful, and full of variety. Dinolingo’s Chinese lessons for kids include animated videos, interactive games, fun songs and traditional tales, flashcards, printable worksheets, cultural lessons (including the zodiac and festivals), and a parent dashboard to track progress. It’s designed for ages 2–14 and works on all major platforms—web, iOS, and Android—so you can learn anywhere, anytime. Dinolingo helps children not only learn words but also connect emotionally with the culture, whether it’s through music, books, or learning about their zodiac animal.