Youth Chinese Test
Kids' version of HSK (ages 6-15 / non-native speakers). 4 written levels (YCT 1-4) + 3 oral levels. Designed for kids in Chinese-as-a-second-language programs. Friendlier format than HSK — pictures, simpler vocabulary.
中文版
儿童汉语水平考试（YCT）
Recommended as the entry point if your child speaks some Mandarin at home but is "out of practice" or unsure of formal characters. The YCT 3-4 → HSK 3 transition is natural. Particularly useful for 2nd-generation kids who can speak but not read/write — YCT 1-2 makes the gap concrete + provides a measurable goal. Don't push it if your kid resists; heritage-language motivation is best when it stays positive.
中文版
如果孩子在家说一些普通话但"生疏了"或对正式汉字没把握，推荐从这里入手。YCT 3-4 → HSK 3 的过渡很自然。对于会说不会读写的第二代移民孩子尤其有用——YCT 1-2 能把差距具体化，同时给孩子一个看得见的目标。