[ESEARCH INSIGHT] PARENTING FROM 0–12: RIGHT TIMING, RIGHT FOCUS
“Learn early to get ahead” or “Play freely to develop naturally”? - These are questions that have weighed on the minds of thousands of parents- one that Esearch has heard time and again throughout our journey supporting families in school selection.
Many parents hope their children will learn to read and do math early to gain an advantage. On the other hand, many believe that if children are simply allowed to play freely, they will naturally grow into maturity. Yet both perspectives can easily fall into the same common mistake: overlooking the principle of “the right thing at the right time.”
Parenting is like building a house: if the foundation isn’t solid but you rush to add more floors, the house will struggle to withstand storms. So at each age, what is the most important “foundation” that parents should build for their children?
1. AGES 0–3: FROM ATTACHMENT TO INDEPENDENCE
This is the foundational stage, yet also the period of the most intense psychological shifts.
0–18 months (Building trust): What children need most at this time is a sense of safety. Psychologist John Bowlby (1969), through years of research, emphasized that children need an adult as a “secure base.” Only when they feel loved and protected will they have the courage to explore the world.
18–36 months (Asserting the self): According to developmental psychologist Erik Erikson (1950), this is when children begin wanting to separate and do things on their own. Tantrums or the phrase “I can do it myself!” are actually positive signals, showing that autonomy is beginning to take shape.
ESEARCH RECOMMENDATIONS:
Encourage choice: Empower within limits. Instead of imposing, allow children to make decisions within a controlled range. For example: “Do you want to wear the blue shirt or the red shirt?”
Accept imperfection: Be patient with “clumsiness.” Parents can use indirect support rather than doing everything for the child, following the principle: “Child tries first - parents help after.”For example: let your child feed themselves even if it’s messy, or put on shoes even if they’re on the wrong feet.
Emotional coaching: Help children recognize and name emotions rather than suppressing “negative” reactions. For example: when your child cries, hug them and ask, “Are you feeling sad/upset?” instead of yelling “Stop crying!”. This is an early lesson in emotional intelligence (EQ).
2. AGES 3–6: SELF-REGULATION AND THINKING
This is a “golden age” for developing the brain’s Executive Functions- the ability to regulate behavior and thinking, according to neuroscientist Adele Diamond (2013). At the same time, psychologist Lev Vygotsky (1978) also emphasized the essential role of purposeful play in developing abstract thinking.
ESEARCH RECOMMENDATIONS:
Play that guides thinking: Play to learn how to think. Prioritize role-play or goal-based construction activities to stimulate imagination. For example: instead of watching a phone, invite your child to play pretend (doctor, shopkeeper) or give a challenge like “Build a garage that can fit two cars.”
Stimulate critical thinking: Use open-ended questions to encourage analysis. For example: “Why did you choose this way?” “What do you think will happen if…?”
Build patience: Activities that require waiting and turn-taking are excellent for strengthening impulse control. For example: hide-and-seek, rock–paper–scissors, or simply lining up and waiting for a turn.
3. AGES 6–12: PERSEVERANCE AND A GROWTH MINDSET
As children enter primary school, they begin wanting to prove their abilities through tangible outcomes. If they don’t experience the feeling of “I worked hard and I can do it,” they may become insecure. This is a critical time for parents to plant the seeds of a Growth Mindset- a well-known concept by psychologist Carol Dweck- helping children understand that intelligence is not purely inborn, but can be developed through practice and effort.
ESEARCH RECOMMENDATIONS:
Acknowledge effort, not “smartness”: Praise effort rather than intelligence so children don’t become afraid of failure. For example: instead of “You’re so smart,” say “I can see how persistent you were in solving this problem”.
Redefine failure: Teach children that mistakes are a necessary part of learning. For example: if your child gets a low score, review the errors together and make a plan to improve rather than punishing.
Set long-term goals: Encourage children to pursue small projects that require consistency. For example: saving in a piggy bank to buy something they love, or practicing riding a bicycle over a week.
4. THE ESEARCH VIEW: CHOOSING A SCHOOL IS CHOOSING AN ENVIRONMENT THAT “NURTURES” CAPABILITIES
Once parents understand their child’s developmental pathway, school visits should go beyond checking facilities. Esearch suggests parents observe small details that reflect a school’s educational philosophy:
For Preschool (0–6): Observe “HOW CHILDREN ARE EMPOWERED”
When a child cries: Does the teacher try to stop the crying immediately, or do they patiently sit down and help the child name their emotions?
Independence: During meals and nap time, are children encouraged to do age-appropriate tasks, or do adults do everything for them?
For Primary School (6–12): Look for a “CULTURE THAT NORMALIZES MISTAKES”
Assessment approach: Does the school recognize progress (process), or is pressure focused only on end-of-term scores?
The right to be wrong: When a child makes a mistake, do teachers punish or guide the child to analyze and try again?
SEL program: Does the school offer Social and Emotional Learning lessons to equip children with “soft skills”?
These questions help parents identify which schools truly care about children’s mental wellbeing and inner strength.
CONCLUSION
At Esearch, we believe that parenting and finding the right school does not have to be a stressful race. Amid the flood of information, parents can feel more grounded with this core formula:
Ages 0–3: Build Safety & Independence
Ages 3–6: Nurture Self-Regulation & Thinking
Ages 6–12: Strengthen Perseverance & Resilience
When parents understand and respect a child’s natural developmental rhythm, they can let go of the pressure to “force-ripen” their child. A strong inner foundation is the best preparation for children to step confidently into the future.
Esearch hopes this article offers greater clarity and supports parents in making the best educational choices for their children.
*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.
For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .
Note: This article is compiled by Esearch from foundational child-development research and insights distilled from our work supporting parents in selecting the right learning environment. It is for reference only. Every child develops at their own pace; parents should adjust flexibly based on their child’s unique characteristics.
References: Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and loss. Basic Books | Diamond, A. (2013). Executive functions. Annual Review of Psychology, 64, 135–168 | Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The new psychology of success. Random House | Erikson, E. H. (1950). Childhood and society. W. W. Norton & Company | Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society. Harvard University Press | Wood, D., et al. (1976). Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 17(2), 89–100.
Source: Esearch Insight
HIGHSCOPE – A CHILD-CENTERED APPROACH TO EARLY LEARNING
In the context of early childhood education in Vietnam becoming increasingly diverse in terms of teaching methods and curricula, parents are no longer faced only with the question of “Which school is good?” but must also consider more deeply, “Which approach is right for my child?”. Alongside familiar models such as Montessori, Reggio Emilia, or bilingual and integrated international programs, HighScope has gradually emerged as a fresh option—one that is grounded in solid research and offers strong practical applicability.
Through research, synthesis, and close collaboration with many families on their school-selection journeys, Esearch has observed that HighScope is not an approach focused on early academic training or achievement-driven outcomes. Rather, it is an educational approach that emphasizes children’s experiences, thinking skills, and autonomy from the very early years. Although it is not yet widely adopted in Vietnam, HighScope is gaining increasing attention thanks to its well-established research foundation and real-world applicability. This article aims to help parents gain a clearer understanding of the HighScope educational model—its core philosophy, classroom practices, the values it brings to children, and its current context of implementation in Vietnam.
HighScope as a Child-Centered Approach
The HighScope approach was developed in the United States in the 1960s and is designed for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and early primary-age children. It is grounded in the core belief that:
“Children learn best when they are actively involved in their own learning.”
Within The HighScope Curriculum, children are encouraged to:
Make choices about their learning activities
Learn through hands-on, sensory, and emotional experiences
Construct knowledge through play, exploration, and social interaction
Teachers in HighScope classrooms do not function as traditional instructors. Instead, they serve as partners in learning, supporting children through intentional observation, open-ended questioning, and positive adult–child interactions.
The Core Learning Process: Plan–Do–Review
A defining feature of The HighScope Curriculum is the Plan–Do–Review sequence, which provides a consistent structure for active learning throughout the day:
Plan: Children express their intentions and make choices about the activities they plan to engage in.
Do: Children carry out their plans through active exploration, experimentation, and hands-on learning.
Review: Children reflect on their experiences with teachers, sharing ideas, feelings, and outcomes.
This sequence supports the development of thinking skills, language development, independence, and responsibility, while also helping children build reflective thinking from an early age.
Developmental Benefits of the HighScope Approach
Rather than focusing on early academic outcomes, The HighScope Curriculum is designed to support children’s long-term development by strengthening key areas such as:
Independent thinking and problem-solving
Communication and emotional expression
Cooperation and social competence
Confidence and readiness for future learning stages
These foundational competencies are essential for children’s success not only in school, but throughout their lives.
The HighScope Approach in the Context of Education in Vietnam
In Vietnam, many families are familiar with educational approaches that emphasize early knowledge acquisition and academic preparation. However, experience has shown that some children may struggle with independence, communication, or self-expression when early learning is overly academic.
By respecting each child’s natural developmental pace, the HighScope approach offers an alternative perspective—one that values active learning, emotional development, social skills, and meaningful experiences alongside cognitive growth. When implemented flexibly and adapted to Vietnamese cultural and family contexts, The HighScope Curriculum can serve as a valuable option for early childhood education.
Early Childhood Schools Applying the HighScope Approach in Vietnam
🏫 Little People Kindergarten
Little People Kindergarten is one of the early childhood education systems in Vietnam that integrates The HighScope Curriculum based on U.S. standards. The program is designed to fully implement the principles of active learning, experiential learning, and reflection, serving children from infant and toddler age (under 36 months) to preschool (ages 3–5).
In addition, Little People combines the HighScope approach with complementary programs such as STEAM and pre-primary preparation, supporting children’s smooth transition into formal schooling.
🏫 Kidzone Bilingual Preschool
Kidzone Bilingual Preschool in Ho Chi Minh City applies The HighScope Curriculum for children aged 6 months to 5 years. The school offers multiple learning tracks—including standard, bilingual, and international programs—delivered by both Vietnamese and international educators, while maintaining the core principles of the HighScope approach.
🏫 Sakura Schools
In 2025, Sakura Schools introduced a curriculum applying The HighScope Curriculum in Vietnam, becoming the first early childhood education system in the country to implement both the Montessori approach and the HighScope approach in parallel. Alongside Montessori education, the HighScope approach plays a strategic role in Sakura Schools’ educational framework, expanding access to experiential learning and demonstrating the school’s commitment to educational innovation and community contribution.
CONCLUSION
HighScope is not a “one-size-fits-all” educational formula. Rather, it is a model well suited to families who value a child’s natural developmental process, independence, and independent thinking from the early childhood years. When implemented in line with its core philosophy and adapted flexibly to Vietnam’s cultural and family context, HighScope can become a solid foundation for children to develop long-term learning skills and life skills.
At Esearch, we believe that choosing a school and an educational approach should not be driven by trends or isolated marketing messages. Instead, it should be grounded in a deep understanding of the child, family values, and the actual quality of implementation at each educational institution. By providing transparent information, multi-dimensional comparisons, and regularly updated insights, Esearch aims to accompany parents in making educational decisions that are appropriate, sustainable, and beneficial to children’s holistic development in the long run.
* Esearch is always ready to accompany you on the journey of finding the best educational environment for the next generation.
For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en.
Source: Compiled by Esearch
5 CHRISTMAS ACTIVITIES THAT HELP CHILDREN DEVELOP SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL SKILLS (SEL)
Christmas is not only a season of gifts and sparkling decorations, but also a meaningful time for children to feel loved, listened to, and to better understand their own emotions.
In modern education, nurturing children’s emotions, communication skills, and social behavior is just as important as academic learning. Through its experience in advising and accompanying many families and schools, Esearch has observed that when children are given appropriate experiences, they learn to understand themselves, care for others, and become more confident in communication.
Below are five simple yet highly effective Christmas activities that parents and schools can apply to support children’s social and emotional development(Social emotional learning- SEL).
1. Writing a Letter to Santa – Helping Children Understand and Express Their Feelings
Parents can guide children to write a letter to Santa, not only about the gifts they wish for, but also about the happiest moments of the year, what they are proud of, and what they would like to improve in the coming year. During the writing process, parents should gently prompt children with questions and encourage them to express their thoughts in their own words.
The purpose of this activity is to help children recognize and name their emotions, understand their thoughts and desires, and gradually build a habit of self-reflection. In simple terms, children learn to identify “how I am feeling” and “what I want.” This is a foundational skill that helps children become more confident and better at managing their emotions in the future.
2. Making Christmas Cards for Loved Ones – Learning Care and Gratitude
Parents can guide children to create handmade Christmas cards for grandparents, parents, teachers, or friends, and encourage them to include a short message or greeting. While making the card, children are encouraged to think about the recipient—what would make them happy, which colors or images they might like.
This activity helps children learn to care about others’ feelings, express gratitude, and show affection, thereby developing emotional communication skills and empathy.
3. Decorating the Christmas Tree Together – Practicing Cooperation
Parents can decorate the Christmas tree together with their children and assign simple tasks such as hanging ornaments, putting up lights, or placing the star on top. Throughout the activity, parents encourage children to take turns, listen to others’ ideas, and agree together on how to decorate the tree.
The purpose of this activity is to help children practice cooperation, listening, and teamwork, while also learning to share space and respect different opinions. This is a very natural way for children to develop collaboration and social communication skills, which are essential when they go to school.
4. Christmas Sharing Gift Box – Teaching Children the Value of Giving
Parents prepare a box and invite children to choose items that are still in good condition—such as toys, books, or clothes—to give to others during the Christmas season. Before placing items into the box, parents should talk with children about why they chose each item and who might feel happy receiving it.
This activity helps children understand the value of giving, develop kindness, and build a sense of social responsibility, rather than focusing only on receiving gifts. Through this experience, children learn that not everyone has the same conditions, that sharing brings joy, and that everyone can help others in their own way.
5. Family Year-End Sharing Time – Helping Children Reflect and Manage Emotions
On a quiet evening near Christmas or at the end of the year, parents can sit down with their children and talk about the past year, using simple questions such as: When were you happiest? What are you proud of? What would you like to try harder at next year? Parents listen without judgment and encourage children to express their true feelings.
The purpose of this activity is to help children reflect on themselves, recognize their emotions, and build positive thinking, which in turn supports emotional stability and confidence. This is an effective way for children to better understand themselves and grow more confident.
CONCLUSION
Christmas is not only a season of gifts, but also a precious time for parents to slow down, listen, and accompany their children on their journey of emotional and life-skill development. Through simple yet intentional activities, children not only create beautiful memories but also gradually develop the ability to understand themselves, care for others, and communicate with greater confidence.
As a platform for education search, advisory, and connection, Esearch is committed to accompanying parents in choosing suitable learning environments where children can grow holistically—both academically and emotionally. From small family experiences to formal educational settings, every thoughtful step contributes to building a strong foundation for children’s future.
Esearch believes that when parents and schools share the same educational vision, Christmas becomes not just a festive season, but a meaningful starting point for long-term educational values—helping children grow up confident, balanced, and happy.
*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.
For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .
Source: Compiled by Esearch
2025-2026 UPDATE: TOP 4 INTERNATIONAL & BILINGUAL SCHOOLS IN THE BÀ RỊA – VŨNG TÀU (HCMC) AREA
Beginning in 2025, the integration of Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu into Ho Chi Minh City has created a dynamic expanded metropolitan zone, attracting many young families and professionals. As a result, the demand for International and Bilingual schools in the area has grown significantly.
Based on official and updated data from government agencies and leading educational systems, Esearch has compiled a list of four outstanding International and Bilingual schools in Ba Ria- Vung Tau (HCMC) to help parents make more informed school choices.
1. SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (SIS) - VUNG TAU CAMPUS
SIS Vung Tau (part of KinderWorld Education Group) is one of the most prominent international schools in the area, ideal for families seeking strong academic pathways and early preparation for overseas study.
Languages of instruction:
International Program: 100% English
Bilingual Program: English & Vietnamese
Integrated Program: Vietnamese with enhanced English
Chinese is also offered as an elective foreign language.
Contact Information:
Address: 103 Trần Cao Vân, Tam Thắng Ward, HCMC
Phone: +84 254 7301 777
Website: vungtau.sis.edu.vn
Facebook: facebook.com/siskinderworld
2. UK ACADEMY (UKA) – BÀ RỊA – VŨNG TÀU CAMPUS
UK Academy offers a continuous bilingual pathway from Kindergarten to Grade 12, integrating the optimized Vietnamese Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) curriculum with Oxford-standard English. A key strength at the high school level is the NCUK University Foundation Program (UK), which expands global study opportunities for students. The learning environment is modern, dynamic, and strongly emphasizes soft skills through diverse extracurricular activities.
Language of instruction: Bilingual (English – Vietnamese)
Contact Information:
Address: 165 Nguyễn Hữu Thọ, Bà Rịa Ward, HCMC
Phone: 025 4730 5588 – 0772 666 989
Website: uka.edu.vn
Facebook: facebook.com/UKAcademy
3. VIETNAM–AMERICA SCHOOLS SYSTEM (VASCHOOLS) – VUNG TAU CAMPUSES
VAschools Vung Tau offers a bilingual pathway from Kindergarten to Grade 12, combining the Vietnamese MOET curriculum with Cambridge-standard ESL English. The school emphasizes developing the four core English skills and teaches Math and Science in English, helping students achieve international certificates such as Starters, Movers, Flyers, KET, PET, and IELTS.
VAschools also prioritizes life skills education, core values, and creative thinking through a broad range of extracurricular activities.
Language of instruction: Bilingual (English – Vietnamese)
Contact Information:
Website: vaschools.edu.vn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vietmyvungtau/
Campuses (now within HCMC boundaries after the administrative merger):
Vietnam–America Kindergarten (Campus 1):
5–7 Hoàng Diệu, Vung Tau Ward, HCMC
Phone: (0254) 3510 035
Vietnam–America Primary – Secondary – High School (Campus 2):
95 Lý Thường Kiệt, Vung Tau Ward, HCMC
Phone: (0254) 3560 096
Vietnam–UK Primary School (Campus 3 & 4):
9 Trương Vĩnh Ký, Vung Tau Ward, HCMC
17 Trương Vĩnh Ký, Vung Tau Ward, HCMC
Phone: (0254) 3510 034 – 3852 175
Vietnam–America Kindergarten – Tam Thắng Campus:
Ground Floor, Block C, DIC Phoenix Apartment Complex, Chi Linh Urban Area, Tam Thắng Ward, HCMC
4. EINSTEIN SCHOOL VUNG TAU (NOW RENAMED HAPPY SCHOOL)
Einstein School offers a bilingual program from Primary to High School, blending the Vietnamese MOET curriculum with the U.S. Common Core framework. As a Cognia-accredited school, it is a pioneer in experiential learning and highly emphasizes Social–Emotional Learning (SEL), supporting students’ academic, emotional, and personal development toward becoming global citizens.
Language of instruction: Bilingual (English – Vietnamese)
Contact Information:
Address: 43, 30/4 Street, Tam Thắng Ward, HCMC
Phone: 091 252 71 74
Website: esvt.edu.vn
Facebook: facebook.com/Happyschoolvt
CONCLUSION
As Ba Ria- Vung Tau becomes part of Ho Chi Minh City’s expanded metropolitan landscape, its education market is rapidly transforming with the rise of high-quality International and Bilingual school models. Each school on this list offers distinct strengths—from curriculum design and English proficiency to competency-based development and study-abroad pathways—catering to diverse family needs.
Esearch hopes this overview provides parents with clear, structured, and comparable information to help them select the most suitable learning environment for their children.
*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.
For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .
Source: Compiled by Esearch
DISCOVER THE BEST FOREIGN-LANGUAGE BOOKSPACES IN HO CHI MINH CITY — PART 2
After strolling through the “oases of knowledge” in the heart of the city in Part 1, this next chapter with Esearch brings you to bookspaces with distinctive personalities—where art, academia, and tranquility blend together.
While large bookstores offer diversity and excitement, the destinations in this section give you depth and character. From the refined coffee-table books at Artbook, the cozy reading corner at Soo Kafe, the colorful world of childhood at Kim Đồng Book Center, to the specialized shelves at E.Book for learners and researchers—these are quiet spaces, yet full of creative inspiration. They nurture a love for learning and bring readers a calm, intimate escape right in the heart of Saigon.
5) Artbook | 6) Kim Đồng Book Center
7) E.Book | 8) Soo Kafe (The Hidden Elephant Books & Coffee)
5. Artbook – A Sanctuary for Art Lovers
If you adore art, architecture, fashion, or photography, Artbook is a must-visit. The space feels like a miniature gallery, where every page carries the spirit of creativity and aesthetics.
Artbook stands out for its curated collection of coffee-table books on contemporary art, international design, and photography—perfect for those who appreciate beauty in both words and visuals.
Recommended branch: 43 Đồng Khởi, Bến Nghé Ward.
6. Kim Đồng Book Center – A Multilingual Wonderland for Children
Kim Đồng is not only a beloved companion of Vietnamese childhood—it is also a bridge connecting young readers with children’s literature from around the world. This is an ideal place for parents and kids to explore knowledge together.
Featuring bilingual books, Ehon stories, board books, and interactive titles, Kim Đồng helps children familiarize themselves with English naturally through lively and engaging tales. The vibrant space often hosts storytelling sessions, coloring activities, and author meet-and-greets on weekends—turning reading into an exciting learning experience.
Suggested location: Kim Đồng Book Center (Nguyễn Văn Bình Book Street, District 1).
7. E.Book – A Hub for Specialized Academic Readers
E.Book is a familiar name to university students, working professionals, and anyone seeking English academic materials. With reasonable prices and diverse resources, it has become a trusted destination for learning and research.
Its greatest strength lies in textbooks and reference materials from major publishers such as Pearson, Cambridge, and Oxford—covering fields like economics, marketing, management, finance, as well as IELTS, TOEFL, and SAT preparation books. Though compact, the store is neatly organized, making it easy to find what you need. Their book-ordering service is another reason E.Book is highly valued by the academic community.
Must-visit branch: E.Book (40 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, District 1) – its oldest and most iconic location, close to several major universities and a long-time favorite among generations of Saigon students.
8. Soo Kafe (The Hidden Elephant Books & Coffee) – A Quiet Corner in the City
Soo Kafe offers a peaceful, cozy space for families to read, work, or simply unwind with a cup of coffee. It feels like stepping into a tiny library nestled in central Saigon.
Family-friendly: Children can enjoy storybooks while parents work or read nearby.
Address: Level 2, 35 Phan Chu Trinh, District 1.
CONCLUSION
The destinations in Part 2 paint a vibrant portrait of Saigon’s reading culture—where every reader can find a “little corner” that resonates with their soul. From artistic inspiration at Artbook, quiet moments over coffee at Soo Kafe, joyful discoveries for children at Kim Đồng, to focused academic pursuits at E.Book- each space reflects the city’s open-minded, knowledge-driven spirit.
Esearch believes that nurturing a reading habit is one of the simplest yet most enduring ways to build independent thinking and cultural connection. Whether you are a parent, a student, or simply a book lover, let each page become a peaceful pause amid modern life- where knowledge meets emotion.
*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.
For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .
Source: Compiled by Esearch
DISCOVER THE BEST FOREIGN-LANGUAGE BOOKSPACES IN HO CHI MINH CITY – PART 1
Ho Chi Minh City is not only known for its dynamic and modern lifestyle, but also for its many “islands of knowledge” — book spaces that connect people, languages, and cultures. For international families and book lovers alike, finding a place that offers both high-quality foreign books and an inspiring reading atmosphere makes life in this city even more fulfilling.
In the first part of “Discover the Best English Bookspaces in Ho Chi Minh City”, Esearch introduces four standout destinations where you can find your favorite books while enjoying moments of relaxation and creativity in the heart of Saigon:
(1) Nguyễn Văn Bình Book Street; (2) Fahasa Bookstore Nguyễn Huệ
(3) Phương Nam Book City; (4) Cá Chép Bookstore
1. Nguyễn Văn Bình Book Street – A Cultural Icon of Saigon
Nestled in the bustling city center, Nguyễn Văn Bình Book Street is a peaceful oasis of knowledge where book lovers can slow down amid the urban rhythm. Its leafy walkway, charming book stalls, and the aroma of coffee create a unique cultural ambiance of Saigon.
It’s a perfect destination for all ages: children can read stories and join outdoor activities, while adults sip coffee, browse foreign titles, or attend book signings and mini-exhibitions.
Location: Nguyễn Văn Bình Street, Bến Nghé Ward – between the Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral, one of the city’s most charming cultural landmarks.
2. Fahasa – Vietnam’s Largest Foreign Book Chain
As one of Vietnam’s oldest and most reputable bookstore brands, Fahasa is a go-to destination for parents and readers seeking English books, children’s stories, and international educational titles.
Suggested branch: 40 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé Ward – right in the heart of District 1, ideal for combining a book hunt with a leisurely city stroll.
3. Phương Nam Book City – Where Reading Meets Culture and Leisure
Phương Nam is a beloved bookstore brand, admired for its modern, welcoming, and experiential spaces. More than a shopping spot, it offers a cultural reading environment that blends literature with lifestyle.
Many locations feature the Book Café model, allowing visitors to enjoy a good read, savor a cup of coffee, and unwind during the weekend.
Suggested branch: Phương Nam Book City Saigon Centre (Takashimaya, District 1) – one of the city’s most modern and beautiful bookstores, offering a “city of books” experience inside a vibrant shopping mall.
4. Cá Chép Bookstore – Where Aesthetics Meet Knowledge
Cá Chép has become a favorite destination for young families, celebrated for its artistic and creative atmosphere. Beyond being a bookstore, it offers a complete cultural reading experience where all generations can find joy in every page.
The upper-floor café, with its relaxing ambiance and lovely city view, is an ideal spot to read, chat, or simply enjoy a peaceful afternoon in the heart of Saigon.
Address: 211–213 Võ Văn Tần, Bàn Cờ Ward – one of the most popular and charming book spaces in the city.
CONCLUSION
At Esearch, we believe reading is more than just acquiring knowledge — it’s an emotional journey where every book opens a door to a new world.
Stay tuned for Part 2 as we explore more unique reading spaces across Saigon — from artistic corners to academic book havens and peaceful family-friendly spots.
*Esearch is always ready to accompany you in finding the best educational environment for the next generation.
For more details on school programs, facilities, and admissions, please visit:https://esearch.vn/en .
Source: Compiled by Esearch
