Mahj Life Instructor Guild > Teaching FACE-TO-FACE and ONLINE, nationwide!

Emily and her mother, Bev Shire, are a mother-daughter teaching team offering instruction in American mah jongg and canasta throughout the Greater Boston area and on Cape Cod. Lifelong game enthusiasts, they share a passion for bringing people together through engaging, social games and helping new players discover the enjoyment and connection that games create.

Their lessons follow a step-by-step, hands-on approach designed to build confidence while helping students steadily develop their skills. With backgrounds in education—Bev as a retired teacher, principal, and special education administrator, and Emily as a high school special education teacher—they bring strong expertise in teaching, learning, and curriculum development. Together, they create welcoming, high-quality learning experiences that make the games accessible, enjoyable, and easy to understand. In addition to beginner and guided play classes, they also host social play events across Massachusetts and beyond.

Student Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

In-Person Lesson and Guided Play Size: Up to 8 players

Microcredentials:

First Principles Promise: I promise to teach you the first principles of mah jongg using the official rules, giving you a strong foundation and the confidence to play with anyone, anywhere.

Variations Awareness Pledge: I pledge to distinguish house rules from the official rules and help you understand their impact so you can confidently adapt and enjoy the game anywhere.

Pride In Excellence Initiative