Mandarin is a tough language. After a few months of living in Taiwan, I have found the below websites helpful in the struggle to learn.
Bopomofo – Taiwan phonetic script – http://www.mdnkids.com/BoPoMo/
Learn Pinyin – http://kidschinesepodcast.com/learn-pinyin/
Mandarin – Great apps for your mobile or work online. Create your own flashcards, download the site’s, play games. It teaches symbols, sounds, and has writing practice. Wonderful site. http://www.trainchinese.com/v1/a_user/index.php
Escape From the American Dream 