It’s a sunny Sunday in the CBD, in the cool, high-ceilinged gallery space of Espace Louis Vuitton Beijing – an outpost of the Louis Vuitton Foundation art museum in Paris. The “LV” could stand for little-visited, compared to its better-known retail sibling at Guomao (China World Mall). Find this outdoor storefront and next door you’ll step into the gallery, which hosts changing, thoughtfully curated exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. Currently, “Painting from Nature” is on display until October, showcasing works by abstract expressionists Joan Mitchell and Megan Rooney.

But today, a group of children are enjoying Espace LV not only as museumgoers but as budding artists. They are under the tutelage of Jennifer Chung, known to her young clientele as “Ms. Jen,” the founder and director of JEN Art Academy. She begins with a tour of the artworks, drawing out children’s interpretations: “The yellow looks happy,” says one child about a vibrant triptych by Mitchell, while another sees “a magical forest” in Rooney’s echo of Monet’s Waterlilies.

Next, the children settle at their workstations to create: silk paintings layered with gold foil and mounted on canvas. Drawing from the exhibition’s expressive vision of nature, their silk-and-gold creations echo the exhibit’s themes while reflecting something entirely their own. It’s this kind of intentional, layered learning that Jen imbues into every program she leads.

Jen’s own journey took her from high school in Hong Kong to the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – often dubbed the “Harvard of art schools” – for a degree in textiles. “RISD was life-changing,” she reflects. “I found a community of passionate, like-minded creatives who pushed me to grow and consistently develop original ideas. Anticipating today’s AI-driven world, RISD gave me the tools to lead with creativity.”

After graduating, Jen entered the fast-paced world of luxury fashion, working with brands like Dior, Versace, and Van Cleef & Arpels in Hong Kong. “Understanding the business side of global luxury was eye-opening,” she says. “I was fortunate to gain that firsthand.”

After moving to Beijing in 2017, Jen deepened her experience in educational leadership – first as principal of a local arts high school, and later as art education director at Dulwich College Group, where she designed a specialized arts track. “The pathway allowed students to spend three out of five school days fully immersed in art and design,” she explains. “I developed a comprehensive curriculum that combined concept and theory classes with foundational skills training. Most importantly, they completed their entire university portfolio during class time – giving them the preparation to get into their dream schools and thrive once they got there.”

In 2023, JEN Art Academy was born from a gap Jen encountered over and over in her work with students and families: Many young people dream of entering creative fields – architecture, fashion, animation, game design – but lack the structured support to get there.

“There’s a real gap,” Jen says. “So many talented students don’t know how to build the kind of portfolio top-tier universities are looking for. That’s where we come in.”

Located in Beijing’s Chaoyang District near the Western Academy of Beijing (WAB), JEN Art Academy offers a clear, age-based progression to support students from the earliest stages to competitive college applications:

• Grades 1-4: early exposure programs that spark curiosity and build foundational skills through weekend classes and summer camps
• Grades 5-8: pre-portfolio foundations with a focus on drawing, design thinking, and visual storytelling
• Grades 9-12: intensive portfolio preparation for students applying to leading global art and design universities

The Academy’s curriculum is built on the RISD approach, leveraging creativity as a tool for original problem-solving. “It’s never just about technique,” Jen emphasizes. “We teach students to think like designers, starting with observation and exploration then moving into self-expression, innovation and confidence.”

This summer, JEN Art Academy invites young creators ages 6-13 to explore three immersive camp themes that spark imagination and build hands-on design skills. In Super Mario Game Design, kids reimagine their favorite game universe by designing characters, power-ups and fantastical worlds. Primitive Pioneers takes campers back in time to invent tools, build shelters and experiment with tribal-inspired fashion. And in Historical Horizons, students journey through ancient civilizations, bringing history to life through architecture, jewelry-making, animation and more. Each five-day camp is led by Jen’s team of educators and taught in English, with bilingual support available.

 For high school students aiming for top global art and design universities, JEN Art Academy offers a rigorous College Prep Program. Drawing from her experience as a former RISD admissions officer, Jen has crafted a curriculum that mirrors the creative rigor and originality elite schools expect. Students develop concept-driven portfolios tailored to institutions like RISD, Parsons, and UAL, while receiving one-on-one mentorship throughout the entire application process, from idea generation to personal statements and interview prep. With a blend of real studio practice and design thinking, the program equips aspiring creatives to apply to top schools – and it currently boasts a 100 percent acceptance rate.

“I am super proud of our students and of our team who nurture their talents,” Jen says. “We’re growing fearless, original thinkers for the future.”

Find it:
JEN Art Academy
B02, Cathy Plaza, 2 Xiangjiang Beilu, Chaoyang District (next to Rivera/Roundabout)

 Images: Tara Fegelein, JEN Art Academy

As my family prepares for a summer cycling holiday through the Netherlands, we’re angling to build our 6-year-old’s confidence and stamina on two wheels. Our goal is for her to comfortably handle 25 to 30 kilometers a day – enough to cycle between cities. While Beijing isn’t known for long, traffic-free bike paths, we’ve slowly been discovering routes that work for kids learning to go the distance.

After trying out 10km rides in Olympic Forest Park and Chaoyang Greenway (both pleasant, but short), we were ready for more. That’s how we found the Qinghe Cycleway, a 17km loop that hugs both banks of the Qinghe River inside Wenyu Park in northern Beijing. This leafy, shaded path with riverside views is delightfully idyllic for a relaxing day on two wheels.

A Family-Friendly Riverside Loop

A standout feature of the Qinghe Cycleway is its gentle incline, making it accessible for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. The path is wide and well-maintained, with clear signage and safety barriers, ensuring a secure and easily navigable environment for families. My daughter, Leili, rode her own bike, I picked up a Hello Bike (Alipay’s ubiquitous bike-share), and we took public transport to Wenyu Park, entering via Laiguangying North Road. There are multiple access points (Runze Park also works well), and nearby parking lots are plentiful if you’re driving.

The Cycleway loop is cleverly designed with ramps that connect to nearby roads, which means that if your child tires halfway through, you can easily exit and call a Didi. That flexibility gave us peace of mind as we took on our longest route yet.

East Side Wins for Peace and Scenery

We have cycled the loop twice, and here’s what we’ve learned: If you prefer a shorter ride, choose the section east of Wenyu Park. It’s greener, quieter, and set farther from busy roads. The vegetation feels wilder, and the riverbanks are dotted with young people fishing (an interesting contrast to the older crowds you often see by the Liangma River). In early May, wildflowers bloom along the path, and Leili loved stopping to pick a few to make a bouquet for my bike basket.

By comparison, the western stretch runs closer to the road and felt noticeably more crowded during our weekend visits. Of course, if you opt to complete the full loop, the contrast between the two sides adds variety to the ride.

Pack Snacks, Embrace the Pace

One downside: There are no F&B stops along the route, so you’ll need to bring water, snacks and maybe even a picnic lunch. That said, the uninterrupted ride – without road crossings or traffic – is what makes Qinghe Cycleway such a gem, letting kids joyfully cruise at their own pace and build endurance. (A heads-up: Despite the clear prohibition, motorbikes are a common and unwelcome nuisance).

We took about three hours for the 17km, moving at a gentle pace with frequent stops for snacks, photos, flower-picking and watching fishermen cast their lines. The shine of the river in the sunlight and whistle of the wind in the trees offered a rare sense of escape from the city, even more so than Beijing’s busy parks.

Where to Next?

One great bonus: If you finish the loop and still have energy, you can continue west past Runze Park to reach the Olympic Park North Gate. From there, connect to the Chaoyang Greenway for an additional 10km stretch. It’s a lovely way to turn this into an all-day family cycling adventure.

Whether you’re training for longer distances or just looking for a scenic ride, Qinghe Cycleway is one of the best kid-friendly rides we’ve found in Beijing. Don’t forget your snacks – and maybe a little space in your basket for a bouquet.

Find it:
Qinghe Waterfront Promenade and Cycleway System 清河滨水慢行系统
200 Binhe Lu, Beiqijia Town, Chaoyang District
朝阳区北七家镇滨河路200号

Join Tara Fegelein and her family as she explores family-friendly destinations in and around Beijing. Click on the #Kidventures hashtag below to check out her full list of recommendations.

Images: Tara Fegelein, Beijing Water

Deep in the forests of Miyun, tents dotted a hillside campsite as exactly 100 campers came together for a first-of-its-kind citywide Girl Scout camping weekend held to mark the 100th anniversary of USA Girl Scouts Overseas (USAGSO).

The special campout united girls across all Beijing troops, from the youngest Daisies (age 4) to the eldest Ambassadors (age 18), to celebrate the spirit of sisterhood and the values that have guided Scouts for generations. With their families, they spent the weekend immersed in outdoor adventures, cross-age activities, and of course, the time-honored tradition of roasting s’mores!

USAGSO traces its roots to 1925, when the first overseas troop was established in Shanghai with just 18 girls. A century later, USAGSO counts more than 12,500 members across 90 countries, fostering a global scouting community and opportunities for intercultural exchange.

Leading the Beijing council is Chiara Gensini, a longtime China resident and passionate volunteer. We caught up with Chiara just after the centennial campout to hear more about her leadership journey, what it means to raise three Scouts of her own, and how USAGSO Beijing continues to grow as a vibrant, girl-led community.

Chiara, you convened Scouts of all ages and their families to commemorate this milestone. What were the stand-out moments for you?

We had 100 participants for the USAGSO Centennial – an impressive turnout, especially since it was the first event of its kind organized by the Beijing council. A highlight for me was watching our eldest Ambassador, 18 years old, chatting and exchanging keepsakes with two of our youngest Daisies, just 4 years old. It was also a joy to plan age-appropriate activities for our youngest campers. I loved the dinner where each troop helped prepare the meal – washing tomatoes, chopping cucumbers, and barbecuing. Another favorite was the “Night Market” organized by Cadette Troop 11. One Cadette even came solo without her troop and jumped right in to help like a pro. All great motivation to make next year’s council camp even better!

How did this centennial camping celebration reflect the traditions and values of Girl Scouting?

During the camp, we definitely touched on Girl Scouting’s core values. For courage, we had a morning adventure of ziplining, a high ropes course and rock climbing, encouraging girls to take risks, try new things, and learn from mistakes. For confidence, older girls led a STEM activity for younger scouts, boosting their curiosity and self-belief. To make the world a better place, they ran a “Leave No Trace” workshop to teach environmental awareness. And of course, we exchanged SWAPS – Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere – which are small, handmade friendship tokens that celebrate Girl Scout tradition.

What inspired you to take on the role of council leader for USAGSO Beijing?

I had been involved in the council team for a couple of years, and after our previous chair, Miao, left the country, I knew I had to step in. I’m more hands-on and not a fan of big speeches, but I do my best to fill her shoes.

How has USAGSO Beijing evolved over the years under your leadership?

I first got involved during Covid, and the changes since then have been significant. Miao was a great recruiter, and the Girl Scout community flourished under her energy. I’ve focused more on building council-wide support for all troops and leaders, organizing as many joint events as possible. We’ve also seen a shift. [There are] more downtown-based troops now, making the movement more girl-centered compared to the previous Shunyi international school hub.

Your three daughters are longtime Girl Scouts. You also serve as their troop leader. How have their experiences influenced your perspective as a leader?

Having in-house (literally!) feedback is a great support. I make sure each of my girls helps decide on troop activities. For example, we tape pictures of patch programs under cupcakes at the start of the year. Each girl picks a cupcake and gets assigned that activity. The older girls are very self-directed. They’ll tell me right away if something’s not working. I do feel a bit sorry for them having to deal with their mom as troop leader, but they seem to handle it well!

What initiatives are in place to foster leadership skills among the Scouts?

This October, Ursula – another USAGSO Overseas Volunteer Partner – and I will co-lead the CSA (Cadette, Senior, Ambassador) Leadership Weekend in Kyoto. These weekends include workshops and hands-on activities to grow leadership skills. Cadettes can earn a Leader in Action (LiA) award by assisting a Brownie troop, and there are specific awards for Cadette, Senior, and Ambassador levels. Cadettes (grades 6-8) can become Program Aides (PA), and Seniors and Ambassadors (grades 9-12) can qualify as Volunteers in Training (VIT).

Your oldest daughter, aged 17, serves as an Ambassador. What does this role entail, and how does she engage with troops inside or outside of Beijing?

Alice participated in a Holi celebration at the WAGGGS center in Pune last March. She said, “This destination trip was made so memorable not just because of the activities and places visited but also the most amazing and kind people I’ve met.” Her Ambassador troop is deeply involved in council life. Last year, they created “Wizarding World of Scouting” for the Bridging Ceremony, as part of their Mission Sisterhood Take Action Project. The two-hour event included five themed stations: MAGICAL ME with positive affirmations, BUDDY UP FOR WIZARDING with a trust-building game, [and]SISTERHOOD WAND MOTION, FRIENDSHIP POTION and a MAGIC SWAP STATION. The older girls really stepped up to lead and mentor.

Can you highlight success stories of Scouts who have taken on leadership roles?

Girl Scouts alumni include trailblazers like Sylvia Acevedo (former CEO and rocket scientist), Sally Ride, Mae Jemison, Madeleine Albright, and Sandra Day O’Connor. At the local level, four of our Cadettes recently collaborated with Beijing Forestry University to plant 60 trees in Huairou – an amazing Silver Award project!

How does the Beijing council engage with the local community and culture?

We collaborate with international schools like International School of Beijing (ISB), Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) and Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS) and work with organizations such as Roundabout, HOPE and ICVS. We’ve even hosted a STEM night at Xinglong National Astronomical Observatory with Ten Dimensional Nature.

Can you share notable examples of how Beijing Scouts have embraced cultural exchange?

Our troops often incorporate Chinese traditions into their activities. We’ve made dumplings at Black Sesame Kitchen for Chinese New Year, explored Dashilanr with a DIY scavenger hunt, created mooncake-shaped soaps for Mid-Autumn Festival, and even made tiles at the Forbidden City tile factory. My two older troops had a cultural immersion trip to Inner Mongolia.

How does USAGSO collaborate with other international scouting movements?

USAGSO works within WOSM (World Organization of the Scout Movement) via the Consultative Committee, a shared platform for information exchange and global project development. We also offer leadership awards like the Gold Award and Global Action Award that align with WOSM’s mission. And we build partnerships with host-nation organizations, such as Japan Girl Scouts.

How do you collaborate with sister organizations like the UK Girl Guides? Any examples from China or Asia?

Through one of our troop leaders who grew up in Hong Kong, we’re building ties with Girl Guides HK. We’re also exploring partnerships with GS in Shanghai and Canton (Guangzhou). Last year, I served as a camp counselor at the USAGSO camp in Taiwan, and this March, I joined six girls from my troop for an Adventure Camp in Jeju Island, Korea. These international events are always a blend of challenge, reward, and connection.

What are your aspirations for the Beijing USAGSO council in the coming years?

Looking ahead, I hope USAGSO Beijing continues to empower young women through leadership development, foster global citizenship, and promote a culture of service and inclusivity. I want to leave a legacy of openness, where every girl feels welcome regardless of background, beliefs or abilities. Building strong partnerships with schools, organizations and individuals will keep the Girl Scout mission thriving in our community.

Fall registration opens in August! Interested families can join upcoming info sessions. Scan the QR code to get in touch with Chiara.

Images: Tara Fegelein and Chiara Gensini

This Beijing Family Hikes series features kid-friendly hikes in rhythm with the seasons. Spring blooms and fall foliage, wild swims in summer and frozen rivers in winter – we handpick trails that celebrate seasonality and explore Beijing’s ecological and cultural heritage.

“Reading ten thousand books is not as useful as traveling ten thousand miles,” an old proverb goes. Indeed! I wrote earlier about the many benefits of hiking with kids along with tips provided by trusted guide Steven Zhang of Steven’s Hikes, who has trekked thousands of miles across China.

This spring, Steven has selected three trails in and around Beijing where early blooms meet echoes of imperial grandeur – perfect for sparking young imaginations. One is a perennial favorite within city limits; the other two venture further afield. Read on for highlights of each trail, plus ideas on upping the fun factor through scavenger hunts, storytelling, and more.

Give these a go, and if you’d like to share your family’s adventures, we’d love to see your notes and snaps! For information on guided tours, contact Steven on WeChat via the QR code below.Silver Mountain Pagoda Forest (Yínshān Tǎlín, 银山塔林)

Location: Changping District
Drive time: about 1.5 hours from Liangmaqiao, Beijing

Option A:

• Hiking distance: 9km
• Elevation gain: 500m
• Difficulty level: L3 (suitable for ages 10+)

Option B:

• Hiking distance: 4km
• Elevation gain: 300m
• Difficulty level: L2 (suitable for ages 7+)

Why Go?

From late March to early April, peach blossoms frame a postcard-pretty backdrop to Silver Mountain’s Fahua Temple ruins. A “pagoda forest” of seven pagoda towers dating back to the Jin dynasty gives kids a captivating glimpse into China’s rich Buddhist history. At its peak, this ancient monastic site housed over ten thousand monks!

Terrain: For a more challenging hike for teens, Steven recommends a longer “off-road” approach from the back of Yinshan (Option A), which follows a rugged, rocky path with sections of steeper gradients. For kids under 10, he suggests a shorter “out-and-back” route from the main gate (Option B) following a paved path. Both routes include climbing stairs to the top platform for a mountain panorama, while on the descent pathway, you’ll get a birds-eye view of the pagoda forest.

Fun Factor: The pagoda grounds’ open area is perfect for running around and turning cartwheels. Play an improvised scavenger hunt of who can find a secret cave with rock art? Which pagoda has elaborate relief carvings? Let kids explore like archaeologists in the ruins or channel their inner Indiana Jones on a temple trek.

Snacks: Enjoy ice cream (bīngqílín 冰淇淋) for the kids, cold beer (bīngpíjiǔ 冰啤酒) for the grown-ups, or a full local meal in the nearby village of Xiangtang.

Price: RMB 20 for adults and RMB 5 for children. Purchase at the ticket counter on-site or book one day in advance via WeChat.

Find it:
Yinshan Pagoda Forest Scenic Area
银山塔林风景区
Xihu Village, Xingshou Town, Changping District
昌平区兴寿镇西湖村
Opening hours: 8am-4pm
WeChat: 银山塔林

Qiyin Temple aka “Wild Forbidden City” (Yǎngshān Qíyīn Sì, 仰山棲隱寺)

Location: Mentougou District
Drive time: about 1 hour from Liangmaqiao
Hiking distance: 7km
Elevation gain: 400m
Difficulty level: L2 (suitable for ages 7+)

Why Go?

Imagine the Forbidden City swallowed by forest … in the Taihu Mountains. Over a thousand years old, Qiyin Temple was once a grand royal sanctuary. Destroyed in the Japanese invasion, the site feels frozen in time: Half-standing halls, crumbling stonework, and overgrown paths give it an air of mystery and melancholy, all the more evocative when cherry blossoms appear.

Terrain: While multiple trailheads lead to Qiyin, the child-friendliest route is to start and end at the village of Yingtaogou (樱桃沟). This roughly 7km loop meanders through rocky mountain paths and narrow dirt tracks, with modest elevation gain and a few steep sections. The route is mostly exposed with little shade, and dry bushes can be scratchy, so don long sleeves and long trousers. Watch out for trail forks and occasional loose gravel; good shoes and sun protection are a must. The abandoned temple sits at the midway point, an atmospheric pause in the heart of the hills.

Fun Factor: Bring along a printed photo of the temple from the 1920s and play “then and now” – what’s changed, what’s still there? It’s a low-key way to spark curiosity about history. In late May, pop into one of the cherry orchards on the trail, where, for a small fee, your hungry young hikers can pick and feast on cherries.

Snacks: Enjoy a panoramic picnic with views over the yellow-tiled roofs of the temples at the top of the hill. Yingtaogou village also has a restaurant.

Price: Free

Find it:
Yangshan Qiyin Zen Temple
仰山棲隱禪寺
50 meters north of Yingtaogou Folk Tourism Village, Mentougou District
门头沟区樱桃沟民俗旅游村北50米

Fragrant Hills (Xiangshan Gongyuan, 香山公园)

Location: Haidian District
Drive time: about 30 min from Liangmaqiao
Hiking distance: 4km
Elevation gain: 400m
Difficulty level: L1 (suitable for ages 5+)

Why go?  Xiangshan is a serene escape west of the Summer Palace and easily accessible via metro, just one stop past the National Botanical Gardens. True to its name, the spring air in this former imperial garden is sweet with plum blossoms, violet cress, and wildflowers, while towering evergreens provide welcome shade as the days warm up.

Terrain: “Choose your own adventure” among a network of footpaths, from gentle paved steps to steeper, wooded detours. Go up one way and down another, letting kids lead the route (the park is well-signposted). The final ascent gets steeper and less shaded, but the top deck rewards hikers with a pavilion teahouse and sweeping views over Beijing. Dance a summit jig and see who can spot landmarks like the Summer Palace’s vast lake or CBD’s iconic skyline.

Fun Factor: Don’t miss Temple of Azure Clouds (Bìyún Sì, 碧云寺) located at the park’s eastern end, which houses a dizzying 512 Bodhisattva statues! Local lore says to pick a number, then count off the statues – whichever you land on is your protector. A plaque reveals their special powers, and for a few kuai, you can take home a protective amulet card as a souvenir.

Snacks: The Commerce Street along the south gate has a mix of teashops and street food, or get quirky ice creams and chocolates at a Russophile convenience store.

Price:
RMB 10 for adults and RMB 5 for children.

Find it:
40 Maimaijie, Haidian District
北京市海淀区买卖街40号
Metro: Fragrant Hills Station (香山站) on the Xijiao Line
Opening hours: 6am-6.30pm last entry

Images: Uyanga Jaeckels, Tara Fegelein, Steven’s Hikes

There’s something about trekking through nature that shifts the way we connect with our children. Escaping the everyday—schools, screens, the busyness of Beijing’s speedy pace—to immerse in forests and mountains, it feels like time slows down and space opens up to be more mindful of our surroundings. Breathing in green scents, crossing a cool stream, spotting a salamander, wondering what a tree species might be – hiking heightens our physical sensations and sense of wonder, and invites a new flow to conversations.

On top of promoting wellness and family bonding, hiking is time in nature’s classroom. Children develop resilience by learning how to persevere through challenges encountered along the way. How to deal with a flash rainshower? A stumble, cut knee, bug bite? Hangry parents? Their confidence grows when they are able to calmly handle unexpected situations, reach a summit, or complete a long trail. Finally, spending time with flora and fauna strengthens their appreciation for biodiversity and ecological stewardship.

So that’s the case for upping your family’s hiking game from occasional leisure to essential monthly ritual. But, how can you coax your little one into falling in love with conquering mountains from drama-prone preschoolers to too-cool teens? We ask Steven Zhang of Steven’s Hikes, who has 20 years of experience hiking around Beijing and across China, for his tips on turning ‘Are we there yet?’ into ‘Let’s summit!’

How to Choose Trails – According to Steven:

Start Small and Local. Nearby trails like Fragrant Hills or the National Botanical Gardens offer short, familiar routes that build confidence and enthusiasm to take on more challenging routes.

Match to Ability Level. As you build up to longer trails, opt for routes that match your child’s stamina. Consider distance, elevation gain, terrain, and total duration against her ability, pace, and attention span. Steven classifies five difficulty levels (L1-L5, see his QR code at the end of the article). A simpler rule to adapt for ability and age:

• Under 10: Flat, shaded trails, some moderate inclines, with interactive elements.
• Over 10: Introduce steeper inclines, longer distances, and set goals for summits.

Favor Trails with Kid Appeal. Some trails are built with learning stations or play areas along the way. Others may feature waterfalls and stream crossings, or cultural draws like temples and ruins. Trails along larger lakes and rivers invite a dip in the water in summer, even a rest area for a scenic picnic goes a long way in appealing to young hikers.

Get the kids involved in the preparation process.

Involve Kids in Planning. Look up the route on an online map together, let them pack the backpack, and choose snacks. This involvement increases their enthusiasm.

Gear Up Appropriately. Invest in a lightweight backpack, sturdy footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, and a first-aid kit. Local brands

Long is Better Than Short. Many go hiking in shorts and tanks during summer, but Steven recommends light, breathable long-sleeve shirts and long pants to guard against the sun and scratches. Use a variety of outer layers, such as rain jackets, windbreakers, or fleece jackets, depending on the season. Protective headwear is also essential, even in cooler months, to protect the face and eyes.

Pack Light and Smart. Plenty of water, snacks, head coverings, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray (summer), a first-aid kit (or at least plasters), a spare pair of socks if there are water crossings, and for good measure, more snacks.

What about when you’re on the trail?

Mindset is Everything. A successful hike has as much to do with the right gear as it does the right attitude. Patience, humor, and curiosity. Gently remind kids (and yourself) to take a breath when frustration hits.

Safety First. Teach basic safety rules—staying on the path, recognizing trail markers, and what to do if separated.

Respect Nature. Instill a leave-no-trace ethic and model care for the environment.

Give Kids a Role: Whether it’s trail navigator, photographer, or sunscreen monitor, small responsibilities increase engagement and confidence.

Relaxed Pace. Frequent snack and view breaks are a must, especially for under-10s. It’s a cliché, but so true: The journey is the destination.

Spot Birds, Bugs, Plants: Play a scavenger hunt to see who will find the first lizard, centipede, or (whatever bird is local to the area – look it up!). Curious by nature and closer to the ground, kids often notice what adults miss. The excellent Seek by iNaturalist app IDs trees, flowers, and insects – it’s free and works offline.

Make It a Story. Weave in local legends, myths, or made-up tales about the landscape. It’s a great way to fuel imaginations and hold attention.

Practice Mindfulness. Teach children to observe, listen, and connect with their surroundings. Slow down and simply BE.

Expect the Unexpected. Be ready to adjust. Pack rain gear and keep an open mind if plans need to shift.

High-five the wins! Victory dance at the summit, finishing a loop, and even mark smaller wins along the way. Positive reinforcement builds motivation and resilience.

End on a High Note. Develop a ritual for rewarding your conclusion of the hike. For example, Steven likes to end hikes with a local village meal.

Reflect Together. On the ride home, talk about what everyone enjoyed or learned. Post-hike chats help reinforce positive experiences.

Share with Jingkids! Tongue in cheek… but seriously, we’d love to learn from your adventures to inspire us and fellow readers…

And that’s your trail toolkit! Ready to put it to use? Coming up next, Steven takes us on three spring hikes where ancient pagodas, forgotten temples, and imperial gardens await. Let the adventure begin.

For more information on classifying hiking levels and group hiking tours, contact Steven at:Images: Tara Fegelein

“Icy winds on your face are awesome!” said no parent with restless kids indoors ever. As the chill fades and the blossoms burst into bloom, it’s time to let loose your energy outdoors. Beijing’s parks are calling – whether it’s scaling obstacle courses, biking an 11km loop, or gliding around in a giant pink flamingo, there’s no shortage of ways to get active together. Truth be told, I’ve had my share of cop-outs where I encourage my daughter Leili to try something new while I “supervise” from the sidelines (aka backside on a bench plus doom-scrolling). But with her grandmother visiting, I wanted to make this April outdoors a family affair. So, pack the snacks, slap on the sunscreen, and let’s celebrate spring with these fun-filled adventures!

Treetop Thrills at Happy Gorilla

We kicked off our spring reboot by heading skyward. Suspended between tall trees, Happy Gorilla Tree-Top Adventure Park (快乐猩猩树上穿越主题公园) is a high ropes obstacle course tucked into the southwest corner of Chaoyang Park – a network of wobbly planks, cargo nets, swinging ropes, bridges, tunnels, and trapezes, all suspended in the air.

Happy Gorilla offers two difficulty levels, divided by height: under or over 140 cm. The junior course (starting from RMB 320) was perfect for our crew – Leili, Eva, and Enya, all age six. Harnessed in and helmeted up, they clambered onto the starting platform with big grins and a touch of nervous energy.

Despite a few shaky steps on the swingiest bits, the girls tackled it all with surprising aplomb – no meltdowns, no fear of heights, just giggling, pink-cheeked determination. The course ended with a mini rock wall and a breezy zipline to land back on terra firma. It took just over an hour, and while the area was lively with other families, we didn’t have to queue. For a dose of fresh air and adrenaline, this one’s a must-try.

Find it:
Happy Gorilla at Chaoyang Park
200m inside the No.7 East Gate of Chaoyang Park, Chaoyang District
朝阳区,朝阳公园东7号门内200米
Subway Line 14: Chaoyang Park
Open daily from 9am-6pm

Biking the Olympic Greens at Olympic Forest Park

The next stop is Beijing’s green lung! Designed by Tsinghua University’s Urban Planning and Design Institute as a “back garden” to the 2008 Summer Games, Olympic Forest Park (奥林匹克森林公园) is the largest public green space in Beijing. Its whopping 680 hectares are split into north and south zones, linked by an “Ecological Corridor” – a bridge that cleverly spans the Fifth Ring Road.

Both zones are havens for running clubs, picnicking families, romping kids, and young cyclists. While adult bicycles are unfortunately prohibited, children’s bikes are welcome, making for an amusing dynamic of kids pedaling ahead while parents jog to keep up.

This imbalance is offset by the joy of the ride: 11km and 7.5km loops, respectively, in the north and south gardens. We entered via the park’s north gate and ended at the south gate, weaving through sections of both loops and stopping to see wetlands, scoop up blossoms from the ground, and savor an ice cream.

On a recent Saturday, the park was teeming with sports teams, vendors, dogs, strollers, and tents. After crossing the Corridor, we turned left to follow the western edge of the south loop along a near-empty stretch hugging a tranquil tree-lined canal. The route encircles Yangshan Hill (仰山) and winds down to the southern tip of Aohai Lake (奥海) (where crowds reappeared). The incline is mostly flat, making it accessible for those new to riding – we even saw younger kids on balance bikes. For a springtime ride, the highlight is catching glimpses of the iconic Olympic Tower through a flurry of pink and white blooms.

Find it:
Olympic Forest Park South Gate
33 Kehui Road, Chaoyang, Beijing
Subway Line 8, Senlin Gongyuan Nanmen (森林公园南门) station
Open daily from 6.30am-10pm

Captaining a Flamingo Boat at Aohai Lake 

We returned to Olympic Park on a quiet Tuesday with friends – this time, Laura joined Leili to co-captain a flamingo-pink boat across the glassy waters of South Garden’s Aohai Lake. Technically, this outing isn’t quite “active,” since the boats are electric rather than pedal- or oar-powered, but it’s the perfect cooldown after a bike ride: a chance to rest tired legs and take in the lakeside scenery.

A boat for six costs RMB 240 for unlimited usage time. Our captains took their mission seriously, taking turns navigating past ducks taking flight and steering clear of collisions with other boaters. The gentle pace, the fresh breeze, the Olympic Tower gleaming in the sun, and blooms ringing the lake all made for a meditative ride to soak in spring vibes.

Find it:
Olympic Forest Park South Gate
33 Kehui Road, Chaoyang District
Subway Line 8, Senlin Gongyuan Nanmen (森林公园南门) station
Open daily from 6.30am-10pm

Want more ideas for getting active outdoors this spring? Stay tuned for where to go for hikes, camping, fishing, and tree-planting excursions both inside and outside the city – coming soon!

Join Tara Fegelein and her family as she explores family-friendly destinations in and around Beijing. Click on the #Kidventures hashtag below to check out her full list of recommendations.

Images: Tara Fegelein

In the social impact world, a common question is “What’s bugging you?” Entrepreneurs often start with a problem that bothers them, whether it’s a social issue or a market gap. For Daystar Academy tenth-grader Bayan Changizi, the answer was quite literal: bees. A longtime fascination with these vital pollinators led this student innovator to learn beekeeping for a school project – but he didn’t stop there. Bayan went on to build his own apiary, integrating beekeeping into his Beijing-based FROOT initiative, which grows organic produce and promotes sustainable farming. So what drives this young changemaker, and what’s it really like to keep a hive buzzing? We sat down with him to find out.

Bayan, your family has deep roots in Beijing. What’s your backstory?

My parents moved here more than 25 years ago from Canada. I was born in 2009 in Beijing. My mother is a math teacher at Daystar, and my father is a doctor at Beijing United Family Hospital. My older siblings are both studying in the medical field, one in Australia and one in the US.

So you’re a born-and-bred Beijinger! Are you fully fluent in Chinese? Is China “home” now?

Yes, I speak Chinese at the same level as English. In writing, my English is a bit better! I’ve attended the bilingual Daystar Academy since preschool. In primary, we studied a mix of the Chinese national curriculum and IB. My family spent every summer in Vancouver, and we have Persian ethnicity, so yeah, Canada and China are equally home, although mostly I identify as a global citizen.    

You’re in the IB MYP (International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program), which is known for its interdisciplinary approach. What is the goal of student projects during MYP?

In the last year of MYP, as we prepare to enter the DP (International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, grades 11-12), we complete a Personal Project on social innovation. We identify a social or environmental issue and come up with a solution to take action. We start defining our project in Grade 9 and continue throughout Grade 10. We do independent research, have an assigned supervisor who mentors us, and submit our final project to IB by February.

You chose a rather unique topic for your project – beekeeping! Why?

During the pandemic, there was severe isolation. My family wanted to reconnect with nature, and together with a Chinese family, we bought a farm in a village east of Beijing. I began helping out there on weekends, and eventually, I set up a venture called FROOT together with three friends. FROOT sells organic produce that’s pesticide-free and humanely farmed and free-range eggs from our own incubated chickens. We also host monthly events on sustainable farming practices, like composting, for families.

I’d love to buy humane produce from FROOT! So, where did bees enter the picture?

While working on the farm, I became more aware of the role of pollinators in sustainable farming. I’ve always been fascinated by bees – how they work together, how important bees are to human life as they pollinate up to 80 percent of all foods, and how their numbers are declining. Every summer in Vancouver, we’d see beekeepers on the road and stop to visit their apiaries. So, the MYP Personal Project was the perfect opportunity to take this interest to the next level. I reached out to a neighboring farmer, Mr Chen – we always bought his honey – and asked to do an apprenticeship. He taught me everything he knows! His experience helped me understand how to care for a hive and ensure its survival through the seasons. After a couple of months of learning, I moved the hive to our own farm and started beekeeping independently.

 What kinds of bees do you keep?

These are Italian honeybees. Native honeybees in Northern China are endangered; they are kept in protected areas where invasive European honeybees cannot threaten them.

What does beekeeping entail exactly? When do you harvest?

I go every weekend to tend the hive. It’s a yearlong process. Winter is the toughest period for bees, with low temperatures and no source of nectar or pollen. During winter, I fed my bees sugar as supplementary food and insulated the hive to help them conserve energy. Now that it’s spring, I’m planting flowers near the hive to increase food diversity for their foraging. Throughout the year, beekeepers will inspect their hives for things such as mites, disease, population size, and queen health. The honey harvest comes in autumn.

How does it feel to handle the hive?

Intense! You need to keep all movements smooth so as not to agitate the hive.

Did you get a chance to exhibit your project results?

We had an exhibition at school, and I presented it at the Future of Education Now (FOEN) conference at Western Academy of Beijing (WAB) in March, at a workshop session called Planting the Seeds for a Sustainable Future.

What aspects of your upbringing do you feel particularly shaped your drive?

My family environment is a big part of who I am. My parents always encouraged hands-on work, whether it was fixing broken appliances or getting your hands dirty in the garden. I remember my brother reminding me to “be the best Bayan I can be.”

What three pieces of advice would you offer for other young people?

1: In a world increasingly immersed in technology, remember to maintain a connection with nature and the earth.
2: Once you find a passion, explore it and hang on to it.
3: Always find a way to give back what you have been given.

Looking ahead, do you see sustainable farming playing a role in your future studies or career?

Climate change is a problem that our generation will have to tackle. Sustainability isn’t just a choice – it’s a necessity. What I’ve learned from farming will shape how I see the world and the role I want to play in it.

Inspired? We know we are! If you’re a teen with an incredible achievement, let us know! Get in touch with Mina Yan via email at minayan@beijing-kids.com or WeChat (ID: Wilhelmina87).

Images: Bayan Changizi

Microplastics are invading our oceans! To fight back, scientists at the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems have developed jellyfish-like robots that scoop up pollution to protect marine life. Here in Beijing, another team of engineers huddles over their latest prototype of marine technology. They test ideas, troubleshoot, and refine their designs, just like the experts. Their secret strength? They’re first graders, and their robots are made of LEGO.

My 6-year-old, Leili, and her teammates aren’t just stacking bricks. They’re part of FIRST LEGO League (FLL), a global robotics competition that challenges kids to solve real-world problems. I first heard of “LEGO robotics” from friends back in Washington DC, who wanted to spark their kids’ interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math). Their middle schoolers seemed happy to build cool robots. It’s part play, part engineering, and 100 percent fun.

What is FIRST LEGO League?

FLL is an international robotics program where kids aged 4-16 learn coding and problem-solving by designing LEGO-based solutions to scientific challenges. Teams compete in three age categories:

• Discover (4-6 years old) – STEM basics with LEGO DUPLO
• Explore (6-9 years old) – Intro to robotics and programming
• Challenge (9-16 years old) – Advanced coding of robots to complete missions

Each season features a new theme, with past topics covering energy solutions, transportation logistics, and creativity in technology. This year’s theme, SUBMERGED, plunges kids into underwater exploration, sustainability, and marine innovation.

 Beijing’s Thriving LEGO Robotics Scene

FLL has taken off in China, with over 200 teams in Beijing competing in high-octane tournaments at venues like the National Aquatics Center (“The Cube”). Finalists advance to the FLL Asia Open Championship – last year held in Hong Kong and this summer in Sydney.

The competition is rigorous. Teams of 4-6 kids:
Identify a real-world problem related to the theme
Research solutions and develop LEGO-based technology
Build and test prototypes, document their ideas, and present their work to judges

The best teams advance to regional and international championships, showcasing their ingenuity on a global stage.

Younger kids at 2023 FLL Beijing, held at The Cube. Photo credit: The Cube.

Older kids at FLL 2023 Asia Open Championship. Photo credit: True Light School of Hong Kong.

Forming Our “Dream Team”

Instead of joining a school-based team, we formed our own group of 6- and 7-year-olds in the Explore category. Our goal? To work through as many SUBMERGED-themed engineering modules as possible before next year’s challenge is announced.

To coach us, we partnered with Creativa, a Beijing-based ed-tech company led by Jessica and Carlos Soto, two engineers with over a decade of experience training young innovators. With their guidance, we kicked off our first session in January, meeting monthly to build, experiment, and – true to LEGO’s motto of “Learn through play” – have fun.

What the Kids (and Parents) Are Saying

Recently, the team completed the Abyssal module, exploring the ocean’s deepest layer – the Midnight Zone. They built seacopters and submersibles designed to probe these depths and presented their creations to parents, just as they would to a judges’ panel.

What do they love most about LEGO robotics?

“When I build, I can create my own things,” says 6-year-old John from British School of Beijing (BSB) Sanlitun
“Coding,” says 7-year-old Isabel from Western Academy of Beijing (WAB)
“I like controlling the boat a lot of times!” shares 6-year-old Leili from House of Knowledge (HOK)
“Robots are COOL,” says 6-year-old Karl from HOK

And from the parents …
“Full of fun and creativity combined with logical thinking. Perfect match for kids, preparing them for the future.” – John’s mom
“Gives my kids the chance to develop their teamwork and presentation skills.” – Enya’s mom
“Combines fun and learning.” – Karl’s dad
“It’s a great basis for coding.” – Leili’s dad

Insights From the Coaches

While we champion learning for learning’s sake and the thrill of the competition rather than fixating on winning, we couldn’t help but ask our coaches how to maximize the team’s performance.

“‘Explore’ teams should ideally complete all core modules before the competition to build their skills and confidence,” Coach Carlos told our group of parents. “With practice, they start thinking like a team – that’s when they get really good.”

The key first step? Enjoy coding. Some schools start learners off by writing hundreds of lines of code, but Creativa’s goal is to “make kids love code.” They want to ignite kids’ intrinsic passion, then guide their skills to take flight.

Coach Carla, herself a systems engineer, reflected: “Since university, I always dreamt of teaching girls. I was the only woman in my class, and I always questioned – why not girls?” She believes LEGO robotics makes STEM accessible to all.

 Want To Get Involved?

My bottom line: FLL is an engaging, hands-on way to fuel kids’ enthusiasm for STEM.

Check out:
FIRST LEGO League – global resources
FLL’s Community Blog – team stories

In Beijing:
Creativa can help you start or join a team. Scan the QR code to get in touch.

Stay tuned for the next big FLL event in Beijing this fall. Until then, happy innovating!

Images: The Cube, Tara Fegelein

What better way to celebrate International Women’s Day last weekend than by inspiring girls to believe they can change the world? On Mar 8, our Daisy troop – Beijing’s youngest members of the global Girl Scouts movement – set off on a storytelling adventure to honor the extraordinary achievements of women throughout history. Each scout chose a heroine from the worlds of art, science, sports, politics, and beyond to read a short story about her life and legacy. To share these stories in a setting as grand as these legendary ladies, we headed to Beijing City Library (北京城市图书馆 Běijīng Chéngshì Túshūguǎn). Move over, Bird’s Nest, and make way, Pants Building! Designed by Norwegian architects Snøhetta (of Oslo Opera House fame) in collaboration with local partner ECADI and inaugurated just over a year ago, this striking new landmark is a masterfully designed space that connects people, books, and nature.

The library is located in Tongzhou, so getting there takes some time. From the city center, it takes about an hour by metro or a 30-minute to drive – but the destination delivers. Turn it into a full-day outing: Wander around the library’s vast wonderland of books, watch a free movie in the children’s cinema, then let the kids run wild in the nearby Green Heart Forest Park (城市绿心森林公园). It’s shū (books) with a side of shù (trees)!

This place is a masterclass in integrating architecture with nature. The world’s largest indoor reading space is encased in a 16-meter-tall glass-walled atrium that bathes the interior in light and offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest park. The roof is supported by 144 soaring, tree-like columns that evoke the canopy of a ginkgo forest – a nod to Beijing’s botanical heritage. Carving through this vast space is the “Valley,” a meandering pathway that mirrors the course of the nearby Tonghui River and links the north and south entrances.

Visitors can ascend the Valley’s sculpted “hills,” which double as bookshelves and seating, feeling immersed in a continuation of the landscape outdoors. This visionary design earned the 2024 IFLA/Baker & Taylor Public Library of the Year Award, the highest honor in global library architecture. 

Here’s what you can expect:

• Take your passport along to open a Member Card for adults and children. It’s free and valid at all branches in the Beijing Library city-wide system.
• You can check out books for 42 days. Late returns incur a RMB 0.1 fee per day, per book. You can return books at any library branch.
• Spread over three floors, the facilities include reading rooms for ancient literature, periodicals, digital collections, media such as movies and music, exhibition spaces, lecture halls, conference rooms, and other areas that are helpfully signposted on maps throughout the library and in a brochure at the info desk at the entrance.
• All floors are accessible with ramps and elevators.

• The children’s section includes an extensive collection of foreign language books, primarily in English and for young children rather than adolescents. These books cannot be taken home, so be ready to grab a cozy seat and read on the spot.
• Book a day in advance for movie screenings at the children’s cinema, which go fast on weekends. Check WeChat for showtimes and a selection of kids movies dubbed in Chinese.
• Wifi service is provided in the library for members – your login and password are your member card number and date of birth.
• There are three cafes that serve beverages and light meals. Manage expectations – the coffee is less what you’d get at Metal Hands and more like 7-Eleven.
• BCL’s WeChat mini program lists their calendar of events. We popped into an exhibit called “Sounds of Beijing” and caught a musical performance in the auditorium.

Over the weekend, our Girl Scouts shared their heroine stories from the popular Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls in the children’s section, followed by a picnic lunch at a quiet tearoom on the second floor. It is worth noting that most areas are quiet zones, and library staff carry signs reminding visitors not to be loud. We wrapped up our visit by letting the girls unleash their energy by bike riding in the expansive outdoor space surrounding the library, which includes a performance hall and the Grand Canal Museum.

Find it:
260m southeast of the intersection of Shangmatou Lu and Huilin Lu, Tongzhou District
通州区上码头路与惠林路交叉口东南260米
Hours: Tue-Sun, 10am-8pm. Closed Mondays
How to get there: Tongzhou Beiguan station on Line 6 is the closest metro station. An on-site metro stop is currently under construction.
Admission: Free
Website: https://bjlib.clcn.net.cn/en
WeChat:

Images: Tara Fegelein