There is a place where donated toys wait for new adventures, where clothes hang ready to warm a stranger, and where a single, simple act of sorting can ripple into a story of hope.

This is Roundabout, Beijing’s very own version of Salvation Army, and it is powered by people like you.

At Roundabout, we believe that kindness is not just about giving. It is about the care we take in preparing that gift. Every item that arrives has a story. Your role? To get them ready for the next chapter.

Roundabout is looking for volunteers who want to show up, lend a hand, and be part of something steady and meaningful.

This opportunity is open to adults and teens alike. For teenagers, it is a chance to build responsibility, contribute to the community, and experience the quiet satisfaction of work that truly matters. For adults, it is a space to step away from daily routines, connect with a warm community, and make a tangible difference—sometimes in just a few hours a week.

So what does it take to volunteer at Roundabout? No prior experience is needed. Only three things matter:

1: A caring heart that believes that small actions add up.
2: A sense of attentiveness
3: The willingness to give time either regularly or occasionally, at a rhythm that suits your life.

As a Roundabout volunteer, you will be a part of the team where you will help sort, organize, and prepare donated goods so that they can be sold or distributed to support those in need. You will work in a bright, welcoming space alongside friendly fellow volunteers. There is sunshine, conversation, and the shared sense that together, we are making something beautiful happen.

If you want to know what it’s like to volunteer at Roundabout, check out Margaret Yang’s first hand accounts. 

Find it:
Monday to Saturday
Morning: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Afternoon: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
(You are welcome to choose shifts that work for you.)
Shunyi Villas and Pinnacle Plaza area
Cathy View Plaza, 2 Xiangjiang Bei Lu, Shunyi District
顺义区香江北路2号

How to Join:

Images: Roundabout

You know that feeling when you’re new to a city or even just new to a phase of life, and suddenly you need a dozen things at once? Maybe it’s a new job, a place to live, someone to fix the thing that just broke, maybe a reliable driver who can take your family to explore the outskirts of Beijing. It can feel like a lot.

That’s where the Beijinger’s classifieds come in.

For over 20 years, this little corner of the internet has been the quiet workhorse of Beijing’s international community. Need a new roommate because yours just announced they’re moving back home? There’s a post for that. People are hiring. Trying to sell that barely-used scooter before you leave town? Someone will buy it.

It’s not fancy. No algorithms are trying to guess what you want. It’s just people, real ones, posting about what they need and what they have to offer. A driver looking for regular clients. A family selling furniture before a move. A repairman who actually shows up when he says he will. A language exchange partner who’s just as nervous as you are.

And maybe that’s why it works. Because life in Beijing, for all its chaos and excitement, is easier when you’ve got a place to ask. A place where someone’s already posted the answer.

So whether you’re job-hunting, apartment-hunting, or just trying to find your people, it’s worth a scroll. You never know what you might find.

Images: FreePik

Welcome to Beijing! They say it takes a village to raise a child. Well, in this day and age, that proverbial village is on your phone in the form of WeChat groups. If you’ve thought it, there’s probably a group out there filled with people asking the same question. And, being away from your home country and navigating this new adventure called parenthood, a few trusty WeChat groups can go a long way.

You’ll find tried and tested parenting hacks for tantrums, good wholesome advice on parenting, answers for things like what a questionable rash on your baby’s back might be, second-hand kids’ clothes and toys, playdates, pediatrician recommendations, teething help, and info on basically everything else that life throws your way.

Here are the parenting WeChat groups that we highly recommend every parent in Beijing to become a part of. Essentially, find your tribe.

Jingkids Parenting in Beijing

This one is a general interest discussion group for parenting in Beijing. It’s a great place to ask others for their parenting input, get real reviews on schools, camps, hospitals, etc., and be your go-to place for questions regarding your family and kids.

How: Add WeChat ID Wilhelmina87 and ask to join.

Jingkids BJ Kids & Family Events

Instead of being bombarded by every event happening in Beijing, this one is only for events that are suitable for families. Every Wednesday, jingkids will also send out a WeChat post in this group with a list of family-friendly events taking place in the next two weeks that we’ve compiled.

How: Add WeChat ID Wilhelmina87 and ask to be added to the family events group.

Family Events Only Jingkids

Although many groups combine events and advice, this group is run by our founder, Mike Wester, and sticks strictly to events that kids can attend. This way, you don’t have to comb through event posters and decipher via Google Translate if that tea tasting requires a babysitter or if you can take the kids.

How: WeChat Wilhelmina87 and ask to join the Events group

Beijing Dads Group

Don’t forget the Dads! Although all parents are welcome into most of these groups, it must be nice to have a spot where dads can let loose. From what I hear, it’s a lot of memes but also quite good discussions and help when needed.

How: WeChat mwinchina and ask to join the Dads group

Third Culture Kids Parenting

Raising a mixed-culture kid is no easy task. Here you’ll find other parents in the same boat as you, in a space where you can share your experiences and ask for advice.

How: Add mwinchina to join

FamFriendlyEats

This one is specifically for foodie parents. As we know, not all family-friendly restaurants are suitable for kids of every age, so this group is where you can ask for recommendations based on your unique family make-up. Like with other WeChat groups, the rules are simple – be respectful of others’ opinions and don’t spam the group.

How: Add Wilhelmina87 on WeChat to join or simply scan the QR code.

Toy Reviews and Recommendations 

Kids got it so good nowadays in terms of having the coolest toys. Now, before you buy every cool new gadget you see, get some real feedback from other parents. This group is perfect for that. Looking for a new toy for a kid? Get some recommendations. Recently purchased something amazing or perhaps a dud? Give some feedback.

How: Add Wilhelmina87 on WeChat to join or scan the QR code.

Images: Pexels

The holiday season is just around the corner, and with it comes the joyful challenge of finding the perfect gifts. But let’s be honest: Finding a toy that truly delights a child is no easy task. Will it be played with for years, or will it be forgotten by New Year’s?

This year, take the stress out of holiday shopping. Join the Toy Reviews and Recommendations WeChat group! Get trusted, kid-tested and parent-approved ideas that will help you find a gift that sparks real joy – not just a polite “thank you.”

Make this holiday season magical. Scan the QR code below or add admin Wilhelmina87 on WeChat to join our community of savvy gift-givers.

Also, if you haven’t learned how to shop online yet, be sure to check out these guides here on how to use Taobao, Pinduoduo, and Xianyu.

Images: Freepik, Pexels

Calling all local artisans, makers and businesses! British School of Beijing Sanlitun has officially announced that vendor applications are now being accepted for its highly anticipated annual Christmas Cracker event. This premier community celebration is set to take place on Sat, Dec 6.

The Christmas Cracker is a fun community gathering that’s perfect for families all around the city and attracts a large and enthusiastic crowd from across the community. This year’s edition is set to be the most spectacular one yet, and a key part of that is assembling a vibrant marketplace of diverse vendors.

This is a great opportunity for local vendors to position themselves directly in front of a captive audience of hundreds of local residents and families in a festive, high-energy environment. The event is designed to drive foot traffic and encourage holiday shopping, making it an ideal platform for businesses specializing in:

• Handcrafted goods and artisan crafts
• Unique gifts and holiday items
• Gourmet foods and seasonal treats
• Local services and retail

If you’re interested in taking part, then it’s time to act quickly, as vendor space is limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

To apply, vendors must review the event information and complete the official sign-up sheet, both of which are available directly from the BSB Sanlitun event organizers.

This event represents a valuable chance for vendors to boost end-of-year sales, increase brand awareness, and connect with the heart of the community. With its proven track record and dedicated following, the Christmas Cracker is more than just an event – it’s a community tradition.

For more details and to request the vendor application package, potential participants should contact BSB Sanlitun directly.

Images: BSB Sanlitun

Move over, traditional career guides. In an era where jobs can involve managing virtual economies, designing sustainable cities or programming artificial intelligence, the classic career path isn’t kids’ only option. For the next generation navigating a world of limitless career possibilities, the well-meaning advice to “follow your passion” can feel overwhelming without a map. Now, a wave of adults with truly fascinating jobs are throwing that map wide open. They’re stepping out of their labs, studios, and field sites to share the real, unfiltered career advice they wish they’d had – not just about how to land the job, but how to build a life of curiosity, resilience and purpose. This is more than career day; it’s a mentorship movement designed to inspire the innovators, problem-solvers and dreamers of tomorrow.

Search the keyword #careerday to find more articles like this.

Tell us your name, and give us the elevator pitch about your job.

My name is Steven McKinney, and I’m the Foreign Principal at IF Montessori Kindergarten here in Beijing. Around the city, I’ve long been known as “Stevie Mac,” the former frontman of one of Beijing’s most well-known party bands. These days, my focus has shifted toward writing and acting, developing original stage plays and my upcoming motion graphic comic.

At IF Montessori, my primary role is to oversee the entire school – from classrooms to curriculum – ensuring that our English foundation is strengthened within a strong Montessori program. I also focus on marketing, recruitment and developing the school’s reputation so that IF stands out as one of the top kindergartens in the city.

Could you walk me through a typical day or week in your role? What are your primary responsibilities?

No two days are the same, but my week usually involves observing classes, mentoring teachers and meeting with parents and administrators to align on goals. I spend time developing our English curriculum, planning events and brainstorming creative marketing strategies. Whether it’s coordinating open days, guiding new staff or ensuring every classroom runs smoothly, my job is to make sure the school not only operates efficiently but also continues to grow and improve as a community.

What is the most rewarding or fulfilling part of your work? What problems do you get to solve? On the flip side, what are the most significant challenges or stressful aspects of your job?

The most rewarding part – without question – are the kids. They’re the reason I’ve been teaching in Beijing for over a decade. Their energy, curiosity and laughter make even the toughest days worthwhile.

As for challenges, recruitment is definitely one of the biggest. The education market in Beijing is increasingly competitive, and part of my job is finding creative ways to make IF Montessori stand out among other top schools. It can be stressful, but I genuinely enjoy the challenge – it keeps me sharp and motivated.

How did you get to where you are today? You can talk about your educational route, pivotal moments, unplanned detours and any other decisions that you find important.

I’ve been in Beijing for 12 years, and honestly, it all comes down to consistency, hard work and daily micro-goals that build long-term progress. I’ve applied that mindset to everything I’ve done here – teaching, management, music, even acting. Each experience built on the last, shaping me into a better leader and educator. The journey wasn’t always a straight line, but that’s what made it meaningful.

Knowing what you know now, if you could go back and give one piece of advice to your teenage self about work and life, what would it be?

Haha, easy. I’d tell myself: “Study Chinese in college, and fly straight to Beijing right after graduation.” It would’ve saved me a few detours, but honestly, every step led me right where I was meant to be. Life’s an adventure. The trick is to keep moving forward, stay curious, and enjoy the ride.

Images: Steven McKinney

Move over, traditional career guides. In an era where jobs can involve managing virtual economies, designing sustainable cities, or programming artificial intelligence, the classic career path aren’t kids’ only option. For the next generation navigating a world of limitless career possibilities, the well-meaning advice to “follow your passion” can feel overwhelming without a map. Now, a wave of adults with truly fascinating jobs are throwing that map wide open. They’re stepping out of their labs, studios, and field sites to share the real, unfiltered career advice they wish they’d had – not just about how to land the job, but how to build a life of curiosity, resilience, and purpose. This is more than career day; it’s a mentorship movement designed to inspire the innovators, problem-solvers, and dreamers of tomorrow.

Search the keyword #careerday to find more articles like this.

What’s your name and give us the elevator pitch about your job.

Morten Holm, Danish architect and partner in Archiland Intl. where we, with our 100-people team do sustainable master plan and architecture design. And for the last five years, also now founder and co-CEO of the Green School at FunFarmFam. Below, I will share a bit on what we, our fantastic team of 15 people of educators, free-ranging animal caretakers, tree keepers and farm to table kitchen people are doing.

Overall, we call this “Learning Beyond the Classroom.” Yes, and now you may say, “WHAT!?” Well, imagine everything surrounding actually is also a place to do joyful, engaging play-based learning, using real-life environments to deepen our understanding of our lives and the surrounding world. Yes, you may still say, “WHAT!?” Okay, but picture this: This weekend activity we will start in the field, introduce “tuber plant” families and their niche in the eco system, study their strategy for growing, take a few leaves, study their green corn photosynthesis under our portable microscope, dig up the sweet potato “tubers,” bring them back to our indoor classroom, clean them up and twist and test your own recipe to your likings of a cupcake or quiche; while they are baking, we will venture back out and serve the leftovers to the goats or the chickens. That’s Learning Beyond the Classroom.

Could you walk me through a typical day or week in your role? What are your primary responsibilities?

I primarily work as a mentor (guiding and assisting learners) and creator (what and how to do) for the new or special activities. And then everything related to the new design, from the biggest landscape to the smallest poster.

Since our activities relate to real-world learning, seasons, nature etc., every week is basically slightly different.

Monday to Tuesday: I (and the team) may be preparing for visiting schools coming and the weekend activities. This means assisting educators on how to run the activity, subjects to share, how to manage the group size, weather, safety issues and so on.

Wednesday to Friday: I would maybe go to a school campus, doing an immersive school garden class together with a group of fantastic high school students, teaching elementary school students and/or visiting schools and running activities at Green School/farm for a  whole-day activity like the one mentioned above.

Saturday to Sunday: We will have families or students doing seasonal indoor/outdoor activities. Activities combine great things of interest in our field, nature, farm, using the materials here to do craft, woodwork, design thinking and, of course, food literacy/cooking tasty things!

What is the most rewarding or fulfilling part of your work? What problems do you get to solve? On the flip side, what are the most significant challenges or stressful aspects of your job?

Greatest Joy – and it by far outweighs challenges:

• Being in close contact with seasons in nature and with the modest hope that our example is inspirational to others.
• The immediate sheer joy of families and students coming here. Instantly rewarding as compared to architecture.

Greatest Challenge:

• Climate change makes growing ecological fruits/vegetables harder as well as running the part of outdoor activities more unpredictable.
• And changing the “comfort convenience” culture of some people who are not from the Nordic countries. The joy of outdoor life is really for ALL seasons!

How did you get to where you are today? You can talk about your educational route, pivotal moments, unplanned detours and any other decisions that you find important.

I was extremely lucky to come into a family of open-minded parents – that we don’t get to choose, right? This means travelling by a heavily packed car, two siblings plus me in the back seat, low-budget, heavy impractical tent across Europe in all childhood summer holidays, and getting to meet “the world” at an eye level from early on.

Later on when I was 16, I was doing the same but now on my own: backpacking, low-budget train trips, sleeping very rough across Europe for a month before mobiles, SoMe and credit cards, learning by doing on how to get by and meeting new European friends.

And later, I went on to study in the school of architecture for five years, but every summer break I was persistent enough – walking with my portfolio from studio to studio – to get internships at design studios in Denmark, Sweden and Spain. These practical experiences taught me that distant university handbook theory, to me at least, can only bring you to a certain level of knowledge, but truly understanding was far better deployed or internalized when I experienced this in a real-life context.

I guess the most pivotal moment was when I got a message from my university classmate: Come to Japan and work with me – yes, still before the wide internet and mobiles. I said yes, resigned from my first real job at a “hot” architecture studio, went to Tokyo, and shared a humble tatami room with an English-teaching Londoner I had never met before – but I learned immensely from this three-month collaboration.

In other words, a lot of growth – maybe the biggest leaps – came from whenever I was being a bit out of my comfort zone.

Knowing what you know now, if you could go back and give one piece of advice to your teenage self about work and life, what would it be?

1. Follow your own path. Gaining experience looks different to each one of us. Create your own mold, off or on “school.”

It took me quite a long time to build enough confidence to listen to myself rather than others when making choices…

2. Follow your passion and spend time following your curiosity, even if it means being a nerd, deviating from the course or not speeding through the education system.

It took me quite some time to take risks, to explore alternative ways of learning about the world and myself after schoolwork, travels, internships etc.

3. Follow and unfollow(!) your peers. Value the work of collaboration. Embrace difference and sharing exchanges.

It took me quite some time to understand the value of alternating between inspirational leading and also to fall back and be a strong team player.

Images: Morten Holm

It’s back-to-school time, which means it’s time to declutter and restock your home library. Don’t miss out on the next Roundabout book fair this Saturday from 10am – 1pm at Western Academy of Beijing (WAB).

Head to the primary school gym and browse through about 10,000 recently donated, gently used books for the whole family.

Paperback books are RMB 10, hardcover books are RMB 20, and kids’ books and unique books start from as low as RMB 1.

Bring your family and enjoy the Roundabout book fairs.

Feel free to bring your book donations that day, too. They will show up at one of the following Roundabout book fairs. All books at Roundabout Book Fairs are donated.

Pro Tip: Bring your own shopping bags to reduce unnecessary waste.

Find it:
10 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区来广营东路10号

If you’d like to volunteer to help out on the day, please get in touch by scanning the QR code below:

Images: Roundabout