Summer’s in full swing in Beijing, and boy, is it hot out there! While the city might be taking it easy on events, don’t fret – we’ve got the scoop on some cool family-friendly stuff happening over the next two weeks. From indoor adventures to chill hangouts, let’s beat the heat together and make the most of sunny days in Beijing with your crew.

INN 2025 Arrival Survival

Register now for INN 2025 “Arrival Survival”!
INN welcomes newcomers, returnees and long-term residents to our biggest community event of the year!

• Meet new people and make new friends
• Connect with more than 30 organizations, including hospitals, dentists, spas, hair care & beauty salons, jewelry designers, travel agents, language schools, relocation experts, animal hospitals, organic farms, yoga studio, bakeries and more!
• Family-friendly
• Games and activities for kids
•  Win some of the more than RMB 45,000 in raffle prizes!
• RSVP to INN WeChat by Aug 8: Innbeijing1994

When: Aug 16, 2pm-5pm
Where: Beijing Guo Yi Hui TCM Center
16 Liangma River Nanlu, Chaoyang District
北京国医汇中医
朝阳区亮马河南路16号
Price: Early Bird (before Aug 8): RMB 25/person; After Aug 8: RMB 50/person; Kids under 12 are FREE!

Family Lunch Quiz

Everyone is welcome to join us for a fun-filled lunch activity for kids, families and friends! This event offers a relaxed and enjoyable environment where children and families can interact in English, connecting through fun quiz games. Whether you’re a native English speaker or learning English, this is a delightful social opportunity for everyone!

Share a delicious meal with family and friends in a cozy setting while engaging in quiz activities designed for children of all ages to enjoy with their families.

For children 4 years of age and older with their families.

Add the organizers on WeChat to join the event. WeChat ID: Beijingmaorui

Golden Mask Dynasty Performance

Set in the Golden Mask dynasty, a legendary age in China, the story tells how a queen who wears a golden mask creates a splendid dynasty through wisdom, tolerance, trust and boundless love.

Contact Lucy for more details.

WeChat: Lucy18600208126
Tel: 186 0020 8126
Email: book-holiday@hotmail.com

Kids Club: Immortal Valley and the Big Buddha AND Countryside Cycling to the “Sea of Flowers”

Enjoy a hike or a bike ride with Beijing Hikers this August. The hike is up Immortal Valley, passing cliffs, waterfalls, boulders and pools of water on the way to the “Big Buddha” carved into the cliffside.

There’s a lot to see on this Immortal Valley hike – pools filled with clear water, waterfalls, big trees, wild flowers, some distant Great Wall, the Miyun Reservoir and long views of valleys and mountains.

You’ll walk up the valley, passing those cliffs, waterfalls, boulders and pools of water on the way to the “Big Buddha” carved into the cliffside. It’s an up-and-back trail, and you can make it into a more relaxed walk by not going all the way up. (Make a note with your booking if you’d like to try the longer hike.)

If you’re a fan of cycling, choose this easy bike ride along forested country lanes and roads, passing by rivers and woods on the way to the “Sea of Flowers.” Includes a mid-ride meal.

When: Aug 9, 7.30am – Kids Club; Aug 10, 7.30am – Countryside Cycling
Where: Departure from Liangmaqiao subway and Lido Metropark Hotel Starbucks
Price: Kids Club: RMB 380/adult, RMB 340/member, RMB 220/kid; Countryside Cycling: RMB 518/adult, RMB 478/kids 5-12, ten percent discount for members

Images: Pexels, Courtesy of the organizers

In my family, celebrating milestones is very important. I just completed fourth grade at the Western Academy of Beijing (WAB).

Our family loves to explore the world! When my dad asked, “Where would you like to go when school’s out?” I wasn’t sure at the moment, but a few days later, I had the perfect answer: camping.

I enjoy living in the city, but just like how many children like candy, if they have too much candy, then they get sick of it. It was the same with city life. So I decided it would be nice to explore the countryside. But there was only one problem . . . MOM.

My mom can’t go a single night without the following objects: bathroom, hair dryer, skin care, and other stuff that she insists are essential, while I find myself questioning, “But are they really?” There is nothing wrong with this; it is the way of the world. But believe me when I say that it is the toughest thing in the world to convince the lady in my family to go camping. So instead of dragging my mom kicking and screaming, we came up with a compromise. Dad booked a glamping (glamorous camping) site for us, fully furnished with our own bathroom and toilet. Perfect to convince my mother to come along.

Beijing Toye Glamping is only a 1.5-hour car ride from Beijing. There are many glamping choices to choose from, ranging from basic tents, deluxe recreational vehicles, space capsule starships, to large tents.

Our campsite was a large tent on a wooden plank. It looked over the treetops and mountain ranges, giving the perfect view of the horizon. Beautiful sunsets could be clearly seen over the rustic balcony. We had a nice private bathroom and conveniently provided chairs and a table. The campsite also had a playground, a lake and many other things that would make visitors have an enjoyable time.

The campsite also had a cute little garden cafe that sold nice coffee and drinks. The garden made me feel like it was straight out of Alice in Wonderland. With cute tea tables, lovely benches, and water features, it was perfect for enjoying a nice summer day. Overall, the campsite was a lovely place to enjoy a break from the chaos of Beijing.

My Dad had reserved this glampsite because it was near many historical places, making it easy to go sightseeing. But let’s rewind: Before we even got to the camp, we visited the Ming Tombs.

The Ming Tombs, the Thirteen Tombs of the Ming dynasty, are a collection of mausoleums built by the Ming emperors. It is a UNESCO heritage site and the ticket price is RMB 98 per adult and RMB 22 per child. This gets you access to everything there. At the Ming Tombs, there was a long walkway with marble statues of different animals along each side of the path. This is the Sacred Path. If you are not a history person, as I am, skip this one.

We also visited the Longqing Gorge, roughly 25 minutes away. This gorge includes a boat ride, toboggan sledding, and gondolas. If you are visiting in winter, there will Ice Lantern Festival similar to one in Harbin. To get to the top of the dam, there is an escalator in the shape of a dragon. The top of the dam is where you can begin your boat ride adventure. The entrance fee was RMB 140 per adult and RMB 100 per kid, which included the boat ride, but not the gondola. That was another RMB 68 per person for both kids and adults.

At the end of the gondola ride, you will be near the highest peak of the gorge. There is a nice hike up the mountain. Along the hike, you will encounter a temple, a convenience store and a piece of Chinese history. There is a magic basin on the side of the temple. This basin is special because it is said that the water was provided by the gods, and that is why, even in the worst droughts, the water never drains or evaporates. In all, nature lovers are recommended to come here.

But my favorite sightseeing place was the Guyaju cave dwellings. These caves had been hand-carved out of the mountains! The Guyaju cave dwellers are a bit of a mystery because nobody knows who lived in the caves. Though the Guyaju caves were grand and magnificent, beware the hike. The hike took approximately 30 minutes! My piece of advice: Bring an umbrella and lots of water. Luckily, there are many little tables along the mountain for a rest stop. Also, the cave dwellings are the perfect place for little story makers. I tried making a short story based on the mystery of the cave dwellers. These caves are a perfect way to explore the history of China.

So, there you have it! Our memorable trip through isolated China. And in case you’re wondering, my city-loving mom actually enjoyed the glamping!

Find it: 
Get in touch with Toye Clamping on WeChat at WeChat ID: ty15652031788. As is the case with anything travel-related, prices may vary depending on the time of year.

Images: Clark Yap

Looking for fun things to do with your family in the next couple of weeks? Take a look at our top picks:

Yoga in the Park

Gopala Amir Yaffa 金龙 Jin Long will be in Beijing THIS THURSDAY evening! Come and play with them in these two (ALMOST FREE) community sessions!

5.15pm-6.15pm – family yoga play time in the park
7.15pm-8.30pm – community connection (think mandala yoga/partner practice for adults) in the studio!

Where: Scan QR code for details
When: May 15, 5.15pm
Price: RMB 50

The Wizard of Oz

Join us for a spectacular production of The Wizard of Oz, brought to life by the talented Grade 6-12 THIS students! Since January, these dedicated performers have been working hard to create a show filled with singing, dancing, and magic perfect for the whole family. Follow Dorothy and her friends the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion as they journey through the enchanting land of Oz. With beloved songs like “Over the Rainbow” and “We’re Off to See the Wizard,” this timeless classic is a joyful musical experience you won’t want to miss.
Packed with colorful costumes, dazzling sets, singing, dancing and a touch of wizardry, The Wizard of Oz is a heartwarming adventure about friendship, courage, and finding your way home.

Each show runs approximately one hour. Tickets can be purchased at the following link: https://yoopay.cn/event/58136829.
Partial proceeds from our ticket sales will support the Our Learning House charity. Our Learning House is a registered non-profit organization that brings quality education to physically disabled orphans and disadvantaged children here in Beijing. To find out about Our Learning House, visit: http://ourlearninghouse.cn.
Please feel free to invite family and friends – just make sure that all visitors register on campus using the QR code attached to this email or provided on the ticketing site.

Where:Tsinghua University High School Auditorium
When: May 23, 6.30pm; May 24, 2pm
Price: RMB 50

Yoga, Sound Healing & More – Mom and Kid Edition

Benefit Concert in Memory of Tristan

Where: Eudora Station Bar and Restaurant
When: May 17, 5pm
Price: RMB 200

Wuyue Festival Charity Flea Market by the German Chamber of Commerce

Join us at the Wuyue Festival Charity Flea Market! Sell your pre-loved items and contribute to a great cause. All proceeds from the event will go to support local charities. It’s the perfect opportunity to declutter, shop for unique finds, and make a positive impact in the community.

Where: Shoukai Wangjing Sport Park
When: May 17, 9am-5pm
Price: Free

Welcome Spring Picnic

YCIS Beijing’s Global Community Day

Mark your calendars for Sat, May 17, from 9am to 2pm, as the YCIS campus comes alive with a rich tapestry of cultures, flavors, and fun for the whole family.

Get ready for a vibrant celebration of unity, diversity, and global exploration. YCIS Beijing is thrilled to invite you to their annual Global Community Day, a unique event that truly embodies the spirit and togetherness of their school community.

Where: Yew Chung International School of Beijing
When: May 17, 9am-2pm
Price: Free

Become a Respectful Parenting Educator

Rebecca Archer has been facilitating parenting workshops in China and Vietnam for seven years now, and it is one of the most rewarding experiences of her life! Many of you have taken her parent workshops and experienced the impact.

 She has recently become a positive discipline trainer, and she is going to be offering an online certification course to anyone interested in becoming a parent educator and running their own parenting classes and workshops. 

If you are a

• Parent who loves to support other parents
• School counselor, therapist or school admin who wants an evidence-based, experiential, parent education framework to run workshops or to support parents with strategies for behavior
• A parent who knows the “right” things to do but who struggles to actually implement respectful parenting strategies
• Anyone who works with parents or would like to run parent workshops as a side business

then please check out the information and become a certified parent educator.

**Continuing Education Credits (US) are available.

Where: Online
When: May 15, 20, 22
Price: USD 499

And if you’re looking for a school for your child, here are some open house events happening in the next two weeks:

JAZZY PRESCHOOL OPEN DAY

Are you looking for a kindergarten for your child from 1 to 6 years old? Come discover Jazzy Preschool’s unique, trilingual education in English, French, and Chinese on Sat, May 24, from 9.30am to noon during their open day (hour of the visit to be chosen below).

It will be a morning filled with fun family friendly activities.

What’s on the agenda?

• A presentation of the preschool and tour of the facility
• A class demo with circle time and activities

• A chat with their incredible team, who will tell you more about the preschool!

We encourage two adults to attend.

We can’t wait to see you there!

Where: Jazzy Preschool, C101, East Lake Villas, 35 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District
When: May 24, 9.30am-noon (hour of the visit to be chosen below)
Price: Free

HDBJ School Open Day

Discover the vibrant learning community at HDBJ School Open Day! Tour their campus, meet passionate educators, and explore engaging programs for students of all ages. Join in for a day of fun, learning, and connection. All are welcome, whether prospective parent or student! Don’t miss this opportunity to experience HDBJ firsthand.

Where: 1 Jinzhan Forest Park, Chaoyang District
When: May 18, 9am
Price: Free

Ivy Academy Open Day

Sanyuanqiao Campus is located in the high-end residential area of the northeast Third Ring Road in Beijing and has a safe, serene environment. The campus is equipped with a multi-function hall, a small theater, a STEAM classroom, an art classroom, a creative art space, a reading library, a lending library, and a music classroom to satisfy student curiosity.

Sanlitun Campus is located in the Sanlitun commercial district of the Third Ring Road in Beijing and is surrounded by the embassies of various countries. The elegant white buildings of the campus are quietly tucked within the bustle of the city. The school philosophy is based on the multiple intelligences theory, and each classroom has nine learning centers that span the eight intelligences: linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, intrapersonal, naturalist, and interpersonal.

Ivy will hold open houses for the 2025-2026 school year to answer parents’ questions about kindergarten selection. They look forward to seeing you!

PROCEDURE：

*Parent-Child Activities

*Curriculum Introduction

*Campus Tour

9.30am-9.50am Free Choice Time

9.50am-10.10am Circle Time – STORY

10.10am-10.30am Art Activity

10.30am-11am Music Class or P.E Cass

11am-11.30am Snack Time

When: May 25, 9.30am
Where: Ivy Academy Sanyuanqiao and Sanlitun campuses
Price: Free

When: May 21, 9.30am-12.30pm
Where: AISB-Hope International
Price: Free

Primary Enrichment Taster Day at BSB Sanlitun

Join The British School of Beijing, Sanlitun for a fun and interactive Cookery School session as part of their Primary Enrichment Taster Day. Let your child explore the joy of cooking in their on-campus student kitchen while learning valuable skills and having fun!

When: May 24,9am-11am
Where: BSB Sanlitun
Price: Free

Images: Pexels, Courtesy of the organizers

The temperatures have been steadily rising, and it finally feels like spring, so the time is perfect for fun family activities. We bring you the best events you can join in the next two weeks:

Weekend Retreat for Moms by the Great Wall

Join mamaMOOVE for the weekend escape you deserve!
Yoga, Hiking, DIY, Sound Healing and more – it’s gonna be amazing!
All with the best views of the Great Wall of China, wonderful nature and a charismatic former brick factory as our retreat venue.
Connect to other moms and take that chance to recharge your batteries.

When: Apr 11-13
Where: The Brickyard, Great Wall
Price: RMB 3,698/early bird price (only until March 30!) including lodging, meals and snacks, classes and activities.

CISB International Festival 2025

The CISB International Festival is happening on Sat, Apr 12, and they can’t wait to celebrate the incredible diversity of their school community with you!
This year, they’re making it bigger, better, and even more engaging, with exciting new features, including:

Parade of the Nations (1.30pm-2pm) – Kick off the festival in style! Join CISB for an Olympics-style parade showcasing the many nationalities that make up the school community. Dress in your traditional attire and walk with pride behind your country’s flag!

 International Food Stalls & Vendors (1pm-6pm) – Experience a global feast with delicious dishes prepared by  talented parents, students, and vendors!

When: Apr 12, 1.30pm-6pm
Where: Canadian International School of Beijing
Price: Free

The Family Learning House – Parents Information Session

Are you looking for a nurturing and values-driven educational environment for your child? Join The Family Learning House Parents Information Session to discover how the school’s holistic approach to education fosters academic excellence, character development, and a love for learning.

When: Apr 13 and 26, 9.30am-11.30am
Where: The Family Learning House
Price: Free

Welcome Spring Picnic

Celebrate the arrival of spring with us at the Welcome Spring Picnic! Enjoy a day of fresh air, great company, and outdoor fun at Binhe Park, Shunyi. Bring your friends, family, and picnic baskets for a relaxing day filled with laughter, games, and good vibes.

When: Apr 13 10am-3.30pm
Where: Binhe Park, Shunyi
Price: Free

CLOTHING AUCTION NETWORK – Where Fashion Meets Community

What makes us special? We offer unique clothing auctions that add excitement to your wardrobe while building connections with like-minded individuals.

What We Stand For:

Thrilling clothing auctions that refresh your style

Connecting with new friends and fashion enthusiasts

Giving back to the community through charitable donations

Promoting sustainable fashion by recycling and reusing clothing

Join our fashion-forward, charitable, and friendly group to discover amazing deals, meet new people, and contribute to a more sustainable world of fashion.

When: Multiple dates
Where: Add WeChat ID kimclifford for details
Price: Free

LMMP Montessori Training for Grandparents

Grandparents play a crucial role in a child’s development, offering love, wisdom, and support. However, parenting approaches have evolved, and the Montessori method provides a unique way to nurture a child’s independence, confidence, and curiosity.

This special training is designed to help grandparents understand key Montessori principles, enabling them to better support their grandchildren’s learning journey.

They will discover practical ways to engage with children, encourage their autonomy, and create a home environment that aligns with Montessori values.

By attending these sessions, grandparents will strengthen their bond with their grandchildren while gaining valuable insights into their educational and developmental needs.

When: Apr 2, 9 and 16, 9.30am-10.30am
Where: La Maison Montessori de Pékin (LMMP)
Price: RMB 399/three sessions (LMMP HG), RMB 599/three sessions (non LMMP HG)

Rounabout Book Fair at BIBA

Please bring your shopping bags on the day. We welcome you donate your spare bags to Roundabout!
About 10,000 recently donated, gently used books for all the family.

Paperback RMB 10, Hardcover RMB 20, Kids books and unique books as priced (starting from RMB 1). Find your treasures – it will be amazing!

Bring your family or just yourself. Enjoy the reading and happy spirit of Roundabout book fairs.

Feel free to bring your book donations that day, too. They will show up at a later Roundabout book fair.

All books at Roundabout Book Fairs are donated.

When: Apr 12, 10am-3pm
Where: BIBA North Gate
Price: Free

And if you’re looking for a school for your child, here are some open house events happening in the next two weeks:

Swiss School of Beijing Open Day

Discover the Swiss School of Beijing!

Are you still looking for the right school or the ideal kindergarten in Beijing? Curious about how mixed-age learning works? Then you’re warmly invited to get to know the Swiss School!

Join the Swiss School of Beijing with your children for one of the trial mornings on Mar 20 or Apr 8, and experience how their students grow, learn, and inspire each other.
As a school officially recognized and supported by the Swiss government, they teach in German following the Swiss curriculum while benefiting from the international atmosphere of the WAB campus.
They look forward to welcoming you in person! If you can’t participate on one of the dates, you are more than welcome to reach out to for a private tour or trial class by email: Katharina_pankow@wab-edu.cn

When: Apr 8, 8.30am-noon
Where: Swiss School Beijing
Price: Free

WAB Open Houses

AISB-Hope International Open Day

Discover the vibrant learning community at AISB Hope International School! Join them for a special open day to explore their school, meet their educators, and learn how they provide an exceptional educational experience for students of all ages.

When: Apr 9, 9.30am-12.30pm
Where: AISB Hope International School
Price: Free

BSB Shunyi Open Day

The British School of Beijing (BSB), Shunyi invites prospective parents to our open day. Go on a school tour to see the amazing teaching and learning in the classrooms, and explore our facilities designed for different age groups.

There will be a special talk about what a British international education is and why it’s the right choice for your child. Learn why and how the students can attend the very best universities in more than ten countries around the world. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from BSB school leaders!

BSB provides premium international education to 1,100+ expat students aged 18 months to 18 years old from 60 nationalities. Learn how BSB students benefit from collaborations with some of the very best organizations, including MIT, The Juilliard School and UNICEF. They promise that their students will receive a personalized, challenging and academically exciting learning experience that provides fantastic outcomes and opens pathways to the world’s best universities.

Sign up today by scanning the QR code in the poster.
Note: Open to prospective parents. We only accept students who are foreign passport holders.

When: Apr 8, 9am-10.30am
Where: The British School of Beijing, Shunyi
Price: Free

YCYW Open Day

You are sincerely invited to join the upcoming “Open Day and Demo Class” event to explore the charm and possibilities of education together! Here, children will experience the joy and challenges of a bilingual class, listen to the duet performances of current students on violin and viola, and enjoy the fun of golf. Parents will engage in face-to-face discussions with the teaching leadership team, gain a deeper understanding of their educational philosophy, and experience the elegance of their international campus through a campus tour. Let’s witness every exciting moment of the children’s growth together! Spaces are limited, so act quickly!

When: Apr 12, 9.30am-noon
Where: 29 Liangshuihe Erjie, BDA, Daxing District
Price: Free

LMMP Open House

Located in the heart of downtown Beijing, La Maison Montessori de Pékin (LMMP HG) was founded in 2013 to initially cater to the needs of French-speaking families in Beijing seeking a kindergarten for their children aged 1.5 to 6 years. Over the years, LMMP has expanded to offer a bilingual French-Chinese and English-Chinese environment following the Montessori pedagogy.

When: Apr 12, 9.30am-11pm
Where: La Maison Montessori de Pékin (LMMP)
Price: Free

Ivy Academy Open House

Sanyuanqiao Campus is located in the high-end residential area of the Northeast Third Ring Road in Beijing and has a safe, serene environment. In addition to the nine learning centers based on the multiple intelligence theory, the campus is equipped with a multi-function hall, a small theater, a STEAM classroom, an art classroom, a creative art space, a reading library, a lending library, and a music classroom to satisfy student curiosity.
They will hold open houses for the 2025-2026 school year to answer parents’ questions about kindergarten selection. They look forward to seeing you!
PROCEDURE：
*Parent-Child Activities
*Curriculum Introduction
*Campus Tour
9.30am-9.50am Free Choice Time
9.50-10.10am Circle Time – STORY
10.10am-10.30am Art Activity
10.30-11am Music Class or P.E Cass
11am-11.30am Snack Time

When: Apr 13 and 26, 9:.30am-11:.30am
Where: Ivy Academy Sanyuanqiao Campus
Price: Free

YCIS One-on-One School Tours

Beijing Yew Chung International School (YCIS Beijing) is inviting parents of prospective students to book an exclusive one-on-one tour to learn about the school’s ECE and primary and secondary programs, as well as to get the opportunity to talk with the YCIS Beijing admissions team.

When: Wednesdays, 9.30am-11am
Where: 5 Houbali Zhuang, Chaoyang District (beside Honglingjin Park)
Price: Free

Dulwich College Senior School Taster Class

Dulwich College Beijing invites students aged 11 to 16 to experience an exclusive Senior School Taster Class. This is a unique opportunity to explore our world-class learning environment and discover what it is like to study at DCB.

What to Expect:

• • Choose from engaging taster classes in Chinese, STEM, Science, and Spanish

• • Interact with DCB’s expert teachers and senior students

• • Take a guided tour of DCB’s state-of-the-art campus and facilities

• Receive personalized one-on-one admissions guidance

When: Apr 16, 9am-noon
Where: Dulwich College Beijing
Price: Free

Looking for fun things to do with your family? If so, scroll down for some of the best family-friendly events happening around the city in the next two weeks.

 Sausage Fest

Get ready, Beijing! The city’s juiciest, meatiest, and most sizzling festival is back for Round Two! After a legendary first run, Sausage Fest is returning to the FFC from Mar 28-30, bringing more grilled goodness, ice-cold brews, and next-level vibes to the capital.

Expect top-tier sausages, hot dogs and all manner of tubular meaty delights from across the globe, with everything from classic bratwursts to spicy chorizo, merguez and more! Along with sausages there will be plenty of craft beers, cocktails, live music, and a whole lot of wurst-based fun. Whether you’re a bratwurst buff, a hot dog devotee, or just here for the beer, this is one weekend you won’t want to miss.

When: Mar 28-30
Where:FFC South Square
Price: RMB 20/Standard Early Bird, RMB100/VIP; RMB30/ on-site

Wellbeing in Education at JinShang

Join the upcoming Wellbeing in Education event, where you’ll explore innovative ways to enhance the Wellbeing of students, staff, and parents in internationally-oriented schools.

In partnership with Venture Education 问创 , we’ll also unveil the “Wellbeing in Internationally-Oriented Schools in China” report — a valuable resource we proudly supported.

Join us to gain practical insights, discover impactful strategies, and connect with like-minded educators dedicated to building healthier, happier school communities.

When: Mar 26, 2pm-5pm
Where:JinShang Yuan B1
Price: Free

Adoption Fair

This weekend, let’s light up the path of hope for rescued animals! Would you like to give these homeless little lives a warm home?
In addition to the offline activities held every weekend at the Riviera Clubhouse entrance, our adoptable furry friends will also be at the Jinshang·Yuan weekend market in the Xinyuanli area.

When: Every Saturday and Sunday, 12pm-5pm
Where:Beijing Riviera Clubhouse
Price: Free

Prenatal / Postnatal Yoga Workshops

You’re a mom or mom to be and interested in the principles of prenatal and postnatal yoga?
You’re a yoga teacher or doing YTT and think about doing an additional pre-and postnatal qualification?
Then the last weekend of March is for you!
Join us at Taozi for 2 unique workshops to explore the basic principles of those specific yoga lessons, the upcoming 20hr pre- and postnatal YTT at Taozi and a full class!

When: Mar 29, 2pm-5pm (Prenatal); Mar 30, 1pm-4pm (Postnatal)
Where:TAOZI Tree Yoga
Price: RMB400/one workshop, RMB700/two workshops

OASIS Blood Drive

Blood plays a crucial role in saving lives. OASIS International Hospital holds an annual blood donation drive to support the health of our community through practical action. This year, OASIS will join hands with Beijing Chaoyang District Blood Donation Office and Beijing Tongzhou Central Blood Station to hold a public welfare blood drive on Mar 21, 2025. We sincerely invite you to join and contribute.

When: Mar 21, 9am-noon
Where: OASIS
Price: Free

Jazzy Preschool Baby Group

Join a fun-filled Baby Group session at Jazzy Preschool on Fri, Mar 21, from 10am to noon and learn about their trilingual curriculum.

When: Mar 21, 10am-noon
Where: C01, East Lake Villas, 35 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District
Price: Free

Free Pre Natal Classes at Beijing United Family Hospital

The class will be taught by Cindy Yan and Grace Yu, two midwives with a combined 50+ years of international experience. The class will be offered for free and includes light snacks and fruit.

The purpose of this class is to educate parents on researched information, empowering them to make informed choices during their labor, and instilling confidence with the birth experience. We highly recommend the prenatal classes for all first time parents, whether you plan on giving birth at BJU or elsewhere. We at BJU would like to make this special time in your lives even more special!

The class will help parents-to-be work on:

– Developing a delivery plan

– Understand the labor process

– Familiarize themselves with the hospital and tips on the initial days and months after the birth.

Call 4008-919191 (English & Chinese) to register.

When: Mar 29 and 30, 9am-1:15pm
Where: Beijing United Family Hospital
Price: Free

Treasure Hunt in the Old Hutongs With The Beijing Way

Our experience begins with an ancient map of Beijing City!
* Unearth hidden treasures nestled within the old hutongs
* Gain insights into & admire the elegance of traditional Chinese architecture
* Visit a home in the hutongs where everyday people share their legendary tales!
* Engage in fun games or role-play in Mandarin!
* Savor the most delicious local traditional snacks and desserts
* And so much more!

When: Mar 22, 9.30am-1.30pm
Where: Contact the organizer for info
Price: RMB 350/person, RMB 410/one parent and one child, RMB 510/ two parents and one child, RMB 640/two parents and two children

Beijing Love Your Pet Day!

If you love pets, join ICVS & INN on Mar 23 at MaisonFL to celebrate your love for pets with pet owners, rescuers, and friends from the community!

– Meet adoptable dogs and pups
– Fun activities for kids
– Pet foods and treats
– Pet healthcare advice from ICVS veterinarian, Dr. Carrie Qiao ‍️
– Adoptable Pets Photo Exhibition
– Raffle prize draw!

Entry is FREE!
Drinks and snacks served. ️

Every guest receives a complimentary raffle prize ticket! ️
Raffle ticket sales proceeds donated to support rescued pets.

RSVP on WeChat by Mar 21: innbeijing1994

child with little dogs playing at home. girl with puppies. chid with puppy. kissing, hugging, playing in room

When: Mar 23, 2pm-5pm
Where: MaisonFL, F306, 3/F, Grand Summit, Liangmaqiao, Chaoyang District
Price: Free

IMC’s First Aid Training

Join IMC International Medical Center – Beijing for a comprehensive First Aid Training session designed to equip you with essential life-saving skills. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply want to be prepared for emergencies, this course covers critical first aid techniques to handle medical emergencies confidently.

When: Mar 26
Where: IMC International Medical Center, S-106/S-110 Beijing Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District
Price: RMB 500/person

And if you’re looking for a school for your child, here are some open house events happening in the next two weeks:

Ivy Academy Open House

Join us for the Ivy Academy Open House and explore a world of academic excellence, innovation, and personalized learning! This is your opportunity to tour one of their state-of-the-art campuses, meet their dedicated faculty, and learn about their programs designed to empower students for success. Scan the QR code in the poster below to register and for more details.

When: Mar 22, 9.30am-11.30am – Sanlitun Campus; Mar 23, 9.30am-11.30am – Sanyuanqiao Campus
Where: Sanlitun Campus: 13 Sanlitun Dongsi Jie, Chaoyang District; Sanyuanqiao Campus: Bldg E, Ocean Express, 2 East Third Ring North Road, Chaoyang District
Price: Free

Tsinghua International School (THIS) Open Day

Tsinghua International School (THIS) established in 2009, is located on the renowned 100-year-old Tsinghua University High School Campus. THIS provides education that deeply combines the best of Western and Chinese education.
Join their open day and learn about their approach, curriculum, tour the grounds and participate in a Primary Curriculum Workshop.
Scan the QR code to register.

When: Mar 28, 8am-12:30pm
Where:Tsinghua University High School, Zhongguancun North Street, Haidian
Price: Free

ISB’s Spring Open House

Choosing a school for your child(ren) is a pivotal decision that can shape their academic and personal growth. A remarkable school offers the most effective learning experiences, coupled with a high level of support, to equip students with the foundations necessary to thrive in our rapidly evolving world.

The International School of Beijing (ISB) has been providing just such a transformative education for over four decades. With a tradition of excellence, their non-profit institution is committed to staying at the forefront of modern educational best practices, ensuring that their students’ needs are met with the utmost care and attention.

The learning environment at ISB is both challenging and joyful, led by world-class teachers and supported by incredible facilities. They are an inclusive community, offering comprehensive learning support and resources to cater to the diverse needs of their students. This unique blend makes ISB the premier international school in China’s capital and a leading institution on the global stage.

You are warmly invited to discover the magic of ISB. Join them for their upcoming spring open houses on Sat, Mar 22. During these events, you will have the opportunity to take a guided tour of the campus, engage with their highly experienced leadership team and faculty, and gain valuable insights into their research-based curriculum.

When: Mar 22, 9am-11am
Where: International School of Beijing (ISB)
Price: Free

CISB Open House

Families are invited to register their interest in the upcoming open house event on Sat, Mar 22, from 9.30am to 11am. Open to children aged 18 months to 18 years, this is a wonderful opportunity to explore the vibrant learning environment, meet CISB’s dedicated educators, and discover how their internationally recognized curriculum nurtures students for success. Scan the QR code to register.

When: Mar 22, 9.30am-11am
Where: Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB)
Price: Free

YCIS Infant Care Trial

Families with little ones aged 1-2 years old are invited to join the Free Infant Care Trial on Thursday mornings at YCIS Beijing.

Come and meet their academic team of Early Chilhood Education. Experience the concept of learning through play!

When: Mar 20, 9.30am-10:45am
Where: YCIS Beijing
Price: Free

Swiss School of Beijing Open Day

Discover the Swiss School in Beijing!

Are you still looking for the right school or the ideal kindergarten in Beijing? Curious about how mixed-age learning works? Then you’re warmly invited to get to know the school!

Join the Swiss School of Beijing with your children for one of the trial mornings on Mar 20 or Apr 8 and experience how their students grow, learn, and inspire each other.
As a school officially recognized and supported by the Swiss government, they teach in German following the Swiss curriculum while benefiting from the international atmosphere of the WAB campus.
They look forward to welcoming you in person! If you can’t participate on one of the dates, you are more than welcome to reach out to for a private tour or trial class by email: Katharina_pankow@wab-edu.cn

When: Mar 20 and Apr 8, 8.30am-noon
Where: Swiss School Beijing
Price: Free

3e Experiment Day/Open House

3e International School invites prospective parents to experience their leading bilingual Early Years and Elementary programs at the 3e Experiment Day/Open House on Sat, Mar 22.

Parents will have the opportunity to meet 3e’s principals and teachers, tour their state-of-the-art campus and facilities, and experience 3e’s dual-immersion research-based program.
Parents and children can interact and connect with teachers and explore classrooms through engaging teacher-facilitated STEAM activities.

When: Mar 22, 10am-noon
Where: 3e International School, 9-1, Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District
Price: Free

YCIS One-on-One School Tours

Beijing Yew Chung International School (YCIS Beijing) is inviting parents of prospective students to book an exclusive one-on-one tour to learn about the school’s ECE and primary and secondary programs, as well as to get the opportunity to talk with the YCIS Beijing admissions team.

When: Wednesdays, 9.30am-11am
Where: 5 Houbali Zhuang, Chaoyang District (beside Honglingjin Park)
Price: Free

BSB Sanlitun Open Morning – Early Years

Christmas break. Winter break. Chinese New Year break. All these breaks are almost back-to-back. Some say that it is a good thing as they will finally have some time to spend with their family and relax from all the stressful work they have. Others may see it as a burden (kind of) – that they have to be with their family for so much time consecutively over the holidays and the purpose of relaxation and indulging in all the hobbies and activities is slowly gone. Well, we all have been there at some point with our family, I guess, and, well, in those moments, we just need a few tips on what we can do instead, don’t we?

Drawing healthy boundaries with family and replacing the time away from family with personal hobbies

Directly telling your family that you need to take a break from all the overwhelming conversations and activities is the best first step towards relieving yourself from all the stress you are receiving from the family time. As you let your family members know that you need to spend some more time away from them and more with yourself and have them respect that as a personal choice of yours, you will be emboldened and have the freedom to do whatever you want to do with the “me time” that you have finally obtained. Spend that time to do whatever interests you, or perhaps read some books if you are feeling lost in what you can do. My recommendation is to use the time to try out a new morning or evening routine – maybe your experimentation with your new routine will be the start of a more productive lifestyle.

Take a walk

This may sound cliché, but taking a walk is probably one of the best activities that you can do by yourself. It allows you to be present with the things surrounding you – the buildings, the nature, the small animals that may be around you or up in the sky Perhaps there was a plane that flew by, but you didn’t notice it… Taking a walk and giving yourself time to connect with the world is a great way to reset your mind and body. It may even give you time to think and decide whether you should spend more time with your family or with yourself. As I listened to the Andrew Huberman podcast, I learned that doing exercises that feature objects moving past you while you are moving forward is beneficial for reducing anxiety and helps you to maintain high energy throughout the day. Taking a walk or run is definitely in that category of exercises, so if you struggle with anxiety or stress, this would probably help you relieve that. When walking, you can also look up at the ceiling/sky a few times to reduce anxiety, according to Huberman, perhaps due to the color blue is proven to have a psychological feeling of relieving stress.

Set a challenge for yourself and try to accomplish it during the holidays

Setting a small goal at the start of the holiday and trying to accomplish it by yourself over a period of time is a great way to find meaning in spending time with yourself. For me, it has been learning Cantonese, as I have moved to Zhuhai, and everyone here thinks that you know Cantonese by default. I have kept my streak on Duolingo for 19 days now (probably a couple of days more by the time this article is published), and even though it is just a five-minute practice every day, I still feel that at the end of the holiday all the small, but consistent steps that I have taken will pay off and become something I can use in my daily life. Another small goal that I have set for myself during this time is to finish reading the first Dune book (or maybe more, depending on my progress), and I found it absolutely fascinating. The feeling of accomplishment when looking at the thickness of the pages I have finished reading for the past half-month or so is super satisfying and has encouraged me to keep on going. So why not set yourself a small goal like those and start working towards them when you have some time away from family affairs?

Images: Pexels

The results for the latest jingkids Ayi Survey are in!

If you haven’t heard of hiring an ayi, you probably haven’t lived in Beijing long enough. Just about every Beijinger who has the means to hire an ayi would consider one because they can relieve you of grueling everyday responsibilities like pesky housework or even entertaining young children.

Yet for many foreigners (and locals, for that matter) the ayi industry is shrouded in mystery. What exactly does an ayi do? How much should you pay her? What are reasonable working hours?

In an effort to gain some clarity for Beijing families, every year jingkids runs the ayi survey where we ask respondents about their ayi‘s work hours, pay rates, experience, responsibilities, and benefits. The first Ayi Survey was conducted in 2014, and in the years since, the industry has undergone subtle but evident changes such as higher pay rates and the growing popularity of part-time ayis.

Below are the results from the latest survey.

Images: jingkids

In the bustling city of Beijing, a wave of diversity and cultural exchange is constantly emerging. Today, we turn our attention to a family from Germany that has recently made the decision to call Beijing their home.

This family, with their unique background and aspirations, has joined the ever-growing community of expats, adding yet another vibrant thread to the rich tapestry of Beijing. Let’s meet Katharina Pankow and her beautiful family.

Tell us about yourself and your family. Where are you from and what brought you to Beijing?

We are from Dresden, Germany, and always wanted to live abroad to see different cultures and step out of our comfort zone. So, when my husband got the opportunity to get a job in Beijing, we said yes. And here we are living in Beijing for two years now and have never regretted our decision. A few months ago, I got a job opportunity to work at Swiss School Beijing as [the]admissions and communications officer. This role has allowed me to connect with families from different countries and be part of a dynamic, international community.

How many kids do you have? 

My husband and I have three sons. Our youngest just started in first grade, our middle son is in third grade, and our eldest is in sixth grade.

What do you guys love the most about living in Beijing?

What we love most about Beijing is that it offers a wealth of experiences for both children and adults. The city seamlessly blends culture and modernity. We can quickly reach the mountains and have the Great Wall of China almost at our doorstep. Many aspects of daily life, such as ordering food and taking taxis, are simpler here compared to Germany. We feel very safe, and the people are incredibly friendly and helpful, even if our Chinese is not perfect. Conversations with locals are easily facilitated through translation apps. Additionally, the international community here is vibrant and welcoming.

Let’s talk about your kids’ school choices.

You’re a German family but you’ve sent your children to the Swiss School instead of opting to send them to a school that follows a German curriculum. Can you tell us why?

Our goal was clear: If we were going to move abroad, we wanted to provide our children with the best possible opportunities. We wanted them to experience the international diversity, learn multiple languages, and dive deeper into Chinese culture.

The Swiss School of Beijing stood out to us for several reasons. Unlike many other schools, it boasts a close-knit community where students are taught in mixed-age groups, fostering a unique and collaborative learning environment. The teaching style here is refreshingly different from the traditional, lecture-based approach we were accustomed to in Germany. Instead, the school emphasizes interactive and student-centered learning, which has been incredibly beneficial for our boys.

What is the most important aspect of a school for you?

The most important aspect of a school is its ability to show children that learning can be enjoyable. It is crucial that students understand they are not just learning for grades or the school but for themselves and their future. The school should cater to each student’s individual needs, ensuring they do not have to fit into a predefined mold.

What’s a typical day like at school for your kids?

A typical school day begins at 8.30am. They meet with the whole class for a morning meeting and afterwards, they start to have their first lesson. As the school is teaching in mixed age groups, they either have lessons altogether or the teacher will separate them.

Our groups have one teacher and one teacher assistant. This helps to focus on the needs of the children. We have big playgrounds, that are adapted to the different age groups and a huge sports field. This is where they usually spent the time during the breaks.

At 3.30pm all buses leave. If a child has after-school activities, they will stay at school for one hour longer, until 4.30pm. Almost all activities are on campus. The Swiss School and Western Academy of Beijing are all-day schools. Therefore, the students tend to get less homework. However, this will also be adapted to the grade levels.

Can you give us an example of something that the Swiss School has done that has really made an impression on you?

The school has shown us that we should be more open to different concepts in Germany. The children have rediscovered their love for learning because their individual strengths and weaknesses are addressed. They have the opportunity to find their own best way to learn. We were particularly impressed by the very personal and close interaction with the teachers, which is different from what we experienced in Germany. The wonderful, family-like community also contributes to everyone feeling comfortable and motivated.

What types of family would you recommend the Swiss School to?

I would recommend the Swiss School to families who are open to a different style of teaching and learning, and who prefer a smaller school included in a big, interesting campus. This school offers a German-speaking curriculum, similar to that of Germany, while also providing an international environment within the WAB. It is also ideal for parents who wish to see their children enhance their language skills, particularly in English and Chinese.

Images: Katharina Pankow