Do you have an upcoming family-friendly event that you want to be included in our listings? Maximize the reach of your event and promote it on beijingkids’ social platforms!

Let us know by leaving your message in the comments section below or by emailing us at webeditor@beijing-kids.com. Follow us on WeChat (ID: beijing-kids) or join our family events WeChat group by sending us your WeChat QR code. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are canceled or scheduled as planned. For more events that may not be included in this list, please check our Events page. 

The Beijinger Hot & Spicy Festival 2019, Apr 20-21
The carnival of capsaicin, the jamboree of jalapeño, the party of pepper, and the terror of your taste buds that is the Beijinger Hot & Spicy Festival 2019 is returning to Galaxy Soho, on the weekend of April 20-21. China’s only spicy food festival is shaping up to be an absolute knockout, featuring a massive two-day Chili Pepper eating contest, a hot and spicy dating tree, a spicy sauce testing station, a chili roulette game for the risk-takers, two full days of floor shows and entertainment, and a pumping dance floor at night. All ages. 11am-8pm. Galaxy Soho.

Christian Marriage Retreat, Apr 5-7
Christian couples aim to spend their whole lives together, and to create a safe and loving space in which to raise children. But this can be a long road, and sometimes it helps to make time for each other and rediscover what makes your relationship work. This retreat is led by married couple Grady and Sandy, and is open to all foreign passport holders. Adults (childcare available for kids 4 and under). RMB 2,200. Friday 9am to Sunday 1pm. Goose and Duck Ranch, Huairou. 怀柔区北寨.

Pauline’s Cuisine: Tea for Two, Apr 6
Join Pauline’s Cuisine for a fun Saturday at EAST Hotel, and learn how to create the ultimate afternoon tea: scones with clotted cream, homemade jam, chocolate mousse, and finger sandwiches. Adults. RMB 420. 10am-1pm. East Hotel. (WeChat ID: paulus155)

Positive Discipline: A One Day Parenting Workshop, Apr 9
Hello Future Kindergarten invites parents to this one-day workshop where they can learn how to bring the power of positive discipline to their parenting style. Learn to avoid power struggles and invite cooperation, connect before corrections, avoid punishing children without letting them get away with everything, and to become a kind but firm, solutions-focused parent. The workshop is designed for parents of children aged 1-10. Adults. 9am-2.30pm. RMB 1,200. Hello Future, Cathay View West Gate, Maquanying. (WeChat ID: becstarnz)

Pauline’s Cuisine: Pop-Up Lunch in Lido, Apr 10
A special lunch is waiting for you, courtesy of professional chef Pauline van Hasselt! Life has given her a lot of lemons, and she has turned them into lemonade through her successful ventures in Beijing, including Beijing Mother’s Guild and Pauline’s Cuisine. Her expat journey in Beijing may have come full circle but this amazing chef and mother has tons of lemonades to make and more upcoming kitchen adventures to share with her next students! Come and join her last pop-up lunch in Beijing before she rides the rainbow-tailed unicorn to London! Adults. RMB 350. Starts noon. Pauline’s Cuisine Lido. (WeChat ID: paulus155)

Help Your Child Beat School Anxiety, Apr 11
Due to popular demand, Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) will be offering a second workshop on “Beating School Anxiety” on April 11. The workshop will help parents recognize the signs of anxiety in their children and offer some strategies for helping them overcome their stress. It will build on the lessons shared in the previous workshop, but include new information and resources so will be worthwhile for both new and returning parents. The workshop will be presented by YCIS Beijing’s School Counsellor, Rachel George, and is open to the public. Adults. Free 8.30-10am. YCIS Beijing. (RSVP: info@bj.ycef.com)

Positive Discipline in the Classroom Workshop, Apr 11-13
Hello Future hosts a three-day workshop for parents or educators to help them teach children or students important social and life skills. The workshop will also help the participants understand the positive discipline approach that integrates social and emotional learning and reduces challenging student behaviors. Adults. RMB 5,800. 9am-5pm. Hello Future Kindergarten. (WeChat ID: 13071162352)

The Cleveland Orchestra in Beijing, Apr 12-13
One of America’s “Big Five” Orchestras, the Cleveland Orchestra is performing live in Beijing. The orchestra boasts a long history of eminent musicianship, as well as a deep catalog of recordings. Today, they are acknowledged among the world’s best orchestras. On April 12-13, they will perform classics by Beethoven and Tchaikovsky, and more. All ages. RMB 280-1,680. Performance starts 7.30pm. National Centre For The Performing Arts. (6655 0000)

Rumble in the Jumble: Blue Skies, Apr 13
This April 13, expat-favorite bazaar Rumble in the Jumble is dreaming of Blue Skies! This month’s theme is a salute to the people, vendors, and volunteers alike, who are working to protect the environment. The Rumble in the Jumble team is known for gathering together makers and artisans from the international community for a weekend extravaganza with creative monthly themes that capture what’s fresh and what’s happening in the community. All ages. Free admission. Noon-6pm. Modernista, Baochao Hutong.

Day Trip: Beijing Arrivals: The History of Dashilar, Apr 13
Beijing has always been a city shaped by waves of migrants and a great example of this is Dashilar, just southwest of the Qianmen Gate. For hundreds of years, this area of Beijing was the ever-simmering melting pot of the capital. Beijing Arrivals is a combined walk and talk by Beijing Postcards. The activity includes a hutong gallery tour and an exploration of the different districts of the neighborhood, with a visit to a couple of families who have worked with Beijing Postcards’ ongoing Oral history project. All ages. RMB 150-300. 3-5.30pm. Beijing Postcards, No. 97 Yangmeizhu Byway, Dashilar Area. (130 1107 8680, beijingpostcards@gmail.com)

Let’s Waltz: The Kempinski Vienna Ball 2019, Apr 13
Celebrate the magic and elegance of Vienna at the Kempinski Vienna Ball 2019. Savor premium Austrian wines and a five-course gala dinner, and enjoy the stunning ball performance, plus a Vienna Coffee House, and much more. Buy charity raffle tickets for a chance to win a round-trip ticket from Beijing to Vienna, including stay prizes. All proceeds will be donated directly to Hefeng Art Foundation. Adults. RMB 1,580. Starts at 6pm. Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center. (6410 4077, meeting.beijing@kempinski.com)

BWYA Annual Musical: The Sound of Music, Apr 13-14
Sing along to The Sound of Music at Beijing World Youth Academy’s (BWYA) annual musical on the weekend of April 13-14! The musical weekend is set to be BWYA’s biggest student-led musical in its history yet, with pupils and members of the BWYA Theatre Troupe taking up roles in acting, directing, costume and set design, stage management, music and more! All ages. RMB 100 (standard ticket), RMB 120 (VIP ticket). 7-9pm. BWYA Performing Arts Centre, 11 Xinshengcun, Chaoyang District.

BSB Shunyi Car Boot Sale, Apr 14
Spring is coming, and the British School of Beijing, Shunyi (BSB Shunyi) and Roundabout will be holding their second Car Boot Sale! Come and shop for great deals. Interesting used items will be on sale by parents in the school’s parking lot. Part of the proceeds from this event will go to Roundabout. Free entrance for the public. All ages. Free. 10am-1pm. BSB Shunyi. (marketing@bsbshunyi.com)

Pauline’s Cuisine: Chop Chop Knife Skills, Apr 14
Are you a budding chef? Is cooking your passion? One of the main cooking skills that you need to master is the art of handling and using the knife. Professional chef Pauline will teach you how, in her last class before she goes on to another adventure! At this Pauline’s Cuisine class, you’ll also learn how to sharpen and hone your knife. Adults. RMB 420. 10am-1pm. East Hotel. (WeChat ID: paulus155)

HoK Parents Education Workshop III: Setting Rules for Children – Why and How?, Apr 18
House of Knowledge (HoK) is arranging a series of workshops for parent education, to share the 21st-century educational spirit and methods to help them understand child behavior more clearly and build effective communication with their children. The third part of the series is themed “Setting Rules for Children – Why and How?” and HOK co-founder Farshad Danicek will explain what rules and boundaries mean to children, why they are important for their well-being and healthy development, and how children learn responsibility through rules. Adults. Free. 9.30-11.30am. House of Knowledge Xinglong Campus. (6430 2161 ext. 803, marketing@hokschools.com)

Seussical Jr. at Dulwich College Beijing, Apr 18-19
With a cast of over 40 and a live onstage band, Dulwich College Beijing’s (DCB) Junior School is bringing to life all your favorite Dr. Seuss characters in Seussical Jr., a musical perfect for the whole family, from age 3 to 300! Scan QR code for tickets. All ages. RMB 50-80. Starts 7pm. Dulwich College Beijing. (RSVP: rsvp@dulwich-beijing.cn)

TNT Theatre Britain: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Apr 18-20
Shakespeare’s most popular comedy deserves its reputation, for here the “lunatic, the lover and the poet” combine with a magical world to create a perfect mix of comedy and romance. This production by the TNT Theatre Britain combines music, dance, and song with a powerful conflict that demonstrates not just the joy but also the pain and madness of love. All ages. RMB 80-380. Starts 9.30pm. Nine Theater 9个剧场.

Learning to Read: English Literacy Foundations, Apr 19
3e International School’s Tea Talk for April provides parents with a sequential understanding of the English reading process from Pre-Kindergarten through Elementary. The session will assist parents with advice and guidelines to help children establish strong English literacy foundations, and further understand the process to support them during these formative years. The activity will be presented by 3e educators Jovita Yenata (Pre-Kindergarten English teacher), Amanda Boarman (Kindergarten English teacher), and Katherine Crawford (Elementary Principal). Adults. Free. 9-10.30am. 3e International School. (community@3einternationalschool.org)

Samajam: Kids Show 2, Apr 19-21
Dubbed as a “200 percent participatory musical show”, Samajam Kids Show returns to Beijing. Young audience members will join in with the performing musicians as they will receive several musical instruments during the show, helping them learn music while having fun. There will also be a live interactive video game! All ages. RMB 180-380. 10.30am-7.30pm. Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center.

Roundabout Book Fair at Beijing Chaoyang Kaiwen Academy, Apr 20
Enjoy the reading and happy spirit of Roundabout book fairs! This month, it’s taking place at the Beijing Chaoyang Kaiwen Academy on April 20. Find your treasures from any of the 10,000 recently donated, gently used books. Paperbacks cost RMB 10, while hardbacks are RMB 20 each. There are tons of kids’ books and special books starting from RMB 1. Bring your unwanted books with you on the day to donate if you would like to help. All proceeds from Roundabout book fairs will be used to change someone’s life. All ages. Free admission. 10am-3.30pm. Beijing Chaoyang Kaiwen Academy.

Day Trip: Under Siege – Boxer Rebellion Walking Tour, Apr 20
Hear the incredible story of the summer of 1900, when 4,000 foreigners and Chinese lived under siege from radical mystic rebels for 55 days. Join Beijing Postcards in this Walk and Talk session into the old Legation Quarter to hear stories about the bombing of the French embassy, the wavering Qing Court and how 200,000 bullets flew without finding a single target. The tour ends at a hutong gallery for a small exhibition curated by Beijing Postcards of original photos and maps from the early 1900s. Adults. RMB 300. 3-5.30pm. Meeting point Tian’anmen West Subway Station Exit B. (130 1107 8680, beijingpostcards@gmail.com)

“The Best of British” Celebrating 400 Years of Dulwich College, Apr 20
With the 400th anniversary of its founding school in London, Dulwich College Beijing’s annual charity gala is taking on a special meaning this year! Enjoy an executive chef dinner, exciting prizes, great entertainment, and free flow of wine while supporting the New Hope Foundation. Adults. RMB 1,100 RMB per ticket, RMB 10,000 for a table of 10. Starts 6pm. Dulwich College Beijing. (RSVP: rsvp@dulwich-beijing.cn)

Day Trip: Forbidden City – From Dynasty to Republic, Apr 21
On November 5, 1924, the last emperor of China, Puyi was ousted from his residence in the Imperial Palace – the Forbidden City of Beijing. The dismissal of the young bespectacled “boy” emperor was an event of truly epic proportions: the most important institution of Imperial China had now been dissolved. Learn more about this through this Walk and Talk series by Beijing Postcards. Adults. RMB 160-350. 11am-3pm. Meeting point Tian’anmen West Subway Station Exit B. (130 1107 8680, beijingpostcards@gmail.com)

The Bookworm Eco Spring Fair, Apr 21
The Bookworm has invited 35 vendors from across the city and from the local communities of fine artists, handicraft makers, fashion designers, organic food vendors, charity groups, including The Bulk House to stop by and show us how one can produce and consume the green way. Ages 16+. Free. Noon-6pm. The Bookworm, Building 4, Nan Sanlitun Road, Chaoyang District. 北京市朝阳区三里屯南街4号

Joy EL International Academy Sports Day, Apr 26
Joy EL International Academy invite everyone to their Sports Day on April 26, with the motto of “Friendship First, Competition Second” rather than just focusing on results. Join in a wide variety of sporting events and enjoy seeing the students having a wonderful time in matches, games, and events. All ages. Free. 8.30am-3.30pm. Joy EL International Academy. (CocoLi@joyelacademy.com)

CISB StageCats Presents: Godspell, Apr 26-27
The CISB StageCats are back and better than ever with an electrifying performance of the world-famous musical, Godspell. From the legendary Broadway composer Stephen Schwartz, Godspell is a highly energetic musical-comedy that retells stories and lessons from the Book of Matthew. While inspired by a religious text as its source, this show is for people of all ages, backgrounds, and tastes! Songs include the worldwide hits “Day by Day”, “Bless the Lord”, and many others. And even better – this will be CISB StageCats’ first musical production with a live band onstage! All ages. RMB 50 (adults), RMB 30 (students). Tickets can be purchased in advance at the CISB front desk or from a member of the cast/crew. Showtimes: Apr 26 (Fri) at 7pm, Apr 27 (Sat) at 2pm (matinee) and 7pm. Canadian International School of Beijing. (RSVP:patrick.connolly@cisbeijing.com, www.cisbtheatre.com)

3e Charity Community Day, Apr 27
3e International School welcomes everyone to their annual 3e Charity Community Day. Come to find bargain treasures and entertain the family with games and activities! Families are invited to sell well-maintained second-hand goods: toys, books, and other household items. Families and vendors can book a table for RMB 100 (table fees will be donated to Living Water Children’s Home). All ages. Free admission. 10am-noon. 3e International School. (6437 3344, community@3einternationalschool.org)

Joy EL International Academy Family Fair, Apr 27
Joy EL International Academy is holding its first Family Fair, where staff, students, and families come together to enjoy fun activities, games, music, and food. This year’s theme is “International Celebration” and there will be a bouncy castle, shows, booths representing the culture and cuisine of 10 countries, and more activities that take place throughout the campus. All ages. Free admission. 10am-4pm. Joy EL International Academy. (CocoLi@joyelacademy.com)

MCF Murder Mystery: Cut Loose, Apr 27
Migrant Children’s Foundation’s annual event is back, with an 80s themed interactive murder mystery inspired by the classic movie Footloose. Expect lots of 80’s music, references to 80’s pop culture, and more while enjoying a four-course meal and complimentary wine on every table. On the night, you can get involved by dressing up in eighties-themed outfits (big hair, bright make-up, neon accessories) and have a chance of winning prizes for your 80s inspired style! And, it’s interactive! So, if the spirit grabs you, you’ll be given the chance to get up and show what you can do. There will be lots of prizes throughout the evening, including for guessing the murderer, the best 80s dress, and more! Adults. RMB 550. Starts 7pm. Hilton Hotel, Liangmaqiao. (For tickets, contact WeChat ID: LornaDoone)

Mr. Rommel’s Cooking Classes at Ivy Academy Sanlitun, every Sat
Mr. Rommel’s Cooking Class aims to let your kids have fun in the kitchen, and helps them to build positive memories, good vibes, and great food. Your kids will learn the basics of cooking … there’s cutting, smelling, pouring, kneading, and most of all, having fun and learning without being aware of it! The classes run until June 22. All ages. RMB 2,860 (for 13 classes), RMB 260 (individual class). 10-11am. Ivy Academy Sanlitun Campus, (187 1004 6911, rommel.penullar@ivyschools.com)

“Little Italy” at Via Roma, every Sun
Via Roma and its new Chef de Cuisine Andrea Giannini present “Little Italy”, a new type of family Sunday lunch buffet built for an all-inclusive food journey and will serve up Italian classics, specialties and creations fit for an entire Italian family, bambini included! All ages. RMB 288 per person, RMB 388 (with free flow drinks). 11am-3.30pm. Via Roma, 1F of Kempinski Hotel Beijing. (Reservations: 6410 4200)

Four Seasons and One Vivaldi Puppet Show, May 4/5 and May 11/12
Introduce your little one to the world of classical music with this fun puppet show. Little Vivaldi is fascinated by the story his father tells him about young Petrolino the shepherd, interwoven with details about the four seasons. This award-winning English language play is suitable for children 3-8 years of age. Ages 3-8. RMB 80-220. 10.30am-3.30pm. Qinglan Theatre. (400 610 3721)

“Run to the Beat” Musical Marathon in the Ming Tombs Scenic Area, May 19
Run to the Beat Musical Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K will take place in the Ming Tombs Reservoir Scenic Area in Changping District on May 19, 2019. Live bands and DJs will be playing along the course to cheer on the runners. The music party continues at the center stage after crossing the finish line. Ages 16+. RMB 248 (half marathon), RMB 178 (5k), RMB 218 (10k). Register here. Starts 8am. Ming Tombs.

School Open Days

House of Knowledge Open Day – Xinglong Campus, Apr 4 and 17
Xinglong campus is the third campus of House of Knowledge (HoK), following the success of the Shunyi and Chaoyang Park campuses. Early Years learners follow the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC), a research-based curriculum focused on the social, emotional and cognitive development needs of children age 2-5. It maintains the Reggio Emilia philosophy of child-centered and personalized learning. HoK invites prospective families to their Open Day to get a real feel of the school’s learning practices and learn more about what the Xinglong campus has to offer. All ages. Free. 9-11.30am. House of Knowledge Xinglong Campus. (4006507747, admissions@hokschools.com)

Beijing No. 55 High School Admission Open House, Apr 18
Beijing No. 55 High School International Students Section will hold an open house for recruitment and admissions on April 18 from 9am to 11am. Staff members will tour parents around the campus, answer questions, and give a lecture about the IB Curriculum. All ages. Free admission. 9-11am. 3e International School. (RSVP: bj55iss@bj55.cn)

BSB Shunyi Open Day, Apr 22
The British School of Beijing, Shunyi (BSB Shunyi) invites prospective parents to see their school in action. Parents will be able to visit the school’s Primary, German Primary, and Secondary classrooms, and other facilities; talk to teachers; and learn about the enhanced English National Curriculum and IB Diploma Programme. BSB Shunyi benefits from collaborations with some of the very best organizations including MIT, The Juilliard School, and UNICEF. All ages. Free. 9-11am. BSB, Shunyi. (RSVP: admissions@bsbshunyi.com)

Photos: Featured image courtesy of Joy EL International Academy; Luis Quintero, rawpixel.com, Lukas via Pexels; courtesy of event organizers

We took part in The Upside of “I Don’t Know”, a talk presented by Jing Huang, Head of Harvard Center Shanghai, hosted by Daystar Academy.  Having studied sociology back in college and been enthusiastic about child psychology since having his own two sons, Jing Huang formulated parenting and schooling advice based on the results of his home “social experiments”.

Huang, like any parent, values education, but he also believes that teaching children how to learn and interact with the world is as important as “book knowledge”.  As a result, Huang has created multiple teaching modules on character education, including team work, leadership, how to be a follower, resilience, and curiosity, the theme of his presentation.

Jing Huang gave his talk in both Chinese and English, sometimes serving as his own translator.  He began by clarifying the topic: he does not advocate that “ignorance is bliss” or wuzhizheku, but rather, gave an example of how detrimental bu dong zhuang dong (pretending to know what you don’t know) can be to one’s education.  The reason is that if you pretend to know what you don’t know, then either you are not motivated to truly learn, or, you won’t ask or study up on the topic for fear of being found out (and losing face). For Huang, bu dong zhuang dong is just one example of the importance of nurturing a child’s creativity, for as we grow older, we stop questioning things for fear of being laughed at, shut down, or criticized.  Yet, a child who is too passive to question things is not motivated to learn, and is likely also lacking critical thinking skills.  Hence, the importance of encouraging children (and adults) to admit “I don’t know”.

The humorous and interactive presentation involved both parents and children, followed by a parent-only Q&A session with details on practical tips. Here’s what we took home from Jing Huang’s talk that can be applied by any parent or teacher:

Teach your child the upside of “I don’t know”

According to Huang, we are afraid of asking questions because we worry about how we will look in the eyes of the person answering.  However, if we put ourselves in their shoes, we would find that they find it flattering to be asked a question because it shows that you value and rely on their insight and knowledge.  After all, you chose them—out of every one—to ask your question, proving their overall importance.  Being asked a question should be an ego boost, wherein you, the questioner, provide them with positive feedback (fankui). An ego boost is always satisfying, which is why we can conclude that asking people questions make them happy. Since you are the one always asking questions when you’re around them, they should feel happy around you. As such, you become labelled as a person who makes them happy.  Try asking people questions and watch your popularity rise!

Teach children to be “curious”

Teachers and parents often complain about children having “focus issues”—but what allows children to focus?  Paying attention is focusing. Children will only pay attention if they are interested in the subject and want to find out the answer to a burning question they have. Which is to say that if children are not curious, they will not be interested in finding out the answer—they won’t even have a question to answer!

Thereby, teaching your child curiosity is preparing him to become a critical thinker who questions ideas, and pays attention–whether by focusing in class or by being observant in daily life.

How do we teach curiosity? Huang reminds us that curiosity is a skill, and like any skill it requires practice. As parents and educators, we can help children heighten their curiosity levels by pointing out things and asking them questions, eventually leading them to make their own observations and form their own questions, until they think like scientists, forming hypothesis and discovering their own answers via research and experimentation.

Teach children to find the answer on their own

Some children will say “I don’t know” automatically, relying on this automatic response like a crutch.  A child might expect an adult, whether a parent, teacher, tutor or sibling, to provide the answer instantly, walk him through the process of finding the answer, or at least point him in the right direction so he doesn’t need to spend time contemplating or looking for the answer on his own.

For such children, Huang advises parents to swallow your pride and pretend you don’t know the answer. By playing dumb, you give your child an opportunity to teach you.  The smug smirk he’ll get to exhibit later as he rubs the answer in your face will surely motivate him to discover the answer on his own for once.

Throughout his talk, Jing Huang references self-improvement books that he recommends everyone to read, including The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg and the Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell–both of which I’m reading now!

Photos: courtesy of Daystar Academy

When I was a kid, “young learners” didn’t have their own summer camps. There was preschool and kindergarten that continued over the summer in the service of working parents, and then there were half-day classes for a number of activities for parents who stayed home (but wanted to send their children out). Yet, those existed all year long and were not especially designed for summers.

Today, and especially here in Beijing, schools are out for the summer, but offer a variety of different ways to keep your child busy without being in a “school” environment.  As a new parent, I see this as a chance to allow our children to experience new activities, to try out new schools and campuses, and to discover where my child’s natural interests take him.  Summer is the best time to dapple in activities before making them year-long (or life-long) hobbies!

AEA US Embassy Camp, Jun 16-Aug 15
Ages 4-12. The American Employees Association Summer Camp is an American-style day camp with weekly themes, hosted by AEA (affiliated with the US embassy).  Each year, the themes are changed to incorporate current trends and children’s interests.  The daily program is filled with fun, songs, games, and activities which are related to the weekly themes.

• Early bird discounts till May 31. The camp will be hosted at Beijing City International School from Jun 16-Jul 4 and then from Jul 7-Aug 15 at 3e (info@aeabeijing.net, 8531 3349)

HoK Around the World, Jul 4-15
Ages 3-6. Children joining the camp will first get to make their own passport as they’re going on a trip around the word!  What should they pack in their suitcase? Where are they going? They better explore maps and world objects. Then off they go around the world, at each destination they will explore the culture, songs, language and food in a fun and captivating way using games, music, art, geography and science. There will be a whole host of activities to keep the children’s minds and bodies active this summer.

• RMB 2,200/week (full day). RMB 1,350/week without lunch (half day). RMB 1,720/week with lunch (half day). School bus transportation for an additional RMB 200/week. (contact admissions@hokschool.com, 400 650 7747)

CISB Kindergarten Creative Camp, Jun 27-Jul 15, Jul 18-Aug 5 Ages 1.5-6.
The Canadian International School of Beijing’s Kindergarten Creative Camp allows children to learn and discover phonics/reading, chinese language/culture, music, and enjoy a creative English workshop, arts and crafts, swimming, and physical education.

• RMB 4,550-12,600 (half day), for 2-6 weeks. RMB 6,850-19,850 (full day) for 2-6 weeks.  Application deadline May 27. Discounts for CISB, ISNS, CCSC students. Fee includes tuition, materials, snacks, and lunches. Possible transportation. (contact summeradmissions@cis-beijing.com)

Ivy Academy’s Summer Camps, Jul 4-Aug 12

Ages 2.6-8. Ivy Academy offers eleven (11) camps at five (5) different campuses. The overall camp selection are: Creative Art Camps (East Lake, Central Park, Ocean Express, Orchid Garden); Science Shenanigans (East Lake, Ocean Express) wherein children will delve into the world of hydroponics, botany, recycling and reducing waste; Get Active (East Lake, Ocean Express) wherein campers can play sports such as American flag football, basketball, soccer, and bowling; and Chinese Culture (Central Park and Lijing) wherein the topics include traditional art, traditional folk crafts, Chinese calligraphy, and children will make traditional snacks by themselves. Through hand-painted Beijing opera facial makeup, crafts, calligraphy, painting, cooking classes and other activites, children will have the opportunity to understand the profound traditional Chinese culture, and visit the courtyard and Beijing Hutong.

• RMB 2,480-7,200/session/2 weeks. Early bird discounts available for Ivy students (contact: camp@ivyschools.com)

Atelier Summer Camps, Jun 27-Jul 26
Ages 5-12. Atelier Art School will be running funny, creative, and inspiring artistic summer camps for one thematic week.  The themes include a Cubism Workshop where children will make collages, draw a cubist self-portrait, and a cardboard sculpture of a music instrument; Hokusai and Japan where children will discover Japanese engraving, learn about daily life in the 18th century, and realize a wonderful book inspired by Japanese art; Egyptian Civilization where children will learn about Egypt, build a model pyramid, make their own papyrus and write hieroglyphs on it; Africa where children will discover Africa as a continent, its different cultures and habits while engraving savannah animals, making patterns like the clothes of Zulus folk, and African mask collages; The Little Prince wherein children will discover the novel by Saint Exupery and learn new techniques by building a helix plane, understand the work of the illustrator and how to use water colors, and finally build imaginary planets using papier-mache; Around the World in Eighty Days wherein children will discover various cultures and civilizations by following the story in Jules Verne’s novel and making their own travel book with a map, pictures of the characters, and learn how to make pop-up books, different paper textures, and stamps.

• RMB 1,500/week, session. Morning session for 5-8 year olds. Afternoon session for 9-12 year olds. Note that the Sanlitun campus sessions begin on Jun 27 and end on Aug 26, while the Shunyi campus begins on Jun 13 and ends on Jul 22. See their website for a detailed schedule of when each theme is taught. (contact@atelier.cn.com, 132 4018 490, 6416 1614).

That’s Mandarin! Chinese Summer Camp, Jun 13-26, Jun 27-Jul 10, Jul 11-24, Jul 25-Aug 7, Aug 8-21
Ages 5-17. That’s Mandarin offers several different camp options to suit any family!  There are morning camps, day camps, and full day camps.  For older children, there are also homestay camps, and if you’d like in on the fun—family camps! Camps can be two week long or four week long. The full-length program includes intensive Chinese classes with cartoon class, reading and writing, and topic based oral lessons.  Each week has three days of cultural activities, including traditional Chinese calligraphy, opera mask painting, cooking classes, Chinese knot making, and mahjong. Fieldtrips and excursions are also available for Beijing, such as the Great Wall, Ming Tombs, Confucius Temple, and Beihai Park.

• For Beijing camps, contact: info@thatsmandarin.com (5218 6432). For the Shanghai camps, contact: info.shanghai@thatsmandarin.com (6452 0017).

ClubFootball Summer Camp, Jul 5-Aug 24
Ages 4.5-16. ClubFootball has been around since 2001, hosting football classes and camps that promote coordination and teamwork. This summer, their coaches will have week long summer classes for players of all skill levels, or minimal three-day intensive workshops, depending on your child’s schedule.

• RMB 800-1,500/week. Camps will be held in Chaoyang Park, Olympic Forest Park, Zhongguancun, Wangjing, Lido and Shunyi (coaching@wanguoqunxing.com, 5130 6893)

The Children’s House Summer Camp, Jul 11-Aug 18

Ages 1.5-6.  The Children’s House Summer Camp will be hosted at the Kempinski and China World campuses. Daily programs include nature arts and crafts, music, story tales and lots more.

•  RMB 1,500 (half-day), RMB 2,000 (half-day + lunch), RMB 3,000 (full day) for a session (one week). 10% discount if you sign up for all five weeks. (contact: info@montessoribeijing.com, 6505 3869 or 6465 1305) 

Photo: Pixabay

As part of Ivy Education Group’s Distinguished Speaker Series, we listened in on Homa Tavangar’s talk about raising global citizens, based on her book: Growing up Global, Raising Children to be at Home in the World.

“Instead of asking your child, What do you want to be when you grow up? Ask, What problem do you want to solve today?“

Tavangar began her talk by defining global citizenship as “being at home in the world” and highlighting the reasons why as parents we should teach our children global culture as early as possible.  A global mindset has become more necessary with globalization, the ever-changing world economy and politics, as well as increasing diversity both in our own neighborhoods and abroad. 

She retold a story from 2003 (9/11) when she first identified a problem in adults: that they are too separated from the rest of the world. She realized that it is too late for adults to begin labeling themselves beyond the memberships of their neighborhoods, states, and countries, or to identify foreign cultures as anything but the “other”.   When catastrophe strikes, instead of reaching out to the wider world for assistance, or having the moral imperative to provide assistance, the majority of adults would rather isolate themselves from the unknown in a bid for safety.   She wanted to her children to grow up with knowledge of the world, rather than just terror or a fear for the unknown.

When Tavangar took her children to live and study in Africa for a semester, she  witnessed how children can accept global citizenship, and how much they can benefit from the comfort of such new identities.  Tavangar’s book, Growing up Global was written specifically for parents after having concluded that parents cannot ignore the effect of globalization on their children’s futures.

14 Ways To Grow A Globally Minded Child
Since the global mindset, which is similar to an entrepreneurial mindset, is a muscle that grows with practice, it’s better to start as early as possible! So let’s look at some ways a parent or a teacher can help raise global citizens:

1. Use metaphors and analogies involving the natural world to teach children about variety, beauty and differences.
2. Read world literature; books written by foreign authors, written about and in foreign countries, or perhaps by an author from your own country or region that is of a different culture than your family. Find a list here.
3. Eat cuisine from all over the world and encourage children to try different foods from ethnic markets or restaurants.
4. Attend cultural festivals; or if they’re unavailable in your region, then celebrate the cultural festival of distant lands.
5. Learn about the traditions and rituals of other cultures and try enacting them at home.
6. Play games and sports of other countries/cultures. Be inspired by this exhaustive list of 80 world games!
7. Discover what foods are said to heal common health conditions in different cultures.
8. Meet and talk to people from cultures other than your own to genuinely get to know them and befriend them!
9. Listen to music from around the world (you can read lyric translations).
10. Display a world map or a globe in a prominent place in your home and encourage exploration and conversations. Take your pick by searching for 世界地图 on Taobao.
11. Learn a foreign language together! Have you heard of Mango?
12. Watch a sports game narrated or hosted in another language.
13. Talk about the origins and trading routes of products used every day in your home.
14. Incorporate humanitarian work in your family life (kiva.org, ripple.org, etc.) as a means to both learn about life elsewhere, but teach your child the importance of service.

Take Global Baby Steps
Although this list can appear daunting to some parents, Tavangar emphasizes to start small—put away your devices, step away from technology, and spend time conversing with your child about the world.

Talk about world news, what day it is in another culture, an upcoming holiday/festival, and remind your child that there is a vast world outside your home and community.  Instead of asking your child, “what do you want to be when you grow up?” Ask, “What problem do you want to solve today?” Or, “What challenge do you want to take?” Teach your child that all of us shoulder the future of the world, and every one of us, no matter how young, can make a difference!

Photo: Courtesy of Daystar Academy

Our ongoing Breathless in Beijing series continues with Ryan Cardwell, Program director at Ivy Academy. Below he tells us about keeping a positive outlook during grim smoggy days, shares his fresh air fantasy, describes how he protects his five-year-old daughter, Sparks, and his school’s students from pollution, and more.

At home we use Blue Air Filters.  We have been using this brand for about eight years and have found it quite reliable.  We keep one in each room. We don’t use plants (to keep the home fresh) simply because we used to have a cat and she always ate the plants.  We also use masks, Respero ones specifically.

I have the unique privilege of being the director of my daughter’s school, Ivy Academy.  At Ivy Academy we also use Blue Air filters, and monitor the air with the Laser Egg. We also use air filters on our school bus.

If the AQI is over 200 we pretty much stick to indoor activities, either at home or in an indoor space like a mall.

When Beijing is really polluted I remind myself that there are people living here who don’t have access to air filters and masks, who are suffering a lot more than I am.

On Blue Sky Days we love to go to Beijing’s parks, such as Chaoyang Park near our home or the Olympic Forest Park.

If I could bottle fresh air from elsewhere, and spray some in our home on a smoggy day, I think we’d get some air from back home in Canada.  Canada’s mountain air is some of the finest!

Photos: courtesy of Ryan Cardwell.

In anticipation of the Beijing International School Expo on January 16-17, we’re highlighting local and international schools around Beijing from the upcoming 2016-2017 beijingkids School Choice Guide, which comes out on January 4

Ivy Academy is part of Ivy Schools and accepts students of ages 2 through 6. It offers an English speaking environment taught by a team of highly qualified early childhood educators who customize the theory influenced curriculum according to the children’s interests. There are two locations in Beijing.

Founding date: 2004 (Ivy Academy East Lake Villas Campus), 2013 (Ivy Academy Central Park Campus)
Age range: 2-6
Grades offered: Nursery to Kindergarten
School type: International preschool and kindergarten
Total area: East Lake Villas Campus is 580 sqm; Central Park Campus is 600 sqm
Curriculum description: Multiple Intelligences theory
Boarding program: No
Number of students: 65 (Ivy Academy East Lake Villas Campus), 75 (Ivy Academy Central Park Campus)
Is the school registered with the Ministry of Education? Yes
Foreign passport holders accepted? Yes
Local Chinese students accepted? Yes
Tuition fees (2015-2016 academic year):
• Application fee: RMB 2,000
• Tuition fees for one academic year: RMB 159,000
Type of lunch offered: Chinese, western, and special diets
Nationality of students: Australia, Britain, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, US, China
Primary teaching language: English
Other languages taught as electives: None
Average class size: 15-25 students per class depending on classroom size
Average teacher/student ratio: 1:5/6 depending on age level
School hours: 8.30-11.30am (half-day); 8.30am-3.30pm (full-day)
After-school activities: Extended care available
Special needs programs offered: No
Extra help offered (tutoring, ESL/ESOL, etc.): No
Scholarships offered: No
School facilities: Library, art classroom, and children’s kitchen
School nurse/doctor available on campus? Yes, full-time school nurse
Contact:
• East Lake Villas Campus: Suite C-101, East Lake Villas, 35 Dongzhimenwai Main Street, Dongcheng District (8451 1380/1, info-EL@ivyschools.com) 东城区东直门外大街35号东湖别墅C座101室
• Central Park Campus: Building 24 Central Park, Chaowai Street, Chaoyang District (5738 4559, 6597 0250, info-CP@ivyschools.com) 朝外大街6号新城国际公寓24号楼

Photo: Courtesy of Ivy Academy

It’s been a busy summer over at Ivy Academy where Ivy’s Summer Camps have been in full swing since June. This year, The Ivy Group offered a wide range of summer camp fun with options ranging from a traditional Chinese culture camp to camps specializing in science, art, drama, and even a Lego camp. Sister school Daystar Academy offered its own summer program designed to strengthen academic and non-academic English and Chinese through participation in activity-based learning both inside and outside the classroom.

For this week’s summer camp 2015 highlight, beijingkids speaks to the lead teacher for Ivy’s art camp, Lisa Perdomenico. Perdomenico tells beijingkids more about what Ivy’s campers have been up to the last few weeks.

“At Ivy’s summer art camp, it’s all about innovation, self-expression, and an immeasurable about of creativity. The children and staff are encouraged to create and experiment, with both the expected materials such as paint, glue, clay, but also the less expected materials such as glow sticks and pushpins. Campers are free to expand their artistic world by exploring their environment, they are free to grab a can of shaving cream off of a shelf, ask for a few bottles of food coloring to create tie dye effect paintings, or to even ask to paint with balloons. Painting with balloons in our camp doesn’t mean dipping balloons in paint to create an imprint of the balloon. Here at Ivy, painting with balloons translates into, filling balloons with paint, suspending the balloons from the ceiling and popping them with a pushpin attached to a new toilet plunger, creating Jackson Pollock-esque paintings.

The art installations the children are most proud of this year is the Michelangelo inspired paintings in which the children filled spray bottles with paint, sprayed large pieces of paper suspended over their heads. The highlight of this activity was seeing the children and teachers covered in paint from head to toe as it dripped all over us, the children looked in mirrors and giggled as well as chuckled at the messy teachers. They proudly hung their work from the ceiling and admired its beauty every day.

The other piece that not only brought the children together, but also inspired the children to use unconventional materials, was the Eric Daigh inspired pushpin sculpture. The children had a great time creating unique patterns and effects using a pencil to sketch out the lines before inserting the pins, the reason we are guessing this was such a popular activity was the fact they got to stand on tables and work cooperatively with their peers.

Of course artists need to take a break and enjoy the great outdoors. When they weren’t zipping down waterslides they created with teachers or swimming, they were out visiting 798 art district where the children had a great time exploring the 3-D museum. 

Our camp closed with a DIY day where families and teachers came together and created artistic crafts as a group, proving art and creativity brings people from all-over the world together speaking a common language called creative freedom.”

There are still spaces available for Ivy’s Lego camp from August 3-14. Parents can sign up directly here or contact catherine.li@ivygroup.org.

Photos: Courtesy of Ivy Academy

If your family is staying in Beijing for at least part of the summer holidays, chances are you’re already looking at camps. With many camps slated to start in June, deadlines for enrollment and early bird discounts are coming up fast. Here’s the first part of our annual, multi-part roundup of summer camps. We’ll keep posting summer camps as we hear of them, so check back on the blog or follow our social media streams on WeChat (beijingkids), Weibo, Twitter, or Facebook.  

That’s Mandarin Chinese Summer Camp
Ages 7-17. Once again, That’s Mandarin is running a varied Chinese summer camp program for kids, teens, and families visiting and residing in Beijing. There are five camps: morning camp, day camp, full camp, family camp, and homestay camp. That’s Mandarin camps include field trips, variety classes, and cultural activities as well as in-depth language learning.  

Dates: Camps run from June to August. Start dates are June 15, June 29, July 13, July 27,  and August 10.

Prices:

• Day camp : RMB 9,000 (two weeks), RMB 17,200 (four weeks)

• Morning camp: RMB 5,000 (two weeks), RMB 9,200 (four weeks)

• Homestay camp: RMB 24,000 (two weeks), RMB 46,000 (four weeks)

• Full camp (hotel shared room): RMB 20,000 (two weeks), RMB 38,000 (four weeks)

• Family camp: Prices TBA. Available for one adult and one kid, two adults and one kid, one adult with two kids, and two adults with two kids.

Discounts: Early bird and friend discounts (5% off if you sign up with a friend) currently available
How to sign up? Use That’s Mandarin’s online form
Contact: 1/F, Bldg 4, 12 Xinzhong Jie, Dongcheng District (5218 6432, info@thatsmandarin.com) 东城区新中街乙 12 号 4 号楼1层

Ivy Academy Summer Camps
Ages 3-6. Ivy Academy (IA) is offering several summer camps for younger kids, including the Traditional Chinese Culture Camp; Science Shenanigans Camp; Think, Paint, and Create Art Camp; DramaFit Camp; Lego Camp; and Advanced Chinese Camp. Each camp features its own unique activities, field trips, and classes; check IA’s website for more details.

Dates: Start dates throughout July and August
Price: RMB 7,200 per camp
Discounts: Early bird discount of 15% available for those who sign up before May 22 (20% for Ivy students)
How to sign up? Use Ivy Academy’s online form (click on the camp you’re interested in)
Contact: camp@ivyschools.com

Beijing Playhouse Summer Camps
Ages 6-14. Beijing Playhouse, Beijing’s only English-language theater troupe, is running four drama camps this summer: Pinocchio, Once Upon a Time, and Beauty and the Beast, and Romeo and Juliet. All camps last two to three weeks, are limited to 30 kids, and end with a performance. All participants must audition. Theater internships are available for older teens.

Dates: June 29-July 11 (Pinocchio), July 13-25 (Once Upon a Time), July 27-August 8 (Beauty and the Beast), August 10-29 (Romeo and Juliet)
Prices: RMB 8,000 for Pinocchio, Once Upon a Time, and Beauty and the Beast; RMB 12,000 for Romeo and Juliet
Discounts: Early bird discounts of 10% available until April 11 (check Beijing Playhouse’s website for enrollment deadlines)
How to sign up? Contact Beijing Playhouse at broadway@beijingplayhouse.com
Contact: broadways@beijingplayhouse.com, www.beijingplayhouse.com

HoK Summer Camps
Ages 3-6. House of Knowledge International School and Kindergarten (HoK) has a host of summer programs for both expat and locak kids. In the first week, kids will learn about the ocean’s different animals, landscapes, and life forms through arts, crafts, science, and games. The second week is dinosaur-themed, with students becoming paleontologists to dig up bones and hunt for eggs.

Dates: June 29-July 3 (week 1), July 6-10 (week 2) from 9.30am-3.30pm

Prices: RMB 2,200 per week (full day), RMB 1,720 per week (half-day with lunch), RMB 1,350 per week (half-day without lunch), RMB 200 per week for bus transportation
Discounts: None
How to sign up: Email or call HoK (see below)
Contact: info@hokschools.com, 400 650 7747

Artistic Summer Camps
Ages 5+. For the third year in a row, Atelier is offering artistic summer camps at its Sanlitun studio and newly-opened Shunyi branch. Each camp lasts one week and includes thematic exploration, techniques, and art projects. Morning sessions are for ages 5-8 and afternoon sessions are for ages 9 and up.

Dates: Start dates are June 15 through July 13 weekly, and then the last two weeks of August.
Prices: RMB 1,500 per week
Discounts: Siblings or kids taking more than one camp are eligible for a reduced rate of RMB 1,200 per week.
How to sign up? Email Atelier at contact@atelier.cn.com
Contact:

• 1) Apt C202, Jinxiu Yuan, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District 朝阳区幸福村中路锦绣园C202

• 2) 204-205, Bldg 2, Central Park, 16 Yufeng Lu, Shunyi District 顺义区裕丰路16号院会展誉景2号楼204-205（商铺A入口2楼）

CISB Summer Camps
For the ninth year, the Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) is offering summer camps for toddlers, kids, and teens. Programs are open to all and include the Kindergarten Creative Camp, Summer Enrichment Camp, and Summer Enhancement Camp. Dates are from June 29 to August 7 for all camps.

Kindergarten Creative Camp
Ages 18 months-6 years. The kindergarten camp includes phonics and reading, English, Chinese language and culture, arts and crafts, music, swimming, and PE activities.

Prices:

• Full day: RMB 6,500 (two weeks), RMB 9,750 (three weeks), RMB 18,500 (six weeks)

• Half-day: RMB 4,300 (two weeks), RMB 6,450 (three weeks), RMB 12,000 (six weeks)

Summer Enrichment Camp
Ages 6-15. This well-rounded program offers camps with topics like math, science, sports, and performing arts.

Prices:

• Camp 1 (Math, Science, and Sports): RMB 7,500 (two weeks), RMB 11,250 (three weeks), RMB 21,500 (six weeks)

• Camp 2 (Horseback Riding and Golf): RMB 12,500 (two weeks), RMB 18,750 (three weeks), RMB 36,500 (six weeks)

• Camp 3 (Performance Arts): RMB 10,500 (two weeks), RMB 15,750 (three weeks), RMB 30,500 (six weeks)

Summer Enhancement Camp
Grades 6-11. This program for older kids aims to increase skills and knowledge in mathematics, literacy, and leadership. CISB students completing the six-week program can apply for completion of the math or English programs in which they’re currently enrolled at CISB.

Prices:

• Full day program: RMB 15,750 (three weeks), RMB 29,500 (six weeks)

• English or Math program: RMB 9,750 (three weeks), RMB 17,500 (six weeks)

Discounts: 15% discount available for CISB, ISNS and CCSC students; 5% early bird discounts available (sign up before April 30)
How to sign up? Apply in person or by email to summeradmissions@cis-beijing.com before May 29
Contact: 38 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District (6465 7788, summeradmissions@cis-beijing.com) www.cisb.com.cn 朝阳区亮马桥路38号加拿大国际学校

TLC Summer Programs
Various ages. Throughout the summer, The Learning Center (TLC) will have classes for a variety of grade levels and topics. Subjects include SSAT and SAT prep, academic transition programs to prepare kids for international schools or schools abroad, English, social studies, math, science, and history.

Prices: Classes last one week and start at RMB 2,365 for half-day and RMB 4,490 for full day.
Discounts: Available for multi-week bookings. Early bird discount of 5% before June 1
How to sign up: Call or email (see below)
Contact: Call 8046 3886 or email usregistration@hyde-education.com. To find out more about TLC, visit www.thelearningcenter.cn.

Roots Language Training Center Summer Day Camps
Ages 7-12. Founded by a Canadian expat, Roots is a language training center that focuses on fluency through speaking. At the end of July and in August, Roots is holding five summer day camps with different weekly themes. Attendees will be able to experience a real western-style camp with sports, movies, fairs, picnics, workshops, and more. For teens, Roots is also offering summer jobs as camp counselors.

Dates: July 20-24, July 27-31, August 3-7, August 10-14, August 17-21 (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm)
Prices and discounts: TBC (check back for details)
Contact: To pre-register or apply, email camps@rootsltc.com.

LVMS Masterchef Camp
Ages 3-6. For the first three weeks of August, Little Village Montessori School (LVMS) is hosting cooking camps based on Junior Masterchef for young children. Kids will get to make a different dish every day with their teachers (or on their own if they can) and keep recipes to replicate at home.

Prices: RMB 3,500 (LVMS students), RMB 4,800 (other students)
Discounts: None
How to sign up: Call or email LVMS (see below) by July 15. If the group reaches 20 students before that date, signup will close.
Contact: Rm 2310, 3/F Jingyun Shengtong Building, 5 Huilin Lu, Fulicheng West, Shuangjing, Chaoyang District (5876 6610, angel@lvms.cn) 朝阳区双井富力城西， 惠林路5号， 京运盛通大厦3层2310

Blue Bridge Summer Art Camps
Ages 4-12. Blue Bridge International Education is offering four art camps with different themes this summer: Little World Explorer (exploring the world through Disney movies), Song of the Sea (Celtic culture and stories), Back to the Future (time travel), and Night at the Museum (artists and curators).

Dates: July 13-17 (Little World Explorer), July 20-31 (Song of the Sea), August 3-14 (Back to the Future), August 17-21 (Night at the Museum)
Prices: RMB 3,280 (Little World Explorer and Night at the Museum), RMB 5,980 (Song of the Sea and Back to the Future)
Discounts:
How to sign up: Call or visit Blue Bridge’s website (see below)
Contact: www.bluebridgeedu.com

• CBD Studio: Rm 753, Tower A, Chaowai SOHO, Chaoyang District (5900 0270) 朝阳区朝外SOHO A座753室

• Lido Studio: Shop 118, Andersen Garden, Upper East Side, Chaoyang District (5947 2275)

Dulwich Community Programmes (DCP) Summer Camps
All ages. Dulwich College Beijing is holding a series of DCP summer camps open to the wider Beijing community with soccer, swimming, basketball, and tennis.

Dates: Throughout June, July, and August (check website for details)
Prices: Various (see website)
Discounts: Available for some camps for signups of two weeks or more
How to sign up: Registration is from May 2 to June 17. Parents can either register and pay in person at the Legend Garden Sports Club at DCB (cash and card) on weekdays from 8am to 9pm and weekends from 9am to 7pm or at the Riviera Main Campus and Little Riviera (cash only) during school hours. They can also register online and pay by bank transfer.
Contact: 6454 9150, dcp@dulwich-beijing.cn

Prestige Education Centre Summer Camp
Ages 6-14. Prestige Education Centre (PEC) is holding an English-language summer camp designed by UK-qualified teachers. Participants will explore subjects like literature, art, science, music, and math using creative approaches. The learning themes are pirates and seasons.

Dates: June 29-August 21 (9.30am-3.30pm)
Prices: RMB 3,850 per week
Discounts: Early bird discount of 5% available before June 10
How to sign up: Email or call (see below)
Contact: Bldg 9, 5 Guantang Donglu, Chaoyang District (8430 8674, information@pedcentre.com) 朝阳区官塘东路5号9号

Keystone Summer Archway
For students entering Grades 6-9 in fall 2015. Designed for non-native English speakers, Keystone Academy’s Summer Archway program is designed for non-native English speakers who intend to attend Keystone or similar schools in China and abroad. Participants in the three-week camp will learn how to work in an international or American-style learning environment, with a focus on improving academic English and exploring key concepts in the arts, sciences, and humanities.

Dates: July 13-31
Prices: RMB 15,600 (includes application fee, tuition, materials, lunch, use of Keystone’s sports facilities, and certificate of completion). Optional bus transportation available for RMB 980
Discounts: None
How to sign up: The four-step application process consists of filling out an application form, submitting a personal essay, scheduling an interview, and paying the application fee. Click here for full details. The signup deadline is April 20.
Contact: Keystone Academy, 11 Anfu Jie, Houshayu, Shunyi District (8049 6008 ext 2009, summer@keystoneacademy.cn) 顺义区后沙峪镇安富街11号北京鼎石国际学校

All photos courtesy of their respective schools and organizations unless otherwise noted

In anticipation of the Beijing International School Expo on January 24-25, we will be highlighting local and international schools around Beijing from the upcoming 2015-2016 beijingkids School Choice Guide, which comes out on January 20.

Ivy Academy offers an English-speaking environment. Taught by a team of highly-qualified early childhood educators, the Multiple Intelligences theory-influenced curriculum is customized according to the children’s interests.

Founding date: 2004 (Ivy Academy East Lake Villas Campus), 2013 (Ivy Academy Central Park Campus)
Age range: 2-6
Grades offered: Nursery to kindergarten
School type: International preschool and kindergarten
Number of students: 65 (Ivy Academy East Lake Villas Campus), 50 (Ivy Academy Central Park Campus)
Is the school accredited by the Ministry of Education? No, but the school satisfies all laws set out by the PRC
Foreign passport holders accepted? Yes
Local Chinese students accepted? Yes
Tuition fees (2014-2015 academic year):
• Application fee: RMB 2,000
• Ivy Academy East Lake Villas Campus: RMB 152,800
• Ivy Academy Central Park Campus: RMB 152,800
• Tuition deposit: RMB 9,000 (to be applied to tuition)
• Transportation fee: Optional (contact school for latest info)
• Lunch fee: Optional (contact school for latest info)
Nationality of students: Australia, UK, Canada, Japan, France, Germany, US, China
Primary teaching language: English
Average class size: 16
Average teacher/student ratio: Ivy Schools is dedicated to ensuring that each class has a high teacher to child ratio as well as having small sizes.
School hours: 8.30-11.30am (half-day), 8.30am-3.30pm (full day)
After-school activities: None
School facilities: Library, art classroom, and children’s kitchen
School nurse or doctor available? Yes, full-time
Contact: www.ivyschools.com
• East Lake Villas Campus: Suite C-101, East Lake Villas, 35 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District (8451 1380/1, info-EL@ivyschools.com) 东城区东直门外大街35号东湖别墅C座101室
• Central Park Campus: Bldg 24, Central Park, 6 Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District (5738 4559, 6597 0250, info-CP@ivyschools.com) 朝阳区朝外大街6号新城国际公寓24号楼

Word from a Parent:
“We really feel that [the teachers]working with our son and encouraging him to make the right choices is a team effort. I love to hear all [the school’s]insights and how [they]work with him to care for him and guide him. It means a lot to us, and I’m sure to all parents. We feel that this is the first time that we have had support and worked together with teachers on very specific issues.”

– Deanna (Germany), mother of Ben (age 4)

Photo: Courtesy of IA