Mother’s Day is this Sunday, May 8th. There are plenty of brunch, afternoon tea, and dinner specials, as well as various activities and meetups. I expect that some of us mothers may have some trouble leaving the house for quite so long.  Or, we might just dread taking our little ones with us to a fancy cafe or restaurant (oh, the hassle)!
So, for those of us who would rather daddy take the kids out to play for a while, or catch a breather while the little one sleeps, here are ways to pamper yourself at home this Mother’s Day.

Note: Some of these services may need to be reserved a day or two in advance–hence why we’re telling you now!

Step 1: Reserve a nanny
If your partner is busy or away, a good back up plan is to hire a nanny. However, babysitters are hard to come by in Beijing, not every ayi will watch kids, and your friends are just as busy as you are.  What to do? Use an app and hire a nanny!

Wuyoubaomu (无忧保姆 = worry free nanny) app has a selection of ayis based on the type you need, from elderly care to postnatal care to nanny services.  For a short term, last minute choice, select lingshi xiaoshi gong (临时小时工 = last minute per hour work).  The minimum babysitting time is two hours and all you have to do is specify the time and place.

Step 2: Order a cake delivered home!
Every bakery and convenience store in Beijing advertises “Mother’s Day Cakes” to the point where even I believe that Mother’s Day and cakes go together:  I’m a mother, I like cake, and it’s Mother’s Day, so honey, where’s my cake?

The funny thing about cakes is that they need to be ordered in advance, and then they need to be picked up (yes, even at 7/11). Personally, I can’t be bothered with all that unless it’s my son’s birthday (not even for my own, really), so I thought how nice would it be if they could just deliver the cake and save us the trouble? And they can!

21Cake offers delicious cakes and gelatos delivered straight to your door! No pick up necessary.

Step 3: Reserve an at home waxing or facial session
These are two things I prefer getting done in the comfort of my own home. Facial sessions in Beijing have often required showers (for some reason), and waxing–well, that should be self-explanatory, so if you haven’t had time for either, what better opportunity to pamper yourself than on Mother’s Day?

Add Annie, an old timer from Daisy’s Salon, on wechat (id: anniewax111) and schedule to have your wax and facial sessions at home!

Step 4: Pamper yourself!
I remember once upon a time I would get facials, foot massages, and manicures done regularly. I would schedule with friends or coworkers, and we would go together.  I haven’t been able to stick to that schedule since motherhood, so if you’re anything like me, you’re way overdue.

Time to pamper yourself with the app, Helijia (河狸家 = beaver home), which offers all beauty services, including facials, make up, and hairstyling.  You can even order a yoga teacher to come host a session or a personal trainer to motivate you!

Step 5: Get a massage!
We could all use a massage, but mothers especially could use a massage on Mother’s Day!

Use the app, Gongfu Xiong (功夫熊 = Kungfu Bear) to order a masseuse straight to your bedroom! You can choose from a quick neck and shoulder massage to a few hour full body session.  The price of your massage depends on the level of your masseuse, and you can always choose the one you think looks most qualified from the picture.  The masseuse brings their own equipment and even cleans up before they leave!

Step 6: Reserve a chef
Since you’ll be relaxed and pampered at home, you might as well just call it a day and stay home.  But what about food? Cooking would ruin your nails and hair, so how about scheduling a chef to come over and cook your favorite Chinese food?

Haochushi (好厨师 = good chef)  is an app that allows you to customize a menu and invite a chef to cook in your home.  You can specify how many dishes you want, what type of food you prefer, or even ask the chef to prepare exactly what you want.  Since it’s Mother’s Day, you might as well have the chef do the grocery shopping, the cooking, and the cleaning afterwards.

Step 7: Hire an ayi
Chaojiayi (超级阿姨 = super ayi) is an app that provides ayi services similar to the popular Ayibang (阿姨帮 = ayi help) app, but rather than have you choose an ayi (who may or may not be available when you need her), the process is similar to Didi or Uber where the ayis have to fight for your order.  This ensures two things: 1) you get an ayi nearby who hopefully can also find your home, and 2) you get an ayi who can definitely come at the time you designated (no negotiation). Did I mention it’s cheaper than ayibang?

Did you notice all the apps are in Chinese?  Living like a local doesn’t have to be impossible for Chinese illiterates (like me)!  Don’t bother your one useful Chinese friend to help you, either.  I have personally found Grabtalk employees very friendly and helpful, and have had plenty of friends who’ve used Wechat Secretary for assistance (which charges a 10% fee); both have wechats you can add.

Photo: Pixabay,

For this week, we’ve included where you’ll see beijingkids staff, free events, family friendly events, and five extra events for next week. There’s plenty to do in Beijing! For Mother’s Day Events on May 8, check out our ongoing roundup here.

Where beijingkids Staff Will Be This Week
Editors Andy Killeen, Jessica Suotmaa, and Vanessa Jencks will be available for a meet and greet at 1pm on May 8 before the Beijing Playhouse’s first ever children’s show, Rapunzel. We’ll be bringing along our own families and promise some great pre-show laughs.

Beijing Playhouse presents Rapunzel, May 8
Ages 6-12. It’s more than just a fairy tale. An inspiring rendition of a traditional story, this performance is especially for children. RMB 80 (children), RMB 150 (adults). 2.00-3.00pm. Eagle International Performing Arts Center, International School of Beijing (childrenstheatre@beijingacademyofperformingarts.com)

Other than the Rapunzel pre-show meet and greet, you can find us all over the city this week. Our own Shunyi correspondent, Anjana Kainikarra, is the parent events organizer for DCB Founder’s Day.  Anjana is particularly excited about the many booths with food from around the world.

School Correspondent Jessica Suotmaa will be heading over to the British School Beijing, Shunyi, for creative creations at the 2016 Lego League Competition for International Schools.  She’ll then make her way to ISB Spring Fair for the bazaar and shopping opportunities.

Senior Editor Nimo Wanjau decided to put CSI: The Experience exhibit to the test then let us know if the trip is worth the kuai.  Olivia with Cuisine Mei Wenti will then teach Nimo all about French cuisine at the free workshop.

Incoming Managing Editor Vanessa Jencks and her family will take a stop over at the Chinese education district for the BLCU World Culture Festival for some kid friendly games and food.

Founder’s Day, May 7
All ages. Founder’s Day at DCB showcases country and regional foods and culture of their school’s diverse populace as a celebration of the founding of the school. Highlights of the day include live performances, as well as games and activities for children of different ages. Free. 3-9pm. Dulwich College Beijing (www.dulwich-beijing.cn)

2016 Lego League Competition for International Schools, May 7
Ages 7+ This year, students are learning about reusing and recycling. During the competition students will complete in four separate activities. Currently three schools involved, Beijing World Youth Academy, Dulwich College Beijing, and The British School of Beijing (BSB) Shunyi. Free. 9am-Noon. BSB Shunyi (8047 3588)

ISB Spring Fair, May 7
All ages. ISB holds its annual spring fair featuring fun games and activities for the whole family. There will also be a food bazaar, shopping opportunities, and a raffle with great prizes to be won. Free. 10am-4pm. International School of Beijing (8149 2345)

Cuisine “Mei Wenti” for Busy Mums, May 9
Adults. Olivia’s Cuisine Mei Wenti debunks the myth that delicately delicious French meals are only for the experts. She’ll be talking about nutrition guidelines and essential cooking tools for preparing baby food along with kitchen organization and some of her prize recipes.  Free. 10am-11am. Oasis International Hospital (wechat: 18811103237 Alexandra)

CSI: The Experience, May 2 – July 17
Ages 10+ Based on the hit TV show and guided by videos of cast members and real-life forensic scientists, participants will perform realistic CSI tests like matching DNA, examining bullet casings and identifying single strands of hair. RMB 60 (one hour) to 280 RMB (2 hours), Groups tickets of 5 adults from 600 RMB to 1200 RMB. Joy City Chaoyang

BLCU World Culture Festival, May 7
All ages. No need to travel the world in eighty days, just visit BLCU. World food booths, games for kids, county performances, and a parade. Free. 9am – 4pm. Beijing Language and Culture University (8230 3951)

Free Events This Week

German Brand Lifestyle Festival, May 2 – May 3
All ages. The German Brand Lifestyle Festival is now in it’s 6th year of operation.
Come to look, to shop and to know the best of German brands available in China.
Kid-friendly activities will also be on site. Free. 10am-9pm. Lufthansa Center, (event@chinaimperative.com, 138 1067 8719)

ISB HEY by Heyrobics, May 4
Ages 6+.   Join Heyrobics founder Linus and instructors Emily and Joel for an hour and a half of fun and sweaty workouts of the world’s happiest sport at ISB. Free of charge for anyone who registers. 4.30 – 6pm. International School of Beijing (ISB). (wechat: heyrobics)

Detoxification 101: How to Survive and Thrive in Beijing, May 5
For adults. Naturopathic Physician Dr. Melissa Rodriguez illuminates the detoxification process and shares tips on maximizing the body’s natural ability to purify itself. Registration required. Free. 10-11.30am. Beijing United Family Hospital (400 8919 191)

German Soccer Championship, May 7
All ages. Join the German Chamber of Commerce to cheer on teams from Audi, BMW, and Volkswagen along with eight others.  A kids corner includes face painting, kids crafts, games and a bouncy castle. Adults will also get their chance to win prizes at other game booths. Food and drink includes Chinese, Western, draught beer and wine. Free. 8.30am-6.30pm. Side Park (6539 6664)

One Hour Workshop: Learn how to use Wechat Pay, May 7
Adults. Come learn how to use Wechat Pay, an essential part of modern life in Beijing. Studnets will also learn some basic relevant vocabulary. Please RSVP by May 5th, 6pm. Free. 11am-Noon. Sinology Institute. (admissions@sinologyinstitute.com, 6400 0905)

Fangcaodi 60th Anniversary, May 7
All ages. Celebrate Fangcaodi International School’s 60th Anniversary and the culture of 60 countries! FCD planned 120 stalls from nearly 60 countries. Bouncy castle, games, shows, auctions and prize drawings. Raffle prize drawings this year include a Discover Learning Center Voucher, five days at DDC Summer Camp and a one week Sailing Summer Camp. Kids will be provided with a stamp collection event passport. Free. 10am-3pm. Fangcaodi International School (8563 9140)

2016 Harrowthon, May 8
All ages. The annual 10km family run is back again and features live performances by students, as well as games and activities for kids. Proceeds will go to Roundabout’s various charitable causes. Registration required. RMB 100. 7am-3pm. Harrow International School Beijing (http://www.harrowbeijing.cn/events/2016-05-08-harrowthon.aspx#reg)

Family Friendly Events this Week

The Painted Garden, May 2 – May 15
Ages 3-12. This interactive show uses multimedia to engage children in a theatrical dance. RMB 300, discounts for kids and group buy. Check beijingkids event directory for specific dates. 6.30-8pm. Oriental Media Center (5203 1012)

Mexican Masks Workshop, May 6
Ages 7+ Discover Mexican folk art through creative techniques and experience fun alternative forms of healing while immersing in Mexican culture. 80 RMB discount if registered before May 4. RMB 380. 1pm-4pm. La Cava de Laoma (5785 3850)

Cavalia, May  6 – 8
All ages. This swirling and bold performance combines acrobats with galloping horses to provide a moving dramatic artwork you can feel shaking through your seat. RMB 580. 7-9pm. Chaoyang Park (wechat: dianayi2009).

Incy Wincy Park Family Yoga, May 7
All ages. Join Angelina of Incy Wincy Kids Yoga every Saturday to have a fun and quality weekend with your family. Bring your own yoga mat. Event will be cancelled if the AQI is above 200 or raining. RMB 50 per yogi. Chaoyang Park North Gate. (wechat:186 116 8556)

Mommy and Me Afternoon Tea at Juice by Melissa with Atelier, May 7
Ages 5+ Children and moms are invited to separate workshops lead by Atelier teachers with snacks, canapés and champagne or tea. RMB 150 for Children, RMB 150 for Mother’s Tea, RMB 380 for Mother’s Free Flow Champagne. 2pm – 4pm. Juice by Melissa Shunyi (186 1846 4579)

Beijing Playhouse Peter Pan and Aladdin Summer Camp Auditions, May 7
Ages 6-14.  Beijing Playhouse will hold auditions for 2 summer camps, one two-week camp and one four-week camp.  Internships available for older students.  Enrollment limited to the first 30 students. All roles open to boys and girls. Free for audition and more information, RMB 8000 for Peter Pan Camp, RMB 15000 for Combined Camp. 10am-11.30am.  (broadway@beijingplayhouse.com)

Bizzarro Car and Motorcycle Stunt Show, May 7 – May 15
All ages. First up is a short thirty minutes showing of luxury vehicles, a transformer and an airplane, followed by a side-flying cars and motorcycles show. Fun for families with mechanically inclined children. RMB 150. 5.20-7.30pm. XieDao International Convention and Exhibition Center (136 7136 9234)

All in One Sunday Market, May 8
All Ages. Games, foods and booths are fun for all. Don’t forget the bouncy castle! Free. 11am-4pm. Riviera Country Club (8450 6888)

5 Best Events of Next Week

Scratch Day China 2016, May 14
Ages 6+. Scratch Day is about exploring programming, being creative, collaborating with each other, and having fun! Everyone who attends receives a free Scratch Day T-shirt. Free, 1pm – 5.30pm Guanghua Soho. (wilraising@163.com)

YCIS Beijing Global Community Day, May 14
All ages. Global Community Day is hosted on the YCIS Beijing Campus with the mission of showcasing the very best of each and every culture in the school while unifying us all as global citizens in Beijing. Global Community day is also the annual charity event for the YCIS Beijing PO; all the money raised at the event is donated to the “YCIS Seeds of Hope” charity. 10am-2pm. Yew Chung International School of Beijing (8583 3731)

Tri4Change Super Sprint Triathlon 2016, May 14
All ages. Tri4Change’s 3rd annual super sprint triathlon seeks to raise money for Roundabout Beijing. The race will consist of a 400-meter pool swim, a twelve-kilometer bike ride, followed by a three-kilometer run. Choose to compete as an individual or two-person team (one person does two legs, the other person does the 3rd leg). Registration required. RMB 300 per individual or a two person team. 7-10.30am. Western Academy of Beijing (Tri4Change.net/Beijing)

2016 BCIS Spring in the City Community Fair, May 14
All ages. This year’s theme is “The Festival of the Arts,” and the event promises an amazing celebration of the many artistic talents and opportunities students at BCIS have. The fair will also have family-friendly games and activities, a live stage show of music and drama, the Flux Film Festival winners announcements, wonderful raffle prizes, delicious food and more. Free. Beijing City International School (8771 7171)

The Beijing Flea Market: May Edition, May 14
Ages 7+ A rooftop treasure trove of more than 30 independent labels, handmade goods, vintage, craft foods and drink specials. Come and post a photo on WeChat of your favorite vendor in the first hour of the event and get a free drink courtesy of The Bookworm. 11am-5pm. The Bookworm (jessicamrapp@gmail.com)

For Mother’s Day, May 8, don’t forget to check out this post.

If you’d like your event to be included in this blog post, please add your event to our events directory, then e-mail webeditor@beijing-kids.com

Photos: Jaysin Trevno (Flickr) and courtesy of Dulcwich College Beijing, Harrow International School and Tri4Change.

Shunyi Happenings this week offers multiple camps for you children, opportunities to fund raise for a good cause or donate blood to save a life and options to challenge yourself physically with a hike or a run! If you want to promote an event, store opening or closing, sale, and any other fun family friendly event taking place in Shunyi, please get in touch with our Shunyi Correspondent Anjana Kainikkara by emailing anjanakainikkara@beijing-kids.com

Labour Day Survival Camp with Imagine, Apr 29 – May 2
Feeling adventurous? You won’t regret signing up for this camp! Learn survival skills by making a fire, building a raft, crossing rivers, making traps and cooking on open fires. Experience the outdoors and develop a deeper sense of appreciation for it through this camp.  Transportation from three different locations provided. Price is all inclusive.

All ages. RMB 700 per day. Shimenshan, Huairou District.
Transportation offered: 8.30am-5.40pm, at Starbucks, Lido Place, Metropark Lido Hotel. 9am-5.15pm, at Riviera Country Club. 9.20am-4.55pm, at Kuliushu Huandao Houshayu. Imagine (www.imagine-china.com/survival-camp-labour-day/)

Multi Martial Arts Camp by Flips and Kicks at BSB, Apr 30 – May 2
This Multi-Martial Arts Camp will give you a taste of Tai Ji/Wushu, Karate, BJJ, Muaythai, Taekwondo and more! Expert coaches will be on hand to ensure your child has a safe and fun experience. This is a great opportunity if your kid is unsure of which style they prefer, as he or she can try all of these and decide for themselves what they’d like to pursue. For more information go to www.flipsandkicksplus.com

Ages 9-18.  Flips & Kicks Plus, (13718462044, info@flipsandkicksplus.com)

BJU Blood Drive at International School of Beijing at ISB Spring Fair, May 7

The ISB Spring Fair is a fun event for the whole family! Engaging games, activities, food and shopping will keep everyone entertained. You will also have a couple of different options to choose from if you’re feeling charitable on that day. Browse the latest reads at the Roundabout book fair or donate blood for the BJU Blood Drive. The Boy Scouts Troop 943 should feel extremely proud of their initiative to work in conjunction with Tongzhou Blood Center and Beijing United Family Hospital, and organize a Community Blood Drive. Come and support this great effort by donating to save lives! Passport/ID required for registration. Walk-ins welcome, or reserve a time with Jenifer at Jenifer.Sullivan@ufh.com.cn

All ages. Free. 10am-4pm. ISB, 10, An Hua Street, Shunyi District, (10 8149 2345)

Annual Harrowthon Charity Event with Roundabout, May 8
Harrowthon, an annual charity event, is joing with Roundabout to host a mini book fair. In line with Harrow, London’s tradition, all students will participate in one of the events for their House. Visitors will have an opportunity to browse the Roundabout stalls while sampling a delicious range of food and beverages. A football match in the afternoon, with staff playing against a Chinese All-Star celebrity team, is on the agenda to get the crowds pumped up and add more excitement. Money raised at this event will go towards Roundabout. The races commence at 9:15am and the fee includes Goodie Inc. T-shirts and souvenirs. You can support your participating children or even participate yourself!

RMB 100. 9am onwards. Register online for the 10K race in person at the school. Harrow International School Beijing, No.287, Hegezhuang Village, Cuigezhuang County, Chaoyang District, (+86 10 64448900)

Mother’s Day Hike, May 8
Join the Beijing Hikers on a lovely hiking tour through Xiangtun Village to the Little Lake/ Yanqing. There are two trails to choose from depending on family size and ages of accompanying children. The first one is a 7 km looping trail through lush valleys in the hills, just North of Ming Tombs, suitable for families with smaller children. Starting off on a dirt trail, off of the main road, you’ll walk through chestnut orchards towards a small village. The second 12 km trail, best for families with older children, goes through a forested and leafy valley, with a small stream flowing through it. Sign your family up for one of these and celebrate Mother Nature on Mother’s day!

All ages. 210 RMB. 9am-5.30pm. Riviera Country Club, No.1,  Xiang Jiang Bei Road, Chaoyang District (+86 10 84506888)

Photo Courtesy: BJU, Harrow International School Beijing, Riviera Country Club, Flips and Kicks Plus, Imagine, International School of Beijing.

Mother’s Day is coming up fast on Sunday, May 8. Spouses, sons, and daughters everywhere are agonizing about what the get the most important woman in their lives. However, not all moms are the same. We present some gift ideas for active moms, indulgent moms, and socially-minded moms.

The Sporty Mom
The sporty mom doesn’t lack for options in Beijing. From CrossFit and combat sports to Heyrobics, Pilates, yoga, and beyond, there’s definitely something for her. Check our archives here and here for some ideas. Get her a voucher for that new class she’s been meaning to try out, or better yet – make it a family thing. With summer coming up, sailing and golf are also great activities that the entire family can participate in. Click here for a directory of sailing centers and here for golf listings.

Fitness tracking apps are the hottest new thing. (Right? That’s what the kids keep telling me anyway.) The Apple Watch and Apple Watch Sport are a solid present. The sport edition costs RMB 2,588 (38mm screen) or RMB 2,288 (38mm screen) and comes in ten colors. If that’s too rich for your blood, various Jawbone and Fitbit models are available on Amazon China. The Fitbit Surge, which features a watch display, retails for RMB 1,998.The cheaper Xiaomi version can also do the trick and retails for RMB 99.

For the yogi mom, both Isofit and Yoga Yard carry a small selection of high-quality yoga clothes from Lululemon and aumnie athletics respectively. Yoga Yard also has yoga books, yoga mats, and yoga bags. For a more socially-conscious choice, consider buying from the Yoganda Project, which teaches widowed women in Uganda how to make yoga bags. The products are available directly from Founder Theresa Pauline; add her on WeChat at TheresaRae or call 152 1007 1708.

The Indulgent Mom
Gift vouchers for massage parlors, nail salons, and hair salons are all easy gifts for hard-working moms in need of pampering. The idea is to get her something that she would love to try but isn’t likely to buy for herself, such as an indulgent facial or restorative hair treatment. For example, Bodhi has several spa packages for RMB 680-890 with different combinations of oil or aromatherapy massages, facials, body wraps, body scrubs, and aromatherapy baths. Scarlet Salmons of Z Hairdressing, a frequent collaborator on our Indulge columns, recommends the Keratin deep-conditioning hair treatment for moms with very dry or frizzy hair.

Shameless plug for a friend here: Rose Fulbright-Vickers is a London- and Paris-trained designer who specializes in luxurious silk lingerie and loungewear, which she produces under her brand Rose Fulbright. Her latest series, the Tropical Collection, features a pattern based on beautiful watercolor drawings of fish by her grandmother, Susan Williams-Ellis. Five percent of profits from the Tropical Collection are donated to Oceana, an ocean conservation organization.

Jewelry is always a popular gift, but avoid the cheap stuff from the Pearl Market. Personally, I love Paloma Sanchez‘s bold, sculptural pieces made with materials like natural rubies, emeralds, copper, and white and yellow gold. Nicolas Favard (who was featured in last year’s Mother’s Day issue with his son, Amos and also in this year’s list) is another favorite. His designs favor metals and gems in simple, sensuous forms; I was especially taken by an ultra-light titanium ring with a blue sheen last time I dropped in. Both have shops in Sanlitun.

The Socially-Conscious Mom
If the mom in your life doesn’t want material gifts, dedicate something from UNICEF Inspired Gifts to her instead. This UNICEF program enables regular people to directly impact the lives of children and families in need with items like blankets, mosquito nets, bicycles, and more. There are also packages like the Super Hero Pack (USD 54.07) – enough money for 50 vaccines, one vaccine carrier, and six mosquito nets – and the Winter Survival Pack (USD 161.25), which contains blankets, clothes, 900 packets of micronutrient powder, and 10,000 water purification tablets to help one child survive the winter. Note that you need a foreign credit card to pay for purchases.

Similarly, you can donate to a local charity organization like Roundabout, the Migrant Children’s Foundation, or Bethel China. There are many worthy organizations in Beijing; browse our website to find more archived articles on volunteering and donating.

In addition, the Starfish Project helps exploited women in Asia by teaching them how to make and sell their own jewelry. The pieces are beautiful, don’t cost very much, and are often made with hypoallergenic materials. You can also host a jewelry party with a Starfish Project rep and invite all of Mom’s friends for an afternoon of shopping and socializing. Click here to shop.

Want more ideas? Click here for our April 2015 article on custom-made Mother’s Day gifts. Click here for ideas about weekend trips. Here for a digital copy of our article in the April 2016 issue.

Photos: Harsha K R (Flickr), Yasunobu Ikeda (Flickr), Rose Fulbright, Nicolas Favard, UNICEF Inspired Projects, Starfish Project

This Sunday is Mother’s Day and what better way to treat her than with a sumptuous brunch, followed by a classical music concert. If you’re in need of ideas for a Birthday party, one that’s full of adventure, a pirate party is what you need. There’s guaranteed pirate fun, with sailing and rafting challenges, and the hunt for buried treasure. We’re all conscious of what we eat. In Beijing especially, we are always looking for healthier, organic, and more natural products. The SunHe Community Food Fair includes a range of vendors selling everything from granola to organic wine. Be a hero and give blood this month. It doesn’t take long to donate blood, and it could help save a life. If tennis is your thing, and you’re looking to improve your game or to take up the sport, Ace Tennis Club provides group and personal coaching.

Mother’s Day Brunch
Enjoy a sumptuous international Sunday Brunch, May 10 at Hilton Beijing Capital Airport with fresh seafood, roast beef, and specialties from around the world. The pâtissier will tempt you with a great selection of home-made desserts, in the relaxing 360° restaurant. Children will be entertained at one of Shunyi’s best supervised play areas, allowing you to relax. From RMB 368/person + 15% service charge, with children half price. For more information or to make a booking, call 6450 4788.

Mother’s Day Concert
"A Love Tribute for Mother’s Day" is presented by Camerata Music, featuring violinist Xiang Gao, and pianist Matthew Brower. The program includes music by Mozart, Dvorak, Beethoven, Piazzolla, and more. The concert takes place in the International School of Beijing (ISB) Theater on Sunday May 10, 4-5.30pm. Tickets RMB 200, 300, 350. Tickets can be purchased from Yosemite Villa Clubhouse front desk and ISB PTA Store. Ticket Hotline 8041 7588/158 1158 5010.

Pirate Party
Imagine pirate party is a Birthday party that takes kids on a treasure hunt journey involving maps, sailing boats, water bomb battles, rafts, and of course a buried treasure chest. Suitable for kids aged 7-16 years. The party can be adapted to suit older or younger groups. Book any time, between May and the end of October, but book early to ensure availability. The ideal number of kids is 8, but larger or smaller groups will be considered. RMB 3,000 for the whole party, including two sailing instructors, international pirate host, boat hire, park entrance, maps, cannonballs, eye-patches, and treasure. Extras include a pirate-themed birthday cake RMB 350, themed plates, cup, balloons, and napkins RMB 250, extra two hours of activities including rafts and paddle-boards RMB 1,000. Olympic Rowing Lake 19 Baima Lu, Shunyi 顺义区白马路19号. For more information, contact (183 1112 3237, watersports@imagine-china.com)

Community Food Fair
The SunHe Central Community Food Fair takes place every Sunday from 10am-1pm. Stalls selling produce including granola, free-range eggs, organic vegetables and fruits, fresh bread, and natural honey and yogurt. You’ll also find cheese, organic wines, and rice wine. They are always looking for new products and vendors. Food Fair, 3 ShunHuang Lu, Sunhe Township, Chaoyang District (inside Chuang Yi Yuan next to Beidong Flower Market) 北京市朝阳区孙河乡顺黄路3号"甲1号创意园"内（近北东花卉市场）

Blood Drive
A community blood drive is being organized by Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics (BJU), Boy Scouts Troop 943, and Tongzhou Blood Center. On Saturday, May 16 from 10am-4pm, on-site at ISB PTA Spring Fair. Walk-ins are welcome or to reserve a time slot, email jenifer.sullivan@ufh.com.cn. Registration requires passport / id number.

Ace Tennis Club
Get out, get fit, and have fun, with Ace Tennis Club at Beijing Riviera Country Club. Providing group classes and private lessons, catered to your level of experience and your needs. Private lesson packages include 10 classes RMB 2,400, 20 classes RMB 4,200, or 35 classes RMB 6,800. Your first class is free. For more information call 158 1015 5060 / 5249 5667.

beijingkids Shunyi Correspondent Sally Wilson moved to Beijing in 2010 from the UK with her husband and son. Her daughter was born here in 2011 and both her kids keep her happily busy. In her spare time, Sally loves to stroll through Beijing’s hutongs and parks. She is a (most of the time) keen runner and loves reading: books, magazines, news, and celeb websites – anything really. Sally is also a bit of a foodie and loves trying out new restaurants.

Photos: Lima Pix, Aaron Concannon (Flickr), courtesy of Imagine

Still looking for means to impress your mom this Sunday? You can never go wrong with a Mother’s Day brunch. You may already have a couple of regular favorites for brunch, but don’t ignore the fact that many hotels and restaurants are planning special Mother’s Day brunches to help you show how much you care.

Crowne Plaza Beijing Lido    

Despite the growing number of hotels in Beijing, Lido still stands out from the rest. The Lido area might not exist on the map, but the hotel’s 30 years’ history had been strong enough to form a neighborhood around its namesake.

Earlier this year, Lido caught our attention again as it joined hands with IHG’s other brand – Crowne Plaza. The five-star Crowne Plaza Beijing Lido is now officially open, next to its original venture. Take your time to check out its first ever Mother’s Day brunch and rest of the facility.

RMB 268 for adult and children above 12; RMB 888 for two adults and a child under 12, including a RMB 398 facial for mom

10am-2pm, May 11. Crowne Plaza Beijing Lido, 6 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District (6437 3388) 朝阳区将台路6号

Pirate Bay

This popular family venue is planning a special appreciation brunch for moms. Besides food and drinks, moms can enjoy pedicures, styling by specialists, and photos taken by professionals. You can also expect a Wechat lottery, so get your kids to teach you how to partake! Take your time to enjoy everything the Play Centre has to offer, as each child will get three hours’ pass. Read this beijindkids blog  to learn why this new baby store/restaurant/play area in Lido is a great hybrid family-hang-out.

Only RMB 99 for moms, RMB 129 for dads, RMB 99 for children, and free for children under 1; reservations must be made by May 9.

10am-1pm, May 11. 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District (8450 1589) 朝阳区将台路2号

The St. Regis Beijing

This is what most people picture when they imagine their perfect brunch: free flow champagne, live jazz and a wide selection of delicacies from all over the world, perfectly presented by friendly hotel staff. No matter whether you are a fan of Boston lobster, Alaskan crab, Norwegian salmon or fresh oysters, you can expect to taste something you love at the St. Regis Beijing Mother’s Day brunch.

RMB 588 for adults, include free flow of Veuve Cliequot Champagne. Half price for children 4-10, and free for children below 4.

11.30am-3pm, May 11. 21 Jianguomen Waidajie, Chaoyang District (6460 6688) 朝阳区建国门外大街21号

Feast, East Hotel

If you prefer a lighter and more casual brunch, the East hotel at Jiuxianqiao offers a three-course menu on Mother’s Day at RMB 198. After the meal, spare some time to shop at neighbouring Indigo mall, or talk a stroll at 798 Art District.

11.30am-3pm, May 11. 22 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District (6417 6688) 朝阳区酒仙桥路22号

Opera Bombana

The popular fine Italian dining venue has just launched its Sunday brunch. Compared with its classic yet pricy a la carte menu, the RMB 328 Sunday brunch is well valued. Besides unlimited Parma ham, marinated Dorado, bread and salad, you can choose made-to-order main courses and desserts from the brunch menu. You can also upgrade the brunch to free flow sparkling wine with another RMB 128.

11:30am-3pm, Sundays. LG2-21, B2/F, Parkview Green, 9 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District (5690 7177) 朝阳区东大桥路9号芳草地底下2层LG2-21

Photos: courtesy of Clemence Jiang, Pirate Bay, The St. Regis Beijing, Jiang Yuhang, and Opera Bombana 

Pamper the First Lady of the Family with a Brunch on Mother’s Day (part 2)

Roundabout has several things going these days, the first of which is great for families wanting to get their children more involved in charities. Introducing Roundabout Juniors, children 8-12 years old, who wish to help people less fortunate than themselves. The juniors will assist in a variety of ways, such as counting coins in the donation boxes to making sure games and puzzles have all their pieces intact. The juniors will be educated on what they are doing and for what cause, seeing photos afterwards of how their participation helped others in need. It’s a worthwhile experience, hopefully inspiring lifelong charitable work! Three sessions each Saturday (during the school season) will last one hour long, and a commitment to serve is required. The first session began this weekend, but it’s never too late to get involved. Interested Roundabout Juniors may apply by e-mailing for a form: Roundaboutchina@gmail.com.

Dulwich College Beijing is host of the next Roundabout Book Fair, Saturday, April 27 from 10am-3pm. If you have books to donate (especially children’s books!), drop them off at Roundabout at any time.

Mother’s Day is just around the corner (May 12, for those of you who need a reminder), and at least one venue in the Shunyi area is prepping to pamper moms! Visit Green T. House Living on Mother’s Day Sunday from 11am-3pm for a special indulgence! Enjoy a family brunch and browse amongst the private retail vendors. At the same time, have a head and shoulder massage, visit a make-up artist, and take advantage of family photo portraits available at that time. Kids will be entertained and moms will be treated royally. Reservations required: e-mail events@green-t-house.com or call 136 0113 7232.

Beijing Playhouse always features a summer drama camp, and this year it’s set up for July 1-13. All who audition get a part in Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves. To register, email performance@beijingplayhouse.com.

Those families in Beijing for the summer might consider Claire’s Music Studio’s Percussion Summer Camp for a great, creative activity! Experience the colorful Latin, African and Middle East drum world, as well as the unique Kung Fu Street Dance. Three sessions at Euro Plaza are June 10-14, June 17-21 and July 1-5, from 10am-4:45pm for students six years old and older. Call 8046 1368 or 188 1075 5578 for more information.

Springtime is the perfect time to have family photos taken beside the fresh blooms on the trees outside. Shot with natural lighting, Not an Illusion Photography specializes in outdoor photography for your entire family! Spring specials (until June 15) include a 10% discount and a photo album or framed print, as well as free transportation within the Beijing Riviera/Yosemite/River Garden areas. Visit www.notanillusionproductions.com/photography or e-mail for an appointment at notanillusion@me.com.

Have you noticed a change at Pinnacle Plaza? The stores on the very end where the tailor used to be – and the others that have been vacant for quite some time – are now GONE. Flattened. Rumor has it that a German Bakery is going to go in there, although time will tell.
 

Are you a culture klutz? The May issue of beijingkids will have you rolling with the punches!

We lift the curtain on little-known local markets, the city’s best cultural centers and parks, and the life of international kids who attend local schools. In addition, four teenagers offer funny, touching, and quirky essays on cultural identity.

May 13 is Mother’s Day! (You didn’t forget, did you?) Find a list of brunches and promotions to mark the occasion in Dining. We also profile Frenchtastic cafe Crêpanini in Sanlitun Village and Jennifer Thome shows you how to make your own bread in Food for Thought.

In keeping with the culture theme, Jenn Ambrose writes about “small c” versus “big C” culture and Gareth Jones struggles to keep up with the Chinese approach to extracurricular activities.

With temperatures skyrocketing to 30°C and beyond, there’s no excuse to stay home! Jaunt out to Haidian District to see creatures of all stripes at Beijing Zoo and Beijing Aquarium. Don’t like the crowds? Escape to Changping to visit a pick-your-own strawberry farm. For something more physical, join a martial arts class and roundhouse kick boredom in the face!

In Learning, we hear from paleontologist Amanda Falk at Beijing International Bilingual Academy and teens from the International Academy of Beijing tackle the topic of racism and prejudice.

As always, find kid-friendly events and search our Directories for anything and everything you’ll need in Beijing.

Can’t find the print edition? Send an email to distribution@beijing-kids.com or call 5820 7700.

Or, check out the PDF version below or at Issuu.com:

Scratching your head trying to come up with last-minute ideas for Mother’s Day?

Here’s a few things you can do to show Mom you care:

• Buy beautiful Mother’s Day cupcakes from Lollipop Bakery. Orders must be placed by noon, Sat 7 for delivery Sun 8. RMB 320 per dozen. Order online or e-mail cupcakes@lollipopbakery.cn. 
• Book Mom in for a cake making session at the Fig Tree. RMB 450/person.
• Forgot to reserve a table for brunch? Why not serve Mom breakfast in bed instead? Try making simple ricotta hotcakes, assemble-and-serve scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, or sinfully sweet French toast with bananas (this recipe calls for Verjuice, simply replace it with lemon juice). 
• Book an indulgent spa session for Mom at Ritz-Carlton Financial Street, Hilton Beijing Wangfujing, Bodhi or Dragonfly.
• Looking for something a little more funky? Take Mom to this cool hutong flea market to scour for bargains and uncover vintage treasures. When you’re done, head over to Cafe Zarah for a cup of what is arguably the best coffee in town.
• Dads: Get the kids together and make some DIY gifts. Try making a kitchen sink pot, chore card, tea card, or a memory book.      

For a full list of Mother’s Day events, click here.

Photo credit.