Choosing a kindergarten in Beijing should be an exciting milestone, but for many parents, it quickly turns into a headache. Between comparing curricula and figuring out tuition fees, the process can feel overwhelming – especially in a city with so many options.

The first place you need to start is by visiting the School Profile page on our website, where you can filter the schools. Over the years, we’ve collected the must-know information of kindergartens all over the city, so a few minutes on our website will save you hours of research time.

The profiles break down each kindergarten’s key details: where they’re located, what curriculum they follow, whether they accept foreign students, their primary teaching language or languages, tuition etc. For parents juggling work and family life, this streamlined approach saves precious time and reduces stress.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, the next steps become much simpler. Create a shortlist of schools that align with your priorities – whether that’s a strong language program, a convenient location or a particular teaching style. Then, reach out to schedule tours. Seeing a kindergarten in person, meeting the teachers and observing the classroom vibe can make your final decision much clearer.

One pro tip? Don’t wait too long. Popular kindergartens in Beijing often fill up fast, especially those with bilingual or international programs. Having all the information up front means you can act quickly and confidently.

Images: Freepik

The Robinson family represents a typical expat family at YCIS Beijing (Yew Chung International School), a long-established international school for expatriate children.

In 2023, the Robinsons relocated to Beijing due to Mr. Robinson’s job transfer. They were originally supposed to move from the US earlier, but Covid disrupted their plans. However, Tara’s enthusiasm for cross-cultural life never waned. As a former college tennis player who earned a scholarship, her university years training alongside teammates from Sweden, Brazil, and Australia gave her a love for global exploration. “We were so excited we couldn’t sleep!” she recalled with a laugh. Her athlete’s adaptability fueled her anticipation for this transcontinental move.

Mr. Robinson arrived in Beijing four months ahead of the family to settle into his new job and secure housing. He then began an intensive school search for their son. The couple agreed on three core criteria: bilingual education, proximity to their Financial Street residence, and a moderate campus size to ease Brenden’s adjustment. After visiting schools like the International School of Beijing (ISB), Canadian International School, and Western Academy of Beijing (WAB), YCIS stood out. The school’s bilingual curriculum deeply resonated with the family, as they viewed language as a cultural bridge. “Learning Chinese was the top priority,” Tara explained. Upon arrival, she committed to twice-weekly online Chinese lessons. YCIS’s campus size also reassured them – Brenden’s previous private school in Louisiana was small, and they worried a sprawling campus might overwhelm him.

Brenden’s journey in learning Chinese became the heartwarming centerpiece of the family’s adaptation to Beijing. Before moving, the family had zero Chinese language foundation. Tara vividly remembers their initial anxiety, but her son’s progress now astonishes her.

At home, Brenden took charge of a critical task: ordering food delivery. “He’d mischievously snatch the phone from my hand!” Tara chuckled, describing how he insisted on communicating with delivery staff in Chinese. From stumbling beginnings to relatively fluent conversations, Brenden now independently confirms orders, provides addresses, and expresses thanks. “It’s a leap from zero to one,” Tara marveled, noting how his confidence has shattered earlier fears of making mistakes or causing offense.

This growth extends beyond home. During a winter ski trip in Chongli, Brenden fearlessly interacted with a Mandarin-speaking coach. When encountering unfamiliar terms, he’d pause to use translation apps but never shied away from communication. “He didn’t panic at all,” Tara emphasized, her voice brimming with pride. She believes these real-world challenges have honed his adaptability and deepened his understanding that “language bridges hearts.”

Tara credits this transformation to Brenden’s experience at YCIS. The tight-knit community ensures every child is noticed and encouraged, even for small achievements. “This environment,” she said, “fosters confidence and motivation.”

Academically, Brenden shines. He now studies Chinese Level 2 (equivalent to HSK Level 3), surpassing Tara’s own progress. “He’s already outpaced me!” she admitted. Brenden often shares classroom assignments with his mother – dictations, readings, even correcting her stroke order. Teachers praise his writing as “only occasionally missing a stroke,” and his recitation of Chinese poems at school events moved Tara to tears. Standing before audiences, he barely glances at notes – a testament to his linguistic mastery.

Living in the Financial Street area, the Robinsons navigate Beijing’s notorious traffic – a 35-minute morning commute stretches to over an hour by evening. Yet they’ve woven a vibrant life. On weekends, they find themselves exploring the Baita Temple Cultural Area and hutongs around Houhai, which Tara calls “the soul of old Beijing.” Food plays a starring role, with dumplings reigning as the family favorite. Brenden’s improving Chinese even enhances their culinary adventures – he confidently converses with shop staff, deepening the family’s immersion in the city’s rhythms.

Tara’s commitment extends beyond her son. She immerses herself in parent volunteering – from handing out ice cream at sports days to organizing multicultural events, blending British pancakes with Louisiana Mardi Gras traditions. Yet this journey wasn’t smooth. Early on, she attended a volunteer meeting conducted entirely in Mandarin. “I just listened quietly,” she said, recalling her nervous but determined demeanor. Persistence paid off – she’s now an active member of the parent committee. Inspired by her, more new families, especially post-pandemic expatriates from diverse nations, have joined school activities.

A former professional tennis player, Tara recently helped launch YCIS’s U16 tennis training program, coaching students in structured drills. Though Brenden prefers books to sports, this hasn’t dampened Tara’s passion for contributing. Her enthusiasm embodies the spirit of YCIS’s historic international community – parent involvement here transcends personal gain.

With two years remaining on her husband’s contract (extendable by one more year), Tara sees Chinese as a lifelong skill. “It will forever be part of us,” she said, vowing to continue learning even if they return to the US. Brenden, however, has no plans to leave. “I don’t want to go back to America at all!” he told his mother. Excelling academically, he’s been invited to YCIS’s STEM Plus program. Combined with his close-knit circle of friends from Vietnam, Pakistan, Korea, Australia, and China, he’s deeply attached to his life here.

For the Robinsons, Beijing is no longer just a corporate assignment – it’s a home filled with belonging, growth, and friendship. From bridging early language gaps to uniting a multicultural community, Tara’s advice to newcomers is succinct yet profound: “Step out of your comfort zone – it’s worth it.” Brenden’s journey vividly proves that seeds of confidence sprout in daily takeout calls, classroom dictations, and the courage to say, “Mom, I’ll handle it.”

YCIS Beijing, as Tara puts it, is the “cultural incubator” nurturing their courage, fostering cross-cultural curiosity, and helping these roots grow deep.

Images: YCIS

Do you ever feel embarrassed when someone asks what your child is learning this semester and you have no idea how to respond? You’re not alone. Many parents only become aware of their child’s curriculum when report cards arrive – or worse, when an assignment comes home that they weren’t expecting.

Recently, I read about a parent who voiced outrage at a school board meeting after discovering that the school had included topics on LGBTQ history in the social studies curriculum. While this parent disagreed with the inclusion of such topics, what stood out to me was how proactive he was in understanding what his child was being taught. It made me wonder – how many other parents remain unaware of their child’s curriculum until it’s too late to engage in meaningful discussions or decisions?

Being informed about what and how your child is learning isn’t just about avoiding surprises. It’s about being an active participant in their education and ensuring they receive the best possible learning experience.

So, what’s the difference between educational standards and curricula? A simple way to break it down is this: Educational standards define what students should learn at each grade level, while curricula determine how they will be taught. Think of education standards like road laws – they set the rules for learning, just like traffic laws ensure all drivers follow the same expectations for safety and efficiency. Schools can’t ignore these rules, just like drivers can’t ignore speed limits.

Now, imagine curricula as car models – each one gets you to the same destination (education), but the experience is different. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program is like a luxury SUV – versatile, globally recognized, and designed for a well-rounded experience with critical thinking at its core. The American curriculum is like a family sedan – flexible, accommodating a broad range of learners, and with room for extracurricular activities and creativity. Meanwhile, the British curriculum is like a sports car – structured, exam-driven, and known for its rigorous subject specialization through GCSEs and A levels.

Each system has strengths, but choosing the right one depends on your child’s learning style, future goals, and how well it aligns with your family’s educational priorities.

Beyond knowing what your child will learn, it’s equally important to understand when they will learn it. Schools follow a pacing guide – a schedule that determines when specific topics are covered throughout the year. This is often presented during open house nights or curriculum nights, and it’s the perfect opportunity for parents to ask questions and get clarity on what lies ahead.

Understanding pacing allows you to plan ahead. If you know when a challenging topic will be introduced, you can provide early exposure at home or seek tutoring support. It also helps reinforce learning. If a concept moves quickly in class, you can help your child practice at home to ensure mastery before the next unit begins. Additionally, it enables you to address concerns early. If you notice a topic that conflicts with your values or if your child struggles with a certain subject, knowing the schedule allows you to have discussions with teachers before issues arise.

During parent meetings, open house events, or one-on-one conferences with teachers, consider asking the following questions:

• What educational standards does the school follow?
• How does the curriculum align with these standards?
• What resources or textbooks are used to teach the curriculum?
• How is the pacing of learning determined throughout the school year?
• Are there opportunities for parents to review materials ahead of time?
• What support is available if my child struggles with a particular subject?
• How are assessments designed to measure student understanding of the standards?

Choosing the right school or curriculum isn’t just about academic performance – it’s about finding an approach that nurtures your child’s strengths and prepares them for future success. When parents stay informed about educational standards and curriculums, they become active partners in their child’s learning journey.

By understanding the what, how, and when of education, you’ll be equipped to support your child, communicate effectively with teachers, and make choices that align with your family’s values. If you’re navigating the process of selecting a school or trying to better understand the curriculum your child is currently following, I explore this topic in-depth in Choosing the Best International School for Your Child. Education is a journey, and being informed is the first step to ensuring your child’s success.

With over ten years of experience in education, Malcolm Solomon, M. Ed. has worked in diverse classroom settings, from America to China. These experiences have allowed Solomon to adapt and integrate the best practices from both environments, continuously improving his skills as an educator. Throughout his career, he has remained dedicated to fostering strong, positive relationships with students while delivering impactful instruction. His varied roles in the field of education equip him with a wealth of knowledge and expertise to contribute meaningfully to any program.

Images: Malcolm Solomon, Pexels

I recently had a conversation with a friend whose daughter, now in seventh grade, wanted to travel to her friend’s home country for two weeks. My friend wasn’t comfortable allowing her daughter to travel unaccompanied but felt hesitant to say no, fearing her daughter wouldn’t understand. She asked for my advice.

I responded with two simple questions: Do you know the other child’s parents? What are their family customs and values?

To my surprise, she couldn’t answer. This exchange made me reflect on how many parents enroll their children in schools without fully understanding the school’s culture and values.

While academics are often the priority, the environment in which children learn plays a crucial role in shaping their character, confidence, and social skills. A school’s approach to collaboration, discipline, inclusivity, and even conflict resolution reflects its deeper values.

When choosing a school, I encourage parents to look beyond rankings and curriculum. Observe how teachers interact with students, how diversity is celebrated, and whether the school’s philosophy aligns with your family’s core beliefs. Small moments—like a conversation between students in the hallway—can reveal more about a school’s culture than any brochure ever could.

In “Choosing the Best International School for Your Child,” I emphasize how vital it is for parents to assess school culture firsthand. After all, a school’s values will influence your child’s development just as much as the lessons taught in the classroom.

Curious to dive deeper into this topic? Discover more insights in my book, which is available now.

Scan the QR code below to purchase a copy of the book.

Be sure to mark your calendars to attend this year’s Jingkids International School Expo (JISE) on Feb 22 at China World Summit Wing where you’ll get to meet Beijing’s top international schools and help your child find the school that suits their needs.

With over ten years of experience in education, Malcolm Solomon, M. Ed. has worked in diverse settings, from classrooms in America to China. These experiences have allowed Solomon to adapt and integrate the best practices from both environments, continuously improving his skills as an educator. Throughout his career, he has remained dedicated to fostering strong, positive relationships with students while delivering impactful instruction. His varied roles in the field of education equip him with a wealth of knowledge and expertise to contribute meaningfully to any program.

Images: Malcolm Solomon, Pexels

Are you a parent on a quest to find the best educational path for your child? Look no further than the upcoming Jingkids International School Expo (JISE) taking place on Feb 22 at China World Summit Wing. This is an unmissable opportunity for parents to gain insights and make well-informed decisions about their children’s educational futures.

At JISE, you will get to meet the teams behind Beijing’s top international schools. These are the professionals who shape the educational experiences of thousands of students, bringing in innovative teaching methods, international curricula, and a diverse range of extracurricular activities. In one afternoon, you can ask all the burning questions you have and get them answered. From the admission requirements of each school to the unique features of each curriculum, international school employees will be there to provide detailed and accurate answers.

One of the biggest advantages of attending this event is the chance to compare different schools side-by-side. You can learn about the differences in teaching philosophies, the student-teacher ratios, and the facilities available at each institution. This comprehensive view will enable you to figure out which school aligns best with your child’s interests, talents, and learning style. Whether your child is a budding artist, a math whiz, or a sports enthusiast, there will be a school that can nurture their potential.

Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity to set your child on the path to a bright future. Mark your calendars for the Jingkids International School Expo and take the first step towards finding the ideal educational environment for your little one.

See you there!

Images: jingkids

As parents, we share a common goal: providing our children with the best possible start in life. A crucial step in achieving this is selecting the right school tailored to their unique needs and aspirations. It’s easy to fall into the assumption that all international schools are alike. The reality is far more nuanced, with each institution offering distinctive curricula and strengths that significantly impact a child’s education and future career paths.

Each year, the annual Jingkids International School Expo (JISE) stands out as a beacon for parents seeking comprehensive insights into their child’s educational journey. JISE isn’t just a gathering of major international schools in one convenient location; it’s a transformative experience that elevates the school selection process.

This year’s topic is focused on an issue that we’re all dealing with for the first time: AI. As AI reaches more areas in our daily lives, we often find ourselves asking, “What are the things that cannot be replaced by AI in the future?”

As the traditional style of memorization and repetition becomes obsolete in the AI age, we’re challenging schools to share their plan for how to help students learn, think, ask questions, create, and navigate their lives in this new age.

Join us for this year’s JISE on Sat, Feb 22, from 9am to 5pm at China World Summit Wing. This is the must-attend event both for parents who are choosing a new school for their child and for those who are invested in where the new age of education will take their children.

Images: jingkids

First-time parents have it hard. Choosing a pre-school for my daughter for the first time was like taking an exam. I researched the different types of curriculums, talked to other parents and tried my utmost to let go on her first day of school.

Now, I find myself in need of a new school for my kid and going through the whole process again, but this time, after seeing how she interacts at school, I’ve got a different take on the various types of curriculums out there available for the early years.

When it comes to early childhood education for the kindergarten age group, several distinct curriculums offer unique approaches to nurturing young minds in Beijing. Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and Multiple Intelligences each bring their own set of characteristics and benefits.

Montessori curriculum emphasizes independence and self-directed learning. Children are provided with carefully designed materials that allow them to explore and learn at their own pace. This approach fosters concentration, discipline, and a sense of order. In a Montessori classroom, children are free to choose their activities, which helps develop decision-making skills and a sense of responsibility.

Reggio Emilia, on the other hand, focuses on the child as a protagonist in their own learning journey. It emphasizes the importance of the environment as the “third teacher.” Classrooms are filled with beautiful and inspiring materials that encourage exploration and creativity. The Reggio approach values collaboration and documentation of the learning process, allowing children to express themselves through various mediums such as art, music, and drama.

Curriculums based on multiple intelligences recognize that children have different learning styles and intelligences. This approach aims to address these differences by providing a variety of activities that tap into different intelligences, such as linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, spatial, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, and intrapersonal, and helps children discover their strengths and interests and develop a more well-rounded learning experience.

In terms of differences, Montessori places a strong emphasis on individual work and self-discipline, while Reggio Emilia emphasizes collaboration and group work. Montessori classrooms are often more structured and organized, while Reggio Emilia classrooms are more flexible. Multiple intelligences curriculums are more focused on catering to different learning styles, while Montessori and Reggio Emilia are more focused on overall child development.

All three curriculums recognize the importance of play in learning, the need for a rich and stimulating environment, and the value of respecting the child’s individuality.

So, when choosing an early childhood education curriculum for the kindergarten age group, it is important to consider the child’s needs and learning style. Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and multiple intelligences curriculums all offer valuable approaches to early childhood education, and each has its own unique strengths and benefits.

Want to know which kindergarten fits your style? Check out our website for information on all the international schools available in Beijing.

Images: Pexels

When parents are considering a potential school for their child, open days are invaluable opportunities to gather crucial information. But it can be easy to get swept up in the shiny new classrooms and beautifully worded marketing speech and fall in love with every single school you look at.

Here are some important questions to ask and things to look for.

Questions to Ask:

Academic Programs:
What is the curriculum like?
Are there advanced courses or special programs in areas such as STEM, arts, or languages?

Teaching Methods:
How do teachers engage students?
What kind of instructional strategies are used to meet the diverse learning needs of children?

Class Sizes:
What is the average class size?
What’s the specific teacher-to-student ratio for the class your child is moving into?

Extracurricular Activities:
What clubs, sports, and other activities are offered?
Do they align with your child’s interests?

Teacher Qualifications:
What are the qualifications and experience of the teachers?
Are they trained in the latest educational methods?

Technology Integration:
How is technology used in the classroom?
Is there access to modern educational tools?

Support for Special Needs:
If your child has special needs, what support services are available?
In Beijing, not every school is suitable for kids with special needs. If you want the best recommendations, get in touch with the Special Education Network and Inclusion Association (SENIA). Their upcoming conference on Nov 15 is a great place to get your questions answered.

Parent Involvement:
How much parent involvement is expected by this school?
Are there opportunities for volunteering or attending school events?

Things To Look For:

School Facilities: Inspect the classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and sports facilities. Are they well-maintained and equipped with the necessary resources?
Atmosphere: Observe the overall atmosphere of the school. Is it welcoming, positive, and conducive to learning? Do students seem happy and engaged?
Student Behavior: Notice how students interact with each other and with teachers. Are they respectful and polite?
Displays and Projects: Look at student work on display. This can give you an idea of the quality of education and the creativity encouraged in the school.
Communication: Assess how well the school communicates with parents. Are there clear channels of communication, such as newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and online portals?
Diversity: Consider the diversity of the student body and staff. A diverse environment can expose your child to different cultures and perspectives.
Leadership: If possible, meet with the school principal or leadership team. Their vision and leadership style can have a significant impact on the school.
Transportation and Location: Consider the school’s location and transportation options. Is it convenient for your family?

What’s the number one thing you look for when you tour a school? Let us know in the comment section below.

Images: Pexels

As parents, you want to give your child every advantage in life. This starts with choosing the right school for them. Don’t be fooled into thinking that all international schools are the same. They’re as different as you and I.

The different types of curriculum as well as the different strengths of each school play a big part in the education that your child receives as well as the future career paths that they’ll end up on.

The annual Jingkids International School Expo (JISE) is a perfect place to help us learn more about how we can help our kids get the most out of their education. Of course, you’ll see all the major international schools in one convenient location and get the chance to talk to teachers for a sense of what the school is actually like. But, what makes JISE different from other school choice fairs is that we’ve taken it to the next level and prepared close-knit discussion sessions for parents to discuss the topics that we’re all wondering about. JISE not only helps connect you with schools, but it’s also an event that’s designed to help educate parents on the most up-to-date education trends and provide you with a safe space to talk about parenting questions and concerns with experts.

During the two-day JISE on Mar 11-12, you can choose to attend any (or all) of the four discussion groups led by experts from Beijing’s top international schools. Ask them the questions that have been nagging at you or simply sit back and listen to others talk about their concerns.

What other things besides competitive academics do schools offer?
This discussion will cover the facilities and after-school programs of international schools, from sports to arts, and address the big Q: How do I help my kid stand out?

What is the difference between various national school systems?
This one is great for those who are newer to the education scene and not quite familiar with terms like IB, AP, and A-level, yet. You may or may not have heard these terms while you were in school, but they’ll definitely be a part of your child’s education as an expat child. So first, you’ll find out what the difference is between those terms, before helping your children navigate the world of academics.

Public school or international school: which is better for my child?
While this is a discussion that’s more suited for families with the option of attending a local public school, it doesn’t limit international families to asking whether an international department in a public school or an international school might be better suited for their child.

How to best support your child during their K-12 years?
This is a biggie! We want to be the best parent we can be to our children and each age range has its own set of difficulties. Find your clan and get some expert advice on how to best support your child now and in their next stage.

JISE is a FREE event that’s open to all. Scan the QR code in the poster below to register.

Images: Jingkids