Jacob (Grade 2)

It was Christmas Eve. We all fell asleep. Santa Claus came to my house, in secret, to give us gifts. He left quietly, afraid to wake us up.

Kira (Grade 7)

My art piece is called “A Warm Christmas Night.” It has a family in the picture on a Christmas night opening presents and having fun. The mom is baking warm cookies, and even Santa is peeking in at all the fun in the room. I wanted to make the art piece to seem warm and happy so I used bright color markers to draw it.

Jolie (Grade 6)

My piece is called Christmas Eve. It shows a tree surrounded by presents, which means that Santa has already been there and ate the cookies and drank the milk! I used markers to add texture and watercolor to the background so it can be soft.

Isabella, Katy, Jennifer (Grade 4)

These are the Christmas candles we drew. We drew this
picture because it brings us happiness and warmth, making us experience a pleasant Christmas.

Cathy, Natalie (Grade 4)

This piece of art is called “Wish Tree,” and we called it “Wish Tree” because we think everyone all should have a chance to wish and dream together at Christmas. The candles around the tree mean to bring light to the world.

Woody (Grade 2)

It is a Christmas-style restaurant. My parents and I came here for
dinner on Christmas Eve. There is an elegant environment and beautiful Christmas music here. We had a pleasant night.

Judy (Grade 2)

This is how we dressed our house for Christmas Eve. We had gifts under the Christmas tree, a warm fireplace, and gingerbread men on the table. Santa Claus was giving out gifts at one house after another, and he was about to come to ours.

Jade (Grade 2)

I think a lot about what gifts the reindeer is about to give me. It comes here, running, with a Christmas hat, and looks happy. I feel happy too. My heart becomes colorful, so I paint my background colorfully too.

This article appeared in the beijingkids December 2019 Giving Back issu

What’s happening in Beijing’s international school community? Experience cultural heritage, sports matches, and more in this month’s Circuit.

BCIS PYP Exhibition 2019

This year’s Beijing City International School (BCIS) Primary Years Program (PYP) exhibition took place on June 5 and 6. The young scholars and creatives tackled a wide range of subjects including video game addiction, animal welfare, sports, and a future for humans in outer space.

Let Your Dreams Fly at Ivy Schools

At the graduation ceremony held by Ivy Bilingual School Orchid Garden Campus, children delivered a drum performance, choral singing, and role-play dance. The children worked hard in practice, and tried their best despite challenges. This grit will pave the way ahead for their future growth.

Graduation Ceremony at Beijing No.55 High School

Beijing No.55 High School International Students Section held a graduation ceremony for grade 9 and grade 12 students. Leaders, honored guests, and parents gathered together to witness this joyful and festive occasion.

Just Another Brush on the Wall

One of the main highlights of the Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) campus are its murals. Year 8 and 9 Secondary Arts students joined the Arts Co-Curricular Activity (CCA) in January with the goal of designing and producing a mural.

2019 Harrow Beijing Speech Day

On 28 June, Harrow Beijing held the annual Speech Day, an important occasion in the school calendar, when teachers, students, and parents gather together and celebrate the academic pursuits of the students. Mr. Shinkfield, the Head Master, delivered speeches and gave awards to the students for their achievements.

House of Knowledge Summer Parties

To mark the end of the 2018-2019 school year, House of Knowledge’s Chaoyang Park, Shunyi, and Xinglong Campuses each hosted an annual water-themed Summer Party. They had a great turnout, and everyone had fun.

CISB 2019 Summer Camp

Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) students have successfully completed the first three weeks of summer camp, spending the time engaged in a series of activities. Both parents and students are very pleased with their camp experiences.

Celebrate And Share the Arts (CASTA) at ISB

International School of Beijing’s (ISB’s) annual CASTA (Celebrate And Share The Arts) festival was a colorful, all-singing, all-dancing example of how art features in a healthy, whole-child education. In art and performing art classes, elementary school students explore their creativity along with their academic pursuits.

BSB Shunyi’s Got Talent

The Primary school students at British School of Beijing, Shunyi (BSB Shunyi) showcased an impressive range of talents which included singing, dancing, instrumental performances, magic, acting, and reciting poetry at the BSB’s Got Talent Show. Congratulations to all performers who showed a high level of performance skills, risk-taking, self-confidence, and resilience on stage.

3e Charity Community Day

3e International School held their annual 3e Charity Community Day, raising over RMB 3,000 revenue for Living Water Children’s Home. Children were entertained with recycle-and-reuse-themed arts, crafts, and games organized by 3e teachers and the Parent Council.

BWYA Travels the World

Beijing World Youth Academy (BWYA) embarked on their annual trip week. The trip week is part of the Classroom Without Walls Program, aimed at taking the learning experience out of the classroom, and into new and exciting settings, covering five major areas: Culture, History, Community Service, Language Practice, and Subject Learning.

Jingxi Ancient Road Research Tour with Beijing Haidian Kaiwen Academy

Sixth grade students of Beijing Haidian Kaiwen Academy started a research and study activity on Jingxi Ancient Road in Mentougou. From Shuiyuzui Village to Niujiao Ridge, and then to the former residence of Ma Zhiyuan, students learned the history of Jingxi Ancient Road and how to identify various plants during their walk.

This article appeared in the beijingkids July-August 2019 Teen Takeover issue

The children of the British School of Beijing, Sanlitun have been displaying their artistic talent at the annual charity Art Auction event, which has raised over RMB 40,000 and donated to two charities: Migrant Children’s Foundation and Love and Hope (Beijing) Center. The theme for the art project was “Glow In The Dark” and each class from pre-nursery to Year 6 had to think of creative ways to incorporate glow in the dark materials into their artwork.

Nursery Angelfish Class (3-4 years)  

‘United as One’

By using recycled fabric and a variety of creative resources, the Angelfish children drew around their hands to show kindness and the importance of celebrating people’s differences.

Pre-Nursery Seahorses Class (2-3 years) 

‘Los Caballitos de Mar’

The Seahorses children enjoyed making their very own little versions of their Mascot, Cindy the Seahorse, by using recycled materials to create their aquarium which represents their classroom.

Year 1 Lions Class (5-6 years)

‘A Pride of Lions’

The Lions used recycled materials such as fabric and bubble wrap to paint their favorite class toy Lenny the Lion in a ‘Pop Art’ style.

Year 2 Giraffes Class (6-7 years)

‘Giraffes in the Night’

Using both glow-in-the-dark and acrylic paint, the Giraffes children splattered their canvases to create their unique, abstract designs.

Year 3 Puffins Class (7-8 years)

‘Butterflies’

The Puffins selected a butterfly to represent them, just as a butterfly goes through a journey of many changes during its life, these students are also on their own journey of life and learning.

Year 4 Herons Class (8-9 years)

‘Dancing in the Dark’

Just like a ballerina, the Heron birds flow with grace, elegance, and harmony. This piece of art reflects the inherent creativity and beauty of the class.

Year 5 Flamingos Class (9-10 years)

‘The Flamingos of Peace’

Inspired by Global Goal 16: “Peace and Justice”, the Flamingos class adapted the origami crane, the traditional symbol of peace, to make origami flamingos.

Year 6 Falcons Class (10-11 years) 

‘Lights of Hope’

The Falcons created a dazzling piece of art to remind us that even in the darkest times, hope fills the air.

This article appeared in the beijingkids July-August 2019 Teen Takeover issue

Annie Ding, 17 (Canada) – “Observational Drawing of Favorite Fruits”
I wanted to depict a slice of life through the randomly scattered fruits, while adding a touch of unordinary beauty to its arrangement by connecting the fruits with a plate and the shadow. The piece also offers an interesting perspective that is unconventional in still-life drawings of fruits.

Group work of various Year 4 students
This group project shows the need for people in every country around the world to plant trees. They create oxygen, which makes the world a healthier place for people and animals.

Annie Ding, 17 (Canada) – “Life Cycle”
The digital work is a painting over a photo. It represents the birth and decay of life. Humans, like all other life forms on Earth, cannot escape from this inevitable fate. But death is not always the end, as life is passed on to the next generation and new life will form to succeed the life of the deceased.

Annie Yu, 12 (South Korea)
This is a painting of the bottles in our art classroom. One technique I used for this was to mix colors. I really enjoyed painting this painting and I am very proud of it.

Thor Heuer, 15 (Denmark)
The mask is a commentary on the need for human adaptation to a rapidly changing and unhealthy environment, based on the production and consumption of processed materials.

This article originally appeared in beijingkids October 2017 issue.
Download the digital copy here.

Did you know we have a family events WeChat group? Join two hundred other internationally-minded families for the latest information on what’s going on in Beijing. Send an email to editor@beijing-kids.com with your WeChat id or add vanessajencks on WeChat. Please note that readers should confirm with each organizer if events are cancelled or scheduled as planned.

Free
Setting Boundaries for Kids, April 10
Adults. In the face of children’s emotions and tantrums, should parents give in to anger, compromise, or stay the set course? Patty Durbin is speaking about her experiences establishing boundaries for kids. She is sharing how to clarify responsibilities and establish clear boundaries for our children. Durbin is also discussing the various mistakes that we can make during the process of boundary setting. Please RSVP to mops@bicf.org. Free. 10am-noon. 21st Century Hotel.

Daystar Academy K-Middle School Open House, April 12
Ages 5-14. Daystar Academy has recently unveiled its brand new middle school building and a new FIFA standard field. In addition, recent assessment data proves that the school is fulfilling on its commitment to deliver premier bilingual education for its students. Visit Daystar to learn more about its vibrant program for kindergarten, elementary and middle school at its next open house April 12th. Please register here. Free. 9am-2pm. Daystar Academy (Beigao Campus). (jaw@daystarchina.cn, 186 0120 6155).

How to Fail Well, April 12
Adults. During this parent seminar, Lance King is delivering some practical advice on how can parents support their children so that they can see challenges as opportunity and setbacks as springboards to success. He is also talking about 21st Century Skills which is specifically targeted to how parents can support their children with ‘study skills’. Mr. King is an internationally renowned author, educator, and workshop facilitator who has worked on the development of the MYP, IBDP, and IBCP programs. Reserve a seat here. Free. 2-3.30pm. Edward Alleyn Theatre at Dulwich College Beijing (DCB).

HoK International Primary Curriculum Seminar, April 12
Adults. This interactive seminar is looking at recent research in learning, explore how the IPC (International Primary Curriculum) can benefit your child, and how parents can help support their child in learning at Home and in school. It is led by Mr Neil MacRae who’s based in Singapore from fieldwork education. Free. 6-8.30pm. House of Knowledge.

Hope International School Open House (K-12), April 12
Adults. Prospective parents are invited to Hope International School’s (HIS) Open House. Come take a campus tour, meet parents, teachers and students, and have a personal Q&A time. HIS is the only K3-G12 international school in Beijing that provides quality education with a total faith-based perspective. Free. 9-11am. Hope International School. (kwan.sherry@hopeintlschool.org, (+86) 400-800-8781).

Dulwich College Beijing Junior School Open House, April 13
Adults. Prospective parents can come and learn about DCB’s junior school curriculum. Attendees can expect to find out about our proven pastoral care system and how DCB challenges and inspires its students. To register this event, click here. Free. 9-11am. DCB Legend Garden Campus.

Western Academy of Beijing’s High School Art Exhibition, April 15
Ages 8+ Western Academy of Beijing’s (WAB) High School artists are displaying their portfolio from years of work, as the campus building transforms into a gorgeous art gallery for you to enjoy. Free. 2-4pm. Western Academy of Beijing. (hsreception@wab.edu, +86 10 5986 5588).

Preview Bilingual Education with Ivy & Daystar, April 15
Adults. Daystar Academy is offering its 50:50 bilingual model for elementary students at its Sanlitun campus. Kindergarten students meanwhile will be able to enjoy Ivy Academy’s excellent, all English program. All of this will be held in what will be a completely renovated campus equipped with new state-of-the-art air filtration systems and purpose-built outdoor turf. Free. 10am-noon. Daystar Academy (Sanlitun Campus). (8532 2500).

HoK International Primary Curriculum Info Session, April 12
Adults.This free interactive seminar is looking at recent research in learning, explore how international primary curriculum (IPC) can benefit children, and talk about how parents can help support their child’s learning both at home and at school. It is led by Mr Neil MacRae who’s based in Singapore from fieldwork education. RSVP required. Free. 6-8.30pm. House of Knowledge (Shunyi Campus).

Unique
Spring Sewing Camp at the SLab, April 10 to 14
Ages 7-18. This Spring holiday, The SLab will be running two sessions of week-long sewing courses for students. Week one will focus on the sewing basics and week two will delve into more complicated techniques like free-hand sewing and embroidery. RMB 1888 per week; RMB 3200 for both weeks. 10am-3pm. The SLab.

Gastronomy Journey with Guest Chef Akmal Anuar, April 14
Adults. Chef Akmal won the award of Worlds 50 Best restaurant San Pellegrino from 2009 to 2012, Asia ranked top 1 in 2012 when he was head chef of Iggy’s restaurant; ranked No. 1 of Miele Guide from 2010 to 2012; he moved to Dubai in 2014 and opened his own restaurant 3fils in 2017, and it had been awarded with the Best New Opening Restaurant by Time Out Dubai. Classic Italian cuisine with a modern twist is served in quiet elegance and cozy ambiance of Barolo, where dining provides an exceptional Italian experience, defining the Italian lifestyle in Beijing. RMB 688-1788. 11.30am-10.30pm. Ritz-Carlton, Beijing.

Yishion Camelot Grand Prix & Jumping Equuleus FEI CSI 2*, April 14 to 16
Ages 9+ The Equuleus International Riding Club, located in the Shunyi area, will host an international equestrian show from April 14 to 16. During the 3-day event, amateur, professional, and young riders from in and out of China will gather at Equuleus in order to participate in this CSI 2* accredited by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI). The show-jumping contest will take place in magnificent outdoor arenas. Prices vary. 8.30am-6.30pm. Equuleus International Riding Club.

Easter Celebrations at the Ritz-Carlton, April 16
All ages. Hotel guests and Easter Brunch guests are invited to a fun Easter Egg Hunt in the garden, creative egg paintings by using Ray&Co pencils; plasticine kneading with the artists from Tosee Art Education and funny clown play will be as special treat for kids. The unique Easter egg hunting activity will lead children to a fantastic world. A series of stunning gifts will fill the day with more fun and laughter. RMB 618 (ages 6-12 half price). 11.30am-3pm. Ritz-Carlton, Beijing. (5908 8161).

Best of Next Week
Harrow Beijing Art Exhibition, April 18
Ages 10+ Everyone is invited in the official opening of the GCSE and A Level Art Exhibition. Celebrate Harrow Beijing student achievements on April 18 in the school’s Art Department. If you cannot attend the official opening, the exhibition will remain on display until April 21. Free. 9am-4pm. Harrow International School Beijing.

Parkour Club by Imagine, April 18 to May 16
Ages 7-18. Due to popular demand, Parkour is now a weekly club! A great way to build foundation skills for all other freestyle action sports: balancing, jumping, flipping, landing rolling, climbing, vaulting, and so much more! RMB 400/class. 5.30-9pm. One Jump Trampoline Park. (www.imagine-china.com/parkour-club/).

Hyde Academy Tour with Admissions Director and Administrative Principal, April 19
Adults. Would you like your child immersed in a caring and cooperative learning environment that provides a rigorous academic program? Join Administrative Prinicipal Jennifer Sachs and Admissions Director Lian Peng for an informative meeting and tour. Free. 10-11.30am. Hyde Academy.

Meet the Principals/ISB MS/HS Open House, April 19
Grades 6-12. ISB’s middle school (Gr. 6-8) and high school (Gr. 9-12) Principals invite prospective parents and students to meet with them in a personal setting, where they will share information about ISB’s challenging curriculum and innovative teaching practices. Families will also have the opportunity to tour our world-class facilities, following the discussion. Free. 9-11.30am. International School Beijing (ISB). (www.isb.bj.edu.cn, 8149 2345 ext 1047).

BSB, Shunyi Open Day, April 19
Adults. Take a tour and visit our primary, German primary and secondary classrooms to see the great teaching and learning taking place. Parents can to talk to teachers and learn about the BSB curriculum, music and sports programs and check out the facilities too. Free. 9-11am. British School Beijing (BSB), Shunyi. (www.bsbshunyi.com/openday, 8047 3558).

Cavalia, April 19 to May 1
All ages. Known as the world’s largest touring production, Cavalia marries the equestrian Beyond the impressive technical display and equestrian and acrobatic numbers that are unlike anything ever seen on stage, Cavalia is first and foremost a work that feeds the soul. arts, stage arts and high-tech theatrical effects at never-before-seen levels. RMB 420-1620. 2.30-9.30pm. Chaoyang Park.

Dulwich College Beijing Early Years Open House, April 20
Adults. At the open house, you will meet with Head of Early Years David Mumford for a presentation on “Early Years at DCB – a UK curriculum designed for the hands, hearts and minds of international young learners.” A campus tour and Q&A session will be held after the presentation. To register, click here. Free. 8.30-10.30am. Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) Riviera Main Campus.

INN Shunyi Coffee Morning at BSB Chatterbox, April 20
Adults. The British School of Beijing, Shunyi (BSB, Shunyi) is hosting this months’ International Newcomers Network (INN) Shunyi coffee morning. Join us for this great opportunity to meet other newcomers and old-timers in the Shunyi area! Contact Brenda for more details. Free. 10am-noon. British School Beijing (BSB), Shunyi. (brenda.leung@britishschool.org.cn, 8047 3588).

Tea Brewing with That’s Mandarin, April 20
Adults. That’s Mandarin is teaching its development and characteristics, but also the secrets of its brewing process. You will be able to impress your colleagues, or your family with your professional mastery of tea. RMB 50. 7-9pm. That’s Mandarin. (info@thatsmandarin.com, 86 10 5218 6432).

American Boychoir Concert, April 20
Ages 9+ As an icon of American musical excellence, the Boychoir has been invited to sing for every sitting US President since John F. Kennedy. Touring frequently at home and abroad as preeminent ambassadors, the American Boychoir spreads messages of beauty and hope through outstanding musical achievement. 2017 is the first China Tour for American Boychoir. Tickets can be purchased here. RMB 180-580. 7.30-9.30pm. Beijing Concert Hall.

DCB Hua Mulan Performance, April 21
Ages 8+ Enjoy this modern adaptation of famous Chinese folk tale directed and performed by more than 50 DCB teachers and students. Hua Mulan (Chinese: 花木兰) is a legendary woman warrior from the Southern and Northern Dynasties period (420–589) of Chinese history. As a daughter of aged warrior, she impersonates a man to take her father’s place during a general conscription to counter foreign invasion. Over time, the story of Hua Mulan rose in popularity as a Chinese folk tale. Tickets can be purchased here. RMB 50 (adult); RMB 30 (children). 7-8.30pm. Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) Wodehouse Theatre.

We Will Rock You: School Edition, April 21 to 22
All ages. Bohemian Rhapsody! We are the Champions! Killer Queen! These are just some of the classic Queen songs featured in this beloved musical. The exciting and energetic show tells the story of Galileo Figaro, a young man who wants to bring back real music to a futuristic world where rock ’n’ roll is banned. RMB 30 (students), RMB 50 (adults). 7pm (April 21), 2pm and 7pm (April 22). Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB). (patrick.connolly@cisbeijing.com).

3e Charity Community Day & Roundabout Book Fair, April 22
All ages. 3e International School and Roundabout are welcoming families to attend the annual 3e Charity Community Day. Visit the event 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 RMB100 (table fee will be donated to Roundabout). To book a table please email: community@3einternationalschool.org. Free. 10am-noon. 3e International School. (6437 3344).

BIBA Roundabout Book Fair, April 22
All ages. BIBA is hosting a Roundabout Book Fair. Choose from thousands of gently used books for all the family. There will be books for children of all ages and adults (fiction and non-fiction), English, Chinese and more for sale. Prices start as low as RMB 1 and all proceeds will help children in need. Free. 10am-3pm. Beijing International Bilingual Academy (BIBA).

MSB Roundabout Book Fair, April 22
All ages. MSB is hosting a Roundabout Book Fair. Roundabout will offer thousands of gently used books from many categories and for all the family. You can choose from English and Chinese books. Prices start as low as RMB 1. So come and pick your favorite reads for the summer to come. All proceeds will help a child in need. Free. 10am-3pm. International Montessori School of Beijing (MSB).

Unity Day with Daystar & Ivy Academy, April 22
All ages. Join Daystar Academy and Ivy Schools as they celebrate their second annual UNITY DAY. The event, which also takes place on Earth Day this year, promises to be both fun-filled and meaningful with game booths, delicious food from both Daystar’s signature sustainable food program and outside vendors, music, and entertainment, sports activity and more! Entrance is free but proceed of all game participation and items sold will go towards an environmental cause. So be sure not to miss this opportunity! Free. 10am-3pm. Daystar Academy (Beigao Campus). (jaw@daystarchina.cn, 186 0120 6155).

The Beijing Flea Market, April 22
All ages. This is Beijing’s one-stop shop for all things made in Beijing, with more than 35 vendors featuring some of the best local, independent design and crafts from both established and emerging makers. Shoppers will also find baked goods, wine, and more! Be sure to stop in Preface salon for to meet their senior stylists who will be doing specials during the day. Free. 12pm-6pm. POP-UP BEIJING.

Public Beijing International Film Festival Tour, April 22
Ages 8+ Newman Tours is offering a one off Public Beijing International Film Festival Tour and a Public Forbidden City Tour every Sunday. To celebrate the Beijing International Film Festival, Newman Tours is offering a one-off Public Tour of the China National Film Museum. RMB 190 (adults), RMB 120 (kids). 1.30-3.30pm. Newmen Tours Beijing. (info@newmantours.com, www.newmantours.com, 86 138 1777 0229).

Children’s Magic Show, April 23
Kids will enjoy the ‘Magic Journey’ live action magic show, which helps children to discover the ‘magical world.’ With help from the audience, the magician in this popular show guides kids through a series of tricks and enchantments which thrill and delight younger audiences. RMB 100 to RMB 200. Legends Small Theater. (https://www.douban.com/event/28126370/).

“Classic” BSB Fashion Show 2017, April 23
Ages 9+ Come and watch “Classic” – a fashion show organized by the students at The British School of Beijing (BSB) Shunyi. It includes 2 fashion shows and a mini market, where a fashion show will showcase and sell original designs made by students! Tickets can be purchased here. RMB 260 (non-VIP), RMB 130 (VIP). British School Beijing (BSB), Shunyi.