As news of new Shunyi infections trickle into WeChat groups, many families are reconsidering their plans for birthdays, Chinese New Year, and basically any other festivities you’d usually spend in larger groups. It isn’t worth the risk when we consider the hard decisions schools have to make and what happens when a child tests positive.

So since we’re all about bringing the best of Beijing to you, we thought we’d remind everyone of the cool virtual ways to celebrate! That way, not only can your kids see some of their friends here, but also in your home country and other international friends. Most of these are professional artists from New York and Los Angeles who’ve turned their artistry towards the virtual space to make their rent but have long-established followings in their cities.

Love Bug & Me Music

I can personally attest to the wonder and magic of Love Bug & Me Music, as they shepherded my baby and me through my first year as a mom in Los Angeles. Their virtual classes are led by their “magical music educators” and only use live music with real instruments, and I remember their big old drum in the middle of the circle as the first real drum my child experienced. Music is one of those must-haves for a child’s early development, and I have no doubt that Love Bug & Me knows how to bring it to life on screen!

Mario the Magician

Mario the Magician brings a whole lot of energy and heart to his masterful performance as a maker, a magician, and a great listener. He seamlessly moves between his script and fanciful conversations with the party guests. He’s been on Sesame Street and Universal Kids, and he could be the guest of honor in your living room!

Presto the Magician

For older kids who take a little more to be impressed than a visit from Elsa, Presto the Magician has figured out how to wow pre-teens with close-up magic through a camera. The basic show runs USD 175 for 30 minutes of illusions, and for USD 250, it’s extended to 45 minutes, more interactive games, plus printable sheets or video tutorial.

Wishing Well Entertainment and Parties

Through well-costumed characters, Wishing Well Parties pivoted quickly to virtual events last year, They came up with very specific ways to celebrate, like character comfort chats (specifically tailored for kids going through a rough time), magic morning breakfasts, virtual tea parties, painting and dancing lessons (Moana makes an appearance here), character lessons for schools, 5-minute personalized greetings kids can keep, and more.

Show Up! Kids in English and Spanish

You don’t even need a birthday to book this special time. Available with both English and Spanish performers and master improvisers, Peter or Denisse create a story based on your birthday kid’s interests and their friends’ suggestions. They use a wonderful format for keeping the show moving so everyone stays excited the entire time, and friends from all over the world can enjoy watching a show they made come to life in front of their eye (screens)!

A Faery Hunt

Fantastic Faeries perform a live interactive Zoom with your party or just a personalized virtual visit for your family. Original stories, dances, and songs create the magic of your very own faery hunt! Children are encouraged to wear their favorite costume, no matter if they are faeries, princesses, knights, or superheroes.

You can watch teasers of each party on their websites, and don’t be surprised if you get so caught up in the fun that you book one on the spot!

Let’s stay safe and have virtual fun this winter so our spring will be bright!

KEEP READING: Pandemic Parenting: How to Work With Kids Home From School

Photos: Love Bug & Me Music, Show Up! Kids, Unsplash

Most expat families are accustomed to making relationships with family and friends over long-distance work, but this year, of course, is different. It’s easier to hold onto Zoom hugs and text chats when you have the possibility to see someone in person at least once a year. So what to do this holiday season when you can’t travel home? Here are some little ways to connect with your families and friends that can make a big difference:

Family Tree

A family tree is a great way to show kids all of their relatives and how they are related. Lots of templates are available online to either print or adapt on your own, like this one from the Go Science Girls website. I suggest starting simple and gradually going further back in time, however. I once tried to move into great-grandparent territory and it overwhelmed my youngest son!

Playtime in Games

“What’s your Minecraft name” is the junior version of “What’s your WeChat ID?” Playing games together (safely, of course) helps younger kids bond even over long distances. It immediately gives them a common bond and purpose and offers parents a chance to supervise and model positive online gaming.

Storytimes

My Mom used to tell her grandson stories over video chat when he was a baby and always sang this one song to him. She worried that he, being only a year old, wouldn’t know who she was when they visited again. But as she held him at the airport, sang their song, and you could see an instant flash of recognition in his eyes, then a hug! For the holidays, take turns reading your favorite tales or even sing some carols together to build a new tradition.

Attend a Virtual Show Together

You might think that holding the focus of kids on a Zoom birthday party is impossible, but many skilled performers learned how to do exactly that after theaters shuttered in March. Invite your kids’ friends from across the world to convene for a play that is just for them! One of the best choices out there is “Show Up, Kids!” where the storyline is dictated by the audience. There are also virtual magic shows and clowns, all very cool ways to stay connected with friends and cousins worldwide.

No Occasion Needed

Sure, we try to remember to send cards for the holidays, but why not send one just because? We outlined some great choices for sending cards internationally on beijingkids before, and you know that a grandmother’s day will be so much brighter if she opens her mailbox to find a surprise sentiment inside!

KEEP READING: Potluck Parties for the Domestically Challenged

Photos: Go Science Girls, Peter Michael Marino, Cindy Marie Jenkins, Pexels, Unsplash