beijingkids Oct 2013

October 2013

Oh, Baby!

Eight Beijing families share their maternity stories

Tricks and Treats Halloween face painting guides, bloodcurdling bashes and a ghost tour of Houhai

Tome, Sweet Tome Introducing the Panda Book Awards Boys and Ghouls Demystifying the gender gap at school

October 2013 PRICE:RMB짜15.00(DOMESTIC) US$4.95(ABROAD)

Oh, Baby!

Eight Beijing families share their maternity stories

Tricks and Treats Halloween face painting guides, bloodcurdling bashes and a ghost tour of Houhai

Tome, Sweet Tome Introducing the Panda Book Awards Boys and Ghouls Demystifying the gender gap at school

October 2013 Contents

60

28

20

Feature 60

Labor of Love

Dining 28

Eight families’ maternity experiences in Beijing

78

Mother Nature

South African flavors at Pinotage Sanlitun

29

How to pave your way to an intervention-free birth

Eater’s Digest Tried-and-tested dishes and snacks around town

30

Food for Thought Shrimp ravioli with InterContinental Beijing Financial Street

Living 17

Dining Out

On the Blog

Playing

A cautionary tale on buying cute puppies

18

Noticeboard

32

Community news and announcements

20

Stirring up ghosts in Houhai

36

Indulge Talking Shop

38

Playing Inside

42

Kid Craft

Urban beekeeping with Shangrila Farms

23

Birthday Bash

Ways to celebrate Halloween in Beijing

A multiple intelligence climbing frame in Wangjing

Make your own fake blood and zombie makeup with Nina Griffee’s team

Health 24

How Much Is Too Much?

26

The Natural Path

When to worry about common pregnancy diseases You can have a natural birth, says Melissa Rodriguez

27

The Doc Is In Dr. Richard Saint Cyr examines High-Intensity Interval Training

Family Travels The Simbwa-Rietveld family embraces farm life in the Netherlands

Isabelle Justo is a French ingénue

22

What’s Fun In

Learning 46

Black and White and Read All Over The return of the Panda Book Awards

48

When I Grow Up The International Montessori School of Beijing learns about midwifery

October 2013 Contents

50 50

38

Blank Canvas Artwork by students from Art Bug Beijing

Parenting 55

Beijing Baba Christopher Lay reviews the past year

56

Directories

Mind the (Gender) Gap How boys and girls learn

54

16 80 80 81 82 83 83 87 87

Family Dining Family Health Family Life Family Travel Fun Stuff Schools Shopping Sports

The Echo Chamber Ember Swift considers the second child problem

Essentials 9 10 12 14 16

Editor’s Note October Calendar Top 10 Things to Do in October October Events New Arrivals Say hello to Beijing’s smallest

88

The Circuit Happenings in the Beijing family scene

96

Family Favorites The Finn family

ON THE COVER: Jennifer Ifeanyi-Okoro is a first-generation Nigerian-American. Born and raised in the US, she was an energy lawyer before moving to Beijing in February. Her husband is a diplomat at the Nigerian Embassy. Together, they have a 12-month-old daughter named Zara (pictured on the cover) and will soon welcome a second child. Jennifer is currently 32 weeks pregnant and plans to give birth at OASIS International Hospital. Photo by Mishka Family Photography

《中国妇女》英文刊

WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly Sponsored and administrated by ALL-CHINA WOMEN’S FEDERATION Published by WOMEN’S FOREIGN LANGUAGE PUBLICATIONS OF CHINA Publishing Date: October 1, 2013

Adviser 顾 问 中华全国妇女联合会名誉主席

2013 年 10 月（下半月）

WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 中华全国妇女联合会主管/主办 中国妇女外文期刊社出版 本期出版时间: 2013年10月1日

彭 云 PENG PEIYUN 全国人大常委会前副委员长

Honorary President of the ACWF and Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Adviser 顾 问

顾秀莲 GU XIULIAN 全国人大常委会前副委员长

Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee Director & Editor-in-Chief 社长 · 总编辑 Chief Editor 主编 Managing Editor School Editor

WEI LIANG 位亮 Sijia Chen Aisling O’Brien

Staff Writer

Oscar Holland

Web Editor

Nimo Wanjau

Shunyi Correspondent Editorial Assistant Contributing Writers

Editorial Consultant 编辑顾问 Director of Sales Department 广告发行经营部主任 Tel Legal Adviser 法律顾问 Advertising Agency 广告代理 Advertising Hotlines 广告热线

YUN PENGJU 恽鹏举

Fax 传真 Printing 印刷 Address 本刊地址

Dana Cosio-Mercado Morgan Shang Christopher Lay, Melissa Rodriguez, Dr. Richard Saint Cyr, Ember Swift

ROBERT MILLER (Canadian) 罗伯特 · 米勒 (加拿大) XIA WEI 夏巍 6522 5376 LI XUESEN 李雪森 Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited 深度体验国际广告(北京)有限公司 5820 7700 / 5820 7883 58207895 C&C JOINT PRINTING CO., (BEIJING) LTD. 北京华联印刷有限公司 WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 《中国妇女》英文月刊 15 Jianguomennei Dajie, Beijing 100730, China 中国北京建国门内大街15号 邮编:100730

国际标准刊号

ISSN1000 9388

国内统一刊号

CN11-1704/C

WEB ROUNDUP For more, visit the beijingkids website at beijing-kids.com

Predict Your Baby’s Gender Using the Chinese Gender Calendar (tinyurl.com/ogwv3lp) Figure out your baby’s gender using the Gender Calendar. This is one of the oldest methods in China for predicting the sex of an unborn baby. Urban legend or factually accurate? Try it yourself.

You Snooze, You Lose: Creative Alarm Clocks for Stubborn Kids (tinyurl.com/ohj6uvp) You could probably use some reinforcement of the electronic kind for the daily morning tug-of-war with your kids. Warning: You might need to buy some of our suggested creative alarm clocks in bulk, as they’re likely to become well-acquainted with the wall or floor.

Buns, Buns, Buns: The Many Ways to Mantou (tinyurl.com/nepgxll) This northern Chinese staple can be served in a variety of ways, from spicy to sweet. Read our blog to find a filling to suit your palate.

On The Forum: Has Anyone Else Had Gestational Diabetes? (tinyurl.com/o8u4r7k) User Marta_n writes: “I am seven months pregnant and I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes.

Does anyone have experience of this? Were your children born with or without complications?” Share your pregnancy experience by joining the conversation on our Forum.

The beijingkids Board A Publication of

Jacquie Golding Van Wyk A proud mother of four, Jacquie has lived in Beijing for three years now. She is a businesswoman and writer, who is actively assisting her husband with his bush adventure business. Find out about their thrilling tour packages at www. ultimatewildsurvival.com.

True Run Media 出版制作 Advertising Agency

Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited

Christopher Lay Christopher’s many jobs include dad, writer, photographer and all-round nice guy. Catch him in beijingkids’ Beijing Baba column or visit his blog, www.alive.tom.com/chrislay.com.

广告代理

深度体验国际广告（北京）有限公司 Tel/电话: 5820 7100 / 7700

Victor Wong

Fax/传真：5820 7891

Victor is a tech geek, serial entrepreneur, and the proud father of two boys. His latest venture is connecting parents and kids through mobile learning apps. Learn more at www.SmarTots.com.

Advertising Hotline/广告热线：5820 7700 /5820 7883 General Manager Michael Wester Operations Director Toni Ma

Yanhong Wheeler

Editorial Director Jerry Chan

Yanhong is a mother of two children, a La Leche League leader, a Parent Effectiveness Training instructor, and the author of eight Chinese books (under the pen name Xiao Wu, or Wee Witch) on breastfeeding, parenting and education. Visit her blog at blog.sina.com.cn/weewitch.

Managing Editor Sijia Chen School Editor Aisling O’Brien Staff Writer Oscar Holland Web Editor Nimo Wanjau

Johanna Selth

Shunyi Correspondent Dana Cosio-Mercado

Johanna is one busy mom. When she’s not looking after her two kids, Johanna supplies Beijing parents with must-have imported baby gear from her store, BabyGro. Contact her at johanna@babygro.com.cn.

Editorial Assistant Morgan Shang Marketing Manager Shana Zhang

beijingkids Brand Manager Lia Tjahjodihardjo Art Director Susu Luo

Ralf Duering

Production Manager Joey Guo

Ralf Duering is a busy father of two active boys. Besides running business development for a satellite company in Asia, he also brought Swiss Micro scooters to northern China. He regularly holds Micro scooter safety trainings for families. www.microbj.com

Principal Designer and Illustrator Sun Zheng Advertising Designer Yuki Jia Photographers Mitchell Pe Masilun, Sui Sales Manager Ivy Wang Sales Team Sheena Hu, Maggie Zhang, Amy Sun, Anna Rudashko, Wendy Lv, Winter Liu

Liu Nan Liu Nan, also known as Chu Chu, is a native Chinese mother. When she isn’t out with her baby girl in search of food and fun, she is selling imported baby products on Taobao. Check out aibaimm.taobao.com.

Finance Judy Zhao HR & Admin Cathy Wang, Siyu He Director of Digital Communications Iain Shaw & PR

Wendy Loh Wendy is embarking on her 10th year in Beijing with a 4-year-old daughter in tow. She works in public relations and, true to her Singaporean roots, loves checking out great eats and places for kiddies. She is also a Weibo fanatic; follow her at weibo.com/wendyloh.

Distribution Cao Yue General Inquiries 5820 7100/7700

Editorial Planning 5820 7100/7700 ext 883 Distribution 5820 7100/7700 ext 886 Fax 5820 7895

Michelle Liu After living in the US for 15 years, native Beijinger Michelle Liu is happy to be living in her hometown again, where she works at an architecture firm. As a parent, she embraces both the Chinese and Western perspectives on culture and education. Contact her at mtliu123@yahoo.com.

Contact: General information: info@beijing-kids.com Editorial: editor@beijing-kids.com Sales: sales@truerun.com Marketing: marketing@truerun.com Distribution: distribution@truerun.com Directories: listings@beijing-kids.com

beijing-kids.com weibo.com/beijingkids

Want to Join?

If you think you’d make a valuable contribution to the beijingkids board, email editor@beijing-kids.com.

AJ Warner AJ enjoys spending weekends with his two boys (ages 6 and 9), exploring Beijing and trying new things. He came to Beijing eight years ago to start an overseas education consulting firm that sends Chinese students overseas to the US, UK, and Canada. Learn more at www.touchdown.org.cn.

Editor's Note

Snow wonderful

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The editor at age 6 mee ting her sis ter for the fir st time

And Then There Were Two

B

y the time my sister was born on a calm June day in 1993, she was the most wanted baby in the world – at least in our dad’s eyes.

Years earlier, he’d missed my birth while pursuing his graduate studies in Canada. More than 7,000 miles away in Chongqing, my mother underwent a C-section; I was fashionably late – by two whole weeks in fact – to my own party, and the doctors could wait no longer. Luckily, the operation went smoothly.

If anything, the pregnancy was harder on my father. In those days, China still relied on snail mail and telegrams. Placing a long-distance call cost over RMB 10 a minute – an exorbitant amount. Dad thought constantly about Mom and the life growing inside her belly. Were we OK? Was she eating properly? Was she resting enough? Would the baby have ten fingers and ten toes?

After I was born, my uncle went to the nearest post office to place a long-distance call to Canada. Back then, you had to fill out a form with your name, the city and country that you were calling, and a RMB 100 deposit – the equivalent of a decent month’s salary. After the form was submitted, an operator would direct you to a room (“Room number 2!”) with a single phone. My dad spoke to my uncle for two or three minutes at most, but that’s all it took to change his life forever.

Years later when my mom got pregnant for the second time, Dad was adamant about being present at the birth. Like me, my sister had given Mom no trouble during the pregnancy; unlike me, she arrived right on time. Our mother approached this second birth with the composure of a five-star general. She had been fully conscious during my delivery, as the doctors in Chongqing had only administered a local anesthetic. When her Canadian doctors expressed surprise at her wanting to do the same for Nancie’s birth, Mom was unruffled. “It’s what I’m used to,” she said.

On the day my sister was due, Dad was beckoned into the delivery room. He wasn’t wearing his glasses at the time and could only

make out the outline of operating curtains in the dark. To his horror, they were drawn back to reveal blood all over the hospital bed. Dad started shaking uncontrollably. Cool as a cucumber, Mom asked: “Are you cold?” “Yeah, a little bit,” he replied. Luckily, the C-section was over in 20 to 30 minutes.

When my dad finally held Nancie for the first time, his life changed all over again. My mom had never seriously considered having another child before immigrating to Canada; with the one-child policy in effect, what good would have come of it? My dad, however, had always cherished the idea of a large family. Nancie’s arrival was a blessing, the fulfillment of an implausible but never forgotten dream.

My sister and I might have been born nearly seven years apart in different lands, but the doctors had traced over our mother’s old scar to bring her into the world. For Dad, our family was complete. Is it any surprise that, to this day, my sister and I remain our father’s daughters?

(Even if he is still a bit squeamish around blood.)

Sijia Chen Managing Editor October 2013

beijingkids

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OCTOBER Mon

TUE

Want your family-friendly event to appear in our next issue?

Upload it at www.beijing-kids.com/events by October 14.

WED

THU

FRI

9 10 1617 21 23 25 28 3031 6 7 8 Ayi Cooking Classes

For adults. Green T. Living teaches your ayi how to choose Western food ingredients and cook healthy dishes. See Oct 9 listing.

Bullying Seminar with Robert Pereira

Indulge Your Inner Carnivore at Pinotage

For adults. This seminar helps parents and teachers identify bullying and give meaningful advice to bullied children. See Oct 16 listing.

All ages. Downtown families, you’re in luck: South African restaurant Pinotage now has a new location at Sanlitun SOHO. See Dining Out (p28).

beijingkids 7th Halloween Costume Party

3e International School Information Evening

All ages. Learn about 3e’s dual immersion bilingual education.

See Oct 28 listing.

Dulwich’s second Diversity event features recitals, master classes, clinics and professional development opportunities. See Oct 23 listing.

Parents vs. Zombies

Houhai Ghost Tour

All ages. Low on time? Learn how to do easy Halloween face painting with instructions from Nina Griffee and her team. See Kid Craft (p42).

Ages 8+. Uncover the supernatural side of Beijing. See What’s Fun In (p32).

Make Your Own Fall Ravioli

Parentcraft: Toilet Training

Catch a Stage Performance

For adults. Dr. Stephanie Teoh offers advice on this important milestone in a child’s development. See Events (p15).

All ages. Hit up one of Beijing’s many concert venues or theaters. See Directories under Fun Stuff.

All ages. Make a fall-inspired shrimp ravioli with pumpkin and zucchini using a recipe by InterContinental Financial Street. See Food for Thought (p30).

2013 October

All ages. The spooktacular event of the year is back! Join us for a costume parade, trick-or-treating, ghoulish treats, scary games, and more. See Oct 25 listing.

photos: courtesy of wikipedia commons, beijing sideways, flickr users ravenscroft and William Warby, Sui, Mitchell pe Masilun and courtesy of dcb

Age 3-6. This class is packed with science experiments and creations for little kids. See Ongoing listings.

beijingkids

All ages. BJU doctors (including beijingkids columnist Dr. Richard Saint Cyr) talk about common health issues in Beijing. See Oct 10 listing.

The Diversity Project II

HoK Super Science Mondays

10

Don’t Be Scared, Be Prepared: Beijing Newcomers Doctor Talk

KEY

Playing

Food/Dining

Sport

Culture/Education

SAT

Community/Networking

SUN

12 13 19 20 26 27 2 3 9 10

Potter’s Wheel Testing Days with Carlos Rodriguez

UCCA Children’s Artist Workshop: Immaterial Artwork

Ages 7+. Coach Carlos Rodriguez and his team run two testing days for young tennis players. See Oct 12 listing.

Ages 3-12. UCCA’s exbihiting artist Tino Sehgal takes children through the creative process using sand. See Oct 13 listing.

The Beijing Time Chase

Bethel China @ Beijing Marathon

All ages. Race around the city in a motorcycle sidecar with Beijing Sideways and Bespoke Beijing. See Oct 19 listing.

For adults. Sponsor and run with a Bethel China child at the Beijing Marathon. See Oct 20 listing.

Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Workshop

Buy Pumpkins at Sanyuanli Market

For teens and adults. ICVS offers a free workshop on how to humanely control the stray cat population.

See Oct 26 listing.

All ages. Pick up pumpkins large and small for Halloween. See Directories under Fun Stuff.

Learn about Urban Beekeeping

Reach for the Skies in Wangjing

Ages 3+. Where does honey come from? Learn all about beekeeping from the experts at Shangrila Farms.

See Talking Shop (p22).

Indoor Rock Climbing

All ages. Join O’le Climbing’s Kids’ Climbing Club, which meets on Saturdays. See Directories under Sports.

Ages 3-12. Book your child’s next birthday at a multiple intelligence climbing frame. See Birthday Bash (p23).

Watch the Leaves Little Jeep (in Chinese) Change For ages Color 3-12. The Little

Jeep is the Chinese of Thomasfall thefoliage Tank EnAll ages.version See changing at gine. In Chinese See Jan 1 listin Fragrant Hills oronly.

Baiwang Shan.

See Directories under Fun Stuff.

October 2013

beijingkids

11

Essentials Top 10

October Top 10 !

1

Want your family-friendly event to appear in our next issue?

Upload it at www.beijing-kids.com/events

by October 14.

beijingkids 7th Annual Halloween Costume Party beijingkids brings you the spooktacular event of the year on October 25 and 26 with a host of creepy activities and ghoulish treats. Go trick-or-treating at the Hilton Beijing Wangfujing and show off your getup at the costume parade. There will be face painting by Nina Griffee and her team, and a free family portrait by Littleones Kids & Family Portrait Studio. For details, see Events (p14). For more ways to celebrate Halloween and step-by-step face painting guides, turn to Playing Inside (p38).

2

Anti-Bullying Seminar with Robert Pereira From October 16-18, bullying expert Robert Pereira returns to Beijing to lead a seminar on bullying. Featured in beijingkids’ June 2013 issue, Pereira takes a proactive, discussion-based approach with both parents and students. This threeday session includes an outline of why children bully each other, with separate days focusing on how boys and girls bully. For details, see Events (p15).

3

Embark on a Historical Ghost Tour Just in time for Halloween, beijingkids teams up with tour agency Newman Tours for a spooky edition of What’s Fun In. Based on the company’s very own Beijing Ghost Tour, this self-guided walking tour reveals the haunted history of Houhai. For details, see What’s Fun In (p32).

For the first time ever, zoom around Beijing on October 19 in a motorcycle sidecar looking for hidden clues in teams of dads and daughters as well as mothers and sons.

Organized by Bespoke Beijing and Beijing Sideways, this scavenger hunt is a great way to see Beijing in its most beautiful season. For details, see Events (p15).

5

Breast Cancer Awareness Month This month, real men wear pink. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Among women, breast cancer is the leading cause of death after lung canceer; the key is early diagnosis and treatment. Ladies, get a full gynecological exam for RMB 1,200 at Vista Medical Center as part of their Well Woman Check-Up. See Directories under Family Health for the address.

12

beijingkids

2013 October

Photos: mitchell pe masilun, beijing sideways, flickr user aislinn ritchie, wikimedia commons

4

Motorcycle Scavenger Hunt

Top 10 Essentials Pick Up Pumpkins at Sanyuanli Market

6 7 8 9 10

What’s October without pumpkins? Whether you’re decorating for Halloween or making seasonal recipes, head to Sanyuanli Market and allow the kids to choose their own orange beauties. See Directories under Shopping.

The Hunt for Red October

From the dependable Xiangshan (Fragrant Hills) and Beijing Botanical Garden to lesser-known Baiwang Shan, get out to Miyun or Huairou to see vibrant fall foliage from mid-October to November. For details, see Directories under Fun Stuff.

Enjoy Beijing on Two Wheels

October is arguably Beijing’s best season. Join a a cycling tour with Bike Beijing (www.bikebeijing.com) or Cycle China (www.cyclechina.com).

Or, go off on your own and explore Gulou, Tsinghua, or Baigezhuang.

Dulwich Festival of Music

From October 10-13, the second annual Dulwich Festival of Music features four days of music-making with students who are part of a choir, orchestra, big band or rock band. Highlights of the festival include a rock concert, workshops and a gala concert on the final evening. See Events (p14).

Beijing International Schools Climbing Championships (BISCC) On October 27, the battle for rock climbing supremacy is on.

Students from international schools can register on O’le Climbing’s website to participate, win prizes, and earn points for their schools.

Admission is free for students from Sports Beijing’s climbing course.

See Events (p14).

October 2013

beijingkids

13

KEY

Essentials Events Playing

Food/Dining

Sport

Culture/Education

Thu, Oct 10

Community/Networking

Sun, Oct 13

Don’t Be Scared, Be Prepared: Beijing Newcomers Doctor Talk

UCCA Children’s Artist Workshop: Immaterial Artwork

For adults. BJU doctors speak on topics ranging from pollution and food worries to designing an emergency plan for families. Speakers are beijingkids columnist Dr. Richard Saint Cyr and Department Chair of Emergency Dr. Jason Wood. Free. 1011am. Beijing United Family Hospital (5927 7000, jenifer.sullivan@ufh.com. cn)

Ages 3-12. UCCA’s exbihiting artist Tino Sehgal takes children through an interactive process of creating artworks using sand as he shares how he creates his own artworks. Prices TBA. 2-3.30pm. Ullens Center for Contemporary Art (5780 0200, visitor@ ucca.org.cn)

Dulwich Festival of Music All ages. The second annual Dulwich Festival of Music brings together musicians from DCB for four days of music-making as members of a choir, orchestra, big band or rock band. This year’s repertoire includes Haydn’s Te Deum and Karl Jenkins’ Dies Irae, as well as orchestral selections from West Side Story. Free. 9am-9pm. Dulwich College Beijing (6454 9000, info@ dulwich-beijing.cn)

Fri, Oct 11 Dulwich Festival of Music See Oct 10 listing.

Sat, Oct 12 Rescued/Stray Pet Adoptions and Preparing Your Home for Your New Pet All ages. Thinking of welcoming a new pet? ICVS adoption counselors and veterinarians give advice on how to make your home pet-friendly. Free.

11am-noon. International Center for Veterinary Services (8456 1939/40/41, ICVS_CHINA@yahoo.com)

Potter’s Wheel Testing Days with Carlos Rodriguez Age 7+. Carlos Rodriguez (tennis star Li Na’s coach) and his team run two testing days for young tennis players.

An assessment is issued at the end of the testing period. Registration required. Approximately RMB 900.

8am-5pm. Potter’s Wheel International Tennis (8538 1073, info@potterswheel.cn)

Reportage: Building a Story with Photography For adults. This is an advanced workshop on how to tell a story through photos. A professional photographer will instruct the class on how to shoot photos onsite, edit them, and present them as part of a portfolio.

Prices TBA. 10am-6pm. Atelier (6416 1614, atelier@atelier.cn.com)

Dulwich Festival of Music

Potter’s Wheel Testing Days with Carlos Rodriguez See Oct 12 listing.

Reportage: Building a Story with Photography See Oct 12 listing.

Mon, Oct 14 Photo Lab at Atelier For adults. Atelier’s Photo Lab is a workshop that teaches amateur photographers how to use a manual camera to learn how to take photos and master light. This is a threesession workshop. Prices TBA. 8-10.30pm. Atelier (6416 1614, atelier@atelier.cn.com)

Tue, Oct 15 Photo Lab at Atelier See Oct 14 listing.

Wed, Oct 16 Bullying Seminar with Robert Pereira For adults. Your child may have experienced bullying at school. Learn how to deal with this common issue through a three-day event for parents and educators led by expert Robert Pereira. Participants learn why children bully, how to assist girl victims, and how to assist boy victims. Registration required. RMB 350 (one day), RMB 650 (two days), RMB 930 (three days).

8.45am-4.30pm. Daystar Academy (8430 2654, robertpereira32@bigpond. com)

Thu, Oct 17 Photo Lab at Atelier See Oct 14 listing.

Bullying Seminar with Robert Pereira See Oct 16 listing

Fri, Oct 18

See Oct 10 listing.

Bullying Seminar with Robert Pereira See Oct 16 listing.

14

beijingkids

2013 October

Readers are encouraged to double-check event details with the organizers, as dates and locations may change.

Sat, Oct 19 Departing from China with Pets All ages. ICVS provides a step-bystep guide to ensuring a smooth departure with your pets from China.

RSVP required before Oct 18. Free.

11am-noon. International Center for Veterinary Services (8456 1939, ICVS_ CHINA@yahoo.com).

The Beijing Time Chase All ages. The Beijing Time Chase is a scavenger hunt organized by Bespoke Beijing and Beijing Sideways where participants race around the city riding in Chang Jiang motorcycle sidecars. The sidecars each come with a professional driver and have space for two contestants. Kids under 6 can sit in an adult’s lap and ride for free.

RMB 850 (early bird price, 20 spaces available) and RMB 1,050 (regular price). 1-6pm. Bespoke Beijing (186 0112 2734, info@bespoke-beijing.com)

HoK Yard Sale All ages. Join HoK’s annual yard sale to find used goods such as clothes, shoes, toys, household items and more. Table reservations available. If you reserve a table, you must contribute one or more baked items to sell for charity.

Free. 10am-1pm. House of Knowledge International Kindergarten (6538 2624, marketing@hokschools.com).

Free Mindfulness for Children Class All ages. ELG’s psychologists Pim Lenders and Janneke Goossens provide a free mindfulness lesson for children from 9-15 years of age.

Parents are free to join. Mindfulness is having children learn to have a present-centered awareness in which thoughts, sensations and feelings are acknowledged and accepted as they are. Free. 10-11.30am. Limited space.

The Essential Learning Group (6450 9704, events@chinaelg.com)

Sun, Oct 20 Bethel China @ Beijing Marathon For adults. A number of Bethel China children will be running the Beijing Marathon this year, but some still need adult volunteers to run alongside them and pay their registration fee.

Here’s how it works: You pay the RMB 2,000 registration fee (which goes to Bethel as a donation, not the Beijing Marathon), then run alongside one of Bethel’s children for the duration of the race providing support. RMB 2,000 (10 spaces left). 8am-noon. Bethel China (6079 3312, biyue@bethelchina.org)

Wed, Oct 23 The Diversity Project II All ages. From Oct 23 to Nov 3, the Diversity Project returns to DCB. The event features recitals coupled with master classes, clinics, and professional development

opportunities. Programs include music production, performances, standard classical repertoire, music from the English choral tradition, and music composed especially for the occasion.

Free. 9am-9pm. Dulwich College Beijing (6454 9000, info@dulwichbeijing.cn)

Fri, Oct 25 beijingkids 7th Halloween Costume Party All ages. Don’t miss out on the Halloween event of the season! The seventh annual beijingkids Halloween Costume Party features three sessions this year: Fri, Oct 25 from 5-8pm; Sat, Oct 26 from 10.30am-1.3pm; and Sat, Oct 26 from 5-8pm. The evening sessions are designed for older kids while the Saturday brunch session is suitable for toddlers and younger kids. Tickets are divided into group and individual rates for beijingkids Club Members and non-members. beijingkids Club members: RMB 2,000 (table of ten); RMB 1,000 (table of five), RMB 250 (ages 13+), RMB 200 (ages 3-12), RMB 50 (ages 3 and under for both members and nonmembers). Non-members: RMB 2,700 (table of ten); RMB 1,500 (table of five); RMB 320 (ages 13+) and RMB 280 (ages 3-12). Times vary. Hilton Beijing Wangfujing (5820 7700 ext 866, events@beijing-kids.com)

The Diversity Project II See Oct 23 listing.

Sat, Oct 26 Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) Workshop For teens and adults. Learn how to humanely control the stray cat population with this ICVS workshop in Chinese and English. Registration required by Oct 23. Free. 11am12.30pm. International Center for Veterinary Services (8456 1939, ICVS_ CHINA@yahoo.com)

beijingkids 7th Halloween Costume Party See Oct 25 listing.

The Diversity Project II See Oct 23 listing.

Sun, Oct 27 Beijing International Schools Climbing Championships (BISCC) From 6-18. Students from international schools can earn points for their schools and win individual prizes by participating in O’le’s Climbing Championships. O’le Climbing has teamed up with Sports Beijing to provide free entrance to the event for those enrolled for the Sports Beijing Climbing course who wish to attend.

Non-Sports Beijing Climbing course takers have to pay for the event. There

Looking for more family-friendly events in Beijing?

Visit us online at beijing-kids.com/events will be a free shuttle bus leaving from the International School of Beijing at 10am and returns at 4.30pm. For those driving, the event is from 11.30am to 3.30pm. Registration required. RMB 150 (inclusive of transport and lunch snacks). 1-3pm. O’le Climbing (186 1846 1002, www.ole-sports.org)

Mon, Oct 28 3e International School Information Evening All ages. Learn about 3e’s dual immersion bilingual program through presentations and a Q&A with teachers, administrators, and current parents. The elementary and kindergarten info session takes place on Oct 28, while the nursery and pre-kindergarten info session takes place on Nov 4. Registration required for non-3e families.

Free. 5.30-7pm. 3e International School (6437 3344 ext 100, community@3einternationalschool.org)

The Diversity Project II See Oct 23 listing.

Wed, Oct 30

Sun, Nov 3 The Diversity Project II See Oct 23 listing

Mon, Nov 4 3e International School Information Evening See Oct 28 listing.

Thu, Nov 7 Parentcraft: Toilet Training For adults. Dr. Stephanie Teoh talks about how to recognize signs of readiness, common challenges, and preparing your child for toilet training.

RMB 100 for non-members, free for International SOS members. 10amnoon. International SOS (seminar@ internationalsos.com)

Ongoing Ayi Cooking Classes

The Diversity Project II

For adults. Green T. Living house living offers a six-session basic course from Oct 9 to Nov 20 (every Wed). The course is designed to teach ayis all about Western-style cooking, including how to choose ingredients focusing on health and nutrition. The fee includes all materials, ingredients, recipes and a certificate. Registration required. RMB 2,400. Green T. House Living (8456 4922 ext 8, healthcoachbeijing@gmail. com)

See Oct 23 listing.

HoK Super Science Mondays

Heyrobics Core Challenge For teens and adults. The Heyrobics Core Challenge for features all-youcan-do push-ups, sit-ups and squats and takes place on the last Wednesday of every month. RMB 30. 6.45-8.30pm.

3e International School (beijing@ heyrobics.com)

Thu, Oct 31 Trick-or-Treat for Pets at ICVS All ages. Pets can also celebrate Halloween at ICVS, where they will receive a Halloween treat and gift while supplies last. Pets that perform a trick will be given an extra serving of treats. Free. 9am-8pm.

International Center for Veterinary Services (8456 1939/40/41, ICVS_ CHINA@yahoo.com)

The Diversity Project II See Oct 23 listing.

Fri, Nov 1 The Diversity Project II See Oct 23 listing.

Sat, Nov 2 The Diversity Project II See Oct 23 listing.

Age 3-6. This class is packed with science experiments and creations for kids. Everyday household items are turned into bottle rockets, boats, slime and much more. RMB 1,440/ term (12 classes). 4-4.45pm. House of Knowledge International Kindergarten (6538 2624, info@hokschools.com)

YCIS Beijing Active Parenting for Pre-Teens For adults. YCIS Beijing’s School Counselor Ron Drisner leads a sixweek program that runs every Tuesday from Oct 8 to Nov 12. Activities and discussions focus on how to raise responsible and cooperative children.

This course is open to the whole community. RSVP required. Free.

10am-noon. Yew Chung International School Beijing (8583 3731, eryn. vanwinden@bj.ycef.com)

YCIS Beijing Active Parenting for Teens For adults. This six-week program runs every Monday from Oct 7 to Nov 11. This course is open to the whole community. RSVP required. Free.

10am-noon. Yew Chung International School Beijing (8583 3731, eryn. vanwinden@bj.ycef.com)

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Essentials New Arrivals

o t o l l e H Say t s e l l a m S Beijing’s

Jiayi Zhuo

5 to Ting Wang Chinese. Born on Aug New Century at o Zhu and Feilong s Hospital.

Women’s and Children’

Anne-Christine Sutherland Wilson South African. Born on Jul 26 to Lyndall and Bret Wilson at OASIS International Hospital.

Jose Luis and Isabel Grace Samperio

Mexican/American. Born on July 31 to Liz and Jose Samperio at Beijing United Family Hospital.

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2013 October

Maya Jan Liu

Canadian. Bo rn on Jul 3 to Michelle Chow and Caleb Liu -Liu at Beijing Unite d Family Hospi tal.

Want to share your new arrival with our readers?

Email a photo (at least 1MB in size) of your little one with his or her full name, nationality, birth date, hospital, and parents’ names to editor@beijing-kids.com. Due to space constraints, we can only publish photos of babies born in Beijing after April 1, 2013.

Ruixi Wu

Chinese. Born on Aug 7 to Hui Xie and Bing Wu at New Centu ry Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

o Shira Benvenist.yBoYa rn on Aug 7 to Israeli/Chinese Tal at Yao Jia and Benvenisty spital.

Ho ily Fam ited Un Beijing

On the Blog Living

My Puppy Died – And You Need to Know Why

photo: symic (flickr)

O

n June 25, I got a WeChat message from my roommate. Jonny and his friend Jan had found a puppy all curled up in a paper bag hung from Jan’s bike handlebars. Jonny and Jan brought the puppy to our house, toweled him off, and made sure he was warm. The dog was dirty, exhausted, and smelled faintly of urine, but above all tiny.

We speculated about the puppy’s age and what we should feed him. Jonny asked his mom over Skype while Andrea (our other roommate) and I “ooh” and “aah”ed over our new charge. He peed on us a few times, but we were too enamored to care. Jonny and Jan nicknamed him “Baxter Wang Hund” to reflect his British/Chinese/German surroundings.

We knew we couldn’t keep him. Not only were we too busy with work, but Andrea was mildly allergic to dogs. We posted about Baxter on Facebook and asked if anyone could take him in. The response was swift. One friend wrote “Send to Canada!” and another “I’m literally dying here … AAHHHHH I want a puppsie wuppsie!” One person came over to see him that very night. Clearly, Baxter wouldn’t have trouble finding a good home.

Mary Peng, the co-founder of the International Center for Veterinary Services, also saw our message on Facebook. She offered to give Baxter a free physical exam; as a rescued dog, he also qualified for ICVS’ discounted vaccination program. The latter gives 60 percent off on all the shots needed during a dog’s first year of life.

A few days later, Jonny and Jan took Baxter to ICVS. Jonny called at some point; there seemed to be some confusion about the price of the physical exam. He passed me to the Chinese-speaking receptionist, but the details were too technical to understand. I hung up and called Mary. She was caught up in a meeting, but would help us find out what was going on as soon she got out.

When she called back, it was with bad news. Baxter was diagnosed with canine distemper, a viral disease that initially infects the respiratory system but can move on to the digestive system, nerves, and brain. The canine distemper virus (CDV) spreads through the air from coughing and sneezing and through contact with infected bodily fluids like discharge from eye and nose discharge, feces, and urine.

There is no known cure and puppies are especially vulnerable.

According to the ICVS website, fatality rates are “as high as 70 percent among puppies and dogs with weak immune systems or a poor history of vaccinations.”

Yet, the diagnosis itself wasn’t the most heartbreaking part. The general consensus is that puppies should only be separated from their mothers at eight weeks of age or older. Baxter was only three weeks old.

In addition, marks on his skin suggested that he’d received treatment before ICVS.

The most likely story is that Baxter was taken from his mother too soon, kept in a crowded environment that was a perfect breeding ground for disease, and peddled to an unsuspecting customer. His new owners soon realized there was something wrong with him, took him to an animal hospital, and abandoned him when they learned how futile and expensive treatment would be. “This is an all-too-common story in Beijing,” said Mary.

Since there is no cure for CDV, the only thing that ICVS can do if a dog is diagnosed with distemper is to support the animal’s immune system as much as possible.

A more conservative person might say that the chances of survival for a 3-week-old puppy were very low. In effect, they were next to nothing. I called Jonny to relay everything I’d found out. I told him that the decision should be his and Jan’s, since (a) they found Baxter and (b) were at ICVS with him.

Eventually, they made the difficult decision to put him down. To say that we were heartbroken was an understatement. Perhaps because of his impossibly small size, we’d all felt extra protective of Baxter.

There was anger too. Anger at the thought of a puppy being taken from its mother so young, anger at people for supporting this industry (however inadvertently), and anger that Baxter would never get to play fetch, chew on a shoe, or become someone’s best friend.

We’re constantly told by animal shelters and hospitals to adopt, but that never really sank in until we found a dog, loved him, and lost him to a cruel disease. We have no illusions about the fact that stories like Baxter’s will continue to happen again and again in this city.

To find out more about canine distemper and other diseases, visit the ICVS website at www.icvsasia.com.

This article was modified from a post on www.beijing-kids.com by Sijia Chen entitled “My Puppy Died – And You Need to Know Why.”

October 2013

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Living Noticeboard

What’s Happening in Beijing Keystone Academy Hosts Introductory Sessions Ahead of its opening in the fall of 2014, Keystone Academy has started holding information sessions for families wanting to know more about the school’s curriculum, teaching methods, residential life, and admission processes. Up to 15 families can join each session, which feature a virtual tour of the campus, classrooms and facilities.

Attendees can also speak with other parents and members of the leadership team, including the primary and middle school heads, the curriculum and Chinese coordinators, the dean of student life and the dean of admissions.

The school is now accepting applications for Grades 1-9. To apply for enrollment or to register for a curriculum information session, contact the Admissions department by calling 5825 6008 or emailing admission@keystoneacademy.cn.

Dulwich Celebrates IB Results The 2013 International Baccalaureate class at Dulwich College Beijing graduated with an average score of 36.6 and almost a third of students scoring 40 or above.

Four of this year’s graduates – Biko Mizuno, Benjamin Tan, Christina Lin and Sharmaine Wong – recorded perfect scores of 45 out of 45, a result achieved by only 108 of the approximately 60,000 students who sat the exams in May. Speaking about the exam scores, Head of the Senior School Simon Herbert said: “I am absolutely delighted that the hard work of our students has been wellrewarded by these remarkable results.”

Education consultancy the Essential Learning Group has appointed a new learning support specialist to its Beijing team. Guillaume Palis holds a Master’s degree in kindergarten and primary school education from the French National School for Teachers and a degree in special education for children with cognitive disorders from the University of CergyPontoise in France. He has worked for six years as a special education teacher in primary school, as well as a special needs program coordinator in a middle school.

Palis’ new role will see him working with children and their families to help them meet their academic potential. For more info, visit www.chinaelg.com.

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2013 October

Children’s Arts Center Appoints Drama Specialist Art Bug Beijing has appointed a new teaching specialist and host, Wendy Lim, to work on its children’s speech and drama programs. An acting graduate from Lasalle College of the Arts in Singapore, Lim brings performance experience to her role through appearances in various plays, commercials and short films. She also has a background in teaching children, having previously worked at the Julia Gabriel Centre for Learning and as a freelance Chinese drama teacher with the Singapore arts group Shine & Grow.

Wendy will lead Art Bug’s speech and drama courses, which aim to cultivate language skills through role playing. For more information, visit www.artbug.cn.

photos: courtesy of keystone, elg, dcb and art bug beijing

Learning Support Specialist Joins Essential Learning Group

Noticeboard Living Snow Joke: Language Camp Set for Winter Launch Chinese language school That’s Mandarin is now offering a winter camp for kids and teens aged 7 to 17 at its Beijing campus. Participants will undertake a program of language learning, cultural activities and excursions. Morning, day and full camp programs are available. For more information, visit www.thatsmandarin.com or email info@thatsmandarin.com.

Jiade Welcomes New Teacher Jiade Montessori Bilingual Kindergarten welcomed new PE and Music Teacher Sayori Takahashi Tomaszun. Originally from Japan, she has seven years of teaching experience at international schools and speaks fluent English, Chinese and Japanese.

Language Arts Teacher Returns to The Learning Center

photos: courtesy of jiade, ycis, tlc, that’s mandarin and bju

The Learning Center welcomes back elementary and middle school language arts teacher Joanne Harris-Bedford following a two-year teaching spell in Canada. A graduate from Ontario’s McMaster University, Harris-Bedford also has a teaching qualification from Charles Sturt University, where she completed programs in primary, intermediate, and special needs education. As well as running her own tutoring business in Canada, she has worked overseas developing and implementing innovative lesson plan strategies for second-language speakers.

YCIS Pair Make the Grade

New Pediatric Surgeon at BJU

Two students from Yew Chung International School Beijing, Russell Ng and Nathan Drisner, received A and A* grades in every subject of their IGCSE exams. In addition, 98 percent of the school’s students achieved a distinction or merit.

Speaking of his success, Nathan Drisner (pictured left) said: “We all studied very hard. Our teachers helped so much in terms of preparing us sufficiently for our exams, but also within coursework. They allowed us a lot of creative space, which I personally enjoyed a lot and this probably added some extra motivation as we could really put a lot of passion into our work.”

Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU) has welcomed a new pediatric surgeon and Department Chair of Surgery, Dr. Cheng Wei. He has worked and trained at top pediatric medical centers around the world, including the Great Ormond Street Hospital (London), Sick Kids Hospital (Toronto), Royal Children Hospital (Melbourne), Queen Mary Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital (Hong Kong).

Dr. Cheng is from Australia and joined BJU from Monash University and Children’s Hospital in Melbourne.

To schedule an appointment, contact BJU’s Surgery Department at 5907 1266 or visit www.ufh.com.cn.

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Living Indulge

La Vie en Rose Isabelle Justo channels classic French glamor photos by Littleones Kids & Family Portrait Studio

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Indulge Living

riginally from Strasbourg in France, Isabelle Justo is mom to 7-year-old Hortense and 5-year-old Léonore. This avid cyclist has lived in Beijing for 14 years and can be seen zipping around town on her trusty cruiser. She volunteers with Smile Angel Foundation, a Beijing-based charity that provides free surgery for children born with cleft lips and palates. Usually, Isabelle wears her hair up and doesn’t use makeup. At the salon, she normally just gets her hair trimmed and blow-dried. She experimented with color only once, and that was to dye her hair back to its natural chestnut brown. By the time we met at Japanese salon BIS, Isabelle was ready for some dramatic change. We were surprised when she broke out in fluent Japanese with Salon Director Ackie; it turns out she studied at Rikkyo University in Tokyo for four years. By the time Ackie and Makeup Artist/Color Technician Ma Ying were finished with Isabelle, we were reminded of timeless actresses like Catherine Deneuve. “My wife looks like a totally different person. I hardly recognized her at first!” said Isabelle’s husband. Sijia Chen

before

Get the Look:

1

Ackie gave Isabelle a younger, lighter style by taking two inches off the overall length and performing a bias cut toward the back of her neck.

BIS Daily 9.30am-9pm. Shop 105, Bldg 22, 5 Wanke Gongyuan Commercial Street (near Chaoyang Park South Gate), Tianshui Xiyuan, Chaoyang District (6500 3933, bis_beijing1@126.com) www.bis-china.cn 朝阳区天水西园万科公园五号商业街（近朝阳 公园南门）22号楼105底商

2

Isabelle’s naturally wavy contained quite a bit of gray, so Ackie and Ma Ying created an all-over chestnut base and added thin blonde highlights for depth and texture. Isabelle liked the effect so much that she said: “It makes me want to try all blonde one day.”

3

For the makeup, Ma Ying decided to create dramatic smoky eyes. First, she brushed a light brown eyeshadow from MAC’s professional series all over Isabelle’s eyelids, with a darker copper brown shade closer to the lash line. She then applied a touch of black eyeshadow and a black gel eyeliner, with the line extended slightly past the corner of the eye. She also used a black pencil liner on Isabelle’s inner eyelid, blending with a brush. The finishing touch was a pair of gravity-defying fake eyelashes.

For the rest of Isabelle’s look, Ma Ying applied a cream foundation using a triangular makeup sponge, then set it with a loose powder. She used a cream concealer to reduce Isabelle’s undereye circles and finished off with some blush and pearlescent pink lipstick. Besides the eyeshadow, all the makeup products were little-known brands from China or Korea.

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Living Talking Shop

Don’t Dream It, Bee It Shangrila Farms’ urban beekeeping classes take off

by Sijia Chen

S

hangrila Farms has run beekeeping programs in Yunnan for low-income farmers for several years, but July marked the first time that it offered workshops for city-dwellers in Beijing.

We recently met up with Co-Founder and CEO Sahra Malik (pictured below) to learn more about the humble honey bee.

At Shangrila Farms’ head office on Xindong Lu, we stepped through a window to find a covered atrium with two large bee boxes.

Hundreds of bees buzzed through the air and around our heads but Sahra assured us that Chinese bees are much milder than some of their foreign counterparts. “We have protective gear available, but most people don’t end up using it,” she said.

A colony houses around 20,000 bees; depending on the hive’s strength, it takes one to two weeks for worker bees to cover a wooden slat in honeycomb. More slats are inserted into the box as the honeycomb is completed. Honey is then separated from

the combs using a spinning machine, and finally washed and bottled for consumption.

During the winter, the boxes are wrapped in cloth for insulation and the bees are fed sugar water every week.

Shangrila Farms is a family affair. For many years, the Mahlik siblings’ mother has run an NGO called the Yunnan Mountain Heritage Foundation. Sahra helped out by creating designs for the NGO. Around the same time, her older sister Alia developed a natural skincare line called Shangrila Botanicals. Eventually, they started a new company called Shangrila Farms. Their younger brother, Safi, currently leads the urban beekeeping workshops and serves as the company’s chief operating officer.

Though Shangrila Farms holds two fair trade certifications and individual organic certifications for specific products, Sahra warns consumers to take these labels with a grain of salt. “It’s such a gray area for organics in China,” she said. “Many Chinese honeys

are diluted or completely fake. RMB 30 for 500g is simply not a sustainable price.” By comparison, Shangrila Farms’ honeys retail for RMB 58-68 for 500g depending on the floral source.

In addition to honey, Shangrila Farms sells coffee, natural soaps, and its original Shangrila Botanicals skincare line. In Beijing, its products are available through their website as well as outlets like Jenny Wang, April Gourmet, Nick’s Mart, and Lucky Chain. The Mahlik siblings can also be frequently seen selling their wares at Christmas bazaars during the holiday season.

“Urban Beekeeping: The Untold Story of the Honey Bee” is suitable for ages 3 and up. The workshop costs RMB 150 per person. To reserve a spot, email sammi@ shangrilafarms.com. To find out, visit www.shangrilafarms.com.

photos: sui

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Birthday Bash Living

Win Peaks Vertical obstacle course sends kids to great heights

by Dana Cosio-Mercado

photos: ken

I

f your child is looking for an activityfilled birthday party, look no further than Let’s Go’s (乐仕堡) in Wangjing.

This imposing outdoor three-storey structure tests participants’ physical and mental skills. After kids are outfitted with safety helmets and harnesses, they must make their way up the climbing frame by completing a series of challenges. These include balancing on a wooden suspension bridge and crawling through metal hoops.

There is no time limit and each child’s carabiner stays firmly hooked onto a security rope at all times.

Once the tasks on the first level are completed, your child is asked whether they would like to repeat the level or move up to the next. No two challenges are exactly the same, though the skills required are similar: balancing and shifting one’s weight, upper body strength, core strength, planning, focus, and patience.

The course provides not only a full-body workout, but also intellectual stimulation.

Older children (ages 8 and up) should progress quickly to the second and third levels. Once they reach the second level, a coach accompanies them for safety until

they reach the end of the course. If a child needs more time to complete a particular task, the coach also ensures that participants at the back of the line give them enough space.

There is also a small rock climbing wall suitable even for the youngest of kids, and a bungee jumping area at extra cost.

This birthday activity would be ideal for a group of six to eight children and two to three adult chaperones. At least one adult can supervise from the ground level and offer encouragement if one of the kids get tired; another adult can take the escalators up to the second floor of the adjacent mall and overlook the climbing frame from the atrium. Both perspectives make for interesting photo opportunities.

Make arrangements ahead of your intended party date. You will want to ensure the climbing frame isn’t too full and clarify how many coaches can be assigned to your group. Let’s Go has set up multiple intelligence climbing frames all over China, so the coaches are well-trained and used to working with children.

However, they don’t speak English. The frame itself is made of sturdy materials and built to French safety and design specifications.

Be prepared to welcome a group of adrenaline-filled kids back to ground level. They’ll have

warmed themselves up from the physical exertion, even in these colder months. Let’s Go is open year-round.

Once your group gets hungry, there’s a McDonald’s about 50m away on Guangshun Beidajie. Better yet, head to Indigo Mall (around 4.5km away) for more Western options like Flamme and Blue Frog. Asian options include banh mi sandwiches at Muse or Chinese food at the food court.

For something sweet, go to Cold Stone Creamery or Yogen Fruz.

Let’s Go 乐仕堡 One-off prices: RMB 80 per child (ages 3-12) for the climbing frame, RMB 30 for five minutes of bungee. Member prices: RMB 1,190 (RMB 60/child for two hours on the climbing frame, RMB 22.50/five minutes of bungee) or RMB 2,000 (RMB 44/child for two hours on the climbing frame, RMB 16.50/five minutes of bungee). Daily 10am4.30pm (winter), 9am-8.30pm (summer). 19 Guangshun Beidajie (south part of Liubaiben Shopping Street next to Dazhong Electronics), Wangjing, Chaoyang District (152 1137 1992, 135 5286 2400) 朝阳区望京广顺北大 街19号六佰本商业街南侧大中电器旁边

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Health

WHEN

?

P

Morning sickness is one of the common ailments that expectant mothers face, with approximately three in four experiencing nausea or vomiting at some point during their pregnancy. The cause is believed to be a

2013 October

combination of hormonal changes, low blood sugar, and an increased sensitivity to smells, which can trigger the gag reflex.

To begin with, the term “morning sickness” is something of a misnomer. Experiencing nausea at any time of day should not be cause for concern. As new mom Jing Xu* discovered, the severity of the symptoms can vary wildly from person to person.

“I was just over a month pregnant when the nausea and vomiting started to affect me at random times throughout the day,” she explains.

“Between months one to four, I would throw up at least once a day – if not more. During this time, I felt fatigued. I thought it was supposed to improve by the fourth month but it only got worse.”

Eventually, Xu’s symptoms eased. In her case, the best cure was a simple regime of rest, plain foods, and ginger-based products, which many moms-to-be find helpful for nausea. Drinking plenty of fluids is also crucial, as most cases of hospitalization result from dehydration rather than more complex medical problems.

However, many pregnant women worry about how much is too much. There is no set amount of vomiting that indicates a more serious complication, but there are some warning signs to look out for. If you

illustration: sun zheng

Morning Sickness

beijingkids

What to expect with pregnancy’s most common side effects

by Oscar Holland

regnancy can be a complicated business. Given the changes that women’s bodies must undergo and the new pressures placed on their internal systems, it is unsurprising that problems can occur. Luckily, most pregnancy diseases are so rare that the stress of worrying about them often outweighs the actual risk.

Getting the recommended check-ups and trusting your intuition is normally the best approach for moms-to-be. Most need not be told twice to err on the side of caution when it comes to the health of their unborn child.

There are, however, complaints experienced by almost all expectant mothers that, while not usually problematic, can be symptomatic of more acute complications. In these cases, the most important question may not be “Do I have these symptoms?” but rather “How do I know if these symptoms point to something more serious?”

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How Much Is Too Much?

Health are unable to keep food or water down for more than a day, find blood in your vomit, experience abdominal pains, or see that your urine is significantly darker than usual, seek advice from your doctor. There’s also cause for concern if any symptoms persist beyond week 20 of your pregnancy.

In these cases, your doctor may simply prescribe anti-sickness medication. But in up to 2 percent of pregnancies, morning sickness develops into hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a more severe condition that causes weight loss and vitamin deficiencies that can be detrimental to the unborn child. Women with HG may also suffer from changes in the way their bodies convert fat into energy (a condition known as ketosis) and in some cases will require a hospital stay.

“I thought it was supposed to improve by the fourth month, but it only got worse” There are also symptoms of other serious conditions to be aware of, says Dr. Weijuan Wang, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Amcare Women’s and Children’s Hospital. “If body temperature stays above 38°C, [the person’s] pulse is greater than 120 beats per minute, or jaundice or [protein in the urine] persists, these can be signs of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome,” she warns. The latter is a vitamin B1 deficiency that can affect vision and memory.

Pregnant women should also stay alert to pain or swelling in the legs, which may also be signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or blood clots, that result from dehydration caused by morning sickness.

Braxton Hicks Contractions The body’s preparation for childbirth is believed to be the reason behind another commonly-experienced side effect of pregnancy: Braxton Hicks contractions. From six weeks onwards, the uterine muscles contract sporadically; however, the movements are not usually felt by the mother until the second trimester (13-28 weeks) – and sometimes not at all.

The sensation is comparable to the early stages of childbirth, but contractions are usually painless and nothing to worry about. Changing one’s body position, staying hydrated, regulating breathing, and taking a warm bath are some methods that can be used to decrease the frequency and discomfort caused by these contractions.

But as with morning sickness, seemingly normal episodes may in fact be something more serious. This was the case for mom-of-two Wang Li* when she was pregnant with her second child.

“I began to experience the contractions at 15 or 16 weeks, and by 20 weeks they were stronger and more frequent,” she recalls. “By week 23, I was having them two times a day until I had ten in a single day, each five minutes long.”

In cases like Li’s, what appears at first to be normal Braxton Hicks contractions may in fact indicate preterm labor – in other words, the premature opening of the cervix before 37 weeks. At the hospital, Li was injected with anti-convulsants to keep the contractions under control. However, the thinning of the uterine lining that resulted from the contractions made for a difficult birth later on.

Her son is now showing some cognitive and physical signs of developmental delay, though doctors are unable to confirm whether her pregnancy difficulties are responsible for this. But Li was fortunate to be able to continue her pregnancy. If early contractions come too severely or early or if medical attention is sought too late, the prognosis is not always so positive.

There are some key warning signs women should look out for and moms-to-be with signs of preterm labor have the best chance of a healthy birth if they are promptly seen by a doctor who can control

the contractions, according to Dr. Lianfang Wu, a gynecologist at New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital.

“With preterm labor the cervix will be tight and you may have vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain because of the contractions,” she says.

“In these cases, we can give sufficient progesterone and the symptoms may disappear with rest at home, as it relaxes the uterine muscles.”

So the best advice for women with seemingly normal Braxton Hicks contractions is to stay mindful of their length, intensity and frequency.

If you are having more than five to six an hour or they feel as if they are becoming increasingly longer or more intense then you should consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Similarly, if the contractions cause pain or are accompanied by bleeding or a feeling of pressure on the pelvis, then seeking urgent medical attention could make all the difference for your health and that of your unborn child.

* The names of the women featured in this article have been changed to protect their privacy.

Resources Amcare Women’s and Children’s Hospital 北京美中宜和妇儿医院 Amcare provides obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, family planning, and psychological consulting services. Dr. Wang speaks Chinese, with English-speaking staff and other foreign language support services available upon request. The Yayuncun branch has 50 wards, private gynecological clinic and a neonatal intensive care unit.

1) Yayuncun branch: Open 24hrs. Bldg 5, Anhui Beili Yiyuan, Chaoyang District (400 100 0016) www.amcare.com.cn 朝阳区 朝阳区安慧北里逸园5号楼; 2) Lido branch: Daily 8am-4.30pm.

9 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District (800 610 6200) 朝阳区芳 园西路9号 New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital (NCWCH) 北京新世纪妇儿医院 New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital provides gynecology, obstetrics, pediatric, neonatal intensive care and urgent care services for women and children. Dr. Wu speaks Chinese and consultations at the hospital are available in English, Chinese, and Japanese.

Open 24hrs. 51 Wangjing Beilu (Wanghu Park south gate), Chaoyang District (5178 3366) www.ncich.com.cn 朝阳区朝阳 区望京北路51号院（望湖公园东门南 Baby Center (www.babycenter.com) This website contains advice on a variety of pregnancy and childbirth issues.

Beijing Health Portal (www.puhuaclinic.com/bbs) A new online ask-a-doctor service from Puhua International Hospital in Shuangjing.

We will be looking at a variety of other pregnancy complications for moms-to-be throughout October on our blog at www.beijingkids.com/blog.

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Health The Natural Path

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My Experience with Natural Birth

’m a big supporter of natural birth. Being a naturopath means that I see the great intelligence in the universe and believe that humans should live in harmony with nature, and so I prefer the gentler approach.

It is my hope that sharing my story will encourage those of you who are considering a natural birth. By “natural birth,” I mean a vaginal birth free from unnecessary intervention and medication (including pain relievers).

When I was pregnant with my first child, I felt that society wasn’t very supportive of natural birth. Movies depicted women screaming and cursing; it made delivery seem like a scary, horrible experience.

When I mentioned that I wanted to deliver without pain medication, people looked at me as if I were crazy. I heard comments like: “You say that now, but wait until you’re in the middle of it” or “Yeah, good luck.” And this from other mothers!

When I mentioned that I wanted to deliver without pain medication, people looked at me as if I were crazy.

Eventually, I delivered my baby at a hospital. I had to get IV antibiotics and was under the care of an OB/GYN with my midwife providing support.

I was given Pitocin, a drug used to stimulate contractions, because labor wasn’t progressing rapidly enough. Because my body wouldn’t have time to release endorphins (natural pain-relieving chemicals produced by the body), I was told I would feel the pain much more intensely.

My nurse suggested an epidural; I thanked her and said I would do without. My mother-in-law – a medical doctor – also urged me to consider it; I gave her the same answer. Finally, my midwife came and mentioned it once again. At that point, I was starting to think I really needed one. However, there was a part of me that really, really didn’t want to get an epidural. So I stuck to my guns – and ended up not even noticing a difference in terms of pain after taking the Pitocin.

My son’s birth was a little more complicated than expected. There was a knot in his umbilical cord, so we had to extract him using suction.

I avoided pain medication and a C-section, but some things didn’t go as planned. Giving birth is not a straightforward process. Thankfully, I got what every woman wants in the end: a healthy baby.

So believe in yourself. If you’d like a natural delivery, do the research.

Be confident and don’t let others tell you that you can’t do it. Surround yourself with positive images and messages, and people who will encourage you. You can do it!

For more information on achieving a natural birth in Beijing, see “Mother Nature” on p76.

Got a question?

Melissa Rodriguez is a mom of two and a wellness consultant. She also works as a naturopath at International Medical Center. Check out her website at www.drmelissarodriguez.com.

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Health The Doc Is In

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Work It Out

s parents, we worry about our children getting enough exercise – but what about ourselves? Surveys show that most adults in China and the US don’t get the recommended amount of exercise per week. How can we correct this?

New research shows that short bouts of intensive exercise may be just as good for your health as longer workouts. Even a four to seven minute workout can help. This type of “high-intensity interval training” (HIIT) includes 30 seconds of all-out exercise followed by ten-second breaks, repeated for up to 15 minutes.

A few months ago, the seven-minute workout received a lot of publicity after being written about in a research journal. It’s basically a shorter version of circuit training. You rotate exercises between focused muscle groups; the routine should ideally cover them all. Trust me: The next day, your body will be feeling both anaerobic achiness and aerobic burn.

Another advantage of the seven-minute cycle is that no weights or machines are needed – just a wall and a chair. You can repeat the cycle two or three times for added benefit. However, don’t forget to take those ten-second breaks between reps as they increase your body’s healthy metabolic response. You will need to keep time; I found many smart phone and tablet apps that can be set to beep at the correct intervals. Just search your app store for HIIT, Tabata, or “interval timer.” One website (7-7-minute-workout.net) can track your session.

HIIT routines could be the perfect solution The key to HIIT routines is to really push yourself. In terms of intensity, most of the research mentions that participants should feel “unpleasant” after the workout. Many papers also mention VO2max, which correlates to 100 percent of your maximum heart rate. The formula for maximum workout heart rate is 208-(0.7 multiplied by your age). For instance, the VO2max for a 30-year-old would be 208(0.7*30) = 187 bpm. By the end of your routine, you should have reached at least 80 percent of your maximum heart rate.

This type of evidence-based research is powerful enough to have altered my usual speech to patients. Previously, I recommended the usual 150 minutes of moderate or 90 minutes of intensive exercise per week but I can now suggest something more appealing: just 15 minutes of exercise three times a week.

However, HIIT definitely isn’t for everyone. For one thing, I doubt it would appeal to people who already exercise or play sports. Secondly, data is still lacking on the long-term risks and benefits of HIIT. In addition, HIIT is not appropriate for most kids. Instead, they should be getting 30 minutes of exercise a day from regular gym glasses and after-school activities.

But for the majority of adults who struggle with exercise or think they don’t have enough time, HIIT routines could be the perfect solution.

Need more info?

Dr. Richard Saint Cyr is a family doctor at Beijing United Family Hospital, and the director of clinical marketing and communications. He runs the blog www.myhealthbeijing.com.

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Dining Dining Out

Africa Heads South Shunyi favorite opens second branch downtown

by Oscar Holland

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and bullie beef hash made from corned beef, onion, potato and poached eggs (RMB 120 from the weekend brunch menu, 11am-5pm) both stand out, as well as decent array of child-friendly sides including triple-cooked fries (RMB 10), pumpkin fritters (RMB 20) and broccoli, cauliflower and cheese sauce (RMB 20). There are also gourmet takes on children’s favorites like the beef burger and boerie roll – essentially a foot-long South African hot dog (both RMB 120).

Adults and more adventurous kids should sample the unusual combination of flavors found in the savory vetkoek (RMB 120), a classic Afrikaner dish consisting of minced beef and tomato chutney delightfully balanced against coconut and dried banana.

Samuel Wilson (age 4, Dulwich College Beijing) eats mini pizza wheels and triple-cooked October

28 fries with beijingkids a mango smoothie 2013

But perhaps Pinotage’s greatest strength can be found – as the name would suggest – in the adjoining wine cellar-cum-bar. So with the kids back at school, this is as much a spot for a grown up mid-week treat as a family lunch.

Restaurant: Sun-Thu noon-10:30pm, Fri-Sat noon-11:30pm. Wine bar: Sun-Mon noon-2am. Shop 2-105, 1/F, Bldg 2, Sanlitun SOHO, 8 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District (5785 3538) 朝阳 区工体北路8号 三里屯Soho2号商场1 层2-105室

photo: jamie gu

he original Pinotage in Shunyi has long been popular with local families for its hearty South African food and play area for kids. Only the former has made it to the restaurant’s latest site in Sanlitun SOHO (but then space is a little harder to come by downtown). With fresh, clean décor and high ceilings, Pinotage’s Sanlitun branch is a great place for lunch after a morning of shopping with the kids, especially if you can grab a seat in front of the huge kitchen window where you can see the team of chefs in action.

While the restaurant does not have a specific kids’ menu, there is still plenty for youngsters to get excited about. The mini pizza wheels with cheddar and marmite (RMB 90)

Dining Eater’s Digest These dishes were tried-and-trued by Sijia Chen, Dana CosioMercado, Oscar Holland, and Aisling O’Brien. Want to take a bite for yourself? See Directories for restaurant listings. Got a suggestion?

Send a photo and a description to editor@beijing-kids.com.

Mianjin Northwest Cuisine is a major branch of Chinese cooking. It’s famous for its flair with flour. Mianjin (wheat gluten) is a great introdution to Dongbei cuisine.

It’s best served al dente with steamed cold noodles, splashed with vinegar and sesame oil and topped with sliced vegetables, sesame seeds, chillis and parsley. RMB 28 at Xibei Xibeicai.

Mung bean and Black Pearl Tapioca Shaved Ice This delicious Taiwanese-style dessert contains lotus seeds, mung beans, taro, and black pearl tapioca over shaved ice. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine the ingredients can help eliminate “excessive internal heat”.

RMB 26 at Xianyuxian.

Full English Breakfast Vineyard Café’s Full English Breakfast adheres to the old saying “Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a merchant, and dinner like a pauper.” For RMB 84, you get two homemade sausages, two bacon rashers, home fries, grilled tomato, mushrooms and an egg of your choice (fried, scrambled, or poached). The breakfast is accompanied with tea (Earl Grey or English Breakfast) or coffee.

Asparagus, Onion and Tomato Pasta It may sound like a bakery, but Beiluo Bread Bar is fast becoming known for its selection of simple but appetizing pastas. This asparagus, onion and tomato variety (RMB 50) finds the perfect balance between moistness and crunch. Best of all, the pasta is made fresh onsite, and tastes like it too.

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Fall Harvest InterContinental Beijing Financial Street makes shrimp ravioli with pumpkin and zucchini

Ingredients Serves 1 For the ravioli 80g pasta dough (recipe opposite) 5ml lemon juice 100g shrimp 1 egg 5g fresh parsley, chopped 5g fresh thyme, chopped 5g fresh basil

Ela Kanti (age 10, attends the International School of Beijing) and Executive Sous Chef Emile Wang

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photos: mitchell pe masilun

For the sauce 50g pumpkin, sliced 50g zucchini, sliced 30g sundried tomatoes 30g basic tomato sauce 5g fresh basil 5g olive oil Pinch of salt Parmesan, thinly sliced (optional)

Food for Thought Dining

1 Basic Pasta Dough 1kg bread flour 450 ml warm water 30g yeast 10g salt 10g sugar 5ml olive oil

1. Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl.

2. Roll the dough into a small ball.

3. Return to bowl, cover with plastic wrap and leave to rise for 30 minutes at room temperature.

First, make the ravioli filling by mixing the shrimp, parsley, thyme, basil, and lemon juice in a bowl.

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Flatten the pasta dough by passing it through a pasta roller. Lay the flat sheet of pasta out on a floured surface.

When the ravioli is almost ready, swirl the olive oil in a saucepan over medium to high heat. Sautee the basil, tomato sauce, sundried tomatoes, zucchini, and pumpkin with a pinch of salt for five minutes.

Baste the dough with egg yolk. Treating the sheet as two halves, lay two to three spoonfuls of filling along one half, then fold the other over top. Press firmly around the edges of the filling to seal it in. Using a sharp knife, cut a triangle around the filling to create the shape of the ravioli. Boil the ravioli in a pot of salted water for seven minutes.

Using a slotted spoon, remove the ravioli from the pot of boiling water and slide it into the saucepan. Drizzle some olive oil over the ingredients, stir them around some more, then serve.

Garnish with parmesan slices if desired.

Emile Wang is the executive sous chef for InterContinental Beijing Financial Street. Born and raised in Beijing, he has 20 years of professional cooking experience. He finds creativity in combining Chinese and Western approaches, and specializes in Italian and French cuisine. In his spare time, Chef Wang enjoys sports and travel.

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Playing What's Fun In

The Ghosts of Houhai The hidden history of one of Beijing’s most haunted neighborhoods

by Sijia Chen

photo: KEN

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What's Fun In Playing

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ouhai Lake is a popular haunt for local families, but you are probably unaware of just how literal that is.

The area’s historical attractions are hundreds – if not thousands – of years old, so it should come as no surprise that Houhai has its fair share of ghosts. We met up with Daniel Newman from Newman Tours for this special Halloween edition of What’s Fun In. He gave us a taste of the company’s very own Beijing Ghost Tour, which uncovers the ghastly stories behind quiet hutong life and genteel imperial courts.

Start your spectral journey at Beihai North (北海北) subway station on Line 6, exit B. Upon exiting the station, you’ll see a small street called Sanzuoqiao Hutong (三坐桥胡同) that runs north to south. Walk north on it for about 50m until you spot a large red door on your left at 13 Sanzuoqiao Hutong. Though the following story didn’t take place behind this particular door, it’s a good place to set the scene for the rest of the night.

In the early 1930s, there was a policeman who moved from Shandong to Beijing. Upon arrival, his wife fell so ill that she started coughing up blood; at one point, her heart even stopped. She soon recovered but started behaving very strangely. She became very aggressive, yelled at the neighbors, and spoke in tongues in her sleep. The husband also noticed there was blood in her food.

He sought out a Daoist monk, who told him that his wife was likely possessed by an evil spirit. They went back to the house together and pasted pictures all around the walls. Upon coming home, the wife screamed, ran out the house, and dropped dead. The husband was devastated. “My wife is dead!” he exclaimed.

“Your wife was already dead,” replied the Daoist monk. “She died when her heart stopped beating and an evil spirit moved in.”

The pictures they posted were of Zhong Kui, the ghost hunter. According to legend, Zhong Kui failed the imperial exam as a mortal and reacted by committing suicide. In the afterlife, he took it upon himself to keep ghosts in line.

While we’re scared of things that go bump in the night, the things that go bump in the night are scared of Zhong Kui. Keep walking down Sanzuoqiao Hutong until you reach Qianhai Xijie (前海西街). Turn left and walk for 50m until you reach Prince Gong Mansion. You may choose to pay admission or simply stand outside the imposing Gate 1 for this second story: In the 1860s, Prince Gong was a contender for the imperial throne. However, the eight people who were in charge of the country wanted to appoint his younger, dumber, and more easily manipulated brother. Prince Gong

sought the throne by soliciting the help of the most powerful person in China: Empress Dowager Cixi. When she took full control of the country, she demonstrated “her own particular brand of mercy” by only executing three of the eight people who stood in Prince Gong’s way.

Her most famous victim was the Pearl Concubine, Emperor Guangxu’s favorite and a notorious liberal. She encouraged the emperor to introduce reforms, brought photographers into the Forbidden City, and – scandalously – wore trousers. The latter proved to be too much for Cixi, who ordered her eunuchs to throw the Pearl Concubine down a well.

Years later, the family of the Pearl Concubine finally persuaded Cixi to return the body to them. When the corpse was pulled out of the well, it was found to be in perfect condition, complete with “peach soft skin.” Some say she was possessed by a spirit and came back for revenge, for it wasn’t long after that Cixi herself passed away.

There is a story, famous among the guards, about a securty man who opened up Prince Gong Mansion with his son one morning. The little boy wandered off to explore and suddenly heard music. When he found the source, he glimpsed women in beautiful robes crying, their

makeup running down their faces. When he opened the door, they all turned to look at him.

The little boy ran back to his father, terrified: “Daddy, there are people inside!” “What do you mean? There’s no one here,” replied the guard. The boy is all grown up now, but insists still that he saw a room full of grieving women at Prince Gong’s palace.

From Gate 1, follow the outer wall of Prince Gong Mansion until you curve around to Liuyin Jie (柳荫街). One evening – on a street much like this one – an old woman noticed a girl wearing a long red dress standing in the doorway of her hutong with hair covering her face. The old woman hurried past her. When she turned around, she was horrified to find that the girl looked exactly the same from the other side of her head. The old woman collapsed; when she woke up, she was so unintelligible that she was sent off to a mental institution. It is said that the girl in the red dress can still be seen in the hutongs around Houhai. In the half-light of a chilly October evening with nothing but the sound of swaying willows all around you, it doesn’t seem so implausible.

However, not all ghosts are unfriendly. Keep walking down Liuyin Jie until you see Yuan Mandun’s Memorial (袁满囤烈士纪念碑) on

A scene from a series of illustrations depicting Yuan Mandun’s heroic deeds

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3 1

2 4 1. 13 sanzuoqiao huton 2. prince gong mansion 3. Liuyin jie 4. yuan manDun’s memorial 5. Shichahai Shadow art performance hotel 6. houhai park 7. houhai lake

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photo: photos: judy zhou ken

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What's Fun In Playing your left. You’ll recognize it by the marble bust portraying Yuan Mandun, a young member of the People’s Liberation Army. He was patrolling Houhai Lake when he saw some students falling through the ice. Without hesitation, he ran to the center of the lake and dived in, pulling out one student after another. However, he succumbed to the cold and ended up drowning in the lake. The entire saga is depicted in a series of illustrations on the electrical boxes behind the marble bust.

When you’re done here, keep walking down Liuyin Jie until you spot the people’s gym to your right. Turn left into Daxinkai Hutong (大新开胡同) and turn right when you reach Songshu Jie (松树街). You’ll soon come across the very modern-looking Shichahai Shadow Art Performance Hotel (什刹海 皮影主题文化酒店). It’s worth looking inside; you’ll find tasteful furnishings and a light-filled performance hall, where non-guests can catch weekly shadow puppet shows.

What does shadow puppetry have to do with ghosts, you ask? Everything, it turns out.

During the Han Dynasty, there was a ruler called Emperor Wu. He was devastated when his favorite concubine died, so he ordered his eunuchs to bring her back somehow. Terrified, they thought night and day about a way to grant his impossible request. They gathered 200 pieces of donkey leather, stitched them together, dressed the creation with the concubine’s clothes, and set up a silk screen in

front of the throne. When the emperor was sitting down, they moved the pieces of leather around behind the screen and simulated the concubine’s voice. For a moment, it seemed she’d returned to the world of the living again; Emperor Wu was thrilled.

At this point, you may need a place to take a quick breather. Walk to the end of Songshu Jie and cross Yangfang Hutong (羊房胡同) into Houhai Park (后海公园). Rest in the pavilion or people watch down the ramp. On clear evenings, old men can be seen pouring their hearts out in front of a portable karaoke machine. Just beyond them, you can usually find one of the bigger mass dance gatherings around these parts.

Last but not least, there’s one of Houhai’s most famous local ghost stories. Make your way to the edge of the lake by taking a slight right after going down the ramp at Houhai Park. In the distance, you can just make out the edge of the Bell Tower. Commissioned

by Emperor Yongle during the Ming Dynasty, the Bell Tower was built between 1406 and 1420. During an inspection, the emperor deemed the bell too small and commissioned a much larger bronze bell. The bell makers were alarmed by the dimensions, but didn’t have a choice; with Emperor Yongle, a deadline was “literally, a deadline.” If it wasn’t ready in time, they would lose their heads. One of the bell maker’s daughters decided to make the ultimate sacrifice. She threw herself onto the

furnace’s flames in order to produce enough heat for the massive bronze bell. Her father wasn’t quick enough to stop her and managed to grab only one shoe. Now when the bell sounds, the locals say it goes “xie, xie, xie” – but it’s unclear whether the girl is saying “thank you” or asking for her shoe back.

For more spine-chilling history, join Newman Tours’ Beijing Ghost Tour, which takes place every Saturday and Sunday from 7-9pm.

The tour is recommended for ages 8 and up, but can be tailored to younger kids upon request. To reserve, call 138 1777 0229 or email info@newmantours.com. To find out more, visit www.newmantours.com.

Prince Gong Mansion 恭王府 RMB 40. 7.30am-4.30pm (Mar 16-Nov 15), 8.30am-6pm (Nov 16-Mar 15). 17 Qianhai Xijie, Xicheng District (8328 8149) www.pgm.org.cn 西城区前海西 街17号 Shichahai Shadow Art Performance Hotel 什刹海皮影文化主题酒店 Shadow puppetry performances every Sat at 8pm, RMB 100/person. 24 Songshu Jie, Xicheng District (8328 7846, sch.shadowarthotel@gmail.com) shadowarthotel.wordpress.com (VPN required) 西城区松树街24号

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Playing Family Travels

Tessa (age 6) and Oliver (2) play on the beach

Enjoying traditional Dutch pancakes in Rotterdam

The Sound of Moo-sic The Rietveld-Simbwa family goes back to basics on a Dutch farm

by Elina Simbwa Tessa gets acquainted with one of the locals

The Rietveld-Simbwa Family

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Elina, Tessa, and Oliver hitch a ride on a traditional covered wagon

photos: courtesy of Elina simbwa

Travelers: Elina Simbwa, her husband Olaf Rietveld, and their two children: Tessa (age 6) and Oliver (age 2). Both attend Dulwich College Beijing.

Destination: Rotterdam and Dwingloo, Netherlands Dates: July 7-23, 2013 Travel plans: The family flew from Beijing to Amsterdam with KLM and opted for the airline’s Pearl Class, which provides more legroom. They drove from Amsterdam to Rotterdam upon arrival and stayed two nights at the Rotterdam Hotel New York (the former departure building of the Holland-US shipping line). Then, they drove to Dwingloo in the northeast of the Netherlands and stayed for a week on a farm called De Lange Beide (www.boerenbed.nl).

The family booked everything themselves.

Cost: Approximately RMB 50,000 (including food). Roundtrip flights cost RMB 7,000 per adult and RMB 5,800 per child. The hotel cost between EUR 150 and 200 per night (RMB 1,2401,650) for two nights. The tent rental in Dwingloo cost EUR 1,500 for one week (RMB 12,400).

Family Travels Playing

The Simbwa-Rietveld Family with Grandpa, Grandma, uncle and auntie in Dwingloo

M

y husband is originally from Rotterdam, while I was born in Uganda and raised in Beijing. We traveled to the Netherlands to spend time with family. Most of our time was spent at De Lange Beide, a Dutch farm in which we stayed in an 18th century style tent. My husband used to go to similar “farm camps” in Austria, so we wanted to see if they had any in the Netherlands. We found one via the Internet. It was our first time visiting Dwingloo. There were only four other families and seven tents in total, so it was very cozy.

Our accommodations were very simple. The tent was about 80sqm with little more than a stove, a toilet, a rudimentary fridge, and sleeping quarters. The showers were located in another building about five minutes’ walk away. Though the weather was great, we needed to make sure the stove was on in case temperatures dropped. The refrigerator was essentially a wooden box, which we needed to fill with ice to keep food and drinks cold. We slept in wooden bunk beds with their own doors that opened and shut; they would help us keep warm in case the stove turned itself off at night. The men took turns every morning to start the fire and get the tents warm before everyone got out of bed.

The farm was wonderful for the children. We had clear blue skies and average temperatures of 25°C during the two weeks we were there. We saw many animals, including horses, cows, pigs, rabbits, and ducks. We had a long night on the eve of our departure and were so tired that we forgot to close our tent. The next morning, we were

woken up by a loud “moo.” A calf had gotten into our tent!

Every day, we would go swimming at a beautiful lake about 20 minutes’ drive from the farm. We rode the farm’s tractor wagon to get there, complete with traditional Dutch picnic basket in hand. We also got to see lots of old Dutch-style houses and boats on the canals.

There was a real quietness at night. We experienced simple living without electricity, mobile phones, computers, or even a proper refrigerator.

One starts to appreciate candles and a warm shower in such a setting.

We had to do everything ourselves, but it was a great feeling finding out that we were able to manage it. Because we were with friends, it was a busy but fun holiday.

Travel Tips • This trip is best-suited for kids above 7 years of age, as well as nature lovers and those who would rather enjoy a simple holiday.

• There were many things to do. The farmer’s wife and family always kept the kids busy, which means parents get time for themselves as well. In the end, everyone was happy.

• The weather in the Netherlands is a bit unpredictable in June; I would suggest taking this kind of holiday in July.

• The only thing we didn’t like about the trip was the flights; it was a bit difficult having to run around with small children for ten hours.

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Playing Inside

Fright Night Where to get your Halloween kicks

by Dana Cosio-Mercado

Hosting Your Own Halloween Party If trick-or-treating options are limited, why not throw your own Halloween party? Here’s a timeline to streamline your organization and keep you sane: Three to Four Weeks Before • Decide what age group your party will cater to.

• Settle on the theme. If you narrow it down to a few elements, it will be easier to plan your decor, food, games, and activities. A good starting point would be a television or movie character. Or you could have an all-black insects and animals party with spiders, bats, black cats, and werewolves. Witches, ghosts, goblins, or even just fall elements like pumpkins and autumn leaves also make good party themes.

• Write up a guest list.

• Set a date. Halloween falls on a Thursday this year, so the weekend before or after would be a safe bet.

• Settle on a budget.

• If desired, book entertainment (ideally, three to four weeks in advance).

One Week Before • Confirm your guest list. This is crucial if you are planning crafts.

Always have extra for the inevitable tearing up and starting over.

• Decide on the menu. You can serve regular food and give them creative names. A plate of spaghetti with meatballs and tomato sauce might be “Witch Guts and Innards,” popcorn can be “Bat Brains,” and raisins can be “Bloated Black Ants.” Plan alternatives

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A Few Days Before • Shop for food. Prepare whatever you can in advance.

• Stock up on treats. Set up several stations within your house where kids can yell “trick or treat.” Consider giving out non-sugary tokens like fake tattoos, stickers, and glowsticks. If you live in an expat compound with its own Halloween celebration, you’ll need to arm yourself with more goodies.

On the Day • Carve the pumpkin. Doing this too early might cause it to rot.

• Prepare music. Tune into www.halloweenradio.net for a wide variety of kid-friendly Halloween music.

• Have a movie ready for kids who may need some downtime. Corpse Bride and The Nightmare before Christmas are fun for younger ones while Nightmare on Elm Street and Friday the 13th are more suitable for older kids.

• Set out candy or other treats for trick or treating.

• Set up designated stations for crafts and activities. Have a sample ready so that children can craft independently when they arrive.

• Have a trash can and some cleaning supplies ready.

• Delegate tasks to older kids or parents who are also attending. One person can be in charge of opening the door, one can keep an eye on drinks and music, another can run the games, etc. Don’t forget to have a designated photographer!

Come Out and Play!

Don’t want to host your own party? No problem. Though Halloween isn’t traditionally celebrated in China, there are plenty of ways to get some ghoulish merrymaking in. For one thing, there’s our very own annual and hugely popular beijingkids Halloween Costume Party. Now in its seventh year, the event has expanded to three different sessions at Hilton Beijing Wangfujing. Tickets for both sessions on October 27 are already sold out, while tickets for the session on October 25 are going fast.

Highlights include a five-star buffet, onsite trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, face painting, costume parades, and free family portraits.

Tickets must be bought in advance, with special discounts available for beijingkids Club members. beijingkids editors and staff will

photos: dana cosio-mercado and mitchell pe masilun

Two Weeks Before • Design and send out your invitations with elements of your theme.

• Your invitation might include an RSVP, the dress code, and a request to know about food allergies.

• Shop for party decorations and costumes.

• Plan your crafts and activities and shop for materials. Spread the prep work over several days. Game ideas include wrapping guests in toilet paper like a mummy, treasure hunts, scary musical chairs, and pass the parcel.

• Get your costumes. The younger your children, the simpler the costume can be; they’ll quickly outgrow them or may not want to wear it if they’re cranky. The end of October can already be chilly, so prepare with layers of thermal clothing underneath the costume.

for children with food allergies or dietary restrictions.

• Adjust your child’s costume if needed.

be on hand to chat with readers, lead activities, and have fun. For details, see Events (p14).

be served with dinner. For more information, call 6162 6506 or email info@theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com.

In Shunyi, the larger residential compounds also host trick-or-treating parties:

Put Your Game Face On

River Garden Halloween Party Saturday, October 26 from 4-10pm The biggest Halloween event in Shunyi; River Garden even closes the compound to vehicles for the safety of trick-or-treaters. The clubhouse is transformed into a haunted house. Younger kids (up to age 6) are welcome from 4.30-5.30pm, while older kids get a spookier version of the haunted hause from 6.30-8.30pm. However, attendees must be invited by a River Garden resident and pay RMB 10 per person for admission to the haunted house. The full Halloween schedule will be released during the week before the party.

Beijing Riviera Halloween Family Dinner and Movie Night Thursday, October 31 from 5-9pm This Halloween party features a parade and trick-or-treating around the compound from 5-6.30pm. There’s also a buffet dinner from 6-9pm (free flow soft drinks and beer included) and a movie screening at 6.30pm. Registration is required by October 30 as there’s a maximum capacity of 200 people. RMB 188 per adult, RMB 94 per child (ages 4-12). To find out more, call 8450 6888.

Other compounds such as Yosemite, Capital Paradise, and Lane Bridge host events as well. Stay tuned on the beijingkids website for upcoming details.

Further afield: There’s also the fifth annual Halloween Jack O’Lantern carving contest at The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu. On Saturday, October 26 from 2-4pm, participants can select and decorate a pumpkin for a chance to win a birthday party, sleepover, or weekend getaway package at the inn. The creations will be judged by The Schoolhouse’s team and displayed at the Saturday Fine Dining. Categories encompass children up to age 12, teens up to age 17, and adults. In addition, any young guest who wears a costume while dining (11am-6pm) will get free dessert from the a la carte menu and any adult who wears a costume during Saturday Fine Dining (6-9pm) will receive a free bottle of house red or the equivalent credit towards another wine to

Though Taobao abounds with costume options, there’s nothing quite like hunting for the perfect costume in person and trying it on for size.

Here are a number of affordable local options to turn your little one into the perfect witch, zombie, or pop-culture reference:

Kids Plus This Shunyi toy store usually stocks Halloween costumes for less than RMB 200, including witches’ robes, masks, and capes. Daily 9am-7pm. 701 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District (8046 4572) 顺义区天竺房地产开发区荣祥 广场701号 Tianyi Market 天意市场 Located in Fuchengmen, Tianyi Market is the largest wholesale market in Beijing. You’ll find masks, pumpkin lanterns, wigs, decorations, hats, spooky candles, full costumes (including witches’ robes) and more packed into over 11,000sqm of space and 1,550 stalls. Daily 7.30am-5.30pm. 259 Fuchengmen Waidajie, Xicheng District (6832 7607) 西城区阜成门外大街259号 Tian Le Toy Market 红桥天乐玩具市场 Located within Hongqiao Market, Tian Le has more than 300 stalls with similar offerings as Tianyi Market. Be warned; you will be overcharged unless you bargain hard. Daily 8.30am-7pm.

136 Fahuasi Jie, Chongwen District (6711 7499) 崇文区法华寺 街136号 Tot to Teen 红马车儿童用品商店 This clothing store for ages 0-15 stocks Halloween costumes averaging RMB 150, including pumpkin heads, Batman, Spiderman, capes, and the Seven Dwarves. 1) Daily 9am-7pm. 703 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District (8046 4419, tot-to-teen@hotmail.com) 顺义区天竺房地产开发 区荣祥广场703号; 2) Daily 10am-7pm. Stall 102, 30 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District (6417 9640) 朝阳区三里屯路30号102商店

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Nikolas Charette (age 4) wants your braaaains

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Kid Craft Playing

Ingredients:

• 250ml of any kind of sweet syrup, such as corn or maple syrup • 2tbsp cocoa or drinking chocolate powder • Red food coloring • Peppermint flavoring (optional)

1. Pour syrup into a bowl.

2. Stir cocoa or drinking chocolate powder into the syrup, mixing thoroughly to combine.

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3. Gradually blend in seven or eight drops of red food coloring. (Use more to achieve a darker shade).

TIPS

4. For a minty fresh flavor, add a few drops of peppermint essence (to taste).

Always keep fake blood away from eyes.

Food coloring and fake blood may stain clothes.

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1. Apply lipstick bruises with a makeup brush.

Smudge lipstick around facial features; into the nostrils, as eyeliner, in the corners of the eyes, around the corners of the mouth, around the ears, and around the hairline.

Blend until there are no harsh lines.

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Kid Craft Playing 2. Ask your proto-zombie to shut their eyes for this next part. Using a brush or your fingers, dab on a light dusting of flour or talcum powder all over the face to simulate the unearthly pallor of the living dead. If you want to intensify the paleness and dustiness, rub a few blobs of lotion on the face to help the flour or powder stick better to the skin.

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3. Mix some flour or talcum powder into a paste with a bit of water, rubbing into the hair and neck to create a grimy grayish tone. If you want to make the hair extra messy and disheveled, use hair gel instead of water along with the powder or flour.

4. Re-animated cadavers tend to look a little gaunt, so using a dark eye shadow, lightly add some shadow or contour under the cheekbones, jawline, and at the temples.

Blend well.

5. Using a brush or fingers, apply fake blood to the mouth and ears liberally, letting it trickle down the face and neck. Rather than use fake blood, add a little extra lipstick to the eyes.

If your zombie has been bitten or otherwise injured, you can add more blood to the neck, hands, or around rips and tears in their costume.

Et voila! It’s aliiiiiive!

TIPS

Have your zombie put on their costume before doing their makeup.

Zombies are just ordinary resurrected people, so any threadbare, tattered, or torn clothes will make a good costume.

Fill a bottle with any surplus fake blood so your zombie can refresh their wounds on-the-go or drizzle a little in their mouth if they want to look extra-menacing for photos.

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Learning

Black and White and Read All Over Introducing the Panda Book Awards Aisling O’Brien It’s A Panda-emic!

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Panda Births: 1. Lun Lun at Zoo Atlanta, twin cubs.

2. Mei Xiang at the National Zoo in Washington DC, single cub.

3. Tian Tian at Edinburgh Zoo, pregnant.

4. Yang Yang at Schoenbrunn Zoo in Vienna, single cub.

5. Xin Xin at The Endangered Species Research Center in Shanxi Province, single cub.

6. Haizi at the Wolong Panda Protected Zone in Sichuan, twin cubs.

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7. Mei Qing at Chime Long Safari Park in Guangzhou, single cub.

8. Ying Ying at Ocean Park in Hong Kong, pregnant.

9. Yuan Yuan at Taipei Zoo, single cub.

Panda Schools (2013): a. Beijing • Beijing City International School • Canadian International School of Beijing • Dulwich College Beijing • Harrow International Beijing • International School of Beijing

• LyceeFrancais International de Beijing • The British School of Beijing • Western Academy of Beijing • Yew Chung International School of Beijing b. Tianjin • International School of Tianjin Teda International School c. Nanjing • Nanjing International School d. Suzhou • Suzhou Singapore International School e. Shanghai • Shanghai Rainbow Bridge International School

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f. Ningbo • Access International Academy Ningbo • Huamao Multicultural Education Academy g. Guangzhou • Ame ric an Int er nat ional School of Guangzhou h. Shenzhen • QSI International School of Shenzhen i. Hong Kong • International Christian School Hong Kong

Learning What Are the Panda Book Awards?

Giant panda cubs are usually born in the fall, so it’s fitting that this season also heralds the launch of the 2013 Panda Book Awards. As one of China’s national treasures, pandas make a spot-on mascot for this annual series of children’s literary prizes. “The aim of the [awards] is to encourage students to read across genres and exchange insights [with other readers,]” says Nadine Rosevear, the middle school librarian at the International School of Beijing (ISB) and founder of the Panda Book Awards. “The Panda Awards try to be as international as possible and often there will be books in translation,” she adds, in order to introduce new stories and writers to kids.

Rosevear has worked overseas as an educator since 1984 in countries like Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan. The Panda Book Awards were inspired by a similar set of prizers, the Sakura Book Medals, awarded by international schools in Japan. “In spring 2008, I proposed at a Beijing Librarians’ Network meeting that we could do a similar reading initiative in Beijing,” she says. “Eight schools came on board and we had our first awards in the spring of 2009. Last year, over 20 schools and 3,700 students from all over China participated in the awards. This year, I hope to get even more kids and parents interested in reading the Panda books and casting their votes in February. ”

photos: courtesy of ISB

Reading and willing: ISB students of different ages enjoying Panda-nominated titles

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Learning

Take Your Pick “When we decide which books are going to be on the final lists, we will have heard not only from teachers and librarians but also from students,” says Rosevear. “Students have a great deal of input on the nominations. They are an important player and their voices will be heard.”

The nominated books have been shortlisted into four categories:

Panda Books Shortlists 2013-2014 (Books are listed in alphabetical order) Younger Readers (EC 3-Grade 2) • Chu’s Day (2013) by Neil Gaiman • Creepy Carrots (2012) by Aaron Reynolds • The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore (2012) by Joyce William • Ganesha’s Sweet Tooth (2012) by Sanjay Patel • Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs (2012) by Mo Willems • The Last Viking (2011) by Norman Jorgensen • Nighttime Ninja (2012) by Barbara DaCosta • Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons (2012) by Eric Litwin

Middle Readers (Grades 3-5) • Alvin Ho: Allergic to Babies, Burglars, and Other Bumps in the Night (2013) by Lenore Look • The Apothecary (2012) by Maile Meloy • Bridget and Bo Build a Blog (2012) by Amanda St. John • Crouching Tiger (2011) by Ying Chang Compestine • Hero on a Bicycle (2013) by Shirley Hughes • Jinx (2013) by Sage Blackwood • The Superheroes Employment Agency (2012) by Marilyn Singer • Timmy Failure: Mistakes Were Made (2013) by Stephan Pastis

Older Readers (Grades 6-8) • Chomp (2012) by Carl Hiaasen • The Horse Road (2012) by Troon Harrison • Maggot Moon (2013) by Sally Gardner • Ruby Red (2011) by Kerstin Gier • Sidekicks (2011) by Jack D. Ferraiolo • Ungifted (2012) by Gordon Korman • Wonder (2012) by R.J. Palacio • A World Without Fish (2011) by Mark Kurlansky

Mature Readers (Grades 9-12) • BZRK (2012) by Michael Grant • Death Comes to Pemberley (2011) by P.D. James • The Dressmaker of Kahir Khana: Five Sisters, One Remarkable Family, and the Woman Who Risked Everything to Keep Them Safe (2012) by Gayle Tezemach Lemmon • The Fault in Our Stars (2012) by John Green • The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared (2012) by Jonas Jonasson • Infinite Kung Fu (2011) by Kagan McLeod • The Shadow on the Mountain (2012) by Margi Preus • Struck by Lightning: The Carson Phillips Journal (2012) by Chris Colfer

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Learning

Hit the Books Now that the shortlists have been announced, librarians and teachers at participating schools will be busy distributing the reading lists and promoting the titles through in-school reading programs. “All schools have reading goals and the awards help students achieve these goals as the books offer quality fiction and interesting non-fiction,” Rosevear says.

Every week between now and the voting period in February, we will spotlight a different book on the beijingkids blog. “I hope that we can reach a wider audience and encourage more kids to read the Panda books,” says Rosevear.

And the Award Goes to…

Voting in each category will take place from February 10 to 21, 2014. “[Students] get to cast their votes and hope that their favorite book will win,” Rosevear says. “I love the kids’ enthusiasm when they discover a book they really like, and when I see them recommending [it] to a friend.”

After the polls close and the winners have been announced, beijingkids will host an award ceremony in March 2014.

Check out the Panda Book Awards page on our website (www.beijing-kids.com/pba) to find a code which gets you an extra 20 percent discount on the Panda books on Amazon.cn. You can also read all about the prizes, check out the weekly book spotlights, and cast your vote from there.

Resources The Panda Book Awards on beijingkids www.beijing-kids.com/pba The Panda Book Award’s Wiki pandabookawards.wikispaces.com

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I Want to Be a Midwife Alisha Fan tells a midwife’s tale

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photos: sui

s a 10 year old child in Tang Shan, Alisha Fan’s route to midwifery began with her father’s dream. Inspired by the revolutionary and life-saving work of a famous local clinician called Dr. Li, Fan’s father encouraged her to pursue a career in medicine. Fan began her education in nursing, and later focused on being a midwife.

She has been a practicing midwife for 13 years, three of which were spent in Saudi Arabia. Currently she is a nurse and midwife at Beijing United Family Hospital. Fan recently visited Grade 4 and 5 students at the International Montessori School of Beijing (MSB) to deliver the goods on childbirth. Aisling O’Brien

When I Grow Up Learning Xinyao Li, 11, China Is it true you can’t pat a baby’s head too often because it’s soft?

There is a spot on the baby’s head called the fontanel, which is a little weaker than the other parts because it’s not protected by bone. You can touch the baby, but just not press too hard.

Sebastian Banguero von Bigelen, 9, Germany/Colombia Are you a mom?

I have a 3-year-old daughter whom I gave birth to very easily and smoothly. It was a great experience.

Nicola Kirkwood, 9, US When you gave birth, did one of your colleagues help you?

When I was giving birth, my colleagues gave me great help by bringing me something to drink and wiping my brow. They did everything to make me feel comfortable and calm.

Dylan Xu, 10, US Was it hard to learn how to be a midwife?

Any new course of knowledge is difficult at the start. But if you’re interested in the subject and you enjoy learning, you keep going, and it becomes easier over time.

Dante Cantalupo, 10, US/China Do you have regular work hours?

Yes, we have regular hours.

Is it very boring when you’re just sitting there waiting for a baby?

Well, when the mother is giving birth it can take a long time, but it’s certainly never boring.

So you’re normally always occupied? No sitting in a chair and spinning around waiting for something to do?

We do get the time to take a break. But having a baby is a complicated process. We need to control the progress of the birth and manage a lot of things. We try to arrange everything perfectly so we have a smooth birth, a smiling mother, and a healthy baby. It’s never boring, because we are totally focused on the task.

Nilo Tukia, 9, Finland Are the babies cute?

When a baby is just born, it’s helpless. I think newborns are adorable. I love to watch them.

Eric Smerznak, 9, US/Austria Is it difficult to take care of the mother and baby?

Or is it always fun?

No, it’s not difficult. It’s my great pleasure to take care of the mother and baby. I take great care of the mother because I want her to have the best experience possible as she meets her baby for the first time.

Tayra Febles, 10, US/Puerto Rico Is it hard to give birth?

It is hard work. Your mother is great because she worked hard to bring you into this world. I have great respect for the ability and strength of mothers.

Makar Cherepanov, 10, Russia Is it creepy taking babies out of the belly?

Does it feel really yucky?

It’s not creepy or gross at all. It’s a beautiful, natural thing to help deliver a baby.

Tongtong Wu, 11, China Is it still painful to have kids nowadays?

It was more painful years ago, but now with advances in technology we have a lot of options to help reduce pain. Each mother can choose her own method. For example we have [something] called an epidural that we can use to put the mother at ease. If she chooses that path, the birth will go ahead but the mother won’t feel any pain.

Denton Chen, 11, China Are there more baby boys or baby girls?

Maybe there are slightly more boys, but it’s almost equal. It’s just about 50/50 for baby boys and baby girls.

Callie Yiu, 8, China What do you do when the baby doesn’t cry?

Usually the baby will cry by themselves, but if they don’t [do it] immediately I help them. A few years ago, we used to touch the baby’s feet to make them cry but now we use a new technique. We rub their back gently or help clear their nose and mouth, and then they cry. When the baby begins crying, it’s a good sign because that means the baby is healthy and strong.

Kylie Newland, 11, US What happens if the baby is born too early or too late?

Do they have to go into one of those closed boxes?

Yes, sometimes labor starts earlier or later and the baby might have a little bit of difficulty breathing. And so we place the baby in that special glass box called an incubator to help them breathe and keep them warm and safe.

Caroline Keogh, 9, US/Italy If a baby’s born at home, can you go to their house?

In other parts of the world, we can generally go to the family’s home for the birth but in China it’s not allowed. That’s because the government wants to keep the mother and baby totally safe, and believes the hospital is the safest place to have a baby.

Isaac Beck, 10, US What happens when babies are born?

There is a gate between the baby and this world. When the gate is open, the baby can come into this world, and their mother will meet them here. But the gate opens very slowly, step-by-step. It can take hours. The midwife is a gatekeeper for the birth. Birth is a really interesting thing. There are a lot of things to take care of. We have to encourage the mother to push and we need to get the baby into the right position. Then at the right time, the baby will come out smoothly and slowly. When the baby comes out, I invite the father to cut the cord, and I give the baby to the mother immediately to hold and bond with.

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Learning

Alejandro Huntler (age 9) getting to grips with reading in Dulwich College Beijing’s library

Mind the (Gender) Gap Learning differences between boys and girls

by Aisling O’Brien

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A Short History of Gender Gaps Historically, men have enjoyed more success at school and at work.

The gender gap is not a new concept; scientists have been analyzing educational differences for the last 50 years. In the 70s and 80s, girls lagged behind boys – particularly in math and science.

Over time however, the data has changed dramatically. Boys continue to score higher on standardized tests, dominate in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and math), and earn significantly more throughout their careers.

However, girls have begun to pull ahead in university graduation rates and receive better grades in many subjects. “Girls outperform boys in all aspects of the curriculum,” says Anthony Heath, head of English at Dulwich College Beijing (DCB).

photos: jamie gu

efore the home pregnancy kit ever leaves the drugstore – sometimes even before the first date – many people cherish private dreams about their future offspring. Whether it’s throwing around the pigskin or passing on heirloom jewelry, parents-to-be may picture themselves sharing specific family traditions with a boy or a girl. Most expectant couples can’t wait to find out their baby’s gender. According to a survey by BabyCenter, over half of all parents in the US choose to learn the sex of their baby by the twentieth week of pregnancy.

The fact is, even in today’s equality-focused world, the gender of your baby has far-reaching effects on their academic and economic achievements. Here, we examine the current status of the gender gap in cognition and education, and offer tips for parents on supporting boys’ and girls’ academic performance in key areas.

Learning How Are Boys and Girls Different?

This question makes many people uncomfortable – and with good reason. For thousands of years, pseudoscientific biological differences have been exploited and used as justification for disempowerment, exclusion and subjugation. It’s important to note that there are overall far fewer biological differences between girls’ and boys’ brains than similarities.

Language Abilities: Studies by Northwestern University and the University of Haifa have found that girls show greater activity in numerous language sites in the brain. In addition, their languagerelated brain activity levels occurs in both hemispheres, whereas boys’ occurs in the left hemisphere only.

This suggests that boys and girls process language in very different ways. Girls also begin talking earlier.

The average 20-month-old girl has twice the vocabulary of her male counterpart.

Boys are also more likely to develop speech problems such as stuttering.

Overall Intelligence: A recent study by the University of California Irvine found that the brain is structured and organized differently in men and women.

Scientists compared the brains of high-IQ and low-IQ women, and high-IQ and low-IQ men.

T h e y fo u n d t h a t the distinguishing brain characteristics for high-IQ and low-IQ individuals completely differ by gender. So even though the subjects’ IQs were equivalent, their brain features were not. It seems that the adage “different but equal” may have a biological basis when it comes to IQ.

Spatial Abilities: Research shows that boys have greater spatial abilities than girls, and this gap can be observed as early as 3 to 6 months of age.

Boys also dedicate more areas of the brain to spatial and mechanical tasks. They score higher by a significant margin on measures for mental rotation (the ability to visualize and rotate a 3D object with your mind’s eye).

Some researchers have suggested these advantages in spatial abilities could be the origin of differences in academic achievement in science and math later on. High spatial ability is also linked to proficiency in computing tasks.

Nature or Nurture?

Nature is a minor factor and experts still believe that in the case of educational achievement, nurture plays the biggest role. Parental educational achievement and earnings, internalized stereotypes, exposure to role models, and general upbringing all contribute to deep-seated biases and subject preferences in a child’s mind.

Of these, the data show that family income is the single biggest predictor of academic success.

Although there are subtle differences between the brains of boys and girls, they are easily mitigated. “Never tell a boy or a girl that [they are] bad at a subject because of their gender,” says Peter Knapp, who teaches math at Dulwich College Beijing. “This could make them think they will always be bad at it because they can never change who they are. My advice is never to mention gender when discussing ability.”

Leonard Sax, psychologist and author of the parenting books Boys Adrift, Girls on the Edge, and Why Gender Matters, proposes exploiting biological differences in order to optimize learning. He believes that “there are no differences in what girls and boys can learn, but there are big differences in the best ways to teach them.”

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Learning Girls and STEM

Boys and Literacy

Girls receive higher grades in math, possibly because grades are dependent on turning in homework assignments and research shows that girls complete homework more diligently. However, boys come out on top when it comes to standardized math tests such as the AP Calculus exams and the math section of the SAT. Unlike verbal test scores, math scores are an accurate predictor of future income. Because despite obvious performance gains in science and math, girls continue to shy away from the lucrative STEM fields.

Rebecca Archer, a primary teacher at DCB, traces some of the gender differences in science back to reading preferences. “Boys love non-fiction and factual reading and are easily switched onto science,” she says. “The resources we have at international schools in Beijing mean more children enjoy science.”

“I have seen both girls and boys equally enthused by math and sciences during school,” says Knapp, “although there does seem to be an imbalance of gender studying these subjects from age 16.”

The STEM sector is booming and associated skills are in high demand. Earnings for workers in these fields are 25 percent higher than other sectors. In the last decade, three times as many STEM-related jobs were created as non-STEM jobs. However, women make up less than a quarter of the STEM workforce. The American Association of University Women (AAUW) reported last year that women earn 80 percent of men’s wages one year after graduation and only 69 percent ten years after graduation, in part due to their lower participation in the money-spinning STEM domain.

Gender significantly impacts reading achievement, and boys generally score lower than girls on standardized tests in the language arts. This gender gap in literacy has existed for decades but hasn’t received special attention from educators and researchers until relatively recently. “[Boys] don’t read enough challenging material,” says Heath. “Their reading ‘stops’ at about age 13-14 in many cases. At Dulwich, [there is] not that much [of a gender gap in literacy and language arts,] but there is some difference.”

This is an opinion that Archer shares. “There’s a big difference between the international school environment and the reality in England,” Archer says. “Parents here have very high regard for education and you can really see the difference in their kids. Children are much more motivated, but there is still a slight difference in reading between boys and girls.”

Heath says his biggest success story in terms of the gender gap and English has been narrowing the A (>70 percent) and A* (> 80 percent) gap between boys and girls. This year, 15 percent more girls than boys received A and A* grades in IGCSE, a substantially smaller figure than the girls’ 20+ percent lead the year before. “Anything that closes that gap is moving in the right direction. Girls aren’t going to stop doing well,” says Heath. “It’s just about closing the gap and moving boys forward.”

Statistically, small gender gaps in reading and writing in kindergarten widen substantially throughout children’s school lives. By Grade 12, boys trail girls by 14 points in the US Department of Education’s National Reading Assessment (2004) and by 18 points in the National Assessment of Writing Skills (2007). This is of major concern, as poor literacy skills hinder all knowledge acquisition and as a result impede lifelong learning.

When it comes to higher education, literacy really matters. Above all, the tools necessary for success in university courses (whether in the arts or sciences) include fast and accurate reading and writing.

Fifty-seven percent of undergraduates were male 30 years ago. Today, the proportion is completely reversed and 57 percent of undergrads are female.

Resources: What Color Is Your Parachute for Teens by Carol Christen and Richard N. Bolles Advice for teenagers on figuring out their passions and dreams.

Why Gender Matters by Leonard Sax Examines the implications of gender differences and offers new approaches to teaching and parenting.

Pink Brain, Blue Brain by Lise Eliot Emphasizes how insignificant brain differences are and gives advice on dealing with harmful stereotypes

Rebecca Archer and student Rosie Hunter (age 10) know science can be electrifying

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photos: jamie gu

Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg Best-selling book on empowering and motivating women by STEM industry poster girl and Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg.

Learning Advice for Parents Parents are pivotal in nurturing children’s passions, beliefs, and career choices. The family unit lays the foundation for gender stereotypes or internalized cultural beliefs about the acceptable roles for boys and girls. STEM subjects are often labeled masculine, while social sciences and humanities are often branded as female arenas.

A study at the University of Virginia asked parents of 500 students to give an opinion on their children’s academic abilities. Most

For Girls: Find ways to make math and science fun. Do puzzles, visit the China Science and Technology Museum and interact with the exhibits.

Watch STEM-lite programs like How it Works and Mythbusters. Archer also recommends Bill Nye the Science Guy. Support spatial skills with brain training games. Playing with blocks or Legos may help to develop spatial awareness, as building with blocks involves the real-world application and development of spatial skills.

Give relevant real-world examples for math and science lessons. Human relationships are key motivators for most girls, and they may be more interested by practical applications and helping people.

Enroll girls in a STEM summer camp or relevant after-school club where they can meet and form friendships with other STEMfocused girls. “Few girls study math and physics after the age of 18, with biology and chemistry seemingly more attractive,” Knapp says. “There may be an underlying social element to this, where math and physics require more solitary work. Girls are generally more sociable and therefore may gravitate towards the more sociable sciences. [I try] to make [science] more sociable by having more games, discussions and presentations.”

parents viewed their sons as more adept at math and science and their daughters as more proficient in the humanities, whether this was true or not. These prejudices are easily passed on to children and may create a self-fulfilling prophecy. In the subjects presumed more appropriate for the opposite gender, parents may allow kids more leeway to do poorly and students themselves may stop trying as hard. It may mean some kids never even attempt studies or careers paths they could thrive in.

For Both: In Knapp’s opinion, “the less attention brought to gender gaps or any gender-related issues, the less children will be taught to think that there is an issue at all. Sexism is brought about as a result of highlighting these issues and dealing with them badly.”

• Let your children know that they can grow up to be whatever they want to be.

• Help your children to improve in any areas of disadvantage.

• Don’t reinforce stereotypes which divide professions up into male and female categories.

• Find examples of people who defy the stereotypes and introduce your children to them.

• Give kids the opportunity to interact with men and women in non-typical careers.

For Boys: Give boys room to move around and introduce competitive elements. Help your son memorize a poem by throwing a ball back and forth.

Or set a timer and challenge him to complete his writing task before the bell.

“Don’t give up,” Heath says. “Live in a house full of books [or] get Kindles.” Have fathers read bedtime stories so boys can understand that reading is not a girl thing.

In Heath’s opinion, “Parents are crucial. They have to be part of a process of keeping boys reading and engaging with text, whatever that text is.”

Many boys enjoy non-fiction, adventure, sports and how-to books. Heath also advises parents to “invest in some graphic novels – boys love them and there are high qualityones around like Laika and Persepolis.”

Archer suggests gradually weaning boys off of graphic novels by limiting them to one per week and insisting on a mix of fiction and nonfiction in their weekly library lending list.

Evidence suggests that single-sex schooling eliminates the gender gap for boys, and in Heath’s opinion, “they undoubtedly perform better but don’t access ‘the hidden curriculum’ – such as how to socialize with the opposite sex.”

On the subject of technology in the classroom, Heath has his doubts. “It could be argued that technology will help but I am dubious. Tech is a tool, not the tool. We just need to entertain more,” he says.

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Learning Blank Canvas

Students from the

Art Bug Beijing fill October’s Blank Canvas

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Cathy Li, 10, China

James Wang, 4, China

Kiki Zhang, 7, China

Blair Blackshaw, 9, US

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Zijing Meng, 7, China

Ben Jiang, 6, US

Anderson Zhang, 4, China

Nick Kuo, 3, Singapore

Chloe Zhang, 6, Hong Kong

Alexi Blackshaw, 7, US October 2013

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Parenting Beijing Baba

A Year in the Life Reflecting on milestones both large and small

by Christopher Lay

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When the morning ayi showed up early for her shift, she was both relieved and impressed that I had managed not to lose any of the kids In Shenzhen, one of Reina’s life-long wishes was granted when the bride of the wedding I was photographing decided to include her as one of the flower girls one hour before the ceremony. We also got to visit a beach outside Shenzhen and I experienced my little girl’s heartbreak when she saw how much trash the weekend beach-goers had strewn on the sand. We also toured a natural honeybee farm and dined at an Italian restaurant on the 99th floor of the St. Regis Hotel. As she looked out the window and took a bite of her cheese pizza, Reina observed, “Mmm, pizza just tastes better up in the sky.”

For me, the trip was a nice way to mark the end of both one of the shortest and longest years of my life. I won’t miss the sleepless nights, but I will always cherish the memories of my children’s growth – tears and all.

Christopher Lay comes from the sleepy town of Ashland, Oregon, USA. Father to 6-yearold Reina and twins Bryson and Ryder (born August 2012), Christopher has worked in Beijing for five years as a photographer and writer. View his work at www.chrislay.com.

illustration: sun zheng

t is difficult to believe that just a year ago, I was sitting in the surgical theater beside my wife (OK, beside her head) while three very calm and experienced OB/GYNs from Beijing United Family Hospital delivered our twin boys. Watching life being brought forth is a truly awe-inspiring experience; I was grateful to be present and to be able to photograph the experience of the boys being brought into this world. To this day, I cannot speak highly enough about Dr. Afnan and his team.

Unfortunately, the days of tiny babies are fleeting. Bryson and Ryder are already on their feet and taking their first steps. The changes in their growth have made every day a journey of wonder and excitement. Sure, some of those changes took place during the night when we wished they had remained sleeping. But we are nearing the stage when they will both sleep through the night and – God willing – we will finally be able to do the same.

One of the biggest challenges we faced as a family was what to do if one parent had to travel for work. The first time I was away shooting a documentary, one of our ayis stayed overnight to provide support.

However, she ended up sleeping through most of the night-time feeding activities while my wife Savvy did all the work.

When Savvy could no longer avoid travel, I made the decision to go it alone at night with three children. Naturally, the ayis suspected disaster would ensue. When the morning ayi showed up early for her shift, she was both relieved and impressed that I had managed not to lose any of the kids. Over the three nights, neither baby woke up more than once and both even slept through the second night – a family first.

Meanwhile, at the hotel, Savvy kept waking up and feeling like she needed to be doing something. When I related this story to a friend, she said the boys must have realized how much help I needed and took it easy on me. That might be true, because all three of our children decided to wake up multiple times on the night of Savvy’s return in a bizarre welcome ritual that I hope will never have to be repeated.

When a photo shoot required me to travel to Shenzhen this summer, Savvy suggested taking Reina to show her the city she was born in. It was a chance for us to take our first father-daughter trip in over two years and – more importantly – an opportunity for seven blissful nights of sleep. How could I refuse?

The Echo Chamber Parenting

Seeing Double A mom grapples with the terrible two

by Ember Swift

A

fter I gave birth to my daughter in January 2012, it only took a few days for people to begin asking my husband and I about a second child. I don’t mean just one or two people; our Chinese friends and family members did not seem to think this line of questioning to be inappropriate in the least, which increasingly started to irritate me.

Before long, I found myself barking “不可能!” which literally translates to “not possible,” but is closer in meaning to “not going to happen!”

My tone quickly silenced the enquiries. Eventually, my husband and in-laws started to politely deflect this question on my behalf.

In my opinion, asking a woman who has just endured the trauma of childbirth about the next time she was planning to endure it is like asking someone who has just been hit by a truck (but was then awarded an exorbitant settlement fee from the trucking company) exactly when they were planning to get hit by a truck again. Yes, the baby in my arms was worthy compensation but the memory of childbirth was still too fresh.

illustration: sun zheng

Having a second child just because we can is the wrong reason to go through with it However, I certainly understood why I was being asked. I am a foreigner living in a country where a second child is not permitted for locals except under special circumstances or after undergoing a financial penalty. Despite her half-Chinese ethnicity, my daughter’s Canadian passport meant she didn’t count as a Chinese citizen.

So there I was, struggling to lose the 25kg I had gained during my pregnancy (it would ultimately take 11 months of jogging and staying away from cookies). I was continually embittered by the question of a second child. Having a baby had changed everything: my lifestyle, my body, my entire world view. Add to this the idea of doubling my workload as a mother; it was enough to make my eyes widen in horror.

“I’m already exhausted!” I’d gasp.

Most importantly, having a second child just because we can is the wrong reason to go through with it. As locals restricted by the onechild policy, the Chinese friends and family who continued to ask the question seemed to be living vicariously through us.

Of course, their rationale was never so transparent. They’d say things like, “Kids need someone else to grow up with” or “When they get older, they can entertain each other!” While those reasons are valid, I still couldn’t shake the frustration that their early questioning had cemented in my spirit. I adamantly rejected the idea of more children.

“One perfect child is enough,” I would say, smiling at my daughter. (By then, I had mercifully lost the bark.)

So you can imagine my mixed feelings when I discovered I was pregnant again when my daughter was only 14 months old. Privately, my heart had already opened itself to the the possibility, but I was sheepish about how I was going to explain it to our Chinese community.

My husband and I had decided to leave it up to fate, prevention-free, so it happened almost immediately after our daughter stopped breastfeeding. I took a deep breath before sharing the news.

There were some shocked faces and occasional punches to the shoulder. My prior resistance had been extremely convincing. But, overall, everyone was very happy that our family of three was to become a family of four.

Now that people know we’re pregnant again, the line of questioning has only changed slightly. These days, we are often asked how many children we’re planning to have in total. I hesitate to answer definitively.

“We didn’t even plan this one!” I tell them, laughing as I pat my protruding belly.

Ember Swift is a Canadian musician and writer who has been living in Beijing since late 2008. She and her husband Guo Jian (国 囝 ) , who is also a musician, have expanded their family to include a daughter born on January 2, 2012. Her name is Echo Swift (国如一).

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Feature

Hello, World! photo by Mishka Family Photography

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beijingkids 2013 with October Twelve-month-old Zara Ifeanyi-Okoro her mom Jennifer at home

W

e have a confession to make. Except for our Shunyi Correspondent, none of the editors at beijingkids have kids. For the most part, we’re able to make up our lack of experience through research, interviews, and getting to know families in Beijing. However, there are times when research only goes so far. For instance, we can’t possibly understand what it’s like to bring a child into the world. So, we turned to the people who know best: our readers. For the maternity issue, we spoke to eight families about their experiences of being pregnant and giving birth in Beijing. In addition, we asked mothers and parenting experts about the best way to have an intervention-free birth. We hope that you’ll find guidance and encouragement from their stories.

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Labor of Love Eight families share their experiences of giving birth in Beijing Compiled by Sijia Chen photo: SUI

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Feature The Andell-Mascarella Family Parents: Stacy Andell and Kade Mascarella Children: Peregrine (3 years) and Taliesin (7 months) Nationality: American Number of years in Beijing: Six Hospital: Amcare Women’s and Children’s Hospital (prenatal and delivery) • • • • •

Why did you decide to raise a family in Beijing?

Stacy: We’ve lived all over the world but Beijing is the first place we felt we had the best overall opportunities for our family. So much is available here and so much is going on. Our children have countless advantages, such as being fluent in English and Chinese – which is the case for our 3-year-old daughter, Peregrine.

What was your experience of being pregnant in Beijing?

I loved being pregnant here; Chinese people are so sensitive to the needs of pregnant women. I enjoyed taking public transportation because someone always gave me a seat.

One time, at Houshayu station, the attendant got on the train with me and announced on her megaphone that someone better get up and give me a seat. I didn’t even ask her; she just did it.

Being pregnant and raising children has totally changed the way I interact with Chinese people. Before I had kids, I was just some random foreigner living in an apartment building. Now I am 佩里和塔里的妈妈 (“Peili and Tali’s mom”) to everyone in our complex.

Why did you choose this particular hospital?

I chose Amcare because it is affordable and has an amazing standard of care. I would read about new tests and procedures just becoming available in the US and Amcare already had them. In the mere two years between my children’s births, Amcare got even newer ultrasound machines.

What was the total cost of healthcare?

Because we paid in advance and I had previ-

It helped to let other people into our happiness

ously given birth there, we got a 12 percent discount. Prenatal was about RMB 12,000 and the C-section was RMB 45,000. Factoring in a few other costs, we paid about RMB 65,000 in total.

her feel the baby kick and took her to many appointments so she could see the ultrasounds and listen to the fetal monitoring. We also went shopping and bought little shoes to give to the baby.

Was your partner allowed to be present at the birth?

Other than the actual operation (which took about 30 minutes), my husband was with me the whole time. He was able to come into the room immediately after the baby was born, hold her, and sit with me while the hospital staff finished up.

What advice would you give to other parents regarding pregnancy/birthing in Beijing?

Pregnancy and birth can be extremely stressful but I found that total strangers wanted to be helpful to me. I let them; it helped to let other people into our happiness.

Did you seek out the services of a doula, midwife, lactation consultant, etc.?

Not with this pregnancy.

Did you experience any complications during any stage of your pregnancy or delivery?

Yes, my daughter had a minor kidney problem during the last month of my pregnancy. The doctors were very thorough and called in several specialized ultrasound technicians for consultations. After her birth, they followed up with extra ultrasounds to confirm that the kidney problem had corrected itself. Also, I had a reaction to the anesthetic during my C-section. They immediately fixed it and made sure my husband and daughter could be close to me and give me comfort.

How did you involve your first child in the pregnancy/birth?

With our second child, we decided to find out the gender and give her a name early. This way, we could refer to the baby by name to her older sister. My older daughter Peregrine was very involved in the pregnancy. I let

Do you have any tips for the day of the delivery?

Don’t panic. Trust your doctors and your family.

If you are calm and collected, then they will be too.

Did you engage in any local maternity practices (e.g. yuezi)?

I did drink some lactation tea after the birth, but I also bought a lot of extra waterproof bandages for my C-section scar. I couldn’t give up taking a shower!

What were the most valuable maternity resources you found in Beijing?

Since this was my second child, I was a lot better prepared this time around. I was grateful for the Beijing Cafe Yahoo group, where I found some discounted baby items.

What would you do differently next time?

It’s hard to say. I think I learned a lot between my two pregnancies; I was overall pretty happy with this experience.

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The Carr Family Parents: Aejoo Sook and Chris Carr Children: Edward (2 years) and Alexander (11 months) Nationality: Aejoo is Korean and Chris is Australian; Edward and Alexander hold dual Korean-Australian citizenship.

Number of years in Beijing: Six Hospital: Beijing United Family Hospital (prenatal and delivery) • • • • •

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photo: ken

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Feature Why did you decide to raise a family in Beijing?

Aejoo: We were married before moving here in late 2007 for Chris’ work, so it was a natural choice at this time in our lives.

What was your experience of being pregnant in Beijing?

The first time was much easier. Already having a little one, in addition to being away from family and other support networks, was tough.

Although domestic help is available, they can never be fully trusted when it comes to family and small children.

The biggest surprise for us is that our second son was born here at all. We were scheduled to travel to Australia when I was 30 weeks pregnant, but Alexander had other ideas and was born prematurely. The post-natal care and facilities at Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU) were better than we expected, as was the thoroughness and attentiveness of the Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) team.

We were also surprised by how well the different doctors communicated; we were initially concerned they may not be linked up.

Why did you choose this particular hospital?

We originally chose BJU for our older son’s pre-natal care based on a friend’s recommendation. Their family medicine clinic had treated me once and was very patient-focused. We were very impressed with their approach and standard of care. We would certainly recommend them because despite a very difficult set of circumstances, they managed to get us a first-class level of support.

What was the total cost of healthcare?

Having a premature baby with some complications made the process very expensive. This was covered by Chris’ health insurance so I’m not sure what the ultimate cost breakdown was.

to four times daily. After Chris’ mother arrived, things were much easier since we had a grandparent who could stay with Edward. Then my mother came, which made Edward feel very special; two grandmothers doting on him in the space of two weeks was exciting.

Having a car made a big difference, as it meant we were able to be far more flexible. The hospital staff was also incredibly flexible in terms of when we could see doctors, get updates, etc. There was even a possibility of repatriating Alexander for treatment. The responsiveness of the Australian embassy shouldn’t be overlooked here; if you’re in need, they can do remarkable things for Australian citizens.

I also had gestational diabetes, which was dealt with very professionally and efficiently

by BJU. They arranged for a nutritionist and it was ultimately managed through diet rather than medicinal means.

We coped with all of this by discussing what the plan was each day. With preemies, you’re on a rollercoaster ride where every day brings new twists and turns. We were thrown into chaos because the delivery happened so early, but talking about our options, priorities, and what would come next really helped.

How did you involve your first child in the pregnancy/birth?

We always referred to the baby by nickname during the pregnancy and kept the same one when he was born. The boys didn’t get a chance to meet each other for until two months after the birth because of all the health issues that Alexander faced. Edward was going through a phase of kicking around a small football at the time, so we got him a big yellow one and made it look like it was a gift from his little brother.

They’ve been close ever since.

What advice would you give to other parents regarding pregnancy/birthing in Beijing?

If you can get comfortable with your hospital

and doctor, it is something worth considering.

If you want to return home for the birth, go early. For us, even seven months of pregnancy was not early enough.

Do you have any tips/advice for the day of the delivery?

Expect the unexpected. Your baby needs you to be as calm as possible. That said, always ask your doctor in case of concern. If you’re admitted early, make sure to express your concerns and make sure that you are being checked regularly.

Did you engage in any local maternity practices (e.g. yuezi)?

Koreans have similar practices like staying indoors, keeping warm, and eating a very restricted diet. My mother was an expert on this, so I engaged in these practices to the extent possible during her visit.

What were the most valuable maternity resources you found in Beijing?

The Korean community is very good at sharing information; I found them to be a very valuable resource. Visits from family at short notice also meant we were able to get access to many things from Australia and Korea. Chris’ secretary somehow managed to source imported premature baby fortifier, which was scarce it was at the time. Sometimes, it’s best to ask as many people as possible for help.

What would you do differently next time?

I would certainly return to BJU. Their service and support was excellent under particularly stressful circumstances. That said, I’m Korean.

My husband is from Australia. We met in China back in 2000. We have one son born in Korea and one born in China – perhaps the next child could be born in Australia? (Although hopefully it’s a girl!)

Was your partner allowed to be present at the birth?

Yes he was, although he didn’t fare very well and nearly passed out.

Did you seek out the services of a doula, midwife, lactation consultant, etc.?

No. Did you experience any complications during any stage of your pregnancy or delivery?

Alexander was born at 30 weeks, which was very, very early. We still don’t really know why.

It was incredibly taxing; for the first week or so, we were going back and forth to BJU three

With preemies, you’re on a rollercoaster ride where every day brings new twists and turns

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photo: sui

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Feature The Geevarghese Family Parents: Benita Sumita and Danny Geevarghese Child: Yohan (10 months) Nationality: Indian Number of years in Beijing: Two Hospital: Peking Union Medical College Hospital (prenatal care up to eight weeks) and Mary’s Hospital for Women and Infants (delivery and prenatal care) • • • • •

Why did you decide to raise a family in Beijing?

Benita: The time was right.

What was your experience of being pregnant in Beijing?

We found out that I was pregnant soon after moving to Beijing. We were just finding our feet, so the pregnancy definitely came as a surprise and added to our experience of being fresh-off-the-boat Beijingers. From looking for the best breweries and cafes, we quickly shifted our focus to finding the right hospital and reading one online forum after the next to figure out what it would mean to have a baby in China.

To be honest, I was a bit apprehensive because of the language barrier. We knew next-to-nothing when it came to Mandarin.

However, that didn’t stop us from finding the information we needed, thanks to friends, colleagues, and other Beijingers. We were informed that we had to choose a hospital by the ninth week of pregnancy or hospitals might not register you as a patient.

The first eight weeks, I went for tests and checkups at Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH). However, I couldn’t continue there because the hospital was booked out for the Year of the Dragon.

Doctors here are overly-cautious, and this was also unusual for me and my husband. I guess this has to do with the one-child policy; extra steps are taken to ensure that everything is OK. The number of tests and scans can be exhausting but it can put you at ease to know that doctors are being extra careful.

Why did you choose this particular hospital?

We chose Mary’s Hospital for Women and Infants for several reasons. It offered the same services as Amcare or BJU (hospitals

From looking for the best breweries and cafes, we quickly shifted our focus to finding the right hospital

that I also visited and considered), it was close to our residence, it was located close to the subway and bus station in case we couldn’t get a cab, it was cheaper, and it offered translators (as at Amcare). I would definitely recommend Mary’s; the doctors and staff are friendly and caring.

What was the total cost of healthcare?

In total, we paid around RMB 39,300 for delivery and prenatal care. The prenatal care cost just under RMB 10,000 and the delivery package came to RMB 30,000. The RMB 30,000 is prepaid; any unused amount is returned when you’re discharged. We used the remaining money for a couple of follow-up visits; at the end, we got around RMB 700 back.

Was your partner allowed to be present at the birth?

Only one person was allowed in the private labor room; in my case, it was my mother. I wanted Danny to come in later, but they were not comfortable with people walking in and out of the labor room.

Did you seek out the services of a doula, midwife, lactation consultant, etc.?

Yes. A one-time consultation with a lactation expert is part of the prenatal package. Mary’s also has Lamaze prenatal exercise classes as part of the package, but I didn’t use these as they were only available in Chinese.

Did you experience any complications during any stage of your pregnancy or delivery?

It was not a complication as much as a snag.

My blood type is O positive, so I needed the Rhogam injection to be administered at 28 and 32 weeks. As this injection is not available in China, it had to be shipped in from elsewhere.

Mary’s was not able to help me acquire the injection, so we were on our own on this front.

We finally managed to get it with help from a Chinese friend.

What were the most valuable maternity resources you found in Beijing?

A blog called Having a Baby in China, Beijing Mamas, and speaking to other mamas in Beijing.

What advice would you give to other parents regarding pregnancy/birthing in Beijing?

Don’t be afraid, be flexible about birth plans, and try not to get carried away by the overcautiousness of doctors in Beijing. They tend to give you worst-case scenarios for every little detail, which can make you wonder if yours will be such a case. This is just their way of being careful.

Do you have any tips/advice for the day of the delivery?

Mary’s does not give you a change of clothes before going into the labor room, so maybe you’ll want to arrive at the hospital in something labor-friendly. There is no need to rush to the hospital too early. I went early to avoid getting stuck in traffic and just in case there were no cabs. But Mary’s was ready with my room even though I went into labor a week early.

Did you engage in any local maternity practices (i.e. yuezi)?

No. What would you do differently next time?

Get insurance.

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The Chen Family Parents: Connie Leung and Chen Liang Children: Zinan a.k.a. Haohao (15 months) Nationality: Chinese Number of years in Beijing: Six Hospital: Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (prenatal and delivery) • • • • •

photo: courtesy of connie leung

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Feature Why did you decide to raise a family in Beijing?

Connie: My husband is a lawyer, so there are a lot more business and learning opportunities for him here.

What was your experience of being pregnant in Beijing?

I felt that there were a lot of pregnant ladies during the Year of the Dragon. Every time I went for a walk in the courtyard, I would find two or three moms-to-be walking around with their husbands. I was also surprised by my baby’s unexpected delivery by C-section.

Everything I read, enquired about, and prepared for was all about natural delivery. I had never thought about getting a C-section before. When it came, I didn’t even have time to worry about the risks involved.

Why did you choose this particular hospital?

As it was my first pregnancy, I was quite cautious. I consulted nearly all of my “mama” friends. I was torn between private and public hospitals. One weakness of private hospitals is that, even though you can enjoy better care there, you might need to be sent to a public hospital anyway if there’s an emergency.

I chose Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital (BOGH) because it’s listed as the best public hospital in its field.

To be honest, I wouldn’t recommend it as it is quite a hotspot in Beijing. As a result, there will always be long queues. I was exhausted and frustrated after finishing all the health checks there. One’s mood is quite important during a pregnancy; better service, shorter waiting times, and more interaction between patients and doctors should outweigh the hospital’s fame. After all, every doctor in every hospital is fully-qualified nowadays.

What was the total cost of healthcare?

The breakdown went something like this: Prenatal: RMB 3,000 (excluding vitamins such as calcium tablets) C-section delivery: RMB 6,000 (natural delivery would cost less) Postnatal: It depends on your recovery.

Mine cost between RMB 2,000 and RMB 3,000.

Did you seek out the services of a doula, midwife, lactation consultant, etc.?

No. Did you experience any complications during any stage of your pregnancy or delivery?

Twelve days before my due date, the baby was moving far more frequently than usual. I went to the hospital immediately and received some tests and treatment. The doctor told me that the umbilical cord had wound itself around the baby. However, he was safe and I went home.

Two days later, my baby had hardly moved for three to four hours so I went back to hospital again and confirmed that the complication was acute cardiac fetal distress.

I was disappointed that I didn’t get to have a natural birth. I was ready to feel the pain, as I was always told that I would feel reborn since no pain is comparable to the pain of childbirth. When my baby was out and sleeping by my side, I could hardly believe he was my son! It seemed as though he came out of nowhere. The C-section was too quick; it didn’t give me enough time to feel like I was going to be a mom.

What advice would you give to other parents regarding pregnancy/birthing in Beijing?

Select a hospital that is close by and offers good care. A pregnant woman’s health and mood should outweigh everything else.

Do you have any tips/advice for the day of the delivery?

Pay careful attention to fetal movement. If the baby moves too frequently or doesn’t move as frequently as usual, go to the hospital without delay.

Did you engage in any local maternity practices (e.g. yuezi)?

Yes, I did engage in the traditional Chinese yuezi. There are a lot of “dos” and don’ts” in the first month. For example, I was told not to wash my head and body for an entire month. However, I surrendered after a weeklong trial.

I also hired a yuesao [a specialized postnatal ayi] to help me to look after the baby.

I found her through an agency located near the hospital two months before my due date.

The ayis recommended by my friends were all booked – some up to a year in advance (all because it was the Year of the Dragon)!

We paid RMB 8,800 (the usual price is around RMB 4,000) for a yuesao to help out for 26 days. Usually, yuesao get one day off per week but she could work 26 days in a row if we needed her to.

Yuesao mainly take care of mother and child; they don’t do housework. They can also bathe and massage the baby, wash the baby’s clothes and diapers, comfort and bottle feed the baby during the night, give advice when the baby is sick, set out a diet and cook for the mother, offer breastfeeding support, wash clothes for the mom (who is not supposed to wash anything during her yuezi), and offer suggestions for recovery and keeping fit.

What were the most valuable maternity resources you found in Beijing?

La Leche League China, which organizes monthly gatherings to provide support for breastfeeding.

What would you do differently next time?

Maintain a nutritious and balanced diet. I’ve put on too much weight this time (22 kg!), and it is really tough to lose it.

• • •

Was your partner allowed to be present at the birth?

If you have a natural birth, your husband is allowed to be with you. As I underwent a C-section, he was not allowed to be with me and had to wait outside anxiously.

A pregnant woman’s health and mood should outweigh everything else

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photo: lova

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Feature The Kang Family Parents: Jane and A Du Kang Child: Alana Marie (6 months) Nationality: Jane is from the US and A Du is from China. Alana is ChineseAmerican.

Number of years in Beijing: Six Hospital: OASIS International Hospital (prenatal and delivery)

Have your favorite music ready to play and a camera ready to capture the wonderful first few moments of life with your new baby

• • • • •

Why did you choose this particular hospital?

I loved OASIS International Hospital. I toured all the other big name hospitals in Beijing, but the choice was an easy one. The care I received from doctors, nurses, and even administrative staff was all very personalized.

They took the time to answer our questions and made sure we felt comfortable. Their facilities are exceptional and very tastefully decorated. It was such a positive experience that I would recommend it to everyone.

Was your partner allowed to be present at the birth?

Yes. The doctors and nurses not only didn’t mind having my husband present, but engaged him during the whole birth experience.

A Du felt very much a part of the birth.

Did you seek out the services of a doula, midwife, lactation consultant, etc.?

OASIS has a wonderful midwife who was present at the birth. We met with her several weeks before the delivery and discussed our birth plan. She was very positive about it all and was a huge source of help.

Did you experience any complications during any stage of your pregnancy or delivery?

I fortunately did not experience any complications.

What advice would you give to other parents regarding pregnancy/birthing in Beijing?

Take all the advice you get in stride. People usually mean well, so a smile goes a long way.

Enjoy all the extra attention; you probably won’t ever feel so special again!

Don’t expect yourself to know everything and do everything right. Don’t try to be superwoman; you’ll just end up disappointing yourself. Ask for help when you need it and find good support systems.

•

What was your experience of being pregnant in Beijing?

Strangers here were generally very kind to me while I was pregnant. They would willingly give up their seat on buses and would help me in various ways. Hailing a cab was still difficult as people would hop in before me, even though I was noticeably pregnant. Also, when I was out and about I would hear lots of unsolicited advice (and still do). All in all though, it was a very pleasant experience.

three-night stay. I believe the current promotional price for the natural delivery package is approximately RMB 42,000.

•

What was the total cost of healthcare?

I purchased the 14-visit prenatal package for RMB 13,800. It was quite a comprehensive package – no surprise fees as we went along. I was also lucky about the timing of purchasing the natural delivery package; I got it at a significant discount because of a Chinese New Year promotion. I paid RMB 25,000 for a

self to be flexible at the actual delivery. You may find that it is not at all what you expected, no matter how many classes you attended, books you read, or people you talked to.

On a lighter note, have your favorite music ready to play and a camera ready to capture the wonderful first few moments of life with your new baby.

Did you engage in any local maternity practices (i.e. yuezi)?

I did not zuo yuezi. I was in the shower right away, walking around, eating cold things, and doing all manner of things not allowed in yuezi! I know that my baby and I got more than a few raised eyebrows when we were out and about. My husband supported me 100 percent. However, to each their own.

What were some of the most valuable maternity resources you found in Beijing?

Solana has quite a few wonderful mother and baby stores. Motherswork and Mothercare are great, albeit a bit pricey. Lijia Baby has some more reasonably priced options. I bought most of my maternity clothes back in the US; they were cheaper and fit me well. Also, Beijing Mamas was a great resource for finding things secondhand or asking for advice.

•

Why did you decide to raise a family in Beijing?

Jane: Over the past six years in Beijing, we have developed a good community through my workplace, our neighborhood, and our church. In addition, Beijing is a bustling city with lots of things to do and try, so we felt that having a child here would be just another part of the adventure.

What would you do differently next time?

I would hire an ayi to help out once in a while during the first few weeks after delivery. Not necessarily for baby or momma care, but for running errands and doing housework.

An occasional extra pair of hands can be a lifesaver.

Do you have any tips/advice for the day of the delivery?

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The Hillyard Family Parents: Jenny and Dan Hillyard Children: Nathan (age 3) and Katie (almost 1) Nationality: American Number of years in Beijing: Two and a half Hospital: HarMoniCare Women and Children’s Hospital (delivery and prenatal care from four months onwards) • • • • •

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photo: mitchell pe masilun

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Feature Why did you decide to raise a family in Beijing?

Jenny: My husband’s work brought us here in February 2011. Before that, we’d been living elsewhere in northeastern China.

What was your experience of being pregnant in Beijing?

Overall, my experience of being pregnant in Beijing was positive. Living on the fifth floor of a building with no elevator was not fun.

Being pregnant in Beijing in the summer was also pretty miserable, but I find locals to be so accommodating to pregnant women.

However, I did not expect it to be so hard to find a hospital here – especially after having such a great experience in Changchun, [Jilin province]. I didn’t expect them to fill up so quickly, as I hadn’t considered our baby was going to be born in the Year of the Dragon.

Why did you choose this particular hospital?

We had [our first child] Nathan at a private Chinese hospital in Changchun. When we started looking for a hospital in Beijing, we were shocked at the prices. I started searching online and came across HarMoniCare.

They had what I was looking for, including private rooms and epidurals. The prices were less than half of BJU’s. It was also easy to get to – just a few blocks from Anzhenmen station on Line 10.

I would definitely recommend this hospital to anyone who speaks Chinese. The prenatal visits were quick (all scheduled in advance), the staff was friendly, and the stay was very comfortable. My one big complaint was that the natural birth package we paid for upfront included an epidural, but when I asked my doctor about it during labor she kept putting me off again and again until it was too late.

I suspect that the anesthesiologist was not in overnight and they didn’t want to call him in. Online, the hospital advertises an English translation service, but when a friend of mine inquired about it they didn’t seem to really have it.

What was the total cost of healthcare?

We paid RMB 37,000 upfront for a package that included prenatal visits, a private room, the delivery, and an epidural. The basic breakdown was RMB 8,800 for prenatal and RMB 28,800 for a natural delivery. This was the price after a 20 percent discount that was part of a promotion HarMoniCare was offering at the time.

of the prenatal visits as well as the delivery.

Did you seek out the services of a doula, midwife, lactation consultant, etc.?

I did not specifically seek out their services, but there was a midwife present at the birth and the hospital had a lactation consultant available if needed.

Did you experience any complications during any stage of your pregnancy or delivery?

During one of the early ultrasounds they found that I had placenta previa, [a condition in which the placenta covers all or part of the cervical opening.] I didn’t fully understand at first when the doctor told me in Chinese. She was very patient and re-explained until I got it. Closer to my due date, the doctor I’d seen all along was going to be out of town for a week. She gave me her cell phone number in case I went into labor early so she could talk to the doctor delivering.

How did you involve your first child in the pregnancy/birth?

One thing I loved about this hospital was that they were so friendly and welcoming to our son. The doctor let Nathan listen to the baby’s heartbeat and talked to him about her. Nathan still talks about Meimei’s [little sister’s] hospital!

What advice would you give to other parents regarding pregnancy/birthing in Beijing?

Especially if it’s your first pregnancy, I would recommend looking at hospitals while you’ still in the planning stages. Then you’ll know what’s available and can make a decision more quickly once you actually get pregnant.

Do you have any tips/advice for the day of the delivery?

With my first child, a friend brought me an ice pack while I was in hospital; it felt wonderful to sit on. I brought one with me this time and didn’t use it as much, but I’m still glad that I had it. Also with my first, I didn’t take any pain medicine at all when I began recovery. After talking to friends, I realized that something as simple as Advil would have been nice. I brought some with me this time.

Did you engage in any local maternity practices (e.g. yuezi)?

No. What were the most valuable maternity resources you found in Beijing?

Friends, both local and foreign. Several expat friends had delivered at two different hospitals in Beijing; talking to them ruled them both out.

Friends reassured me that the placenta previa would likely fix itself, moving upwards as my uterus grew. Several expat friends were also really helpful towards the end of my pregnancy by babysitting my son.

Chinese friends were more careful with their advice and support; they didn’t want me to overexert myself. They were often a good reminder to me to take it easy. When I was out and about, they helped with my oldest son so that I could sit down and rest.

What would you do differently next time?

If we were to give birth at HarMoniCare again, I would want to talk to someone in hospital administration to get more of a guarantee on the epidural. Other than that, I wouldn’t change anything.

Especially if it’s your first pregnancy, I would recommend looking at hospitals while still in the planning stages

Was your partner allowed to be present at the birth?

My husband was allowed to be with me for all October 2013

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photo: sui

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Feature The Wang-Yin Family Parents: Xiaojing Marsha Wang and Yuefeng Ralph Yin Child: Johann Clyde (14 months) Nationality: Marsha is Chinese while Ralph and Johann are American.

Number of years in Beijing: Marsha was born and raised in Beijing while Ralph has lived here for five years.

Hospital: Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital (prenatal and delivery) •

Too many people wanted to have a “dragon baby” last year

• • • •

Did you seek out the services of a doula, midwife, lactation consultant, etc.?

The hospital didn’t offer such services.

Did you experience any complications during any stage of your pregnancy or delivery?

A type of antibody in my baby’s blood conflicted with mine. I had to go to the Beijing Red Cross Blood Center to do further blood tests. For some reason, I was told to do four additional B-ultrasounds at other hospitals: two at Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital and two at Beijing Anzhen Hospital.

It’s strange that patients can’t finish all their medical checks at one hospital. Whether public or private, I heard that many pregnant women are asked to go to different hospitals to double check this or that. Luckily, my baby was deemed healthy enough after several rounds of tests.

•

Why did you choose this particular hospital?

Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital was the only public hospital that could receive me; otherwise we would have had to use a private hospital. The hospital is OK if you don’t mind waiting to do prenatal checkups. All of the public hospitals in Beijing were full of pregnant women last year. There were probably fewer expectant mothers at private hospitals, but they would have cost more.

Medical facilities at 3A hospitals [sansheng yiyuan, 三甲医院] such as Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital in Beijing are good enough, so I had no issue picking it. Sansheng yiyuan are at the highest level in China’s medical rating system; they normally have better facilities, more technical support and efficiency, and greater quality of care.

Was your partner allowed to be present at the birth?

No, I preferred to be alone during the birth.

Although it was a memorable occasion in our lives, I would have relied too much on my husband and the delivery would have taken longer. I chose to face the pain by myself to push myself to be more independent and finish as quickly as possible.

What advice would you give to other parents regarding pregnancy/birthing in Beijing?

Choose a hospital as early as possible or you risk being rejected by hospitals at full capacity.

If you’re in suitable physical condition, it’s better to give birth naturally than by C-section.

Keep active by doing exercises and not always staying in bed during the pregnancy.

This will ensure a smoother birth.

•

What was your experience of being pregnant in Beijing?

It was difficult to find a hospital unless you registered early, when you are still in the planning stages. We had to ask our friend (a doctor) for help finding a hospital. Too many people wanted to have a “dragon baby” last year – almost all of the hospitals were full.

I had to spend more than half a day to do health checks each time. You’d see a long line of people waiting for blood tests, urine tests, and so on, but the doctor gave me no more than five minutes to ask questions.

What was the total cost of healthcare?

The breakdown was approximately RMB 5,300 for prenatal checkups, RMB 1,600 for a natural delivery, and RMB 270 for postnatal care. The postnatal care consisted of a three-day stay at the hospital and a simple gynecological exam 45 days after delivery. In total, we spent around RMB 7,170.

•

Why did you decide to raise a family in Beijing?

Xiaojing Marsha: We work in Beijing and most of our family is here now.

Do you have any tips/advice for the day of the delivery?

Just take it easy, don’t be too nervous, and follow the doctor’s instructions.

Did you engage in any local maternity practices (i.e. yuezi)?

Not really. I stayed at home for one month but I didn’t always stay in bed. I used the air conditioner, brushed my teeth, drank cold water, and ate what I wanted in the month following delivery.

What were some of the most valuable maternity resources you found in Beijing?

The Internet. I got all my information from websites like BabyCenter (www.babycenter. com), Beijing Mama (www.bjmama.com, Chinese-only and not to be confused with the Beijing Mamas Yahoo group), and BabyExpert (www.babyexpert.com).

What would you do differently next time?

We would find the hospital earlier.

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The Guo-Wu Family Parents: Vivian Guo and Huanyu Wu Child: Yanxi a.k.a. Xixi (3 months) Nationality: Chinese Number of years in Beijing: Huanyu was born and raised in Beijing, while Vivian has lived here for seven years.

Hospital: Peking Union Medical College Hospital (prenatal and delivery) • • • • •

photo: sui

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Feature

What advice would you give to other parents regarding pregnancy/birthing in Beijing?

If you go with a public hospital, note that you might not be able to secure a bed if you’re more than five weeks pregnant.

Pay attention to water and food safety.

There are lots of online shopping sites where you can buy organic food that is a bit more expensive, but you’ll enjoy peace of mind.

If you do not plan to breastfeed, you’ll need to research formula as well as secure a stable, long-term channel to bring in milk powder from Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand, or elsewhere outside mainland • •

Do you have any tips/advice for the day of the delivery?

Have your hospital bag packed at least two weeks before yourdue date.

The ambulance is your best choice, but you need a plan B in case of traffic.

The hospital staff was very kind, so don’t buy into stereotypes of harsh doctors who can only yell.

Take every chance to rest between labor pains.

Did you engage in any local maternity practices (i.e. yuezi)?

Zuo yuezi is inevitable in a Chinese family.

However, our family was relatively flexible; Vivian could wash her hair three days after delivery and was able to take a bath seven days after that. We could refuse any “traditional” foods we weren’t comfortable with. The only really frustrating thing was that Vivian was only allowed to leave the house 28 days after Xixi’s birth.

What were some of the most valuable maternity resources you found in Beijing?

We recommend The Pregnancy Book by Dr. Sears. We were always able to find answers to our questions. In addition, there’s no better maternity resource than other moms.

•

Were you allowed to be present at the birth?

Yes. This was quite an important thing for us. I

Did you experience any complications during any stage of your pregnancy or delivery?

Breastfeeding was our biggest challenge after Xixi’s birth. He just refused to latch on, which created a vicious cycle of Vivian becoming so engorged that, even if the baby did manage to latch on, he couldn’t get any milk out because the ducts were clogged.

We tried everything: warm compresses, cabbage leaves, massages in a warm shower, pumping (only 40mL maximum at a time), expressing until there was flow before bringing the baby to the breast, and working with massage therapists and lactaction consultants. It was very painful for Vivian and she was at risk for infection, so we gave up after two weeks of trying and started Xixi on formula.

•

What was the total cost of healthcare?

Around RMB 40,000. Appointments with the doctor cost RMB 300 each time, delivery costs RMB 10,000 for a natural birth or RMB 15,000 for a C-section, and postnatal care (including medicine and a stay in the recovery room) cost RMB 13,000.

Did you seek out the services of a doula, midwife, lactation consultant, etc.?

We regret not seeking out a lactation consultant before the birth, as breastfeeding turned out to be our biggest challenge.

•

Why did you choose this hospital?

We did a lot of research. PUMCH had not only the best but the most experienced obstetricians. Private hospitals such as BJU and Amcare have nicer facilities, but a largescale public hospital like PUMCH can best deal with emergency situations. The costs we incurred at International Medical Services weren’t covered by social security but the international department had shorter queues, more comfortable rooms, and affordable prices compared to private hospitals. We would recommend it to other parents. Cons included no epidurals (the hospital used Dolantin as a replacement) and the fact that we still had to wait for hours to see the doctor.

China. I have a cousin who lives in Hong Kong and works in Guangdong province.

Based on the current policy, she and her husband can carry four cans of milk powder every time they pass customs.

That’s about 20 to 25 days’ supply for my 4-month-old son. We use Enfamil A+ by Mead Johnson.

•

What was your experience of being pregnant in Beijing?

Generally speaking, we thought that people in Beijing were very kind. However, we were surprised by how difficult it was to get a taxi.

(Even worse than the current situation!) We were once told by a taxi driver that he didn’t feel comfortable taking pregnant women because there’s more liability involved. “I normally don’t stop when a pregnant woman waves to me,” he said. I had to borrow a friend’s car for about three months to take my wife to the hospital. My own car couldn’t be driven on Wednesdays due to the license plate laws, but our doctor only took appointments on that day.

Crowded hospitals and air pollution are also things we had to live with. Even when we chose PUMCH’s [international department], we had to wait at least two hours just to have a five-minute appointment with the doctor. I can’t even imagine the situation in public hospitals, but it makes me feel even more respect for Chinese parents who would do anything for their kids. To ensure a healthy pregnancy, we also installed air purifiers in our bedroom and living room.

feel really sorry for fathers who cannot witness the birth of their own children.

•

Why did you decide to raise a family in Beijing?

Huanyu: Beijing is where we currently live and work. We plan on being long-term residents in the city.

What would you do differently next time?

We felt regretful about the lactation issues, so next time we would try even harder to make breastfeeding happen.

It makes me feel even more respect for Chinese parents who would do anything for their kids October 2013

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photo: courtesy of lian meng

2013 October

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Feature The Yurday Family Parents: Lian Meng and Levent Yurday Children: Efe (age 3) and Asya Eda (8 weeks) Nationality: Lian Meng and the kids have Chinese citizenship while Levent is Turkish.

Number of years in Beijing: Ten Hospital: New Century Women and Children’s Hospital (prenatal and delivery) • • • • •

Why did you decide to raise a family in Beijing?

Lian Meng: We both work here.

What was your experience of being pregnant in Beijing?

My pregnancy went very smoothly, but for me the hardest part was taking care of my eldest at the same time. In terms of being pregnant specifically in Beijing, I was mostly concerned about the air pollution. Once when hailing a taxi, the driver saw that I was pregnant woman and just drove away. I’m not sure if it had anything to do with me being pregnant.

My friend ended up having an uncomfortable delivery experience in a public hospital. The doctors there shouted at pregnant women if they asked for help and the conditions at the hospital were terrible; I was shocked by this.

However, many people still choose to give birth at a public hospital.

Why did you choose this particular hospital?

One of my friends recommended New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital (NCWCH).

We settled on it after going there and checking out the hospital. It was clean, well-decorated, and the staff was very kind to patients. The most important factor was the location of the hospital; it’s closer to our home than any other international hospital.

What was the total cost of healthcare?

The total cost of healthcare (including routine health checks from 12 to 39 weeks, the

Relax, think positively, and believe in your ability to deliver the baby naturally

delivery, and extra tests) was between RMB 40,000 and RMB 50,000.

Was your partner allowed to be present at the birth?

Yes, my husband was with me during the entire delivery.

Did you seek out the services of a doula, midwife, lactation consultant, etc.?

No, I didn’t. I just followed the hospital staff’s advice.

Did you experience any complications during any stage of the pregnancy or delivery?

Both of my deliveries were very smooth. I had a natural birth both times. Two hours before Asya’s birth, I was still shopping with a friend; two hours after I got to the hospital, the delivery was over.

How did you involve your first child in the pregnancy/birth?

Ever since I found out I was pregnant, I would repeatedly tell Efe that he was getting a baby brother or sister. Every morning, he said hello to my tummy and told us he loved the baby. As parents, we were also sensitive to his feelings and paid more attention to him.

What advice would you give to other parents regarding pregnancy/birthing in Beijing?

Simple. Just choose a comfortable hospital.

During the pregnancy, I was also usually doing sports like swimming, yoga, and walking. After the birth, I also did some pelvic exercises starting from the first day of post-delivery. These are good for recovery and getting your figure back to pre-pregnancy shape – or better.

Do you have any tips/advice for the day of the delivery?

Relax, think positively, and believe in your ability to delivery the baby naturally. When the contractions start, remember your Lamaze breathing.

Did you engage in any local maternity practices (i.e. yuezi)?

No. We have a nice ayi who has worked for us for almost three years and my mother came over to help.

What were some of most valuable maternity resources you found in Beijing?

I didn’t look up anything in Beijing specifically, but I bought lots of books about maternity from Korea and Europe. I learned almost everything I needed to know about pregnancy and delivery from them. One English title was What to Expect in the First Year by Heidi Murkoff, Arlene Eisenberg, and Sandee Hathaway.

What would you do differently next time?

If we did have a third child, I would do more exercise post-delivery because it’s very good for recovery.

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Feature

Mother Nature Achieving an intervention-free birth in Beijing

By Denis Vaughan Jess Meider and her daughter, Evie

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years and many of the staff still remembered me, which made me feel very comfortable.”

“They were very accommodating. My husband and doula were permitted in the room, something that I was very adamant about,” she says. “Once you know what your expectations are and you communicate them clearly with the hospital, a natural birth is very achievable.”

Communication with the hospital staff is paramount, whether it takes place between healthcare professionals, expectant moms, or doulas and midwives. In that sense, language barriers can potentially be a huge obstacle for moms-to-be. One way to overcome this is by finding a bilingual doula.

photo: mitchell pe masilun

A

t first, having a natural birth in Beijing can seem like a daunting task. Living in a foreign country can be intimidating enough, but when you add potential language barriers and unfamiliarity with the Chinese healthcare system to the mix, fear and worry will inevitably emerge. Expectant mothers and their partners want nothing short of a “perfect” birth. For many, this means giving birth naturally. The good news is that this isn’t as difficult to accomplish in Beijing as one might think.

Jess Meider, a former healthcare professional, yoga instructor, and professional musician, gave birth naturally to her daughter in November 2012. “After doing my research, I decided to give birth at Beijing United Family Hospital,” she says. “I’d already worked there for five

Feature Doulas and Midwives – What’s the Difference?

Doulas support the mother throughout her pregnancy, labor, and postdelivery. They offer both physical and mental support and often live with the mother for the duration of her pregnancy. According to international doula association DONA International, doulas are professionals trained in childbirth and childcare. While this is certainly the case for many, formal training is not a strict prerequisite for all doulas in China. For example, doulas might simply be a family friend or relative.

Robyn Wexler, an American-born bilingual doula based in Beijing, completed her doula training ten years ago in San Francisco. She says that doulas play a vital role when it comes to those “awkward translation moments.” If you are at all anxious about language barriers, be sure to find a doula who can support you and ensure that none of your needs or requirements are lost in translation.

Ivy Makelin is the leader of the China branch of the La Leche League, an international non-profit organization dedicated to helping breastfeeding mothers by providing information and mother-to-mother support. Herself a mom, she also offers consultations and advice on a variety of topics. “When it comes to giving birth naturally, having a birth plan in place is very important,” says Makelin. “You need to be very clear about what you want and don’t want. When you’re researching hospitals, have your questions ready. If they don’t have everything you need, then move on to the next one.”

There have been many cases of women giving birth at home in Beijing, but there are no facilities in place for this in China. Women who take this course of action usually need to recruit internationally-trained midwives and bring them to China. Despite being technically illegal, many cases of home births are still believed to happen in Beijing. The only other alternative for foreign expectant mothers who want a home birth is to return to their home country.

Finding a Support Network One of the most useful resources that mothers have is the Beijing Mamas Yahoo group. Here, women can seek advice and read firsthand accounts of women who have given birth in Beijing. In addition, there’s the baby and pregnancy section of the forum on beijingkids (www.beijing-kids.com/forum).

There are also pregnancy and breastfeeding support groups like the one hosted by Beijing Mamas founder Liora Pearlman every month at Beijing United Family Hospital or the new Bumps2Babes group that meets at SOHO Shangdu every Friday morning.

Whatever your birthing expectations are, it’s important to remember that things don’t always go according to plan; there are cases where a natural birth simply isn’t possible. Should that happen, there’s no need to be disappointed. As long as you bring a healthy child into the world and raise it in a caring and loving environment, you have already accomplished the greatest task any mother can.

Going Native The question of whether or not Chinese hospitals should be considered if you are planning a natural birth often comes up. Chinese hospitals have notoriously high C-section rates – the highest in the world at 46 percent, according to the World Health Organization. A staggering two thirds of urban Chinese women opt for a C-section and that figure is thought to be rising.

“If you are worried that your hospital is going to try and push you into having a C-section, the best thing to do is to ask your doctor lots of ‘what if’ questions,” says Makelin. “Ask them what they would do if something went wrong, at what point in a long labor would they opt for a C-section, and so on. This is a very easy way to gauge how inclined they are to perform C-sections without actually asking them directly.”

Jess Meider has hope for Chinese hospitals when it comes to natural birth, but says it depends a lot on your own attitude and mindset.

“Chinese hospitals won’t offer the same kind of privacy that an international one would,” she says. “Bedside manner doesn’t exist. If you can get your head around that, then it might be OK.” “It’s all about knowing what kind of environment you’re comfortable in and trusting your body to do the job it’s designed to do,” she says. “If you’re a bit anxious or unnerved by that sort of thing, then it probably is best to choose an international hospital. [However,] natural birth can be achieved in a Chinese hospital if you really want to.”

Testing the Waters Water births are often sought out by those who want a natural birth.

According to Water Birth International, the process can help reduce pain for the mother and ease a baby’s transition into the world. As it stands, there are two hospitals in Beijing that offer this service: Beijing Antai OB/GYN Hospital and Harmonicare Women and Children’s Hospital.

Water births are not very common in China. Officially, the first one on record occurred at Antai in 2004. It should also be noted that water birthing tubs are only available during the labor process; women must get out for the final stage of the birth. Makelin is one mother who has used Antai’s water birthing facilities. “I didn’t want to get out at the time,” she recalls of her son’s birth back in 2008. “I was so relaxed.

But none of the hospitals here offer [a full warter birth.] If you want [one,] your only option is to do it at home.”

Resources Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital 北京安太妇产医院 Daily 8.30am-5pm. Bldg 18, Court 1, Xingheyuan, Jiayuan Lu, Fengtai District. (67735551, 67537768) www.antaihospital.com 丰台区北京丰台嘉园路星河城1号院18号楼 Beijing HarMoniCare Women and Children’s Hospital (HMC) 和美妇儿医院 Daily 8am-5pm. A2 Xiaoguan Beili, Beiyuan Lu, Chaoyang District (6499 0000, contact@hmcare.org) www.hmcare.net 朝阳区北 苑路小关北里甲2 Beijing Mamas This Yahoo group is a space for parents to share resources and ask questions about family life in Beijing. Membership is free, but must be approved. To join, visit groups.yahoo.com/group/ Beijing_Mamas.

Bumps2Babes This pregnancy and breastfeeding support group meets every Friday morning from 10-11.30am at SOHO Shangdu (beside The Place and Central Park). For more information, contact beijingbumps2babes@gmail.com.

English Breastfeeding and Pregnancy Support Group Lay-led by Liora Pearlman, this group meets on the second Friday of every month at Beijing United Family Hospital in Lido.

For more info, contact lioracc@yahoo.com.

La Leche League (LLL) LLL is an international organization that specializes in breastfeeding advocacy and support for new and expecting mothers. The China branch is led by Ivy Makelin. To find out more about LLL, visit www.llli.org or muruhui.org.

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Directories Family Dining Central & South American Peter’s Tex-Mex Grill Texas-sized portions at this long running Lone Star State-inspired restaurant originally founded by a splinter group from Grandma’s Kitchen. Enjoy serviceable burritos, fajitas, breakfast plates and burgers and wash it all down with a frozen margarita. The St. Regis branch does brisk workday lunch business, while the Lido branch is more family oriented with a play area for kids as well as a Kid’s Menu at the Lido branch. 1) Daily 8.30am-11pm. 88A International Club, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(8532 2449); 2) Daily 7.30am-11pm. Jiangtai Xilu (next to SALT and Frank’s Place), Chaoyang District. (6435 3509) 彼德西餐, 1) 朝阳区建国 门外大街21号国际俱乐部88A; 2) 朝阳区将台西 路 (SALT/Frank’s旁边)

European Vineyard Cafe This hutong cafe, specializing in comfort food and comfy couches, is both hip and sensible, and their hearty English breakfasts are excellent weekend brunch fare. Good pizza and excellent beer selection.

Voted “Outstanding Brunch (Affordable)” in the Beijinger’s 2011 Reader Restaurant Awards.

Tue-Sun 11.30am-11.30pm. 31 Wudaoying Hutong (just north of the Confucius temple), Dongcheng District (6402 7961) 葡萄院儿, 东 城区五道营胡同31号

Japanese

new 6,000 sqm Yayuncun branch has 50 wards, private gynecological clinic and a neonatal intensive care unit. 1) Daily 24 hours. Bldg 5 Anhui Beili Yiyuan, Chaoyang District. (400 100 0016, contact@amcare.com.cn); 2) Daily 8am4.30pm. 9 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District.

(6434 2399 24hr hotline, 800 610 6200, contact@amcare.com.cn); 3) 9-9 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (contact@amcare.com.cn) www.amcare.com.cn 北京美中宜和妇儿医院, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区安慧北里逸园5号楼; 2) 朝阳区 芳园西路9号; 3) 朝阳区将台西路9-9号 American-Sino OB/GYN/Pediatrics Services (ASOG) American-Sino OB/GYN/ Pediatrics Services provides a comprehensive array of services for women and children by certified specialists from overseas and China.

The hospital’s multicultural healthcare team consists of staff members from Chinese, the US, Australia, Sweden, Poland, Israel, and Taiwan. They are dedicated to providing valueadded and custom-tailored healthcare for women and children. ASOG cooperates with Harvard University in order to better understand and accommodate cultural differences, as well as improve safety and quality of care. In a nutshell, the hospital is committed to highquality, compassionate, and personalized care that meets international standards. Daily 24hrs.

1) Outpatient Service: 18 Anyuan Lu,Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8443 9666); 2) Inpatient Service: 218 Xiaoguan Beili, Anwai, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8443 9595) www.meihua365.com 北京东方美华妇儿 医院, 1) 朝阳区安苑路18号门诊部; 2) 朝阳区 安外小关北里

Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar Watch and listen to your food as it sizzles and cooks to your preference. Haru impresses with sleek decor and the quality of the food. Kids will be entertained by the chefs flaming hot plates, and the large portion servings mean this is a great place to spend a few extra kuai on a family night out. Daily 11.30am-2pm, 5.30pm-10pm.

1) Unit N4-30, 3/F, Sanlitun Village North, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (6415 2112); 2) 902 Pinnacle Plaza, Jingshun Lu, Shunyi District. (8046 5112) 尚 水长廊铁板烧餐厅, 1) 朝阳区三里屯路11号院 （Village北区）能号楼三层N4-30单元; 2) 顺义区 天竺镇开发区荣祥广场902

Russian

Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital 15 years of eye care experience, including emergency treatment, telephone consultations, laser vision corrective surgery and preventative care. On-site shop sells frames and lenses.

The VIP clinic has English-speaking staff, many trained overseas. Can direct bill to many international insurance companies. Daily 8.30am-4.30pm. 1,4,5/F Panjiayuan Plaza, 12 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District. (6773 2700, customerservice@intecheye.com) www. intecheye.com 英智眼科医院, 朝阳区潘家园南 里12号潘家园大厦1，4，5层

Dacha Located near Ritan Park, Dacha serves both Russian and Japanese cuisine. The restaurant caters to families with a smoke-free environment and kids’ playroom with toys.

Shisha is also available. Daily 10am-3am. 1 Ritan Lu (on the north side of Ritan Hotel), Chaoyang District. (8563 5765, dacha.asia@ mail.ru) www.dacha.asia 别墅西餐厅, 朝阳区日 坛路1号（日坛宾馆北侧）

Family Health Clinics & Hospitals Amcare Women’s & Children’s Hospital Amcare Women’s and Children’s hospital provides families international medical services in Chinese cultural background. Services include obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, family planning, and psychological consulting. The

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Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital Founded in 2003, Beijing Antai Maternity Hospital is the first hospital in Beijing with a water birth center to allow natural births. The hospital also researches male and female infertility, recurrent miscarriage, endometriosis, and more. Daily 8.30am-5pm. Building 18, Court 1, Xingheyuan, Jiayuan Road, Fengtai District. (67735551, 67537768) www.antaihospital.com 北京安太 妇产医院, 丰台区北京丰台嘉园路星河城1号 院18号楼 Beijing Dongwen TCM Clinic Beijing Dongwen TCM Clinic is an international integrative medical institution that devotes itself to providing professional services according to ideal and quality medical standards for local and foreign clients and communities. The clinic is passionately committed to providing the highest quality health care and service in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of human disease. Our practice specializes in a holistic approach to whole-body well-being using state-of-the-art lab testing, physical examination, physical therapy, chiropractic therapy, acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine,

medical qi gong, Taichi, and acupressure. It is a comprehensive evidenced-based healthcare system that treats acute and chronic disorders.

It also promotes preventative healthcare by supporting a strong immune system so that a person can better resist illness.Services: Acupunture, Massage, Moxibustion, Chinese Herbal Medicine Therapy, Ba Gua, Pricking, etc.

Not just a medical clinic, we are also interested in spreading knowledge and awareness of Chinese medicine to the Western world, and thus in advocating education, often organize classes/forums/lectures in topics such as Massage, Acupuncture, Tai Chi, etc. at the clinic. Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat&Sun 9am8pm. Rm 107, 8 Xaioyunli, Chaoyang District.

(5613 7619, 133 3104 0363, dywjmedical@ gmail.com) www.dywjmed.com 北京东文中医诊 所, 朝阳区霄云里8号，107室 Beijing HarMoniCare Women and Children’s Hospital (HMC) Beijing HarMoniCare Women and Children’s Hospital (HMC) is a strategic partner of PHMI and cooperates with Teaching Hospital of Harvard Medical School, Boston Women’s Hospital, Boston Children’s Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital. Located in a 13,000 sqm facility next to the Olympic Forest Park it offers JCI (Joing Commission International)-standard medical services to Chinese and Western families. Also offers Gynecology and Pediatric services. Daily 8am-5pm. A2 Xiaoguan Beili, Beiyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (6499 0000, contact@hmcare.org) www.hmcare.net 和美妇 儿医院, 朝阳区北苑路小关北里甲2号 Beijing New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital (NCWCH) With stateof-the-art park side facility, New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital (NCWCH) is established to operate with international standards. Backed by strong ties to Beijing Children’s Hospital and Beijing Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, the experienced and friendly medical staff of NCWCH provide fi¬rst-class gynecology, obstetrics, pediatric, NICU and urgent care services for women and children (0-18 years old). 51 Wangjing Beilu (Wanghu Park south gate), Chaoyang District. (5178 3366) www.ncich.com.cn 北京 新世纪妇儿医院, 朝阳区朝阳区望京北路51号院 （望湖公园东门南） Beijing Puhua International Hospital Beijing Puhua International Hospital is the first International-Standard Hospital in Beijing, and has been open in Beijing since 1994. Inpatient, Outpatient, Surgery, Inpatient Care and ICU Services. Englishspeaking staff on 24/7 call. Wide range of Medical, Surgical and Consulting Services. Direct-billling with International Insurance Companies. The reference-level Medical Facility in Beijing for all Neurology, Neurosurgery and Rehabilitation Issues.

World leader & Pioneer in Regenerative Medicine. Member of Asia Pacific Medicine (APMG) the leading, and the largest, International-Standard Medical Services Group in Asia. 12 Tiantan Nanli (800m west of the South Gate of the Temple of Heaven), Chongwen District. (8911 6665 (24hr hotline)) www.puhuachina.com 崇文区天坛南 里12号（天坛南门往西800米） Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU) Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics (BJU) offers international-standard care to thousands of Beijing’s expatriate and Chinese families. BJU features an international team of doctors from more than 20 countries and since 2005, it has been consistently reaccredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP). Since 1997, BJU’s multilingual staff has provided professional expertise with heartfelt care. The hospital and clinics offer a full range of medical services. In addition to departments of family medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and dentistry, BJU has attracted top medical professionals in cardiology, neurology, internal medicine, dermatology, psychological health, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency medicine,

integrative medicine, ophthalmology and ENT. Mon-Sat 8.30am-5.30pm. 24-hour emergency care. 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7000, 5927 7120 (ER ), fax 5927 7200) www.ufh.com.cn 北京和睦家医院, 朝阳区将 台路2号 Beijing United Family Rehabilitation Hospital Beijing United Family Hospital’s newest facility offers everything from physical and occupational therapy to pediatric, neurological, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and TCM in a state-of-the-art facility featuring hydrotherapy facilities, an ICU, individual therapy rooms, hyperbaric and atmospheric oxygen chambers and an international team of specialists. Daily 24hrs. 1 Yaojiayuan Bei’er Lu, Chaoyang District. (8558 1800) www.ufh. com.cn 北京和睦家康复医院, 朝阳区姚家园 北二路1号 GlobalCare Women & Children’s Hospital Formally know as the famous Beijing Wuzhou Women’s Hospital. Global Care, now provides a full range of health care services from gynecology, pediatrics, obstetrics, dentistry, general practice, dermatology, basic medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine. With over 12,000 square meters and 80 beds, the hospital provides first class comprehensive health care services to expatriates and internationals.

Being one of the first hospitals in Beijing to offer membership healthcare programs, Global Care Women and Children’s Hospital also offers luxury VIP services at its beauty boutique and healthcare facilities at an affordable price. If your new in Beijing or still don’t have your health insurance taken care of; the hospital can provide you with a free insurance consultation. Currently, Global Care, has direct billing relationships with many international insurance providers.

The hospital provides healthcare for women, children, and men. Special offers are given for group packages. Mon-Sun 8am-8pm, 24h emergency services. 24 Dawang Xilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8776 9899, 800 810 8911, 6770 5558) www. globalcarecn.com 北京五洲妇儿医院, 朝阳区 望路西大24号, 朝阳区 Hong Kong International Medical Clinic, Beijing Beijing’s first joint-venture medical organization operates according to international standards, has a high-quality international administration system, highlevel medical staff, and warm service. A 24hr helpline offers medical support in English, Chinese and Japanese, and other languages on request. A basic consultation costs RMB 680. Direct billing with over 50 international insurers. Daily 9am-9pm (after 9pm nurse on duty). 9/F, office tower of the Swissôtel, 2 Chaoyangmen Beidajie, Dongcheng District.

(65532288 ext 2345/6/7, 6553 9752) www. hkclinic.com 北京港澳国际医务诊所, 东城区北 京港澳国际医务诊所，朝阳门北大街2号港澳中 心瑞士酒店办公楼9层 International Medical Center (IMC) IMC was the first expatriate medical institution in Beijing. A multilingual clinic with a full range of medical services including Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Internal medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Endoscopy and Surgery & Orthopedics. Other services include Dental Services, TCM & Acupuncture, Physiotherapy and Psychological services. The department of Emergency Care at IMC is open 24/7 with all board certified foreign doctors on site.

Daily 24hrs. S106, S111 Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561/2/3, 6465 1384/28, marketing@ imcclinics.com) http://www.imcclinics.com/ 北京国际医疗中心, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕莎中 心写字楼1层S106 International SOS One of the world’s leading international healthcare, medical and security assistance company with 66% of the world’s Fortune 500 companies choosing International SOS. Since 1989, International SOS has led internationalstandard medical care in China, with a 24/7 alarm center hotline, a dedicated air

Directories ambulance, four international quality clinics staffed with expat and foreign doctors and 200+ network of medical service partners.

International SOS Beijing clinic is the city’s leading family practice and specialist services clinic, represented by 15 nationalities, including English, French, Japanese, German, Spanish, Korean and Chinese-speaking doctors. Offers 24/7 Emergency Services, GP, Pediatrics, Gynecology, specialists, Pharmacy, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Dentistry and Orthodontics, Optometry. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District.

(Clinic: 6462 9112, 24hr hotline 6462 9100, china.inquiries@internationalsos.com) www. internationalsos.com, www.clinicsinchina.com 北京国际救援中心, 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中 心一座105室 Naturopathic Medicine Dr. Melissa Rodriguez is a licensed, board certified Naturopathic Doctor from Ontario, Canada.

She uses homeopathy, botanical medicine, nutrition, and other natural therapies that are effective and safe, to help her patients prevent illness and treat disease. Dr. Rodriguez is committed to working with you and your family to achieve your goals of optimal health. Rm S106, International Medical Center-Beijing, Lufthansa Center Office Building, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561) www. drmelissarodriguez.com 朝阳区朝阳区亮马桥 路50号燕莎中心写字楼1层S106 OASIS Family Counseling Center OASIS International Hospital’s Family Counseling Center offers counseling services for anxiety, depression, child development, life transitions, parenting, personal growth, premarital and marital issues, stress management, and trauma. There are two counselors: Regina Ho (Australia) and Dr. Catherine Hsu (US), whose specialties are relationship counseling and childhood and pediatric counseling respectively. Services are available in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm, Sat 8.30am-12.30pm.. Oasis International Hospital, 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (400 87 62747) 朝 阳区朝阳区酒仙桥北路9号明德医院 OASIS International Hospital OASIS is a full-service private hospital. Their international medical team provides patientcentered care in a modern facility designed for comfort, safety and privacy. OASIS offers attentive service in a soothing environment and expert medicine backed by leading technology, including the most advanced MRI and CT scans available from a private hospital in China. The hospital currently provides services in family medicine, pediatrics, gynecology, general surgery, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and dentistry. Direct billing is available for many insurance providers. Daily 24hrs (emergency care), Mon-Fri 9am- 6pm, Sun 8.30-12.30am.

9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (400 UR OASIS (876 2747)) www.oasishealth.cn 明德医院, 朝阳区 酒仙桥北路9号 Parkway Health Medical and Rehabilitation Center Parkway Health provides a wide range of medical services: family medicine, physiotherapy, rehabilitation and pain care management services with a bilingual staff. 24 Hours. 1 and 2/F, Vantone Center, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (4000-662-882 (24-hour), karen. zhang@parkwayhealth.cn) http://www. parkwayhealth.cn/ 百汇医疗, 朝阳区朝阳门外 大街甲六号万桶中心ＡＢ座一层和二层 Peking Union Medical College Hospital This state-run hospital has a reputable foreigners’ wing with departments including ENT, internal medicine, pediatrics, surgery, dental, ophthalmology and OB/GYN. Most doctors are trained overseas and speak good English. Services and medicines are much cheaper than in private clinics, but expect longer waiting times. The birthing

unit is considered to be the best in any of the Chinese hospitals and is popular among expats. Registration costs RMB 100-300, and the minimum consultation fee is RMB 200.

Inpatient services require a minimum deposit of RMB 10,000/day. Direct billing is available with some Asian insurance providers. MonFri 8am5pm. 1 Shuaifuyuan, Wangfujing (the foreigners’ wing is located behind and to the left of the main hospital entrance), Dongcheng District. (6529 5284, 24hr em, 6529 5269) www.pumch.ac.cn 北京协和医院, 东城区王府井帅府园1号（接待外国人的区域在 主楼的左后方） United Family CBD Clinic The United Family CBD Clinic is United Family Healthcare’s (UFH’s) sixth satellite clinic in Beijing and will be staffed by bilingual doctors and nurses who are committed to providing the high-quality, international-standard care unique to United Family. Mon-Sat 9.30am6.30pm. Suite 3017, Bldg AB, Vantone Center, 6 Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5907 1266) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家朝外诊所, 朝阳 区朝阳门外大街6号万通中心AB座2层3017室 United Family Home Health Daily 8:30am5:00pm. New Hope Oncology Center, 2/FNo. 9-11 Jiangtai W. RdNear Fangyuan W.Rd, Chaoyang District. (5927 7333, homehealth@ ufh.com.cn) homehealth.ufh.com.cn 和睦家家 庭医疗, 朝阳区和睦家家庭医疗和睦家启望肿瘤 中心二层地点：丽都将台西路9-11号近芳园西路 United Family Jianguomen Health and Wellness Center United Family Jianguomen Health and Wellness Center is a satellite clinic of BJU located in the St. Regis complex in the heart of Beijing’s Central Business District.

The clinic makes high-quality healthcare accessible to CBD residents and employees. It offers integrative medicine, family counseling services, and provides health checkups for immigration purposes. Mon-Fri 8.30am12pm,1pm-3.30pm. B1/F, The St. Regis Residence, St. Regis Hotel, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8532 1221; 8532 1678 (immigration clinic)) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家建国门保健中心, 朝阳区建国门外大街21 号北京国际俱乐部饭店公寓楼地下1层 United Family Liangma Clinic United Family Liangma Clinic serves Beijing’s diplomatic area, providing internationallyaccredited Family Medicine services. A multinational clinic staff of experienced doctors and bilingual nurses will ensure that you and your family receive the highest quality medical care available. Mon-Fri 8.30am-5pm. 2/F, Grand Summit, 19 Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7005) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家亮马诊所, 朝阳 区东方东路19号1号楼会所27号（外交人员公寓 B区官舍16号） United Family New Hope Center The United Family New Hope Center offers a unique new concept in international-standard cancer treatment. New Hope’s goal is to provide patients with the most up-to-date treatment options from a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, specialist physicians, and healthcare professionals. Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.

9-11 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7008) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家启望中心, 朝阳 区朝阳区将台西路9－11 United Family Shunyi Clinic United Family Shunyi Clinic serves Beijing’s suburban area and international school district with internationally-accredited family medicine, pediatrics, rehabilitation (physical therapy), psychological counseling, Traditional Chinese Medicine, laboratory, and pharmacy services.

A multinational clinic staff of experienced doctors and bilingual nurses will ensure that you and your family receive the highest quality medical care available. The Shunyi Clinic is a satellite facility of BJU. Like other BJU satellite facilities, the Shunyi Clinic strictly adheres to Joint Commission International (JCI) and international infection control standards. Mon-Thu 9.30am-7.30pm, Fri-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm. Unit 806, Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone,

Shunyi District. (8046 5432, fax 8046 4383) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家顺义诊所, 顺义区天竺 开发区荣祥广场806号

Vista Medical Center Medical services including family and internal medicine, OB/ GYN, pediatrics, dentistry, ophthalmology, dermatology, ENT, TCM, physiotherapy, psychiatry, imaging laboratory and pharmacy service. Also offers pre- and postnatal care and infant health check-ups. English-speaking staff onsite 24hrs a day. A consultation with a GP costs RMB 660. Direct billing with more than 40 international insurance providers. Daily 24hrs.

3/F, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (8529 6618, fax 8529 6615, vista@ vista-china.net) www.vista-china.net 维世达诊 所, 朝阳区光华路1号嘉里中心3层

Dentists Beijing United Family Hospital Dental Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services for families, including cleaning, crown and bridges, dental implants, fillings, tooth whitening and more. 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5927 7058) www.ufh.com.cn 北京和睦 家医院牙科, 朝阳区将台路2号 Beijing Vista Dental Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services including teeth cleaning, whitening, gum treatment, white filling, crowns and bridges, root canal treatment, wisdom tooth extraction, orthodontics and implants. Daily 8.30am6pm. Level 3, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (vista@vista-china.net) www.vista-china.net 朝阳区光华路1号北京嘉 里中心三层 IMC Dental Clinic IMC-Beijing has the longest history of expatriate dental service in Beijing, state of the art equipment, and certified welltrained dentists. Services include: cleaning, filling, fluoride treatment, implants, canal therapy, orthodontics, crowns and bridges, tooth extraction, Invisalign, periodontics, space maintainers, and X-ray. Mon-Sat 9am-5pm.

S111, Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1384, 6465 1328, marketing@imcclinics.com) http://www. imcclinics.com, http://www.imcclinics.com 北京 国际医疗中心牙科诊所, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕 莎中心写字楼1层S111 International SOS Dental, Orthodontics Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services for the whole family, including routine cleaning, X-rays, fillings, whitening, crowns, bridges and cosmetic makeovers. Mon-Sat 9am5pm. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District. (6462 0333) www. clinicsinchina.com 国际SOS齿科,畸齿矫正诊所, 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中心一座105室 Joinway Dental Clinic Joinway Dental is a leading dental clinic in Beijing. Proficient in cosmetic dentistry and implants; services include preventive dental care, oral and teeth treatments. Striving for perfection from the treatment design to the treatment procedure, and following up patients after all treatments.

Also providing more than 20 different international insurance companies direct billing service. Mon-Sat 9am-6pm. 11D, Bldg D, Oriental Kenzo Plaza, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District. (8447 6092/93, 132 6181 6708/139 0109 6692 English, joinway@ dentalcn.com) www.dentalcn.com 久汇齿科, 东

城区东直门外大街48号银座大厦D座11D OASIS Dental Clinic OASIS Dental provides complete dental care for families through internationally-trained dentists. Services include routine cleaning, fillings, root canals, crowns and bridges, veneers, whitening, orthodontics, prevention orthodontics, periodontics, and implants. Mon-Sat 6am-9pm. 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5985 0305) 朝阳区酒 仙桥北路9号 United Family Shunyi Dental Clinic United Family Shunyi Dental Clinic is located in Pinnacle Plaza, just around the corner from the United Family Shunyi Clinic. A multinational clinic staff of experienced doctors and bilingual nurses will ensure that you and your family receive the highest quality dental care available. Like other BJU satellite facilities, the Shunyi Dental Clinic strictly adheres to Joint Commission International (JCI) standards, which enables the Shunyi Dental Clinic to be officially recognized as an internationalstandard dental clinic. Mon-Thu 9am-7.20pm, Fri-Sat 9am-5.30pm. 818 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (8046 1102) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家顺 义牙科诊所, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场818

Family Life Community Groups and Organizations Roundabout Roundabout is a non-profit organization run by volunteers that accepts donations from the community and distributes them to people in need. They accept donations of almost anything: clothing, furniture and much more. Any items that are not needed by the charities, such such as handbags, paintings, home decor, surplus furniture and toys, are sold in their store. All proceeds fund their operation: truck hire, rent etc.

The new building location is directly beside/ behind Yosemite (the side towards Dragon Bay). Directions: Drive past ISB, with ISB on your left (this is Anhua Jie going west). Pass the intersection where BSB is on your right.

Take the next left (leading to the back gate of Yosemite), and it is just down the road on the right past the blue and white migrant worker buildings. Mon-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm. Yuyang Road West,Off An Hua Road (Behind Yosemite Villa Compound), Shunyi District. (137 1877 7761 (English), 137 1805 3814 (Chinese only), roundaboutchina@gmail.com, thecharitystore@ gmail.com) www.roundaboutchina.com 顺义区 众爱商店，顺义区榆阳路（优山美地别墅后街， 从安华路转入）。 Russian Cultural Center Interested in russian language and culture? Searching for a piece of Russia in Beijing? Russian Cultural Center is a right place to start your “way to Russia”!Established in September 2010, Russian Cultural Centre in Beijing is the first one opened by Russian officials in China with the express aim of bringing the best of Russian culture to China and Beijing.

The cultural centre is housed in a modern building at Dongzhimen equipped with all the latest equipment and technology, its facilities include a multipurpose concert and exhibition hall, library, and information and multimedia centre.In the meantime we are happy to announce that new sessions of Russian Language Courses to start shortly!- We teach any level from total beginner to advanced;- All our teachers are highly qualified and hold a degree in Russian as a foreign language;Flexible time schedule and 4-8 students in a group;- All classes for beginners are conducted through the intermediary language: English or Chinese;Besides the language courses our students can enjoy additional benefits of using our library, multimedia sourses, watch films in Russian and take part in all the activities which are conducted by the Center.The course cost is 2400 RMB per 60 academic hours.We arrange a presentation and free trial session on a regular basis once there are enough applications.

Dongcheng district, Dongzhimennei street, 9

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Directories (NAGA), building 2., Dongcheng District. (8406 0224, rusculturalcentrebeijing@gmail.com) http://russianculture.cn/ 俄罗斯文化中心, 东 城区北京市东城区东直门内大街9号院（NAGA 上院）2号楼

Hair & Beauty Salons Catherine de France Hair & Beauty Salon The Catherine de France team of international and local stylists, colorists and beauticians offer a holistic hair and beauty experience.

Treatments include hair services, manicures, waxing and tanning. Referral and VIP programs available. Tue-Sat 10am-8pm, Sun-Mon 11am6pm. East Avenue Bld Ground Floor,No.10 Xindong Lu, Chaoyang District. (10 8442 5120, 135 2147 3492, catherine@catherinedefrance. com) www.catherinedefrance.com 法式美容美 发沙龙, 朝阳区新东路10号逸盛阁首层 Hair & Beauty by Hummingbird Formerly Hummingbird spa, this revamped boutique hair salon will continue to provide beauty and spa treatments, but now also specializes in haircuts and styling, with celebrity stylist Tom Yuen at the helm. Daily 10am-8pm. Unit 103, Bldg 3, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6597 9119) www. hummingbird.net.cn 朝阳区朝阳门外大街6号新 城国际3号楼103 VivaXiao Kids’ Hair Salon Located in the same venue as VivaXiao Photography Studio, this Shunyi-based hair salon specializes in children’s haircuts from infants and above. The salon’s patient hairstylists know what it takes to get kids’ cooperation, with special haircut car seats videos they can watch while getting their hair cut. Tue-Sun 10am-7pm. Rm 509510, 5/F, Euro Plaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Shunyi District. (8046 1603 (Chinese), 138 1160 2673 (English)) www.vivaxiao.com 小小世界美发 沙龙, 顺义区天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆广场五层 509-510

Veterinarians International Center for Veterinary Services (ICVS) ICVS is a professionally managed and affordable full service international standard animal hospital and pet care facility. All doctors are legally licensed in the PRC. Services include internal medicine, hospitalization, spay/neuter, soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries, dentistry, dermatology, blood tests, laboratory diagnostics, X-rays, ultrasound, legal vaccinations, prescription pet foods, behavior counseling and obedience training, import/export advice, pet adoption counseling and more. Boarding kennel, grooming salon, SAFE pet foods & pet shop available. All services in Mandarin and English.

Licensed rabies vaccinations for export. Soft opening hours: 9am-8pm Tue&Thu, 9am-6pm Mon, Wed, Fri-Sun. 13-16 Rongke Ganlan Chengshang Jie, Futongxi Dajie, Wangjing, Chaoyang District. (8456 1939/40/41, ICVS_ CHINA@yahoo.com) www.ICVSASIA.com 北京 新天地国际动物医院, 朝阳区望京阜通西大街, 融科橄榄城商街13-16号

Family Travel Hotels, Hostels and Resorts Beijing Marriott Hotel Northeast Located near the Liangmaqiao embassy district, subway Line 10, and the Airport Expressway, this fivestar hotel offers 1,600sqm of meeting and banquet facilities. Rooms are equipped with LCD TVs, high-speed Internet access, and a full range of first-class amenities. Other features include a health club, heated indoor pool, fullservice spa, and five restaurants. 26A Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (5927 8888) http:// www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bjses-beijingmarriott-hotel-northeast/ 北京海航大厦万豪酒 店, 朝阳区霄云路甲26号海航大厦万豪酒店 Beijing Marriott West Corporate travelers with projects in Zhongguancun or meetings on Financial Street make up the bulk of this swanky hotel’s clientele. After a day of dealmaking and telecommuting via in-room high-

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beijingkids

2013 October

speed Internet and dual line phones, guests can unwind in the large indoor pool or 24-hour bowling center. RMB 950-10,000. 98 Xisanhuan Beilu, Haidian District. (6872 6699) www. marriott.com/bjsmc 北京金域万豪酒店, 海淀区 西三环北路98号 China World Hotel With bragging rights to being the first super luxury hotel in town, the 716 room China World is an oldie but still a goodie thanks to its attentive service, location in the heart of the CBD and quality food outlets - especially Aria. The lobby is opulent and marble-laden enough for even the most discriminating Carraran and it leads, via an escalator, to the restaurants, offices and luxury retailers of the China World Trade Center. China World Hotel’s health club features a heated indoor swimming pool and stateof-the-art gymnasium. The gym is equipped with exercise studios, cardio-fitness machines, squash and indoor tennis courts, and steam rooms and jacuzzis. Also, the affiliated Traders Hotel (Guomao Fandian) just behind the China World Hotel is a less-expensive alternative for business travelers. Daily 6am-11pm. 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 2266, cwh@shangri-la.com) www.shangri-la. com 中国大饭店, 朝阳区建国门外大街1号 China World Summit Wing Hotel “China World Summit Wing, Beijing comprises 278 guest rooms and suites, four designer restaurants, two bars and a lounge and four exclusive venues devoted to private dining, one of which is an observation deck on level 81. Accommodations with guest room sizes averaging 65 square metres are the most spacious in the city. The hotel also houses the city’s highest spa retreat with CHI, The Spa - Shangri-La’s signature spa brand - on level 77, a health club with a Life Fitnessequipped gymnasium, and an indoor infinity swimming pool overlooking the city.Ideally suited for exclusive celebrations and high-level meetings, China World Summit Wing has a designer’s collection of sumptuous venues with breathtaking views from the three Chairman Rooms on Level 79 and The Peak on Level 81.

The Summit Ballroom, one of the largest in the city and 12 elegantly appointed function rooms with natural daylight are located on Level 3 to 5.” 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(6505 2299, cwsw@shangri-la.com) http:// www.shangri-la.com/en/property/beijing/ chinaworldsummitwing 北京国贸大酒店, 朝阳区 建国门外大街1号 Crowne Plaza Beijing Popular with tourists and foreigners adopting kids in China, the recently renovated Crowne Plaza’s appeal lies chiefly in its location just north of the main Wangfujing drag and within walking distance of the Forbidden City and Tian’anmen. Rooms overlooking the streets are preferable to those on the atrium. RMB 2,760-6,610. 48 Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6513 3388) www. crowneplaza.com 国际艺苑皇冠假日酒店, 东城 区王府井大街48号 Crowne Plaza Beijing Zhongguancun “Crowne Plaza Beijing Zhongguancun is surrounded by the universities and technology companies of Haidian, Beijing’s intellectual and scientific hub” ... Features 293 guest rooms and ten suites, as well as f&b venues like Mixs Italian Grill and Rouge Chinese Restaurant. 16 Zhichun Lu, Haidian District. (5993 8888, 400 886 2255) http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/ cp/1/en/hotel/pegzg?rpb=hotel&crUrl=/h/d/ cp/1/en/hotelsearchresults 北京中关村皇冠假日 酒店, 海淀区北京中关村皇冠假日酒店 Fairmont Beijing Hotel Mon-Sun 24hrs.

8 Yong An Dong Li, Jianguomenwai Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing, China 100022, Chaoyang District. (86 10 8511 7777, beijing@ fairmont.com) http://www.fairmont.com/ beijing/ 朝阳区北京市朝阳区建国门外大街永 安东里8号 Grand Hyatt Though it will always be overshadowed by the more glamorous Grand Hyatt Shanghai (in the Jinmao Tower), this hotel remains one of the most upscale in China - with prices to match. Great for shopping,

business and sightseeing, with comfortable, sleekly lit and furnished rooms, the Grand Hyatt now also has a stunning new meeting venue, The Residence, in addition to their award-winning Chinese restaurant (Made in China) and indoor pool done up like a tropical grotto. RMB 3,500-34,200. 1 Dongchang’an Jie, Dongcheng District. (8518 1234) www.beijing. grand.hyatt.com 东方君悦大酒店, 东城区东 长安街1号 Grand Millennium This 521-room luxury hotel in the shadow of the CCTV Tower boasts contemporary rooms, a residential complex (Millenium Residences), a Cantonese restaurant (Yao Chi), brasserie and two jazz bars. 7 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District.

(8587 6888) www.grandmillenniumbeijing.com 北京千禧大酒店, 朝阳区东三环中路7号 Great Wall Sheraton One of Beijing’s oldest five-star establishments, the Sheraton has seen a lot of history from its location near the business and diplomatic districts. For RMB 1,500 per night, guests enjoy standard luxury with Internet access and fitness facilities, including an indoor pool. While the lobby and hallways seem a bit dim, the restaurants and multilingual staff liven the atmosphere. Suites and Starwood Preferred Guest rooms available.

10 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District.

(6590 5566) www.sheraton.com/GreatWall 喜 来登长城饭店, 朝阳区东三环北路10号 Hilton Beijing Located along the east Third Ring Road, the Hilton Beijing offers easy access to Sanlitun, the CBD and the embassy district, as well as the Airport Expressway. Experience a higher realm of pampering and prestige with exclusivity, personalized service and upgraded amenities in the newly built nine-story Executive Tower and relax in the Executive Lounge. There are also 12 meeting rooms, as well as a fully equipped Business Center.

Also has five restaurants and bars, including Pan-Asian cooking at Elements restaurant, contemporary American cuisine in One East or creative cocktails in Zeta Bar. Daily 24hrs.. 1 Dongfang Lu, Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5865 5000) http://www1.hilton.com/ en_US/hi/hotel/BJSHITW-Hilton-Beijing-hotel/ index.do 北京希尔顿酒店, 朝阳区东三环北路 东方路1号 Hilton Beijing Capital Airport Just minutes after clearing Customs you could be taking a snooze in your room, attending a business meeting or relaxing in the spa. This stylish departure from typical airport hotels offers five-star comforts and unique convenience for people in transit, business travelers, trade fair visitors and event organizers. One minute away from Terminal 3 by 24-hour hotel free airport shuttle bus, the city center just 16 minutes away by direct rail, and the most popular tourist sites within a 40-minute drive, it’s also the perfect base for tourists. Terminal 3, Beijing Capital International Airport, Chaoyang District.

(6458 8888) http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/ hi/hotel/BJSCAHI-Hilton-Beijing-Capital-Airport/ index.do 朝阳区北京首都机场三号航站楼 Hilton Beijing Wangfujing “Recently voted the ‘World’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel’ for the second year running at the prestigious World Travel Awards, the Hilton Beijing Wangfujing hotel offers some of the largest hotel rooms in the city.Set in the heart of Beijing’s shopping district, indulge in some retail therapy or visit nearby Beijing attractions. The iconic Tiananmen Square is just a ten minute walk from the hotel. After a busy day sightseeing, treat yourself to a holistic massage in the hotel’s Spa, swim laps of the rooftop pool or work out in the fitness center.Hold a conference in one of the 8 fully equipped meeting rooms then relax and enjoy stunning city views in the Executive Lounge or take advantage of the hotel’s Business Center. Sample delicious Macanese cuisine at Vasco’s restaurant or sip an expertly mixed cocktail in stylish Flames bar at the Hilton Beijing Wangfujing hotel.”

8 Wangfujing Dongjie, Dongcheng District.

(5812 8888) www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/ BJSWFHI-Hilton-Beijing-Wangfujing/index.do 东 城区北京王府井希尔顿酒店

InterContinental Beijing Beichen Recognized as the only award-winning international luxury hotel in the northern part of Beijing, InterContinental Beijing Beichen is connected to the China National Convention Center (CNCC), one of Asia’s largest convention centers. The hotel stands out for its scenic location next to the National Stadium and the Water Cube, with easy access to Beijing International Capital Airport, the Great Wall, historical sightseeing spots, and major business centers. Bldg 4, 8 Beichen Xilu, Chaoyang District. www.intercontinental.com/bjbeichen 北京北辰洲际酒店, 朝阳区朝阳区北辰西路8号 院4号楼 InterContinental Financial Street InterContinental Beijing Financial Street has a full-service spa, an indoor pool, and a sauna. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available in public areas. This 5-star hotel features business amenities including a business center, small meeting rooms, and limo/town car service. The hotel offers 3 restaurants along with a coffee shop/café and a bar/lounge. The staff can provide concierge services, wedding services, and event catering.

Additional amenities include a 24-hour fitness facility, multilingual staff, and coffee/tea in the lobby. For a surcharge, guests have access to a roundtrip airport shuttle (available on request).

Complimentary valet parking is available onsite for guests. 11 Financial Street, Xicheng District.

(5852 5888) 西城区金融街11号 Jianguo Hotel Though its low rise, yellowhued East Wing seems more congruent with the architecture of Phoenix, Arizona than of Beijing, the newly renovated Jianguo, which opened in 1982 as China’s first joint venture hotel, has aged gracefully. The rooms, especially those facing the garden, are pleasant, and the service is efficient. Oldschool expats get misty eyed at the mention of Charlie’s, the hotel bar, which served as the tavern of choice for Beijing’s laowai pre-1990, before Frank’s Place opened. RMB 2,465-3,145.

5 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(6500 2233) www.hoteljianguo.com 建国饭店, 朝阳区建国门外大街5号 JW Marriott Standard rooms are elegantly appointed and super luxurious. Downstairs, the loungy Loong Bar aspires to the metro-chic networking set, while restaurants Asia Bistro and CRU Steakhouse maintain a high standard.

Rooms RMB 1,500-2,500. 83 Jianguo Lu, China Central Place, Chaoyang District. (5908 6688) 北京JW万豪酒店, 朝阳区华贸中心建国路83号 Kempinski Hotel Beijing Lufthansa Center Located in the heart of Beijing’s central diplomatic and business district, the Kempinski Hotel Beijing boasts a blend of European style with elements of Beijing’s rich cultural history. In addition to 526 guestrooms and suites, including four executive floors and eight no-smoking floors, the hotel also has eight fully equipped banqueting/conference facilities accommodating up to 1,300 people.

The hotel also has seven restaurants and bars, including the Paulaner Bräuhaus boasting the city’s finest Bavarian food and microbrewed beer, and Kempi Deli, renowned for its gourmet European cakes and pastries. On the 18th floor overlooking Beijing’s skyline is the swimming pool of Pulse Health Club, which also includes a fitness centre, tennis courts and squash courts.The Kempinski also manages a neighbouring eight-storey complex offering 12,500 square metres of office space, 42 shops and showrooms and 170 fully furnished one to four bedroom apartments. Facing the Liang Ma River, the complex also contains a 24-hour serviced international medical centre, dental clinics and fully equipped children’s park and nursery. Beijing Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 3388) www.kempinski.com/beijing 凯宾斯基饭 店, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号 Kerry Hotel Beijing This Shangri-La property is noted for its modern design, business-friendly amenities, kid-friendly restaurant (Horizon) as well as the city’s most popular cocktails (at Centro). The Horizon Club’s executive

Directories floor will be upgraded in the coming months The Kerry’s sports center wins kudos for its big pool, two indoor tennis courts, basketball court and rooftop track. RMB 1,300-23,000. 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6561 8833) www.shangri-la.com 北京嘉里大饭店, 朝阳区 光华路1号 Courtyard by Marriott Beijing Northeast Located a few minutes from the Olympic National Stadium and 15 minutes from new China International Exhibition Center and Beijing Capital International Airport; just 1 km from Airport Express Station and Subway Line 10 - the contemporary Courtyard Beijing Northeast offers a perfect combination of the green and peaceful area. The hotel offers spacious guest rooms, marble bathrooms, 32-inch HDTVs, high-speed Internet and IP phones. Dine at the MoMo Cafe, serving a variety of international fare, or stop by MoMo 2 go for sandwiches, pastries, power shakes and get a drink in our new trendy “101 Lounge”.

And recharge at the 24-hour fitness centre, indoor pool and whirlpool or with a massage.

Six daylight meeting rooms will help you to organize different type of events. 101 Jingshun Lu, Chaoyang District. (5907 6666， 400 888 5551) 北京人濟萬怡酒店, 朝阳区朝阳区 京顺路101号 Metropark Lido Hotel If you were so inclined, you could live for days cloistered within the suburban Lido compound that is home to a supermarket, Watson’s drugstore, ATM, restaurants, Starbucks, hair salon, bowling center, tennis courts, apartments and corporate offices. Its proximity to the airport makes it an obvious choice for business travelers and airline crews, but it is a bit far from most tourist sites.

6 Jiangtai Lu, Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6437 6237) http://www.hotellidobeijing.com/ en/reservation.html 北京丽都维景酒店, 朝阳区 机场路将台路6号 Peninsula Beijing Located near Wangfujing and Tian’anmen Square, this award-winning hotel has rooms with hardwood floors, Chinese rugs, elegant furniture and 42-inch plasma TVs. Its fusion cuisine and funky open-plan design have won Jing, one of the hotel’s restaurants, favorable reviews. The Peninsula’s shopping arcade is home to such fashion royalty as Dior, Chanel and Hermes. The hotel can also arrange hutong tours with a Tsinghua University professor and visits to unrestored sections of the Great Wall. RMB 1,388-50,000. 8 Jinyu Hutong, Wangfujing, Dongcheng District. (8516 2888) www.peninsula.com 王府半岛酒店, 东城 区王府井金鱼胡同8号 Raffles Hotel Beijing Ideally situated at the crossroads of famous Chang An Avenue and the district of Wangfujing, Raffles Beijing Hotel is in the heart of the prestigious business and commercial districts and a few minutes from the mystical Forbidden City, historical Tiananmen Square, the Silk Market and other famous sights. It is also a short 15-minute walk from Beijing railway station and less than five minutes from Wangfujing subway station.

Raffles Beijing Hotel epitomises elegance and exclusivity, as guests luxuriate in 171 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, which are some of the most expansive and decadent in Beijing. The inimitable Raffles experience is taken a step further with sumptuous culinary creations to delight every palate, state-of-theart meeting and banquet facilities and a Fitness Centre complete with its own indoor swimming pool. Raffles’ afternoon tea service was voted “Outstanding Afternoon Tea” in the Beijinger’s 2011 Restaurant Awards. 33 Dong Chang’an Dajie, Dongcheng District. (6526 3388) http:// www.raffles.com/en_ra/property/rbj, http:// www.raffles.com/en_ra/property/rbj 东城区东 长安大街33号 Renaissance Beijing Capital Hotel The five star hotel in the Shuangjing area south of the China World Trade Center (Guo Mao) “offers 2,300 sqm of modern, innovative and well equipped meeting space and 531 stylish and spacious guest rooms, including 41 luxuriously appointed suites, each equipped with a plug-in connectivity panel that allows guests to turn

their 42-inch flat-screen LCD into a personal entertainment center.” Wining and dining options include Fat Duck, Fratelli Fresh, The Lounge and D Bar. 61 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu (north of Viva Mall by Fuli City), Chaoyang District. (5863 8888) http://www.marriott.com/ hotels/travel/bjsbc-renaissance-beijing-capitalhotel/ 北京富力万丽酒店, 朝阳区朝阳区东三环 中路 61 号 Ritz-Carlton Beijing, Financial Street Another top-range hotel on Beijing’s “Wall Street.” With a striking glass and chrome exterior, the hotel boasts 253 guest rooms appointed with flat screen TVs, cordless phones and high-speed Internet and fax connections.

The hotel features three restaurants (including the award-winning Cepe) and a lounge and bar serving Chinese, Italian and all-day cuisines.

RMB 1,500-48,000. 1 Jinchengfang Dongjie, Financial Street, Xicheng District, Xicheng District. (6601 6666) www.ritzcarlton.com 北京 丽嘉饭店, 西城区金融街金城坊东街1号 The Schoolhouse at Mutianyu This renovated elementary school proves there is more to Mutianyu than just the Great Wall. Located 90mins northeast of Beijing (via Jingcheng expressway) and offering a restaurant with fresh local ingredients, art glass studio and art room and is a creative way for the family to escape the city. Daily 9am-9pm.

Mutianyu Village (for detailed directions, see website), Huairou District. (6162 6506) www. theschoolhouseatmutianyu.com 慕田峪小园餐 厅, 怀柔区慕田峪 (具体路线请查看网站信息) Shangri-La Hotel Haidian District’s most upscale hotel is distinguished by its gorgeous garden, spacious rooms and arguably the west side’s fanciest bar (Cloud 9). Cafe Cha serves a bountiful buffet, with an accent on pan-Asian specialties – wear your stretch pants. RMB 1,208-15,000. 29 Zizhuyuan Lu, at Xisanhuan Lu, Haidian District. (6841 2211) www.shangrila.com 北京香格里拉饭店, 海淀区西三环紫竹 院路29号 Sheraton Beijing Dongcheng Hotel Opening in July of 2011, the Sheraton Beijing Dongcheng Hotel features 441 contemporary guest rooms, suites ranging from 43 to 240 square meters, four restaurants, spa and fitness center, swimming pool and meeting facilities. 36 Dongcheng Beilu, Global Trade Center, Dongcheng District. (5957 5184) www. sheraton.com/beijingdongcheng 北京金隅喜 来登酒店, 东城区东城区北三环路36号，环球 贸易中心 Sofitel Wanda Despite an ominous exterior, Sofitel’s new Asia flagship hotel is sure to dazzle with its sophisticated blend of modern comfort and classical Chinese elegance. Floor-to-ceiling windows profit iconic CBD skyline views from west side rooms, specially designed feather beds, Wi-Fi, broadband and flat screen TVs complete a high-tech vision of luxury. The hotel’s F&B outlets include Le Pré Lenôtre and Farm House (see Restaurants). Rooms RMB 1,088-4,986. Tower C, Wanda Plaza, 93 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (8599 6666) 北京万达索 菲特大饭店, 朝阳区建国路93号万达广场C座

The Heavenly Spa by Westin™ offers a range of treatments for the renewal of the body, soul, and mind. Facilities include an indoor pool, hydrotherapy centre, and WestinWORKOUT® gym. The business centre, located on Level 3, provides secretarial and business support while the gift shop features a selection of premium souvenirs and gift items.Find a journey of culinary delights and moments to savor in our restaurants, bars, and lounges as you enjoy offerings from China, Europe, and Asia. With a total of 1,100 square meters of function space, our hotel has the capacity to accommodate events of various sizes. The Jinmao Ballroom and seven meeting rooms feature the latest in audiovisual technology and five-star service. 7 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5922 8888) 金茂北京威斯汀大饭店, 朝阳区东三环 北路7号 Traders Hotel, Beijing Well situated and connected to the China World Mall, the Traders Hotel (Guomao Fandian) is a less-expensive alternative for business travelers than its sister establishment, the China World Hotel. Traders Hotel, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 2277) 国贸饭店, 朝阳区建国门 外大街1号 Traders Upper East Hotel With a modern, contemporary design, this Beijing hotel has 392 guest rooms and 27 suites, including a large, luxurious Traders Suite. With a Grand Ballroom suitable for up to 400 persons supported by a boardroom and 14 breakout rooms of varying sizes, the hotel is also ideally suited for meetings and banquet events. 2 Dongsihuan Beilu (southeast of Xiaoyun Qiao), Chaoyang District. (5907 8888) www.tradershotels.com 朝 阳区东四环北路2号 (霄云桥东南角) The Westin Beijing Financial Street This mega-hotel on Financial Street (West Second Ring Road) has spared no expense in meeting the high expectations of its well-heeled clientele, from its vast lobby and elegantly appointed rooms to its opulent spa and pool.

The Westin also boasts seven restaurants and bars – including Senses, which offers what many cognoscenti consider to be Beijing’s most decadent Sunday brunch. RMB 1,500-21,100.

9B Jinrong Jie (Financial Street), Xicheng District. (6606 8866) 北京金融街威斯汀大酒店, 西城区金融街乙9号

Travel Agencies Beijing Sideways (Gael: 139 1133 4947, booking@beijingsideways.com) www. beijingsideways.com Planet Travel Planet Travel provides quality service for leisure family holidays and business trips at reasonable prices. Rm 2090, Bldg 5, Shoukaibojun, Yard 8, Xindong Lu, Chaoyang District. (6409 4255, info@planettravel.cn) www.planettravel.cn 星球旅行社, 朝阳区新东路 8号院首开铂郡5号楼2090

Fun Stuff Art Schools

The Ritz-Carlton, Beijing Old World elegance, plush comfort – everything you’d expect from this hallowed name, including impeccable restaurants such as the internationally themed Aroma and Yu (Cantonese/Sichuan). An in-house wedding chapel sets this hotel apart, but the 109sqm executive suites with innovatively partitioned living and entertaining quarters are where the Ritz really shines. 83A Jianguo Lu, China Central Place, Chaoyang District. (5908 8888) 北京丽 思卡尔顿酒店, 朝阳区建国路甲83号华贸中心 The Westin Beijing Chaoyang Fantastic location and first class amenities make the Westin Chaoyang one of Beijing’s premiere luxury hotels. All 550 guest rooms and suites are oversized and feature quality contemporary furnishings including the signature Heavenly Bed® and rainforest shower as well as wireless High Speed Internet Access. The Westin Executive Club Floor guest rooms and suites provide the ultimate comfort and convenience.

ArtBug Singaporean art center ArtBug aims to make art accessible for everyone, with programs catering to children from ages 2-12.

ArtBug focuses on nurturing a child’s creativity, communication skills, and self-confidence

through the arts. The center offers courses in a wide variety of subjects, including drawing, sculpture, photography, speech and drama, and performance arts. Rm 753, Tower A, Chaowai SOHO (north of Central Park), 6 Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5900 0270) www.artbug. com.cn 朝阳区朝阳区朝外大街乙6号朝外SOHO写 字楼A座753 （新城国际北侧） Atelier Rm 202, Building C, Jinxiu Yuan, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (atelier@ atelier.cn.com) www.atelier.cn.com 啊特黎尔, 朝阳区朝阳区幸福村中路锦绣园C楼202室

Concert Halls & Theaters China Children’s Art Theater Situated 1,500 meters northwest of Dongdan Station, this fourstory playhouse presents plays and musicals for children in Chinese all year long. Every weekend, the Holiday Classic Theatre Hall on the fourth floor puts on plays starting at 10am, and performers even talk to the audience after each play. Performances include the Chinese classic Ma Lan Hua, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, and A Journey With Hans Christian Andersen, among others. The Ma Lan Hua Art School that connects to the theater offers acting, recitation and dance classes for kids ages 5-12. Daily 9am-9pm. 64 Donganmen Dajie, west of Wangfujing, Dongcheng District (6521 1425) www.ccat.name 中国儿童艺术剧 场，东城区东安门大街64号

Parks & Gardens Baiwang Shan Forest Park RMB 6, half price for students with ID. Children under 1.2 meters get in free. Daily 6am-6pm. 19 Heishanhu Beikou, Haidian District (6288 4508) www. baiwangshan.com 百望山森林公园 ，海淀区黑 山扈北口19号 Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan) Daily 6am6pm (winter), 6am-6.30pm (summer). RMB 10, RMB 5 (students). Xiangshan, Haidian District.

(6259-1155) 香山，香山公园, 海淀区香山

Schools Educational Services Eliott’s Corner A therapy center, offering speechtherapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy for children from 0-12 years of age. Experienced therapists work with children, helping a wide range ofissues - from communication and articulation to handwriting to balance and coordination. Eliott’s Corner is a division of Olivia’s Place, Shanghai’s premier pediatric therapy clinic. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm. Rm 19-05, Block 2, Condo 360, 10 Dongsihuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6461 6283, jac@ oliviasplace.org) www.oliviasplace.org 胡宝小 屋, 朝阳区东四环北路10号瞰都国际2号楼19－05 室 (东风北桥东北角） Dragon Show Founded in 2004, Beijing Dragon Show Culture and Arts Exchange Co. Ltd. designs culture-related school assembly programs, educational trips, and extracurricular activities for international schools. E-805/806 Shang8 Culture Zone, Gaobeidian, Chaoyang District. (65447057/58, info@dragonshow.com) www.dragonshow.com 朝阳区高碑店陈家林甲2 号尚巴里文创园E座805-806 Side by Side Side by Side provides support for individuals with special needs and learning difficulties through music therapy, learning support, and a daytime special education program. Side by Side’s team members are fully qualified and experienced professionals who conduct services in English. Music therapy is also available in German. We also offer community support such as workshops for schools, community groups, parents and other members of the community, arranging vocational training within the community, support with life skills such as basic finances, shopping, cooking, personal hygiene or social skills, support with parenting skills, advocacy, family and school support with transition and/ or behaviour issues, support for those dealing with a new diagnosis and work experience for

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Directories high school students or new graduates. We also provide support with finding organizations and professionals to assist in the development, diagnosis and assessment of children with special needs, or suspected special needs. MonFri 8am-6pm (after hours by appointment).

Capital Paradise 3336, Shunyi Distrcict, Shunyi District. (8046 3858, info@sidebysidebeijing. com) www.sidebysidebeijing.com 顺义区后沙浴 名都园3336号 The Learning Center (TLC) The Learning Center opened in 2004 to meet the specific educational needs of local and expatriate students in Beijing. They aim to address the individual challenges of students by offering a nurturing environment, small classes or 1:1 tutoring, and experienced, specialized teachers who design tailor-made programs for each child. By helping them realize their academic potential, The Learning Center cultivate not only students’ skills, but also their confidence and self-esteem. The Learning Center has worked with more than 1,000 local and expatriate students in the Shunyi and Haidian areas. As the only professional tutoring service in Beijing, they pride themselves on offering a nurturing environment in which students of all ages and levels can find the support they need in the subjects they need. Subjects for students ages 5 to 18. Parenting programs are also available, including adult education and child development workshops. TLC tutors are native English speaking professional educators with an understanding of the international school curricula across Beijing. Mon 10am-6pm, Tue-Fri 10am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm.

Gahood Villa 2108 ((next to Yosemite and Capital Paradise), Xibaixinzhuang, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 3886/7085, registration@ hyde-education.com / learningcenterbeijing@ gmail.com) www.thelearningcenter.cn 顺义区后 沙峪嘉浩别墅2108(新国展与ISB之间)

Language Schools Beijing Mandarin School Established in 1998, Beijing Mandarin School has students speaking 60 percent of the time in class and focuses on communication for everyday life.

Over the years, thousands of students from over 50 countries and over 70 companies and embassies have studied at the school. Beijing Mandarin School offers weekly Chinese cooking classes (RMB 150/two hours) and other cultural activities. Visa help and accommodations are also available. Call for a free trial lesson. 1) Rm 709, 7/F, 42 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District.

Contact Skype ID: beijingmandarinschool1998 (8441 8391 /186 1052 0622, info@ beijingmandarinschool.com); 2) Room 904-905, 9/F, E-Tower, Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District.

Contact Skype ID: beijingmandarinschool1998 (6508 1026/1126, info@beijingmandarinschool. com) www.beijingmandarinschool.com 北京普 通话学校, 1) 朝阳区亮马桥路42号光明饭店709 室; 2) 朝阳区光华路12号数码01大厦9层904 Beijing That’s Mandarin Featuring a loftstyle space in Dongzhimen, That’s Mandarin was established in 2005 and features friendly, qualified staff with experience teaching kids and teens. Language learning is tailored to each individual, whether it’s basic survival level, exam preparation, or just a desire to learn. There are one-on-one and small group options (arranged by age and level) for each program. Students can also take the Intensive Chinese Program, which includes morning lessons or part-time classes to fit around their schedule. That’s Mandarin has its own curriculum and has an inhouse team of education researchers who work on the latest teaching methodologies. Support is available for students working towards the YCT and other overseas examinations. In addition to classes, there are tailor-made group packages for individuals and institutions and the Chinese Summer Camp, which runs from June to August (open for registration as of April).

Age range: 7-18. Mon-Fri 8am-9pm, Sat-Sun 10am-7pm. 1/F, Office Bldg B, Xinzhong Yuan, Xinzhong Jie, Dongcheng District. (5218 6432, info@thatsmandarin.com) www.thatsmandarin. com 东城区新中街新中园写字楼B座1层

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Schools School fees listed are for one academic year unless otherwise. Specified.Abbreviations: IB = International Baccalaureate; ESOL = English as a Second or Other Language 3e International School Founded in 2005, 3e International School has grown into an institution of over 200 studentsfrom Nursery to Grade 4. The school aims to develop critical thinkers through a specially-developed, research-based curriculum. Classes are taught inEnglish and Chinese with half of the day devoted to each language. Within this inquirybased program, a balance of child-initiated and teacher-directed activity is provided to supportchildren’s development across the entire curriculum. Age range: 2-10. Tuition fees (2012-2013 academic year): RMB 93,800 (Half-day Nursery); RMB 103,800 (Full-day Nursery); RMB 136,900 (Pre-K); RMB 140,600 (Kindergarten); RMB 150,700 (Grades 1-4) 9-1 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6437 3344 ext 100, admissions@3einternationalschool.org) www.3einternationalschool.org 3e国际学校, 朝 阳区将台西路9-1号 American International Academy of Beijing (AIAB) Founded in 2012, AIAB provides a bilingual Montessori-based teaching approach to preschool that also incorporates elements of the Chinese National Curriculum.

School facilities include Montessori classrooms, adance studio, library, music room, baking room, meeting room, clinic, and outdoor playground. Age range: 1.5-6. Tuition fees (2013-2014 academic year): RMB 77,000/11 months (full-day); RMB 47,300/11 months (half-day); RMB 7,700 (optional summer camp, Jul 15-Aug 15) Bldg 5, 78 Baiziwan Nan’erlu, Chaoyang District. (8776 0606, apaiacademy@ gmail.com) www.aiab.com.cn A 派国际双语幼 儿园, 朝阳区百字湾南二路78号院5号楼 Beanstalk International Bilingual School (BIBS) Over the past 20 years, BIBS has grown from one campus to four and from a kindergarten-only curriculum to a full-fledged K-12 school. Students represent 36 countries and local Chinese students are also accepted.

BIBS’ curriculum combines Eastern and Western educational philosophies. The nutritionistapproved lunch men includes vegetarian, Muslim, Chinese and Western options made with organic produce. Age range: 2-18. Tuition fees (2012-2013 academic year): 1) 21st Century Kindergarten: RMB 1,600 (application fee), RMB 78,000/year (half day), 100,000/year (full day); 2) Wanda Kindergarten: RMB 1,200 (application fee); RMB 55,000/year (full day); 3) Primary School: RMB 1,600 (application fee), RMB 30,000 (capital levy fee); RMB 100,000/ year (reception class); RMB 135,000/year (Grades 1-6); 4) Senior School: RMB 1,600 (application fee), RMB 30,000 (capital levy fee), RMB 135,000/year (Grades 7-12) 1) Primary School: Area 2, Upper East Side, 6 Dongsihuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5130 7951, 21s Century Kindergarten: bikoffice@bibs.com.cn, Primary School: office@bibs.com.cn, Wanda Kindergarten: bbkoffice@bibs.com.cn, Senior School: senioroffice@bibs.com.cn); 2) Senior School: 38 Nan Shiliju, Chaoyang District. (8456 6019, 21s Century Kindergarten: bikoffice@ bibs.com.cn, Primary School: office@bibs.com. cn, Wanda Kindergarten: bbkoffice@bibs.com. cn, Senior School: senioroffice@bibs.com.cn); 3) 21st Century Kindergarten: 1/F, Bldg B, 40 Liangmaq Qiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6466 9255, 21s Century Kindergarten: bikoffice@ bibs.com.cn, Primary School: office@bibs.com. cn, Wanda Kindergarten: bbkoffice@bibs.com. cn, Senior School: senioroffice@bibs.com.cn); 4) Wanda Kindergarten: Bldg 7, Wanda Plaza, 93 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (5960 3887, 21s Century Kindergarten: bikoffice@bibs.com. cn, Primary School: office@bibs.com.cn, Wanda Kindergarten: bbkoffice@bibs.com.cn, Senior School: senioroffice@bibs.com.cn) www.bibs. com.cn 青苗国际双语学校, 1) 朝阳区东四环北 路6号阳光上东二区; 2) 朝阳区南十里居38号; 3) 朝阳区亮马桥路40号B座1层; 4) 朝阳区建国 路93号万达广场7号楼

Beijing BISS International School (BISS) With a diverse student body, Beijing BISS International School’s mission is to foster international relationships to educate and empower students to attain personal excellence and positively impact the world. BISS offers the IB Diploma Program, serves as an SAT Test Center, caters to children with learning needs, and offers counseling, student enrichment programs, universitysearches, and transitional education services to third-culture kids and their parents. Age range: 3-17. Tuition fees (20122013 Academic Year): RMB 18,000-23,000 (refundable deposit); RMB 3,800 (registration); RMB 99,000 (Kindergarten); RMB 146,400177,500 (Grades 1-12); RMB 20,000 (ESOL) Bldg 17, Area 4, Anzhen Xili, Chaoyang District.

(6443 3151, admissions@biss.com.cn) www. biss.com.cn 北京BISS国际学校, 朝阳区安贞西 里四区17号楼 Beijing City International School (BCIS) The school motto of BCIS is “Empowering and inspiring throughchallenge and compassion.”

This non-profit, independent co-educational day school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Western Associationof Schools and Colleges (WASC).

BCIS offers an international curriculum for Nursery through Grade 12 students under the International Baccalaureate (IB) World School system and isauthorized to teach all three IB programs (Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma). The campus culture is characterized by a warm and inclusive nature and an emphasis on personalized rigorousacademic inquiry through the extensive use of information technology in the classroom. Age range: 3-18.

Tuition fees (2012-2013 Academic Year): RMB 2,000 (registration fee); RMB 5,000 (new student fee); RMB 132,600 (Nursery); RMB 144,500 (Pre-K); RMB 154,000 (Kindergarten); RMB 186,300 (Grade 1-2); RMB 188,700 (Grade 3-5); RMB 195,300 (Grade 6-8); RMB 199,100 (Grade 9-10); RMB 206,600 (Grade 11-12) 77 Baiziwan Nan Er Lu, Chaoyang District. (8771 7171, admissions@bcis.cn) www.bcis.cn 北京乐 成国际学校, 朝阳区百子湾南二路77号 Beijing Collegiate Academy International School Located on the east side of Chaoyang Park, Beijing Collegiate Academy was founded in 2012 and caters to local and international students aged 5-18. The school has a combined Canadian and Chinese curriculum to provide students with bilingual fluency, knowledge of world cultures, and a dual high school diploma. The staff is composed of teachers from British Columbia and China. Beijing Collegiate Academy occupies new, purposebuilt premises totaling 34,000sqm with sports facilities, SmartBoard technology, two libraries, two theaters, a gym, a pool, three soccer fields, four ICT rooms, six science labs, and 10 music rooms. The school has a capacity of 1,000 students. Grade 11 and 12 students have the option of taking AP classes. ASAs include art, soccer, tennis, drama, music, tae kwon do, dance, and choir. Tuition (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB 142,000 (kindergarten), RMB 173,200- RMB 197,100 (Grades 1-12), RMB 2,000 (application fee), RMB 5,000 (new student fee), RMB 5,000 (annual lunch fee), RMB 8,500-9,500 (bus) 10 Upper East Side, Dongfeng Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (5681 2555, admissions@bj.ccaschools.cn) www. ccaschools.cn 常春藤国际学校, 朝阳区东风南 路阳光上东10号 Beijing Huijia Kindergarten Part of a nationwide chain, Huijia Kindergarten has 17 campuses and early childhood centers around Beijing. The curriculum combines advanced international educational ideas, modern teaching methods and Chinese traditional culture and focuses on nurturing children to become international citizens. The coursework, which emphasizes basic concepts, skills, knowledge, attitudes and behaviors, is designed to help students become “lifelong learners” and take responsibility for themselves, their studies others.Age range: 1.5-6 years old.

Tuition fees (2010-2011 academic year): Huijia Longwan Experiential Early Childhood Education Center - RMB 72,000/year; Huijia Central Park

Experiential Early Childhood Education Center RMB 72,000/year; Tuition for other centers vary from RMB 25,000-72,000/year (contact school administration for details) 1) Shangdi MOMA campus: MOMA, Anning Zhuang, Haidian District, Haidian District. (8275 9510 / 8274 1391, hjkids@263.net); 2) Changping campus: Huijia Vocational College, 20 Chuangxin Road, Zhongguancun Kejiyuan, Changping District, Changping District. (5163 1603, hjkids@263. net); 3) Sanyuan Qiao campus: 6 Jing’an Dongli, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District.

(6463 5251, hjkids@263.net); 4) Wanquan campus: 35 Xinxin Jiayuan, Wanquanyuan, Bagou nanlu, Haidian District, Haidian District.

(8255 1751, hjkids@263.net); 5) CBD campus: 24 Xincheng International Apartment, 6 Chaowai Dajie (6597 9358), Chaoyang District.

(6597 9358, hjkids@263.net) www.hjkids.com 汇佳幼儿园, 1) 海淀区安宁庄上地MOMA小区; 2) 昌平区中关村科技园创新路20号汇佳职业学院 内; 3) 朝阳区静安东里6号; 4) 海淀区巴沟南路 35号小区万泉新新家园; 5) 朝阳区朝外大街6号 新城国际公寓24号楼 Beijing Huijia Private (IB) School Beijing Huijia Private (IB) School is comprised of a kindergarten, primary school, junior high school and senior high school. It is a day and boarding school where Chinese and foreign students study together, and it is the first member school of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) in China that admits Chinese students.

With a mix of Chinese and foreign students (from 15 countries) and more than 500 Chinese and foreign teachers and staff, it is one of the largest private schools in Beijing. Age range: 3-18. Tuition fees (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB 1,000 (application fee); RMB 20,000 (deposit); RMB 146,600/year (Grade 1-2); RMB 148,200/year (Grade 3-4); RMB 152,500/year (Grade 5-6) 157 Changping Lu, Changping District. (400 889 1993, zhaoban@hj2000.net. cn) www.hj1993.com 北京汇佳私立学校, 昌平 区昌平路157号 Beijing International Bilingual Academy (BIBA) BIBA (founded in 2006) combines a bilingual curriculum based on US standards, coupled with elements of the Chinese National Curriculum. Its Shunyi campus is comprised of kindergarten, elementary and middle schools.

A high school department is scheduled to open in August of 2013. BIBA emphasizes academics and a wide array of sporting, music,performing arts and other programs. A sibling discount of 20 percent applies forsecond and subsequent children. Age range: 2.5-15.Tuition fees (20122013 Academic Year):RMB 1,600 (Application fee); RMB 70,000 plus RMB 10,000capital levy (Pre-K); RMB 80,000 plus RMB 10,000 capital levy (Kindergarten); RMB 120,000 plus RMB 20,000 capital levy (elementary school); RMB 130,000 plus RMB 20,000 capital levy (middle school); RMB 140,000 plus RMB 20,000 capital levy (high school) Monet Garden, 5 Yumin Dajie, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8041 0390, info@bibachina.org) www.bibachina.org 海嘉国 际双语学校, 顺义区后沙峪裕民大街5号 Beijing Jiade Montessori Bilingual Kindergarten Beijing Jiade Montessori Bilingual Kindergarten is the flagship campus of Wisdom International Education Group. It was designated as an experimental kindergarten by the Chinese Society of Education. Jiade’s nursery and kindergarten classrooms feature didactic and manipulative Montessori learning materials. Its team consists of AMS-certified Montessori teachers and academic consultants with over 10 years of experience. The bilingual Chinese and English curriculum features a native English-speaking foreign teacher in each class. Age range: 2-6. Tuition fees (2012-2013 Academic Year):RMB 82,000 (Kindergarten), RMB 72,000(Nursery) Bldg 221, Balizhuang Beili, Chaoyang District. (8591 8288) www. jdmontessori.com 北京市朝阳区嘉德蒙台梭利双 语幼儿园, 朝阳区八里庄北里221号楼 Beijing Rego British School One of the newest schools in the city, Beijing Rego British School follows on the heels of two successful schools in Tianjin and Shanghai and caters to students from the surrounding Shunyi area

Directories with its array of educational facilities and ageappropriate resources on campus. Coursework is based on the UK national curriculum with the addition of Chinese Culture and Mandarin courses for all year groups. Rego places strong emphasis on close cooperation between parents, students and teachers and aims to create an educationally comfortable but truly challenging atmosphere for students to “be their best” and explore their talents and abilities to the fullest. Age range: 3 ½-18 years old.

Tuition:Registration Fee RMB 2,000; Deposit RMB 15,000; Nusery (Full Day) RMB 130,000/ year; Reception (Full Day) RMB 130,000/year; Years 1-6 RMB 160,000/year; Years 7-9 RMB 170,000/year; Years 10-11 RMB 192,000/ year; Years 12-13 RMB 202,000 15 Liyuan Jie, Tianzhu County, Shunyi District. (8416 7718, victoria.chu@brbs.regoschool.com) www. bjrego.org 北京瑞金英国学校, 顺义区顺义区天 竺镇丽苑街15号 Beijing Shuren Ribet Private School (BSRPS) Beijing Shuren Ribet Private School is a boarding school that incorporates American education and Chinese language and culture.

The school community nurtures academic, social, physical and emotional growth. The lower end of Shuren Ribet teaches a primarily Chinese program, with an increase in the numberof courses in English as students move up in grade level. Students at the American high school receive an American overseas education as they embrace the essence of Chinese culture and literature. The tuition fees quoted below include room and board, registration, textbooks, materials, and meals.

Age range: 3-18.Tuition fees (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB 15,500/semester (kindergarten); RMB 35,000/semester (Grades 1-6); RMB 36,000/semester (Grades 7-9); RMB 112,420/semester (Grades 10-12) 1A Xiaopu Nan, Songzhuang Town, Tongzhou District.

(8085 6318 (bilingual), 8085 6787 (Chinese), inquiry@shurenribet.org) www.shurenribet.org (English), www.shuren.org (Chinese) 北京市私 立树人瑞贝学校, 通州区宋庄镇小堡南申1号

Beijing World Youth Academy (BWYA) Beijing World Youth Academy is an IB World School offering both English and bilingual (Chinese/English) programs for local and overseas students. BWYA values holistic education and inquiry-based learning, and offers students opportunity to develop as globally aware critical thinkers. The faculty hails from over 15 countries. BWYA emphasizes creativity and teamwork using a curriculum that incorporates standards from North America, Europe and Asia. The school has a strong track record of preparing students for both Chinese and overseas universities, including Peking University, Tsinghua, Fudan, Harvard, Princeton, UC Berkeley and Stanford.Age range: 9-18Tuition fees (2012-2013 Academic Year): RMB 1,600 (application fee); RMB 30,000 (capital levy fee); RMB 100,000 (International Primary School, Grades 3-5); RMB 80,000 (Bilingual Middle School, Grades 6-9); RMB 120,000 (Bilingual High School, Grades 10-12); RMB 120,000 (IB Middle Years Progamme, Grades 6-8); RMB 140,000 (IB Middle Years Progamme, Grades 9-10); RMB 140,000 (IB Diploma Programme, Grades 11-12) 18 Huajiadi Beili, Chaoyang District. (6461 7787, admissions@ibwya.net) www.ibwya.net 北京世 青国际学校, 朝阳区花家地北里18号 The British School of Beijing (BSB) The British School of Beijing (BSB) was founded in 2003 and is the oldest British style school in the city. Our curriculum follows the English National Curriculum, with adjustments made to reflect our international context. We currently have 2 campuses: Our Sanlitun campus is conveniently located in the heart of the Embassy district and offers high quality primary education. It’s cosy but purposeful and has gained this school a fantastic reputation as a family orientated campus. Our Shunyi campus is situated in the family friendly suburbs on the outskirts of Beijing. It is perfectly placed for the most popular expatriate friendly housing compounds and offers primary and secondary education.

At our school respect, good manners and

personal responsibility are highly valued and these elements are reinforced daily through the culture of the school which places a premium on social graces and considerate behavior.

1) Sanlitun Foundation Stage: 7 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (8532 5320, admissions@britishschool.org.cn); 2) Sanlitun Primary: No.5 XiLiuJie Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (8532 3088, admissions@britishschool. org.cn); 3) Shunyi Campus: 9 Anhua Lu (south side), Shunyi District. (8047 3558, admissions@ britishschool.org.cn) www.britishschool.org. cn 北京英国学校, 1) 朝阳区三里屯北小街7 号; 2) 朝阳区三里屯西六街5号; 3) 顺义区安 华路9号南院 Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) CISB offers a Montessori Nursery and Pre-Kindergarten program, as well as a Canadian-style curriculum for K-12 students.

CISB is an IB World School authorized to provide the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) at the high school level and is in the process of being accredited for the Primary Years (PYP) and Middle Years Programmes (MYP). Founded in August 2012, CISB’s Shunyi Campus offers a Montessori-based curriculum for ages 18 months to 6 years. Age range: 18 months-18 years. Tuition fees (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB 1,800 (application fee); RMB 76,600 (half day Montessori Nursery, Main Campus); RMB 121,800 (Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten, Main Campus); RMB 158,800 (Grades 1-5, Main Campus); RMB 160,400 (Grades 6-8, Main Campus); RMB 179,800 (Grades 9-12, Main Campus); RMB 59,000 (Infant/Toddler half day, Shunyi Campus); RMB 75,000 (Primary half day, Shunyi Campus); RMB 121,800 (Primary full day, Shunyi Campus); RMB 121,800 (Pre-Elementary full day, Shunyi Campus) 1) Main Campus: 38 Liangma Qiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 7788, Main Campus: admissions@cis-beijing.com, Shunyi Campus: admissions_shunyi@cis-beijing.com); 2) Shunyi Campus: 7 Yuyang Lu, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8046 6191, Main Campus: admissions@cis-beijing.com, Shunyi Campus:

admissions_shunyi@cis-beijing.com) www.cisb. com.cn 北京加拿大国际学校, 1) 朝阳区亮马桥 路38号; 2) 顺义区后沙峪榆阳路7号 Daystar Academy Daystar Academy, a Kindergarten-Grade 6 school, offers a balance of Montessori-based English education and the Chinese National Curriculum. Students spend half of their day in each language environment. As part of their curriculum, they are developingan integrated, capabilitiesbased character education program that unites all areas of the school and community.

This approach connects two cultures and implements the strongest attributes of both Western and Eastern teaching methodologies.

Sibling discounts availabe. Age range: 3-12.

Tuition fees (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB 105,000 (Kindergarten full day); RMB 57,000 (half-day, for 3-year-olds only); RMB95,000 (3 years old); RMB 105,000 (4-5 years old) RMB 110,000 (Elementary, Grade 1-6); RMB 10,000-30,000 (additional one-time entry fee) 2 Shunbai Lu, Chaoyang District. (8430 2654 ext 8009 or 5603 9446 (Heather Zhao in Admissions), heatherz@daystarchina.cn) www. daystarchina.cn 启明星双语学校, 朝阳区顺 白路2号 Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) Dulwich College first opened its doors to students in Beijing in August of 2005. Since then, the school has grown to include approximately 1,400 students ranging in age from 12 months to 18 years. DCB is a 21st-century school that couples outstanding ICT facilities with a modern approach. The school features a one-to-one laptop policy for students in Year 8 and above and utilizes a Virtual Learning Environment for the entire faculty. DCB is accredited by the Council of International Schools and Western Association of School and Colleges, and was named International School of the Year in 2011.

The school aims to provide students with a well-rounded environment to grow, develop, and learn in. Ages: 12 months – 18 years.

Application Fee: RMB 2000 – non-refundable; Placement Deposit: RMB 18,000 – refundable

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Directories subject to terms and conditions; Early Years: RMB 66,200-168,000; Grades 1-12: RMB 168,000-219,200 1) Legend Garden Campus and Legend Early Years Campus: Legend Garden Villas, 89 Capital Airport Road, Shunyi District. (6454 9000, info@dulwich-beijing.cn); 2) Beijing Riviera Campus: 1 Xiangjiang Beilu, Jingshun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8450 7676, info@dulwich-beijing.cn) www.dulwich-beijing. cn 北京德威英国国际学校, 1) 顺义区机场路 89号丽京花园; 2) 朝阳区京顺路香江北路1号 香江花园 Eduwings Kindergarten The culmination of two former schools, Der Kingergarten and Jin Yi Kingergarten, Eduwings Kindergarten is divided into English/Chinese and German departments that are each split into three age groups (2-3, 3-4, 5-6 years) and one infant group (2 years and under). All of the lead and language teachers are native-speakers and educate children individually following the school’s philosophy: “Every child needs to have roots and wings – roots to know where they are from and wings to explore the world.” Eduwings also offers Montessori education, swimming, music and art activities, a library, climbing facilities, as well as an outdoor playground and yard. All afternoon activities are included in the tuition fee. Age range: 2-6 (infant group for under 2 years old). Tuition fees (2010-2011 Academic Year): RMB 52,000 for half day program; RMB 72,000 for full day program (afternoon activities and lunch included in the tuition fee).

Merlin Champagne Town Clubhouse, 6 Liyuan Jie, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6450 8384, mariaseemel.eduwings@gmail.com) www. eduwingskids.com 金翼德懿幼儿园, 顺义区天竺 镇丽苑街6号美林香槟小镇俱乐部 Etonkids Bilingual Kindergartens Part of the Etonkids Bilingual Kindergartens’ division of the Etonkids international education group, the Central Park campus features a bilingual Montessori program designed to develop “independence, initiative and creativity.” The school caters to children from 1 to 6 years of age and are divided into nursery school (18 months-3 years) and “Casa” (a.k.a. “Early Childhood Community,” 3-6 years) divisions with lessons promoting intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth (nursery) as well as coursework in language arts, mathematics, everyday living skills, sensory awareness exercises and culture (Casa stage). Check the website for additional EtonKids Bilingual Park Campuses. Tuition fees (2010-2011 Academic Year):Monthly payment plan - Morning session (8.3011.30am) RMB 6,250; Full-day session (8.30am-4.30pm) RMB 8,500; Yearly payment plan - Morning session (8.30-11.30am) RMB 62,500; Full-day session (8.30am-4.30pm) RMB 85,000 1) Central Park Campus: Bldg 19, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6533 6995, Peking House Campus: xuyan@etonkids.com or zhoudan@ etonkids.com, Central Park Campus: cpadmin@etonkids.com, Palm Springs Campus: psadmin@etonkids.com, Midtown Campus: gcadmin@etonkids.com); 2) Midtown Campus: Bldg 21, Guangqujia Yuan, Guangqumen Waidajie, Chongwen District.

(6749 5008, Peking House Campus: xuyan@ etonkids.com or zhoudan@etonkids.com, Central Park Campus: cpadmin@etonkids. com, Palm Springs Campus: psadmin@ etonkids.com, Midtown Campus: gcadmin@ etonkids.com); 3) Palm Springs Campus: Palm Springs International Apartments, 8 Chaoyang Gongyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6539 5967, Peking House Campus: xuyan@etonkids.com or zhoudan@etonkids. com, Central Park Campus: cpadmin@ etonkids.com, Palm Springs Campus: psadmin@etonkids.com, Midtown Campus: gcadmin@etonkids.com); 4) Peking House Campus: 20 Xidawang Lu, Chaoyang District.

(5870 6778/9, Peking House Campus: xuyan@etonkids.com or zhoudan@etonkids. com, Central Park Campus: cpadmin@ etonkids.com, Palm Springs Campus: psadmin@etonkids.com, Midtown Campus: gcadmin@etonkids.com) www.etonkids.com 伊顿双语幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区朝阳门外大街6号新

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beijingkids

2013 October

城国际19号楼; 2) 崇文区广渠门外大街广渠家 园21号楼; 3) 朝阳区朝阳公园南路8号棕榈泉国 际公寓; 4) 朝阳区西大望路20号 Etonkids International Kindergarten CBD Global Trade Mansion Etonkids International Kindergarten is one of the oldest schools in Beijing’s Etonkids franchise (a nationwide educational group). The school provides a community-centered Americanstyle education led by Montessori-certified teachers and an educational philosophy based on the Three C’s – Creativity, Character and Culture. Coursework includes lessons in practical life, “sensorial,” math, language, culture and science. A variety of programs are also available including Reggio Baby and Kindermusik. The staff meets regularly for training under the EXCELS school improvement planning program, which is designed to share new teaching practices, the Montessori method and current educational trends. Age range: 1.5-6 years old. Tuition fees (2010-2011 Academic Year): Annual Registration fee RMB 2,000 Yuan (inclusive the materials and uniforms)RMB71,800112,000/year 1) CBD Campus: 3/F, Block D, Global Trade Mansion, Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6506 4805, Lido Campus: lidoadmin@etonkids.com, CBD Campus: gtmadmin@etonkids.com); 2) Lido Campus: Rm C103, Lido Country Club, Lido Place, Jichang Lu, Chaoyang District. (6436 7368, Lido Campus: lidoadmin@etonkids.com, CBD Campus: gtmadmin@etonkids.com) www. etonkids.com 伊顿国际幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区光 华路世贸国际公寓D座3层; 2) 朝阳区机场路丽 都广场C103室 Harrow International School Beijing Harrow International School Beijing prides itself on high academic standards that are maintained within a close-knit school community. All students are assigned a personal tutor who looks after their overall welfare and serves as a liaison between school and home. High academic standards and leadership skills are promoted school-wide, with a range of enrichment activities to help students develop teamwork and creative thinking skills, as well as independence and responsibility. Graduates from Harrow Beijing have been accepted at universities across the world, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Princeton.Harrow Beijing follows the National Curriculum of England and Wales, culminating in the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE and IGCSE’s), and A Levels.

Its curriculum is fully accredited by all British Examination Authorities and it is an accredited SAT center. Harrow Beijing is also a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS) and, like all Harrow International Schools, undergoes regular accreditation visits by CIS and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) in the US. Harrow Beijing is also a member of the Federation of British International Schools in Southeast Asia and East Asia (FOBISSEA), which enables students to collaborate in music and sports with other schools across Southeast Asia.

Age Range: 3-18. Tuition Fees (2012-2013 Academic Year): Nursery: RMB 119,800; Reception: RMB 149,300; Years 1-2: RMB 177,700; Years 3-6: RMB 189,100; Years 7-9: RMB 207,600; Years 10-11: RMB 217,600; Years 12-13: RMB 231,700. 287 Hegezhuang Village, Cuigezhuang County, Chaoyang District.

(6444 8900, enquiries@harrowbeijing.cn) www. harrowbeijing.cn 北京哈罗英国学校, 朝阳区崔 各庄乡何各庄村287号 The High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China (RDFZ) Founded in 1950, the education philosophy of RDFZ is to respect individuality and develop the students’ personal development. Led by Liu Pengzhi, RDFZ boasts more than 50 international faculty members and over 200 international students.

Students can choose to study Mandarin as part of the Chinese language program or take classes with regular middle and high school students. More than 85 percent of the student body has been accepted to top universities like Peking University and Tsinghua University.

RDFZ has launched reforms that combine traditional Chinese education and international curricula, including elements of A-Levels, the IB program, and AP classes. RDFZ has a network of 46 partner schools worldwide, including Escola-Hamelin Laie Internacional, Spain; Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology; Phillips Academy Andover; Raffles Intitute; Eton College; and Mahidol Wittayanusorn. Department of International Students, The High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China, 37 Zhongguancun Dajie, Haidian District. (6251 3962, guojibu3962@ sina.com) www.rdfz.cn 中国人民大学附属中学 （简称人大附中）, 海淀区中关村 大街37号人 大附中国际部 House of Knowledge International Kindergarten (HoK) House of Knowledge (HoK) boasts a unique curriculum that includes aspects of Montessori and Reggio Emilia, with special emphasis placed on the latter approach.

Students are treated as competent learners with boundless potential. With this in mind, the curriculum helps kids acquire critical thinking and collaboration skills by teaching them how to “learn to learn” in a multilingual environment (English, German, Chinese). Age range: 10 months to 6 years. Tuition fees (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB 2,000 (registration fee); RMB 5,000-15,000 (refundable deposit based on withdrawal policy); RMB 66,780-136,680 (school fees based on choice of program).

1) Victoria Gardens Campus: 15 Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6538 2624, info@hokschools.com); 2) Quanfa Campus: North gate of Quanfa compound, 15 Maquanying, Chaoyang District. (6431 8452, info@hokschools.com); 3) Administrative Office, C511, Lufthansa Centre, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (400 650 7747, info@ hokschools.com) www.hokschools.com 好思之 家国际幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区朝阳公园西路 15号维多利亚花园公寓; 2) 朝阳区潮阳区马泉 映15号泉发花园北门; 3) 朝阳区亮马桥路50号 燕莎中心C511 The International Montessori School of Beijing (MSB) As the first and only fullyregistered international Montessori school in Beijing, MSB has been serving the city’s expatriate children for 22 years. During that time, it has earned a glowing reputation for its steady commitment to the growth, education, and well-being of its pupils. The school is both an affiliate member of the American Montessori Society(AMS), which upholds the MACTE Montessori education standards on an international level, and the International Montessori Teaching Institute, which provides ongoing training to all of MSB’s lead teachers and teaching assistants. In August 2012, the school expanded its Riviera campus to cover all of its pre-kindergarten through elementary programs, and counts spacious classrooms, an indoor pool, and a multi-purpose auditorium among its facilities. Parents, in particular, are fond of the campus’s twoCoffee Stops, where they can mingle with a cup of coffee and a freshly-baked treat, courtesy of the school’s dedicated parent association. Age range: 1-12.

Tuition fees (2012 Academic Year): 3 Day Toddler (Age 1): RMB 41,000; 5 Day Toddler (Age 1): RMB 65,000; Morning Nursery (Age 2): RMB91,000; Full-day Nursery (Age 2): RMB 135,000; Morning Kindergarten (Ages 3-4): RMB 95,000; Full-day Kindergarten (Ages 3-4): RMB 140,000; Reception (Age 5): RMB 157,000; Elementary (Ages 6-12): RMB 163,000. Bldg 8, 2 Xiangjiang Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6432 8228, admissions@msb.edu.cn) www.msb.edu.cn 北京蒙台梭利国际学校, 朝阳 区朝阳区香江北路2号院8号楼 International Montessori Teaching Institute (IMTI) Established in Beijing in 2009, IMTI is affiliated with Wisdom International Education Group. It is a wellrecognized Montessori teacher training institute in China and the Asia-Pacific region.

688 Glory Palace, 2 Shunfu Lu, Renhe Town, Shunyi District, Shunyi District. (8949 6877, snowzhang@imti-china.com) www.imti-china. com 蒙台梭利教学法国际交流中心, 顺义区顺义 区仁和镇顺福路2号御墅688号

International School of Beijing (ISB) The International School of Beijing (ISB) traces its roots back to the early 1970s when a small foreign school was established by the United States Liaison Office, the precursor to the US Embassy, and was little more than a simple “classroom that was wedged into a hallway in a diplomatic apartment compound in Sanlitun.”

In the 1980s the school was merged with the schools of the British, Australian, Canadian and New Zealand embassies and was eventually moved to its present-day 50,000sqm purposebuilt facility near Capital Paradise in Shunyi.

Over the years ISB has gained an international reputation for its solid academic programs (it was the first school in Beijing to offer the full IB Diploma), comprehensive facilities and full curriculum catering to all age levels. Age range: 3-18 years old. Tuition fees (2010-2011 Academic Year): EC3 (half day) RMB 65,490 (RMB 10,970 capital fee); EC4 (full day) RMB 119,690 (RMB 10,970 capital fee); Kindergarten RMB 140,330 (RMB 13,180 capital fee); Grades 1–5 RMB 140,330 (RMB 31,600 capital fee); Grades 6–8 RMB 150,540 (RMB 31,600 capital fee); Grades 9-12 RMB 165,540 (RMB 31,600 capital fee) 10 Anhua Jie, Shunyi District. (8149 2345 ext 1047, admission@isb.bj.edu.cn) www. isb.bj.edu.cn 北京顺义国际学校, 顺义区安华 街10号 Ivy Academy Ivy Academy is a pre-school and kindergarten created in collaboration with the Harvard Graduate School of Education Researchers that accepts students of ages two through six. The school offers an English speaking environment taught by a team of highly qualified early childhood educators who customizes the Multiple Intelligences theory influenced curriculum according to the children’s interests. Age range: 2-6 years old.

Website: www.ivyschools.com. 1) 5738 4559.

Central Park Campus: Bldg 24, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmen Waidajie, Chaoyang District.

(East Lake Villas Campus: Info-el@ivyschools. com, Central Park Campus: Info-CP@ ivyschools.com); 2) East Lake Villas Campus: Rm C101, East Lake Villas, 35 Dongzhimen Waidajie, Dongcheng District. (8451 1380, East Lake Villas Campus: Info-el@ivyschools.com, Central Park Campus: Info-CP@ivyschools.com) www.ivyschools.com 艾毅国际幼儿园, 1) 朝 阳区新城国际校园：大街6号新城国际公寓24号 楼; 2) 东城区东湖校园：东直门外大街35号东湖 别墅C座101室 Ivy Bilingual School (IBS) Ivy Bilingual School offers a curriculum based on the Multiple Intelligences theory and provides an immersion bilingual program in which both Chinese and Western teachers interact with children throughout the day. IBS’ goal is to provide children with the most current research-based practices coupled with knowledge of Chinese culture. Upon graduation, children will be comfortable speaking in both English and Chinese. Age range: 2-6. Tuition fees for Orchid Garden Campus (2013-2014 Academic Year): Deposit is one month tuition (non-refundable, to be credited toward tuition); Material fee RMB 1,500; Half-day RMB 5,810/month; Full day RMB 7,750/month. Tuition fees for Ocean Express Campus (2013-2014 Academic Year): Deposit is one month tuition (non-refundable, to be credited toward tuition); Material fee RMB 1,500; Half-day RMB 6,080/month; Full day RMB 8,100/month. 1) Orchid Garden Campus: 18 Xinjin Lu, Cuigexiang (Airport Expressway, Beigao Exit), Chaoyang District. (8439 7080, Ocean Garden Campus: info-og@ivyschool. com, Ocean Express Campus: info-OE@ ivyschools.com); 2) Ocean Express Campus: Bldg E, Ocean Express, 2 Dongsanhuan Beilu (north of Kempinski), Chaoyang District. (8446 7287/6, Ocean Garden Campus: info-og@ ivyschool.com, Ocean Express Campus: infoOE@ivyschools.com) www.ivyschools.com 艾毅 双语幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区卓锦校园：崔各乡新锦路 18号卓锦万代; 2) 朝阳区远洋校园：东三环北路 2号远洋新干线E座 Keystone Academy Keystone Academy will open in Shunyi District in the fall of 2014.

Keystone promises to be a unique and exciting school option for families in China – offering

Directories Chinese and American instructional techniques of inquiry-based learning, critical-thinking, and creative problem solving in a rigorous intellectual environment. The academic program will be international in scope, with a central curriculum thread that focuses on Chinese identity, language, culture, and history. Keystone will serve students grades 1 through 12, with a bilingual curriculum in the primary years and more intensive instruction in English as students progress through the program. There will be a boarding school option for Grade 7 and 8, and mandatory boarding in Grade 9-12. Houshayu Town, Shunyi District. (5825 6008, admission@ keystoneacademy.cn) www.keystoneacademy. cn 北京鼎石国际学校, 顺义区后沙峪镇 The Children’s House International Montessori Kindergarten The Children’s House opened its China World Trade Center campus in 1992 and has since established schools at the Lufthansa Center, Yosemite Villas in Shunyi and in Yayuncun’s Yayunxinxin Gardens. Today, the educational group serves over 300 international students in its four campuses, which are characterized by their small, friendly down-home atmospheres, English-only and bilingual curriculums that adhere to the Montessori system. Please note that the bilingual and bilingual reception classes are offered only at the Kempinski and Yosemite campuses. Age range: 0-6Tuition fees (2012-2013 Academic Year): RMB 74,000(Nursery/Pre-Primary morning program); RMB 93,000 (Nursery/Pre-Primary half-day); RMB 114,000 (Nursery/Pre-Primary full day); RMB 98,000 (Primary half-day); RMB 122,000 (Primary full day); RMB 126,000 (Primary Reception Class full day); RMB 72,000 (bilingual half-day); RMB 103,200 (bilingual full day); RMB 115,200 (Bilingual Reception Class full day) 1) Olympic Village Campus: Yayun Xinjiayuan, 1 Xindian Lu, Chaoyang District. (5202 0293); 2) Liangma Qiao Campus: Unit S114, Lufthansa Center Tower, 50 Liangma Qiao Lu, Chaoyang District.

(6465 1305/3388 ext 4477); 3) Shunyi Campus: C Area Clubhouse, Yosemite Villas, 4 Yuyang Lu, Houshayu Town, Shunyi District.

(8041 7083); 4) Guomao Campus: 1/F, North Lodge, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6505 3869/2288) 巧智博仁国际幼儿 园, 1) 朝阳区辛店路1号亚运新家园社区; 2) 朝 阳区亮马桥路50号凯宾斯基写字楼S114室; 3) 顺 义区后沙峪镇榆杨路4号优山美地C区俱乐部; 4) 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸北公寓１层 Western Academy of Beijing Western Academy of Beijing is an International Baccalaureate World School that boasts a “challenging and caring educational environment in which students are active participants in the learning process.” WAB provides a learner-centered atmosphere that nurtures a strong sense of community among its 1,550 students from 55 countries, with the mission to “Connect, Inspire, Challenge: Make a Difference.” Campus facilities are extensive and include a lake and model wetlands that are the foundation of its environmental science center.Age range: 3-18 years old. Tuition fees (2010/2011 Academic Year, combined total includes capital levy and tuition): Nursery RMB 85,000; PreKindergarten RMB 141,000; Kindergarten RMB 165,000; Grades 1-5 RMB 165,000; Grades 6-8 RMB 181,000; Grades 9-10 RMB 198,000; Grades 11-12 RMB 204,000 10 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District.

(5986 5588, wabinfo@wab.edu) www.wab. edu 北京京西学校, 朝阳区来广营东路10号 Yew Chung International School of Beijing Located within the scenic Honglingjin Park in the heart of downtown Beijing, Yew Chung International School of Beijing celebrates its 15th year of educating students of the Beijing expatriate community. YCIS Beijing, an IB World school, is fully accredited

by CIS, NEASC and NCCT, and is a part of the larger network of schools with over 5,000 students across campuses in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Chongqing, Qingdao, and Silicon Valley, US. Providing K2 – Year 13

students with a quality curriculum based on the National Curriculum for England and a research-based Chinese Language Program that equips students to be bilingual, competitive, and globally-minded citizens.

Age range: 2-18 years old. Tuition fees (2011/2012 Academic Year): Application Fee RMB 1,660 (non-refundable); Placement Deposit RMB 5,000–14,000 (year level dependent); K2 (half day) RMB 60,800; K2 (full day) RMB 102,000; K3 RMB 136,000; K4 RMB 142,000; Year 1-3 RMB 168,000; Year 4-6 RMB 172,000; Year 7-9 RMB 191,000; Year 10-11 RMB 204,000; Year 12-13 RMB 210,000 Honglingjin Park, 5 Houbalizhuang, Chaoyang District. (8583 3731, enquiry@ bj.ycef.com) www.ycis-bj.com 北京耀中国际学 校, 朝阳区后八里庄5号红领巾公园东门

Shopping Home Accessories and Gear

Scitech Plaza, 22 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Beijing, Chaoyang District. (188 1020 5987, info@iqairchina.com) www.iqair-china.com 1) 顺义区天 竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆广场地下一层03A; 2) 朝阳 区亮马桥路52号燕莎友谊商城5层; 3) 西城区复 兴门内大街101号6层百盛复兴门店家电部; 4) 朝 阳区七圣中街12号院1号楼B1百盛太阳宫店生活家 电区; 5) 朝阳区建国路87号新光天地5层生活家 电区; 6) 朝阳区霄云路36号国航大厦1801-03室; 7) 西城区金城坊街金融街417号四层; 8) 海淀区 远大路1号金源新燕莎商城地下1层; 9) 朝阳区建 国门外大街22号赛特购物中心地下二层 Lily’s Antiques Furniture Lily’s Antiques is the most famous furniture dealer in Beijing, offering quality Chinese antiques, but also imported traditional and modern styles from all over the world, from Ming chairs and Tibetan rugs to Indian trunks, Spanish design and Italian sofas. The service is the best in town, with a one-year guarantee and delivery. 1) Daily 8.30am-6pm. Gaobeidian Showroom, 69 Gaobeidian Furniture Street, Chaoyang District.

(8579 2458); 2) Visit by Appointment. Factory and Warehouse Address, Baimiao industry area, Songzhuang town, Tongzhou District. (138 0139 6309) www.lilysantiques.com 华伦古典家 具, 1) 朝阳区高碑店家俱一条街69号; 2) 通州 区工厂地址,通州区宋庄镇白庙村工业大院 Beijing Torana Clean Air Center Air purifiers from Blueair and Alen Air, pollution masks from Totobobo. Free home assessments and delivery. 1) Daily 10am-8.30pm. Unit LB09, 1/F, Europlaza Mall, Shunyi District. (8459 0785); 2) 10.30am-6.30pm. Unit 308, Pinnacle Plaza, Shunyi District. (8046 1091) www. toranacleanair.com/index.html 1) 顺义区天竺镇 裕翔路99号欧陆广场LB09; 2) 顺义区天竺镇花梨 坎村南“荣祥广场308室

courses range from fun skill development courses to competitive league teams and are taught by ClubFootball’s experienced FAqualified soccer coaching staff. 9am-6pm. Unit A316, Door 3, Zone A1, Zhaowei Huadeng Plaza, Zhaowei Building #51, 14 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang District. (5130 6893/4/5/6, coaching@wanguoqunxing.com, activities@ wanguoqunxing.com) www.clubfootball.com.cn, www.wanguoqunxing.com 万国群星足球俱乐 部, 朝阳区万国群星办公室位于朝阳区酒仙桥路 14号兆维华灯大厦A1区3门A316，工作时间为上 午9点至下午6点。联系方式为

Martial Arts China Baby Kung Fu Hall China Baby Kung Fu Hall combines traditional Chinese culture and martial arts. As the designated teaching base of the Chinese Wushu Association, the school has more than 100,000 students training in kung fu, sanda, taichi, and self-defence. There are group classes (maximum of eight students), one-toone classes, and family packages available.

Rm S108B, Guangcai International Mall, 18 Gongti Xilu, Chaoyang District. (186 0098 8666 Registration, 6551 3108 or 6553 7689 Hotline, chinababykungfu@163.com) www. chinababykungfu.com 中华宝贝功夫会馆, 朝阳 区朝阳区工体西路18号光彩国际底商S108B

Markets Tianle Toy Market The four-floor building includes 300 vendor booths that sell all kinds of cheap children toys, sports gear, art works and handicrafts, wedding supplies, stationery and office supplies. Daily 8.30am-7pm. 136 Fahuasi Jie, Chongwen District. 红桥天乐玩具 市场, 崇文区法华寺街136号 Tianyi Market Toys of all manner at prices that won’t make you blush. Daily 9am-6pm.

10 Tuanjiehu Dongli, Chaoyang District. 天宇 市场, 朝阳区团结湖东里10号

IQ Air While little can be done about outdoor air pollution, you can certainly make a difference with the air you breathe in your home or office. IQAir has been the top-rated air purifier brand for more than a decade. The Health Pro 250 is their most popular product and is considered by most to be the best allaround air cleaning system available. With their HyperHEPA technology, you are guaranteed near perfect levels of efficiency for the life of your machine. IQAir China specializes in bringing clean air solutions to both residential and commercial users. 1) B1/F, 03A Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6457 1922, info@iqair-china.com); 2) Daily 10am10pm. 5/F, Household Appliance Area, Youyi Shopping City, 52 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (158 0136 1601, info@iqair-china. com); 3) 10am-8pm. 6/F, Parkson Plaza, 101 Fuxingmennei Dajie, Xicheng District. (157 1286 8485, info@iqair-china.com); 4) Daily 10am10pm. B1/F, Parkson Plaza Taiyanggong, Bldg 1, 12 Qi Sheng Zhongjie, Chaoyang District, Beijing, Chaoyang District. (157 1286 8454, info@iqair-china.com); 5) Daily 10am-10pm.

5/F, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (5738 2401, info@iqair-china.com); 6) Daily 9am-6pm. Rm 1801-03, Air China Plaza, 36 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8447 5800, info@iqair-china.com); 7) Daily 10am-9pm. 4/F, 417 Seasons Place, 2 Jinchengfang Jie, Xicheng District. (6622 0179, info@iqair-china.com); 8) Mon-Thu 10am-9pm, Fri-Sun 10am-10pm.

B1/F, Golden Resources New Yansha Mall, 1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District. (157 1286 9044, info@iqair-china.com); 9) 10am-10pm. B2/F,

Sanyuanli Market Daily 5am-7pm.

Shunyuan Jie (opposite Jingkelong Supermarket, west of Sanyuan Dongqiao), Chaoyang District. 三源里市场, 朝阳区顺源街 （三元东桥往西京客隆超市对面）

Shopping Centers & Malls Indigo Mall Swire Properties’ new mega-mall located right by 798 is home to a massive supermarket and a cinema, as well as a trendy array of popular shops (including bla bla bra, GAP) and local eateries (Blue Frog, Element Fresh). Daily 10am-10pm. 18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8426 0898) www. indigobeijing.com 颐堤港, 朝阳区酒仙桥路18

Xie’s Martial Arts Academy (XMA) Xie’s Martial Arts Academy (XMA) was founded in 2005 by Master Xie, a 32nd generation disciple of the Shaolin Temple with a Masters of Education from Beijing Sport University.

Xie’s Shaolin Kung Fu Style is a unique mixed martial arts system that combines traditional Shaolin Kung Fu, Karate and Western martial art styles. XMA’s wide range of self-defense styles creates a well-rounded, disciplined martial art. Age: 3 and above. Classes are offered after school and on weekends.

Private classes are available. Venue: Beijing City International School, Western Academy of Beijing, The British School of Beijing (Sanlitun) and International School of Beijing.

(131 4676 0944, xmamasterxie@gmail.com) www.xmabj.com

Rock Climbing

Solana Located inside Chaoyang Park, Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park has a fine collection of shops, restaurants, cafes and sporting facilities.

Venues include British baby shop Mothercare, the perfect place to stock up on all things related to kids, pregnancy and moms. Other highlights include Banana Leaf Thai Restaurant, Romana Ice Cream, Cold Stone Creamery, a cinema, an ice rink and much more. Daily 10am-10pm. 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5905 6565/68) www.solana. com.cn/english/web/index.asp 蓝色港湾, 朝阳 区朝阳公园路6号蓝色港湾国际商区

O’le Climbing Whether it’s your family’s first time or not, O’le’s friendly, nationally-certified, and bilingual staff will “show you the ropes.”

O’le Climbing offers private lessons for children or groups and has an O’le Kids Climbing Club that meets every Saturday morning to train and have fun. O’le Climbing also hosts birthday parties, offering climbing and other activities for kids, like box climbing, slacklining, and indoor soccer. Mon-Sat 10am-10pm, Sun 10am8pm. 5 Shimencun Lu, Baiziwan Qiao Dong, Dongsihuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District (186 1846 1002, oleclimbing@gmail.com) www. oleclimbing.com 朝阳区朝阳区东四环中路百子湾 桥东石门村路5号

Sports

Scuba Diving

Football (Soccer) ClubFootball ClubFootball runs football coaching programs at 20+ locations across Beijing for boys and girls aged 4 to 14. Held after school, on weekends and during holidays,

SinoScuba Offers safe, family scuba diving services! Kids aged 10 and up Underwater activities, including swimming with dolphins and full certification courses for ages 10 and up. Classes available in Chinese and English.

(186 1113 3629, steven@sinoscuba.com) www. sinoscuba.com

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The Circuit The Circuit is a chance to sneak a peek at what’s happening on the family and school scene. Want to see your event on these pages? Send an email with the date of your past event and a brief description to morganshang@beijing-kids.com by October 14.

Information Session at Keystone Academy On August 29, Keystone Academy held an information session at AmCham China. Around 90 representatives from business organizations and community groups attended to learn about the new school’s programs and facilities.

CISB Students Participate in China’s Leaders of Tomorrow Forum On September 5, middle and high school students from the Canadian International School of Beijing participated in a leadership forum featuring Free the Children Co-Founder Craig Keilburger. Started when Keilburger was 12, Free the Children is an international charity that provides education, healthcare, and sustainability support to remote villages in over 60 countries.

photos: courtesy of keystone and cisb

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The Circuit MSB Goes Back to School On August 21, The International Montessori School of Beijing welcomed new and returning families back to school. Students swapped summer vacation stories, met their teachers, and saw their new classrooms.

Returning students discovered that classrooms are now equipped with a Reading Corner with cushions, lamps, and books during downtime.

photos: courtesy of msb and crowne plaza

Hotel Staff drop into Blue Sky In August, staff from Crowne Plaza Beijing International Airport Hotel visited the Blue Sky Healing Home. The hotel brought daily necessities, helped fix the facilities, and shared Mid-Autumn mooncakes.

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The Circuit First Day Fun at Side by Side On August 12, Side by Side kicked off the new school year by introducing new “free time houses”, colorful wooden boxes filled with fun activities.

In their free time, the children opened their miniature houses to find ball games, mazes, learning games and play dough.

BCIS Hosts First Parent Workshop On August 27, Beijing City International School ran the first of its Parents as Learners (PAL) workshops. The session, hosted by the school’s Director of Enrollment Management and University Counseling Andi O’ Hearn, was aimed at helping parents guide their children towards successful university application.

photos: courtesy of side by side and bcis

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The Circuit First Day Back at Jiade On September 2, children from Jiade Montessori Bilingual Kindergarten took part in a range of activities in their first day back at school.

photos: courtesy of jiade and daystar

Orientation at Daystar Academy On August 30, Daystar Academy held an orientation for new students and their parents to allow families to meet teachers, pick up uniforms, and discuss questions about the school year with staff.

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The Circuit HoK Students Visit Organic Farm On September 17, students from House of Knowledge’s preschool German class went on a field trip to pick fruits and vegetables at TooToo Organic Farm.

Theatre Camp Performance at Beijing Playhouse In September, the Beijing Playhouse Academy of Performing Arts wrapped up its summer theatre camps with a performance of Oliver Twist. The 30 student actors (ages 6-14) painted sets, made props, and designed costumes for an audience of 230 friends, family, and community members.

photos: courtesy of hok and beijing playhouse

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The Circuit That’s Mandarin’s Summer Camps Draw to a Close In August, That’s Mandarin wrapped up its 2013 summer camps with language learning and fun activities.

photos: courtesy of that’s mandarin and harrow

Leavers’ Ball at Harrow International On June 28, Year 13 students from Harrow International School Beijing celebrated their graduation with teachers, friends and parents at the 2013 Leavers’ Ball.

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The Circuit Open Day at Potter’s Wheel On September 7, Potter’s Wheel International Tennis Academy held an open day for kids, teens, and adults.

End-of-Year Party at Atelier On June 15, Atelier had an end-of-year party in which parents and children were invited to view Atelier’s student exhibition, learn about summer programs, and make watercolors and potato stamps.

photos: courtesy of potter’s wheel and atelier

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The Circuit Etonkids Baby World Tour From June 2 to July 28, Etonkids held a Baby World Tour in which parents and kids got to tour the Italian countryside, go to summer camp in Pennsylvania, and visit the busy streets of New York City and Philadelphia.

photos: courtesy of etonkids and ycis beijing

Back to School at YCIS Beijing On August 21, students from Yew Chung International School Beijing enjoyed their first day back after the summer break.

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Family Favorites Favorite Family Restaurant Mugen in Lido.

When the kids were younger, the staff was always very attentive and would give us a private room.

Favorite Places to Shop Page One for books or browsing and dreaming at Cuccina (Indigo Mall) for kitchen supplies. If we’re paying, the kids like H&M, Pull and Bear, Bershka, and Zara. If they’re using their allowance, Yashow Market or various vintage shops.

Favorite Neighborhood A lot of our favorite neighborhoods have been knocked down, but the kids still love the area around the Drum and Bell Towers. They enjoy exploring small shops looking for unusual items and talking to shop owners.

Weekend Activities Sports, sports, sports! We all do karate. Chloe and Julien play rugby while Ariane plays softball. Early on Saturday or Sunday, Mom, Dad, and whichever teenager we can pull out of bed will go to circuit or spin class at Humans in Motion.

Date Night Alameda. It’s nothing too original or fancy, but the service, drinks, and food quality are consistently good.

The Finn Family beijingkids 2013 (16), October 96 From left: Chloe (age 14), Ariane Julien (11), Marie, and James Finn kick back in Gulou

Best Autumn Activities Hiking in the mountains on the west side of Beijing. They’re a bit far, but not as crowded as Miyun or Huairou.

We also buy chestnuts, walnuts, and giant pumpkins from farmers, and enjoy the changing of the leaves.

Favorite Snacks We all love bingtang hulu, jidan bing, and the Beijing “street yogurt” (lao suannai) in the grey ceramic containers.

Best Way to Relax We’ll usually watch a movie at Megabox in Sanlitun, but we also like Stellar Cinema behind The Place and The Hutong for indie films. We saw a documentary about Mongolian hip-hop there and loved it!

photo: ken

The Finn family is originally from the US and France. They are mom Marie, dad James, Ariane (age 16), Chloe (14), and Julien (11). All three children attend the Western Academy of Beijing (WAB).

James works for Volkswagen while Marie works at the Swedish School Beijing. The Finns have lived in Beijing for eight years; prior to that, they lived for three years in Nagoya, Japan. Sijia Chen

Rainy Day Activities Read books at Page One, The Bookworm, or the French Cultural Center; visit art galleries; or drop the girls off at Solana.

New Discoveries We recently found a Korean supermarket in Wangjing called 1004. The kids loved buying foods there that reminded them of Japan, such as onigiri and mochi.