MAKING THE MOVE - Living Abroad in Beijing - page 135

WHAT'S IT LIKE TO ATTEND AN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL?
I think the biggest difference is the cross-section of children from all over the world.
This opens up their minds to cultural diversity. It's interesting, dynamic, stimulating.
There are lots of opportunities for them to explore their interests—sports, arts, lan-
guage.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFICULTIES KIDS FIND IN LOCAL SCHOOLS?
Usually it's that they're very different from the other children, so again, it's really
important that parents are listening to their children because there can be times when
the school does not recognize bullying. In the international schools they would, but
sometimes, in local schools they don't. You can come up with stories together to cre-
ate strategies for how to cope, for example: “What about this little boy, what should
he do?”
WHAT SUPPORT SERVICES ARE THERE?
Help is mainly through schools, particularly the counselors at the international
schools. When you're making a decision about the international school, it's really
important that you find out if these services are available. The international medical
centers, however, also have terrific services. Beijing Kids magazine ( www.beijing-
kids.com ) is also a great resource. It has lots of interesting information targeted at
parents with children of all ages, and has all the upcoming events. And both this
magazine as well as Time Out Beijing ( www.timeout.com/cn/en/beijing ) do guides
about schools.
The toy industry here is patchy. There are lots of cheap, breakable toys. However, the
range is improving and broadening. If you want international-style toys, however, you'll
pay the same price or probably way more than you do at home. Lego has become a fash-
ionable toy, puzzles are highly loved, and computer games can be bought (mostly pirated)
all over the city. If your kids like board games, bring these from home. For sports-re-
lated equipment and toys, you can try Decathlon ( www.decathlon.com.cn ) , of which there
are several stores around the city. Baby needs are available, again, in a widening vari-
ety that matches Western tastes. Stores such as www.baby-international.com can usually
cover what you need, and for cheaper prices you'll often be able to pick up no-longer