There are a range of useful websites out there for mobile families like ours. Here are the ones you need to know about:

READEO

www.readeo.com

Pros: This handy site lets your friends and family abroad engage in regular storytelling sessions with your kids for just US$10 a month (about RMB70). Once you've signed up, your kids can select from a digital library of books that they can read with family members back home. A large screen displays the chosen read while a smaller screen below lets you see the person on the other end. Only one of the two households participating needs to be an actual member. Try the free 14-day trial session to see if it's for you.

Cons: Possibly showing Nana and Gramps how to navigate the site.

MAYO CLINIC HEALTH MANAGER

www.healthmanager.mayoclinic.com

Pros: This genius of a site lets you manage all of your family's health records with the simple click of the mouse--that includes vaccination schedules, weight changes, cholesterol and appointments. The site also offers helpful recommendations and advice from Mayo Clinic experts based on your online profile. Oh and it's free too.

Cons: Like there could be a downside.

MY JOB CHART

www.myjobchart.com

Pros: This free chore chart reminds kids that just because you have an ayi, they still have responsibilities. Once you've doled out the duties, your kids can use the site to track their progress. For every task completed, the site awards points that your kids can redeem for a pre-determined reward.

Cons:* You'll have to convince your kids that the site is a good idea before you can reap the benefits.

BABY CENTER

www.babycenter.com

Pros: As an expat, having/raising a baby in Beijing can be a downright scary and expensive business. This site offers up-to-date news on product recalls, advice on formula feeding and more. Moms-to-be can use the site to track their growing baby's progress by typing in their due date.

Cons: Some of the information is only handy for parents who live in the U.S.

BOOK GLUTTON

www.bookglutton.com

Pros: English books in Beijing can be exceedingly expensive, depending on where you buy them. With Book Glutton, they're guaranteed free! This is a great chance to introduce your kids to popular classics like The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Alice in Wonderland.

Cons: You may have to convince your kids that the classics are actually worth reading. Of course, recent blockbusters may have them wanting to read the actual books!