Ah, the Great Outdoors
“There's nothing to dooooo!" Months of being cooped up has led to one thing: restless teens and less rest for you (okay, so that's two). So before whines turn to shrieks and headaches become migraines, plan a day trip out to the Great Wall Mutianyu and take a thrilling ride down the stone slide, the perfect outlet for all that excess energy. Afterwards, treat the ravenous mouths to some crispy fish and chips over at The Schoolhouse Canteen, famous for its range of delicious options. Tel: 6162-6506

Shop-a-holics Anonymous
Now we're all for the cheap options over at Silk Street, but sometimes a girl's just gotta splurge. So mothers, treat your daughters (and yourselves) to a day at Shin Kong Place, a haven for all the newest in fashion. We suggest bypassing Gucci and Prada and heading straight for Mango, Morgan and Miss Sixty, known for their trendy and chic styles for less. (FYI: this is a great way to find out exactly what your daughters are wearing when they walk out of the house). Tel: 6530-5888

Aw, You Shouldn't Have!
As the saying goes,"The family that gives together, stays together." Okay, maybe we made that up, but it's still a good idea. So as long as you're doing your spring cleaning, why not set up a pile of items to exchange with your friends? Talk about a great way to clean out the closet and stock up the wardrobe. Besides, who knows? If you're lucky enough you may finally be able to get that grotesque shirt out of your son's closet-wouldn't that be a relief!

Goooaaal!
The Pool Bar in Gulou is already a favorite among many, so if you haven't checked it out yet, bring the girls and prepare for a good old fashioned Battle of the Sexes. The venue was also home to the 2007 China Table Soccer tournament between Shanghai and Beijing. Tel: 8404-7956

That's Amore!
A hungry teen can be a scary experience. But instead of stressing about whipping up a passable meal in a teenage minute, do a little pre-emptive ordering and have Annie's delivered straight to your doorstep. No one (and we really mean no one) can resist Italian, whether it's a creamy pasta, zesty calzone or a cheesy pizza. Plus, with their numerous locations, you're sure to find one that's willing to deliver. We love the pesto pasta, a must for anyone who claims to be a basil fan. Mmm, now we're hungry. Web: http://www.annies.com.cn (for locations)

Roughing It in Beijing
It's time to get a move on and experience the great outdoors! For those reluctant to make the trek to the country, we suggest heading over to Peking University ... for the outdoor climbing wall! Almost fooled ya didn't we? Anyway, with a little imagination, who knows? You could be in the mountains of Colorado. Then again, it may take a little more effort to imagine the fresh air. Tel: 6275-8452