April 15 – April 21
The Weekly Guide for Families in Shanghai See more at cityweekend.com.cn

For Babies
Tiny Pilates
What: It’s another bonding opportunity for you and your little one during Mommy & Me Pilates.
When: Every Thursday, 11am
Why: Aside from spending quality time with your child, these sessions will also help you increase flexibility, muscle strength and blood circulation.
Where: Synapse Pilates Studio, 5876-3307

For Toddlers
O’Toddlers and Mommies
What: It's a giant playdate at the O'Malley's Tiny Tots Club.
When: Wednesday, April 16, 10am
Why: Entrepreneurial moms can show off their products while kiddos can release some energy at the bouncy castle. Also on hand will be guest speaker our Yuiko from Namaste Yoga, who will explain the benefits of pre- and post-natal yoga.
Where: O’Malley’s Irish Pub, 6474-4533

For Kids
Live It, Love It
What: Earth Day Shanghai 2008 celebrates our wonderful planet.
When: Saturday, April 19, 10am
Why: It’s our Earth and it’s ours to take care of. Join the Rainbow Bridge International School to raise awareness through fun games and performances at the zoo.
Where: Shanghai Zoo, 2381 Hongqiao Lu

For Teens
Customized Bites
What:Round up your friends for a delicious meal at Pizza Marzano where you can Build Your Own Pizza.?
When: Ongoing
Why: Picky about your toppings? There’s no need to fight for the pepperoni anymore—just build your pie to your own liking.
Where: Pizza Marzano, 5383-3999

For Parents
Friendly Relaxation
What: Moms, make sure to take advantage of this Free Manicure Tuesday Friends Special.?
When: Every Tuesday through April 30
Why: You really don't need an excuse to pamper yourself, but with this deal, you’ll get to bring a friend and enjoy a free manicure after your facials. Now do you have any more excuses?
Where: Apsara Spa, 6258-5580

Family Matters

Kathy Lawn FAMILY MATTERS Expat family life and raising kids in China

Emergency planning vs. First Aid
So I was all set to write a blog about something else, and then yesterday when I was doing some research for an upcoming feature article and just had to share my thoughts.

I first talked to Roxanne Michaud of First Aid China to ask her if she does ayi training. I told her that my article was on how to ensure our kids' safety when we leave them with the ayis and one thing I thought of was first aid training. But through our conversation I realized that it's not how to stick on a band-aid or what to do when your child takes a tumble that is important, it's emergency planning. What's the difference you ask? Well for basic first aid, we can teach people til the cows come home how to do cpr. But with emergency planning, it teaches people what to do when the cpr doesnt' work anymore. Moreover, what it really teaches is what to do when your child stops breathing and cpr is just a step in this emergency plan...
Read the rest of Kathy Lawn's post »