Beijing · China

Beijing grandparents are the primary caregivers — three-generation households are the childcare norm.

In China's capital, grandparents typically move in to raise grandchildren, creating a multigenerational family dynamic that surprises Western expats.

How Beijing differs from China

Beijing is China's political center — more formal and traditional than Shanghai. Air quality concerns are real but improving. Excellent international school options.

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Family-friendly neighborhoods

Shunyi — expat hub, international schools clustered here, suburban, spacious Chaoyang — central, diplomatic area, diverse dining, many expat families Haidian — university district, tech companies, good Chinese schools Dongcheng — historic hutongs, cultural heart, walkable old Beijing

Expat community

Size: Large — diplomatic, business, and education communities. Has contracted somewhat since 2020 but remains significant.

Resources: The Beijinger, Beijing Kids, InterNations Beijing, Beijing Moms WeChat groups

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