As news of new Shunyi infections trickle into WeChat groups, many families are reconsidering their plans for birthdays, Chinese New Year, and basically any other festivities you’d usually spend in larger groups. It isn’t worth the risk when we consider the hard decisions schools have to make and what happens when a child tests positive.
So since we’re all about bringing the best of Beijing to you, we thought we’d remind everyone of the cool virtual ways to celebrate! That way, not only can your kids see some of their friends here, but also in your home country and other international friends. Most of these are professional artists from New York and Los Angeles who’ve turned their artistry towards the virtual space to make their rent but have long-established followings in their cities.
I can personally attest to the wonder and magic of Love Bug & Me Music, as they shepherded my baby and me through my first year as a mom in Los Angeles. Their virtual classes are led by their “magical music educators” and only use live music with real instruments, and I remember their big old drum in the middle of the circle as the first real drum my child experienced. Music is one of those must-haves for a child’s early development, and I have no doubt that Love Bug & Me knows how to bring it to life on screen!
Mario the Magician brings a whole lot of energy and heart to his masterful performance as a maker, a magician, and a great listener. He seamlessly moves between his script and fanciful conversations with the party guests. He’s been on Sesame Street and Universal Kids, and he could be the guest of honor in your living room!
For older kids who take a little more to be impressed than a visit from Elsa, Presto the Magician has figured out how to wow pre-teens with close-up magic through a camera. The basic show runs USD 175 for 30 minutes of illusions, and for USD 250, it’s extended to 45 minutes, more interactive games, plus printable sheets or video tutorial.
Wishing Well Entertainment and Parties
Through well-costumed characters, Wishing Well Parties pivoted quickly to virtual events last year, They came up with very specific ways to celebrate, like character comfort chats (specifically tailored for kids going through a rough time), magic morning breakfasts, virtual tea parties, painting and dancing lessons (Moana makes an appearance here), character lessons for schools, 5-minute personalized greetings kids can keep, and more.
Show Up! Kids in English and Spanish
You don’t even need a birthday to book this special time. Available with both English and Spanish performers and master improvisers, Peter or Denisse create a story based on your birthday kid’s interests and their friends’ suggestions. They use a wonderful format for keeping the show moving so everyone stays excited the entire time, and friends from all over the world can enjoy watching a show they made come to life in front of their eye (screens)!
Fantastic Faeries perform a live interactive Zoom with your party or just a personalized virtual visit for your family. Original stories, dances, and songs create the magic of your very own faery hunt! Children are encouraged to wear their favorite costume, no matter if they are faeries, princesses, knights, or superheroes.
You can watch teasers of each party on their websites, and don’t be surprised if you get so caught up in the fun that you book one on the spot!
Let’s stay safe and have virtual fun this winter so our spring will be bright!
KEEP READING: Pandemic Parenting: How to Work With Kids Home From School
Photos: Love Bug & Me Music, Show Up! Kids, Unsplash
