The kindergarten elite

Getting your kid into kindergarten in Beijing is about as hard as getting your kid into a private kindergarten in NYC.  But keep in mind that the ones in Beijing are all public schools.  Let's first start with the cost.  Tuition ranges from 1000 RMB - 7000 RMB (approx $1000)/month.  Now let me tell you that middle-class salaries average 4000 RMB - 8000 RMB (approx $1200)/month.  But even if you have the money, there may not be space for you precious little one.  So, parents line up days before the sign-up starts at their desired kindergartens all in hopes of finding a spot for their child.  For those who snooze, they try to bribe the schools with money and/or gifts.  One of our family friends was able to get her son into a good kindergarten after bribing the school with a brand new piano.  However, for those who snooze and don't have bribe-worthy goods, are doomed to hiring a full-time baby-sitter which also range from 2000 RMB - 5000 RMB (approx $700).  Either way, having a kid is EXPENSIVE!