Last Updated in: November 2025
Founded in 2006 and led by a small team of dedicated volunteers, Shanghai Mamas is one of the largest communities for expats and internationally-minded families in Shanghai.
Our Mission
The mission of Shanghai Mamas is to connect and support international families through our online portals and community led events. We aim to provide support, encouragement, and helpful information in order to allow our community members to thrive in Shanghai.
Shanghai Mamas connects and supports international families through online portals and community-led events. We create a welcoming space where families find reliable information, practical encouragement, and genuine connection to empower our community members to thrive in Shanghai.
Target Audience: International mothers and families residing in Shanghai, looking for a community and resources to aid their transition and life in the city.
Our Vision
Shanghai Mamas is a vibrant community where families in Shanghai find connection, support, and belonging. We create a welcoming space where diverse perspectives are valued and respected, recognizing that each family’s journey is unique.
Our community thrives on mutual respect, empathy, and practical support. We are committed to sharing reliable information, offering encouragement during challenges, and celebrating the joys of family life in Shanghai.
Together, we build a supportive network that honors all parenting approaches and family choices, fostering genuine connections that enrich our shared experience as international families in this dynamic city.
Community Values
As members of the Shanghai Mamas community, we commit to:
Mutual Respect:
- Honor diverse parenting approaches and family choices. Remember that each family’s journey is unique, and everyone is making the best choices for their own family.
- Listen actively before responding or offering advice.
- Respect cultural differences within our international community and approach different customs and traditions with curiosity rather than judgment.
Constructive Communication:
- Express opinions thoughtfully and considerately.
- Focus on solutions rather than complaints.
- Use respectful language in all interactions.
- Present disagreements in a courteous manner.
Responsible Engagement:
- Share verified information and specify when offering personal opinions.
- Respect the privacy of all members and their families.
- Keep discussions within appropriate groups and channels.
- Support new members with kindness and patience.
- Follow the specific guidelines and rules for each group.
Acknowledgment of Supporters
- Engage respectfully with community partners and their representatives
- Follow guidelines regarding promotions and sponsored content
- Express concerns about partnerships through appropriate private channels (contact shmamas@gmail.com)
Community Guidelines
- Legal Compliance: All activities, discussions, and shared content must comply with the laws and regulations of the People’s Republic of China. Refrain from political or religious discussions or topics that could be divisive or sensitive within the PRC..
- Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrate awareness and respect for Chinese customs, traditions, and social norms.
- Privacy Protection: Do not share personal information about other members or their children without explicit permission.
- Advertising Policy: Commercial promotions are permitted only in designated sections and must follow community guidelines. All advertisements and sponsor content is approved prior to publication by the Shanghai Mamas content editorial team.
- Conflict Resolution: Address disagreements directly with the involved parties before escalating to moderators. Disputes among users are arbitrated by the Shanghai Mamas Executive Committee are final and binding.
- Online Etiquette: Follow guidelines in our Shanghai Mamas WeChat Etiquette.
Moderation Process
Moderators will address violations through a graduated approach:
- Friendly reminder of guidelines
- Private warning
- Temporary one-month restriction from group or community event
- Permanent removal from all Shanghai Mamas groups and community events
Commitment
By joining the Shanghai Mamas community, users agree to uphold this code of conduct in all interactions, fostering a supportive environment for all parents in Shanghai.