Capital Parent April 2015

Follow Us capitalparent.ca

Beautiful views, good food, tons of history: take a road trip to Kingston! page 8

A crackin’ good springtime craft. No green thumb required!

Follow Capital Parent on Pinterest

page 16

www.pinterest.com/CapitalParent

APRIL 2015 | FREE | CapitalParent.ca | Ottawa’s Parenting Toolbox

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

PHOTO BY SARA MCCONNELL

Best birthday party ideas for Ottawa families, birthday books, and the benefits of thank you cards.

2015 SHOW GUIDE

14thannual

CAPITALPARENT & Kids Show

PAGES 9-14

From The Editor

ANDREA TOMKINS andrea@capitalparent.ca

THERE IS MORE GREAT STUFF ONLINE AT

capitalparent.ca!

ARTS & CRAFTS KID-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES CONTESTS & RECIPES SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER TOO! DON’T FORGET TO FOLLOW US

editor ’s

This is our second annual birthday issue, and I couldn’t be happier. I love birthdays! We’ve hosted all kinds of parties for our two daughters. They’ve ranged from traditional parties at home with cake, balloons, and pin the tail on the donkey, to bigger affairs that involved gymnastics at the Ottawa Gymnastics Center, pool rental at Dovercourt Recreation Centre, and games of laser tag at Funhaven.

The size or complexity of the party really depended on how much time and energy I had to devote to party planning that particular year. When our eldest turned seven we planned an epic pirate-themed party which involved a huge scavenger hunt around the neighbourhood, feats of daring (walking a “plank” surrounded by rubber fish and plush sharks) and the eating of whale vertebrae (a.k.a. powdered donuts we strung up and tied to tree branches outside). It was great fun, even for the grown ups. As I look back, I think every party has been fun in its own way, and I certainly don’t think that every birthday needs to be a big to-do. I don’t think kids really care if we spend a lot or a little on the party. It’s always about the people, and the memories.

One of my favourite things about birthdays is that it gives us, as a family, a chance to create our own traditions. This tradition might be waking up to a balloon bouquet and streamers hanging across the bedroom, breakfast in bed, or a special dinner with family, but it’s these family traditions – big or small – that make birthdays really special.

One of the traditions we started doing early on is celebrating the kids’ half birthdays. I don’t even know where the idea came from. Perhaps it was just an excuse to enjoy a slice of cake after dinner, but the routine was always the same. Half a cake was served with half the number of candles. Then the family would sing half the birthday song, and that’s it. There were no gifts (because you can’t give half a gift!) and no decorations.

We stopped hosting the big annual birthday parties when the kids both turned 13, and I’m happy we made the decision.

Birthdays in our house are still celebrated, but in a quieter way, which I really enjoy.

Wishing you all a happy birthday this year! And here’s to new, and old, birthday traditions!

We want to hear from you!

We love to hear from our readers.

Email your feedback to editor@CapitalParent.ca or leave a comment on our Facebook page.

Thank you!

2 APRIL 2015 | C a p i t a l P a r e n t . c a |

> Farewell boring old tomato ketchup!

I’ve been using Rootham’s Fire Roasted Red Pepper Ketchup everywhere I normally use the regular stuff: on grilled cheese, veggie burgers, and fries. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and spice, and it’s a game changer. $7.95 at the Ottawa Bagel Shop.

Cover Story

> Breathing room We’re still waiting for our skin to recover from the winter of 2015 and the HoMedics Personal Ultrasonic Humidifier might just do the trick. It plugs into any wall outlet and provides up to four hours of micro fine mist. $25 from terra20.

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

@CapitalParent |

EDITOR Andrea Tomkins andrea@capitalparent.ca twitter.com/capitalparent CONTRIBUTORS Lynn Jatania • Darcy Knoll • Catherine Macnab • Marcia MacQuarrie • Sara McConnell • Misty Pratt •

COPY EDITOR Judith van Berkom CREATIVE DIRECTOR Tanya Connolly-Holmes 613-238-1818 ext. 253 creative@greatriver.ca DESIGN & PRODUCTION Regan van Dusen

> Train your brain!

Sometimes I think parenthood has done permanent damage to my brain cells. Enter, brain training. The Elevate app is a brain training tool designed to build skills with daily mental exercises to help improve speed, memory, math skills, and more. Is it making me smarter? It’s too soon to tell, but I’m enjoying the process so far. For info go to elevateapp.com.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Most of the snapshots of our children – and likely of our own childhood – are of smiling faces standing still and looking directly at the camera. “Stand there, look at the camera and smile!” This is a ritual that is as familiar as brushing our teeth. While these photos are an important part of our history and the stories of our lives, I always encourage families to take photos of the “in between moments.” Like at a birthday party: the look on your child’s face as the cake is carried towards them; or the look of glee as they approach their presents; the shyness or excitement as friends sing Happy Birthday. These shiny little glimpses are so beautiful and meaningful. One of those moments may become your most treasured family photo.

Sara McConnell, photographer www.saramcconnell.ca

Mark Sutcliffe

Paula Roy

It’s Eliza. She’s turning seven in April. Happy birthday Eliza!

pinterest.com/CapitalParent

PUBLISHER mark@greatriver.ca

Who’s on the cover?

facebook.com/CapitalParent

twitter.com/CapitalParent

faves

Congratulations to the winners of our SIGG water bottle giveaway!

Bookmark our website at

capitalparent.ca Subscribe to our newsletter and never miss a contest!

pinterest.com/CapitalParent/

regan@greatriver.ca Jamie Dean jamie@greatriver.ca ADVERTISING Alison Stewart 613-238-1818 ext. 226 alison@obj.ca CAPITALPARENT is published by

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Mark Sutcliffe PRESIDENT Michael Curran V.P. SALES Don Mersereau don@greatriver.ca FINANCE Jackie Whalen 613-238-1818 ext. 250 jackie@greatriver.ca 250 CITY CENTRE DR. SUITE 500, Ottawa, ON K1R 6K7

capitalparent.ca Capital Parent Newspaper is a monthly publication. 15,000 copies of each issue are printed and distributed across Ottawa, wherever families are found.

CARING FOR KIDS

Planned Parenthood Ottawa responds to Ontario’s new sex ed curriculum

BY CATHERINE MACNAB

A

t Planned Parenthood Ottawa, we create safe spaces for young people to learn about their bodies, relationships, and themselves. We answer all sorts of important questions, like: “Is my body normal?” and “Some of my classmates have been calling me names. What should I do?”

Planned Parenthood Ottawa has been teach- sexual consent when they’re older. ing sexual health and healthy relationships in So what’s in the new sex ed curriculum that’s Ottawa schools for decades. We are excited about getting so much press?1 Ontario’s new ‘sex ed’ curriculum and we want Grades 1-3 students will learn about their parents to know why it will make schools safer bodies, healthy relationships (e.g., recognizing for children. feelings and getting along) and yes, they’ll learn The Ontario Health and proper names of body parts.

Physical Education curricu- “We need a curriculum This is a good thing and we lum hadn’t been updated want you to use them too. that responds to since 1998 – before the Parents, teachers, health challenges that youth professionals and other internet and cellphones.

We need a curriculum that caring adults are much face today, from responds to challenges that more likely to understand youth face today, from curi- curiosity-fuelled Google a child’s description of sexosity-fuelled Google image Image searches to the ual abuse when that child searches to the ubiquity of knows the proper term for ubiquity of Facebook their genitals.

Facebook and Snapchat.

Good sex education proIn grade 3, children will and Snapchat.” vides youth with consistent learn about same-sex relainformation about healthy relationships that tionships. This means understanding that people builds their knowledge throughout their school can love people of the same sex and that some years, just like in math. For example, when we kids have two mommies or two daddies; it teach children basic principles of being a good doesn’t provide children with a how-to manual friend in grade one (e.g. don’t tickle someone for LGBTQ sexual intimacy. who doesn’t want to be touched), we’re providing Grades 4-6 students will learn about puberty, an age-appropriate foundation to teach about including physical changes and processes, like how and why our bodies menstruate and produce sperm. They’ll learn more about healthy relationships, consent, emotional changes and stresses – with everyone in their lives, including peers and parents – not just early romantic interests. This age is an exciting time in human development when we begin to develop critical thinking skills. As a society, let’s nurture emotional intelligence!

Grades 7-8 students will learn to think critically about sexting, hopefully before they’re asked to participate. They will also learn about contraception and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They’ll understand that penis-in-vagina sex can lead to pregnancy and that oral and anal sex can lead to STIs. There’s a good reason for including this information in their curriculum: in Ottawa alone, two thirds of all reported gonorrhea infections in Ottawa are among youth aged 15-19 years. 2 Think about it: we give the HPV vaccine to protect against cervical cancer in grade eight, not because all teens are sexually active

then, but precisely because most aren’t. Let’s also give them information they need to make good choices before they become sexually active so we can bring down rising STI rates in our city.

Grades 9-10 students will learn about gender identity, sexual orientation and mental health.

This means helping youth deal with emotions connected to relationships – anger, sadness, disappointment or jealousy, for example. Youth questioning their gender identity can experience higher levels of mental health distress, so let’s help before they feel desperate. Youth will also learn about factors that influence sexual decision making such as peer pressure, curiosity, media and accurate information.

A recent study shows that 87% of parents support sex ed in schools.3 It’s a good system – schools teach facts, parents teach values. Planned Parenthood Ottawa helps to fill the gaps and provides information that parents can’t, from carefully designed group activities that explore what it means to be a friend, to precise information on the prevalence of sexually transmitted

infections in Ottawa All parents want their own children to have the knowledge they need to be safe. That’s your responsibility, and we respect it. The responsibility of educators is to help make sure all the other kids in your child’s class learn to treat them with respect. This is why you should advocate for sex ed in schools.

Catherine Macnab is the Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Ottawa.

For help or for more information, please call Planned Parenthood Ottawa at 613-226-3234 or go to ppottawa.ca.

1 This curriculum content info can be found in the Ministry’s Parent’s Guide: Human Development and Sexual Health in the Health and Physical Education Curriculum.

2 2010 is the last year STI data is available by age group. We know STIs have increased overall since then.

3 2013 poll conducted by the Ontario Physical Health and Education Association

APRIL 2015 3

THIRD TIME’S THE CHARM

The secret life of the school-aged kid

BY LYNN JATANIA

O

nce your kids hit school age, it’s an odd thing how they kind of disappear from your life for several hours each day. You might be lucky enough to have a Chatty Cathy, one who can’t wait to share every detail of her day, but those are few and far between. Occasionally you’ll hit on just the right question – “Did you do painting today?” and it’ll unleash a rare full-bodied response. But most likely, they get swallowed daily by this black hole where any number of mysterious things might be going on with an anonymous cast of characters, and all you know about it was that it was “fine” and “okay” and “Can I watch Slugterra now?”

The solution: the birthday party. Sure, birthday parties are fun and delicious and give you something to focus your Pinterest pinning on for a few weeks. But the real score is being able to secretly observe your children interacting freely with their peers. The little conversations, who sits next to whom at the snack table, who is the first to break out a poop joke – it’s like a microcosm of school life in a sugar-filled glass bubble.

First insight: you’ll get to finally hear the names of your kids’ friends – likely something along the lines of, “Taylor, Noah, Cameron S., Cameron G., Cameron B., and this kid that plays soccer with us at break with a red baseball hat – I think her name is Cameron.” Once you know the names of your child’s friends, you’ll probably imagine them gathering in their Sunday best, pretty gifts in hand, eager to explore your house in an enthusiastic but respectful manner. You’ll envision your child with happy, shiny faces all around her, cosy friends playing a cooperative game or sharing a snack or creating a group work of art.

WARNING: IT MAY NOT BE EXACTLY AS YOU HAD PICTURED.

When kids gather together, a kind of herd mentality takes over and suddenly the children are racing through your house (or, your wisely chosen offsite location) as if they are a swarm of bees working a single hive mind. The more excited any one kid gets, the more excited they all get.

The more squealing any one kid does, the more they all squeal. The moment one starts to stick their paper carrot from Pin the Nose On Olaf on their own face, is the moment they’re all walk-

ing around asking for warm hugs and laughing maniacally. It’s more than enough to make you mentally note that your child’s teacher deserves a big end-of-year gift – no, BIGGER THAN THAT. But if you are a careful observer, a kind-ofparental anthropologist, you might notice a few subtle variations in the group, a few personality types emerging.

There’s Mr. Enthusiastic, who’s here! And happy! And who wants to see it all and do it all and have it all – right now! Try to clear a path for him by moving all breakable items, pets, and small children to high cupboards and closets.

There’s the Mad Crafter – so much to create, so little time. Don’t even think about putting away her glue and scissors for snack time, or you run the risk of getting flying glitter in your eye.

There’s the Jerry Maguire Kid, the one who becomes your shadow, chatting you up with tales of their little brother’s potty training accidents, fun facts about fascinating science discoveries from the past century, and the story of that time that their dad drove into the garage door and said a bad word. Why yes, I did know that the human head weighs eight pounds, and no, I have no idea what that word means.

There’s always one Loner Rebel, who just isn’t interested in anything you have planned. Leave him alone in a corner of the basement with a bin of LEGO, and when his parents come to pick him up, he’ll astonish you by calling it the best party ever.

There’s the Sugar Rush Kid – can she have a third cupcake, and do you have any extra sprinkles to put on top? And watch out for The Winner, who thinks cooperative games are for BABIES, and who would like to see prizewinning opportunities on the scale of The Price Is Right, OR ELSE. And there, amid the chaos, is your own child – revealed by social situations to be someone you didn’t quite know. Will they be screeching with excitement, crying from stress, or hiding from the Disney Princess in the closet? Will they whisper in corners with their bestie, or flit from guest to guest? Do you spy a little Mr. Enthusiastic or Sugar Rush Kid in there? It’ll be a wonderful surprise, a peek at the secret life of the school-aged kid – like a little birthday gift just for you.

This summer let your creativity run wild!

Explore painting, sculpture, drawing and printmaking while making lasting memories.

A five-day camp filled with art, games and fun in the sun!

4 APRIL 2015 | C a p i t a l P a r e n t . c a |

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

@CapitalParent |

pinterest.com/CapitalParent/

CARING FOR KIDS

The nutrition question, here and abroad SPECIAL TO CP BY DARCY KNOLL

T

he grocery store on a Saturday is a particularly miserable place to be. I’m standing in an aisle dumbfounded, comparing the nutrition listings of two nearly identical boxes of pasta. People reach over me and others struggle to get around.

One box, has a smidgen more protein, the other one has extra fibre. Oh look omega 3! Wait, more sugar, but this one more salt…

I’ve spent a lot of time at the store comparing the nutritional value of crackers and pasta sauce, and wondering why there is sodium in carbonated water. Back home, my wife is enduring her own special misery, exhausted and unsure what she can eat during the confusing times of the first trimester.

As it seems I’m learning more and more, good nutrition is essential these days. A healthy mom is crucial to the development of a healthy baby. Fortunately in Canada, many of us (but definitely not all) have both an available supply of nutritious food nearby and the means to acquire it.

When I’m not focused on maternal health at home, I hang my hat at CARE Canada in Ottawa where it’s also a pretty big thing. However, many

of the people in our maternal and child health projects abroad are what we call food insecure, lacking access to a sustainable supply of healthy food.

A landmark 2013 study in The Lancet (thelancet.com/series/maternal-and-child-nutrition) underscores the importance of good nutrition during the first 1,000 days – the period between conception and the child’s second birthday. The report notes a shocking 45 per cent of under-five child deaths in 2011 – or 3.1 million children – were caused from undernutrition, including stunting, wasting, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and limited breastfeeding.

Malnutrition can have a profound effect on the wider community. The authors of the study state that 165 million stunted children in 2011 will see their cognitive and physical abilities affected, “making yet another generation less productive than they would otherwise be.”

This all starts in the womb. Poor nutrition harms the growth of the fetus, setting the child up for one of the grim futures outlined in the paragraphs above. At the same time, anemia, caused by a lack of important nutrients, puts the mother at great risk of post-partum haemor-

rhage, the number one cause of maternal deaths.

One cannot save the lives of the world’s most vulnerable, without improving the well-being of mothers. Thanks to investments made by the Government of Canada through the 2010 Muskoka Initiative, CARE Canada is currently active in four countries – Ethiopia, Malawi, Tanzania and Zimbabwe – delivering maternal and child health projects expected to reach more than 2.3 million people.

These projects emphasize meeting the immediate needs of pregnant women and mothers while addressing those elements that impact the health of the entire community.

Last spring, the Government of Canada hosted an international summit on maternal, newborn and child health. Amongst the several items discussed, it was good to see expanding nutrition included as a vital element of this conversation.

Better maternal nutrition is a starting point for healthy women and children in the community. Indeed, fighting malnutrition requires developing long-term local solutions so poor families can meet their own nutritional needs.

This means digging deeper into the factors that prevent a mother from receiving the vita-

Better maternal nutrition is a starting point for healthy women and children in the community, writes Darcy Knoll.

mins and nutrients she needs to raise a healthy child. Gender inequality, access and availability of food, social and structural imbalances – all of these affect a woman’s ability to eat, or feed her children, a balanced diet.

Of course, partners and spouses have a critical role to play in all of this, which brings me back to the grocery store. While more can be done to make nutritional information clearer and easier to understand in Canada, it’s good to know we have options available.

Darcy Knoll works with the communications team at CARE Canada in Ottawa. To learn more or donate, visit care.ca.

Ottawa Geek Market YOUR Capital Geek Festival!

Join Our Community in Supporting Real-Life Superheroes Shopping • Costume Contest Scavenger Hunt • Video & Board Gaming • Huge LEGO® Display Craft Zone • Free Face Painting Silent Auction • And so much more!

March 27-29, 2015 Nepean Sportsplex in support of

Free admission for all first responders, military personnel, correction officers, and children 12 and under!

Tickets starting at $10. www.geekmarket.ca APRIL 2015 5

FAMILY FUN

Birthday party ideas that take the cake

BY MISTY PRATT

C

hildren love to help plan their birthday parties and it seems to start months in advance! High on the list of priorities are who they will invite, what type of cake they want, which games will be played, and of course, will it take place at home or somewhere else? ties, snacks and cake, and even loot bags and decorations.

We’ve done some of the homework for you and are sharing a few of our favourite places to host a birthday party in Ottawa:

Canada Agriculture and Food Museum Having a party at everyone’s favourite farm is a great way to get up close and personal with the animals.

There are two different parties available for kids up to 12 years of age: “A MOOving Experience” for ages 3 to 12 which includes ice cream making and a special tour of the barns; and the “Pizza Party,” in which children 5

to 12 create a pizza together and visit with the animals. ($165) For information – and to book online – go to cafmuseum.techno-science.ca/en/ whats-on/birthday-parties.php.

Photo by Sara McConnell

Although parents also love to celebrate these milestones, birthday parties can be stressful. The excitement of the big day might be overshadowed by the stress that comes with supervising a group of over-excited little ones.

Once children are old enough to invite a handful of friends, the noise and activity levels in the house can be epic.

Many parents opt to outsource birthday parties and avoid the mess of hosting the event in their own home.

The number of companies and organizations providing birthday party services has grown in recent years.

Parents can choose various packages which host small or large groups, and can include a room rental, facili-

Canadian Museum of Nature Parties at “the Castle” are DINOmite! There are a couple of different party options here. You can opt for the DIY route by leading your own tour and renting the lunch area for one hour ($97.50) or go all out on the Animated Party with a dinosaur or ocean theme, games and cake included ($280). You can also throw in an option for kids to see a 3D movie or

Katrina (5), Emma (8), Eliza (6), Justine (9), Lauren (4), Avery (9) couldn’t wait to sink their forks into the birthday cake!

order food ahead of time. Check out the options online at nature.ca/en/ plan-your-visit/what-see-do/whats/ birthday-parties.

City of Ottawa

It’s been a cold winter, but we do like the idea of a skating party in a less frigid PRODUCED BY KOBA ENTERTAINMENT environment! Five recreation centres around town offer birthday parties in the pool, on the ice, or even in the arts.

Event coordinators are also available to help with the planning, which makes things a lot easier for parents. Many offer themed or specialized parties to make birthdays extra special (think science, wave swim, and reptilian-themed). Qualified staff can even tailor party games, sports and crafts for a perfect celebration.

Inquire about creative workshops such as multiCall 613.580.2700 or media, drama, jazz dance, pottery and even clown1.866.752.5231 or visit ing. Information about all www.centrepointetheatre.com the options can be found at ottawa.ca/en/residents/ parks-and-recreation/ re c re at i on - f a c i l it i e s / www.MikeTheKnightOnTour.com birthday-party-packages (Costs vary.)

Sunday, April 5

Centrepointe Theatre

ON SALE NOW!

Picnic at a local park (FREE!) Media Partners

© 2015 Hit (MTK) Limited, © Hit Entertainment Limited.

6 APRIL 2015 | C a p i t a l P a r e n t . c a |

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

@CapitalParent |

There are so many pinterest.com/CapitalParent/

beautiful parks in Ottawa, and some have access to outdoor grills, play equipment and shelters in case of rain.

Looking for ideas? How about a soccer or softball game? Kite flying? Or a sandcastle building contest? (Pro tip: this is your opportunity to consider ideas you can’t easily pull off in your own backyard!) For locations, and information about the facilities available at each park, go to ottawa. ca/en/residents/parks-and-recreation/ park-locations.

Vertical Reality Indoor Rock Gym Take your child’s birthday to new heights in this climbing facility! Kids can climb ropes with a lesson ($25 per person) or you can also “boulder” without a lesson ($15 per person). For more information check out verticalreal.com.

Sleepover at the Aviation and Space Museum!

Few things can generate more excitement than a sleepover under the wings of an aircraft and a guided tour of the Museum by flashlight.

This group booking is open to kids aged 5-18 ($22 per child, $15 per chaperone). Do note, the sleepovers book up quickly, so at least two weeks advance notice is required. Too young to sleep over? That’s ok, there are other great party packages available too, for children as young as three. For information go to casmuseum.technoscience.ca.

Continued on page 7

Sky Zone Older children will jump for joy at this trampoline park birthday party. Pro tip: serve up the cake before you let them loose on the trampolines! Packages range from $219 - $605, and depend on the number of participants and day of the week. For information go to skyzone.com/ca/ ottawa/birthday-parties.

YMCA/YWCA Ottawa Birthday parties at the Y give your kids the chance to run, jump, play or splash in a safe environment. The cost is affordable ($125 for members and $175 for non-members), and kids get their choice of party in the pool, gym or Kids Zone. Active kids will love the “Gym Jam,” which includes an hour in the gymnasium playing staffled sports and games and an hour in the party room. For information, and to find the nearest location near you, go to ymcaywca.ca/Children/ birthday.

the OHS. (Party packages are $250 or $375). For information go to ottawahumane.ca/community/birthday.cfm.

Bowling alley It’s an active and fun birthday party for the whole family! Bowling parties are great for younger children, as there’s enough space for adults to accompany without an added cost. Merivale Bowling Centre and Orleans Bowling offer various party packages. (Prices vary per person and per group). Older kids will enjoy Merivale’s Rock n’ Bowl on Friday and Saturday nights: music, and black lights definitely kick this experience up a notch. Don’t forget to wear white so you glow in the dark! For information go to merivalebowlingcentre.com and orleansbowling.com.

Easter Special Events at Your City Museums

Hop! Hunt!

Race!

Dovercourt Recreation Centre Parents rave about the parties offered at Dovercourt, suitable for any age group. “The facilitators are great, so the kids had a really good time,” says Ottawa mom Danielle Powell. “The best part is that we just had to show up and leave.

We brought our own food and gift bags, but there are options to have all that included if necessary.”

Costs range from $192 - $424. Party theme options include Fairy Tale Fantasy, Secret Jungle Safari, Super Heroes, Hawaiian Luau, Under the Sea, and Outer Space Adventure. Parents also have the option of booking a Lego party (the Senior LEGO Engineer is for kids age 9- 14), rock climbing party, science party, a pottery party, and more! Check out all the options at dovercourt. org/parties-and-bookings.

ottawa.ca/museums

Billings Estate National Historic Site Cumberland Heritage Village Museum Fairfields Heritage House Nepean Museum Pinhey’s Point Historic Site

april 4 saturday

Ottawa Humane Society This is a great way to host a birthday party and feel good about donating to a great organization.

Kids will have the opportunity to interact with the animals, get a behind-the-scenes tour, and cap off their visit with some swag. All proceeds above the cost of the party go to the animals at

Photo by Sara McConnell Will you be serving up a cake, cupcakes, or something else? While we love non-traditional birthday “cake” ideas (stack of donuts anyone?) you can’t go wrong with the good ol’ chocolate cake.

More ideas for birthday parties in Ottawa Sports party!

• Whether street hockey, basketball, soccer, or softball is your game, there are plenty of places to play for free in Ottawa. Pack a lunch for the group, plenty of water, and you’re good to go.

Kids get to bring home the results of their work.

Spa party!

• Prepare clues ahead of time and get them in place before the guests arrive, scavenger hunt style. The clues can lead to the loot bags.

• Slippers, facials, curlers, and minimanicures make the basis of an inexpensive home spa party.

Partygoers might get a kick out of cucumber sandwiches and iced tea in fancy glasses for added refreshment. Loot bags could include nail polish or nail stickers, hair accessories and chocolate.

Cookie baking and decorating party!

Garden party!

• Any baking or cooking related parties require a large kitchen and tons of patience, but it’s worth it.

• Have kids plant seeds or divide plants into prepared pots. (Which they can decorate ahead of time.)

See page 16 for an idea.

Detective party!

APRIL 2015 7

FAMILY TRAVEL

A springtime road trip to Kingston

BY PAULA ROY

A

lmost everyone loves a road trip and a favoured Eastern Ontario destination is Kingston, just two hours’ drive or a short train trip from Ottawa.

Whether your kids are toddlers, teens, or any age in between, Kingston offers something for everyone in the family.

Stay

There are many hotels throughout Kingston including some charming bed and breakfast spots occupying majestic limestone buildings downtown that evoke Kingston’s proud heritage. For hotels, two popular family options are the Delta Kingston Waterfront Hotel, which boasts a rooftop, indoor swimming pool overlooking Lake Ontario, as well as the sprawling Ambassador Hotel and Conference Centre, home to a fantastic waterpark.

Learn

Depending upon the ages and interests of your children, there are several noteworthy museums in Kingston, including the Marine Museum

of the Great Lakes, Bellevue House National Historic Site, the Penitentiary Museum and the Museum of Health Care. The Agnes Etherington Art Centre at Queen’s University – one of the largest galleries in Ontario – is open to the public and its superb collection of over 16,000 works includes cutting edge contemporary art and fine examples of Canadian historical art, African art and the Bader Collection, focusing on Rembrandt and his school. While on campus, you’re The Kingston Public Market (kingstonpublicmarket.ca) is located welcome to visit some of Queen’s behind Kingston’s City Hall and it’s open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from April to November. Photo courtesy of the public spaces, including librar- City of Kingston. ies, the John Deutsch University Centre and the Queen’s Centre, to give your Area. Your last chance to hit up Maple Madness children a small taste of university life. at the Cataraqui Outdoor Centre’s sugar bush is over the weekend of April 4 and 5. It’s accessible Play via a two kilometre walk or a wagon ride; visiFor active possibilities, consider the Playtrium tors will see old and new methods of producing indoor play land, Putt ‘N Blast dark light mini maple syrup and enjoy pancakes plus the opporgolf and laser tag, the Boiler Room climbing tunity to purchase maple syrup products. Special gym, or the Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation events include puppet shows, tree tapping demonstrations, a PRODUCED BY KOBA ENTERTAINMENT bake sale and Olde Thyme Sugar Bush Chores.

Drink

Sunday, May 10 Centrepointe Theatre

ON SALE NOW!

Kingston is home to numerous pubs, with the current darling being Stone City Ales, a new small batch craft brewery. Its

For tickets call 613.580.2700 or 1.866.752.5231 or visit www.centrepointetheatre.com www.DoraLiveCanada.com on Based IT H e h t on SHOW deon o l e k Nic © 2015 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, Dora the Explorer and all related titles, logos and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

8 APRIL 2015 | C a p i t a l P a r e n t . c a |

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

MEDIA PARTNERS

@CapitalParent |

pinterest.com/CapitalParent/

family friendly offerings include craft sodas as well as beer, wine and cider along with great house-made snack foods. Don’t be surprised to find the place packed with youngsters during the day, many of whom are fascinated to get a first-hand look at the brewing equipment and process. There’s also coffee, tea and hot chocolate aplenty in Kingston. From freshly roasted beans at Cooke’s Fine Foods to a world of possibilities at David’s Tea, it’s easy to warm up after time outdoors. On the Queen’s campus, there’s also the charming Tea Room and the Common Ground coffee shop which are open to the public.

Eat

Having almost thirty thousand hungry university and college students in Kingston makes for a vibrant dining scene. While all the standard chain options are available across town, including at several shopping malls, some local standouts include Pan Chancho, with its excellent baked goods and delectable take-out and eat-in menus.

All-day breakfast at Morrison’s Diner, a Kingston institution, is served hot and fast, with a smile.

Kids with slightly adventuresome palates might enjoy the flavourful tapas offerings at Tango Nuevo, including empanadas, guacamole and chips, hummus and focaccia as well as terrific gourmet tacos. Harper’s Burger Bar is well worth a visit, with fries that are as tasty and as generously proportioned as their creative burgers.

Reservations might be needed for Woodenheads, Kingston’s most popular pizza joint or the nearby Kingston Brewing Company, which serves up excellent pub fare. For sweet treats, consider a stroll through downtown where you can visit White Mountain Ice Cream, Menchies Frozen Yogurt, Cooke’s Fine Foods for candies from all over the world, Spin dessert café and the lovely Limestone City Cupcakery.

For more information about things to do in Kingston, go to tourism.kingstoncanada.com.

14thannual

CAPITALPARENT & Kids Show

April

&12

th th 9a.m. - 5p.m. e tr en Clan Y E vd Bl ds Up 99 48

11

OVER 70 EXHIBITORS IN EDUCATION, RETAIL, TRAVEL, HEALTH & WELLNESS & FUN!

BU Y YO UR TIC KE TS NOW AT K I D S F E S TOT TAW A .C A

WELCOME TO KIDSFEST 2015

PARENT, I would like On behalf of the team at CAPITAL Kidsfest Ottawa, a to welcome you to the 14th annual Once again, we’ve CAPITALPARENT Newspaper event. ers and brought to listened to you, our valued custom h day we will have a the Main Stage some great acts. Eac e to be able to share special FRENCH ONLY show. We lov sfest and are excited our passion and enthusiasm for Kid us. We hope you enjoy to have you take this journey with to welcoming you and this year’s show and look forward come. your family for many more years to

Alison Stewart

KIDSFEST OTTAWA CAPITAL PARENT NEWSPAPER

THANK YOU TO OUR VALUED PARTNERS

APRIL 2015 9

KIDSFEST FLOOR PLAN

129 228

FAMILY ZONE

131 230

235 332

TFO

MAIN STAGE

330

231 328

227 326 121

OCSB

116

114

216 214

113 212

112

CEPEO

223 322

SPIDERMAN BOUNCE 217 215

321 420 319 418

MINI HOOPS

118

414

HEALTH & WELLNESS

225 324

NURSING STATION

120

RETAIL ROW

122

133 232

EXIT

237 334

TRAVEL ZONE

124

135 234

ADVENTURE ZONE

FETES EN BOITES

STROLLER PARKING

200

421

530 528

419

526 524

417

522

415 413

514

PEPPA PIG ARTS & CRAFTS STATION

209 308

309 408

409

205 304 203 302 201

DISNEY PRINCESS CASTLE BOUNCE 301

PLAY ZONE

311 410

207 306

EXIT

518

211 310

RETAIL ROW

EDUCATIONAL AREA

INSPIRATION STAGE TINY HOPPERS

EDUCATIONAL ALLEY

INFO

CECCE

110

532

405

EXIT

CAPITAL CITY GARRISON

NCE

ENTRA

14thannual

CAPITALPARENT & Kids Show

EXIT

2015 EXHIBITORS Ashbury College

216

Ottawa Public Health

417

Camp Otterdale

118

Pedalheads

131

Canadian Children’s Museum/ Canadian Museum of History

215

Pirate Adventures Ottawa

326

Primerica

214

Capital City Garrison 501 St.

401

Pro-Care After School Centre

209

Childhood Cognition & Learning Lab - University of Ottawa

205

Pure Magic Vacations

232

Rainbow of Ottawa

311

Children’s Educational Fund Inc.

Scholar’s Choice

211

319

Sun Life Financial

302

Conseil des écoles catholiques du CentreEst (CECCE)

Tennyson Street Travel

228

106

The Children’s Place

212

Conseil des écoles publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario (CEPEO)

309

323

The League of Superheroes Tiny Hoppers

101

Elmwood School

112

Usborne Books

113

Fetes en Boites

126

Weebee Precious

319

Giraff & Friends

214

410

Horizon Educational Consulting

Your Creative Locket South Hill Designs

207

Zagy Shoe Shop

324

Investors Group

321

TFO

233

Joan of Arc Academy

223

Venta Prep School

114

Karate Fit Canada

421

Costco

308

Knowledge First Financial

129

CEPEO Immersion Camps

116

Lindsay Maahs Photography

522

Camp Can Aqua

120

Mad Science

420

Long Bay Camp

227

Ottawa Foot Practice

231

Merveilles de Sable Festival

322

Music for Young Children

203

Ontario Provincial Police

405

Origami Owl

321

Ottawa Catholic School Board

117

Ottawa Fire Services

133

Ottawa Humane Services

235

14thannual

CAPITALPARENT & Kids Show

10 APRIL 2015 | c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a |

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

@capitalparent |

p i n t e r e s t . c o m /c a p i t a l p a r e n t /

MAINSTAGE SCHEDULE SATURDAY

APRIL 11TH PUPPET TAMER

TIM WILL ENTERTAIN AUDIENCES WITH HIS UNCOOPERATIVE PUPPETS AND CIRCUS STUNTS

JUNO NOMINATED SPLASH’N BOOTS ARE ONE OF THE TOP CHILDREN’S ACTS IN THE COUNTRY AND ARE SEEN DAILY ON TREEHOUSE TV

9:30a.m.

12:15p.m.

MINI TFO

MINI TFO

A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY THE FRENCH SPEAKING TRIO OF MINI TFO (THIS IS A FRENCH SPEAKING ONLY PERFORMANCE)

10:30a.m.

JUNKYARD SYMPHONY JUNKYARD JONNY AND JUGGLING JOE PROVIDE FULL TIME ENTERTAINMENT WITH THEIR UNIQUE INSTRUMENTS

11:30a.m.

SS ’T MI N O D T US A

EST F S D KI A W OTTA 1 20 5

SPLASH’N BOOTS

1:30p.m.

PUPPET TAMER

2:30p.m.

PEPPA MEET & GREET

THE PEPPA PIG EXPERIENCE INCLUDES A MEET & GREET WITH THE POPULAR CHARACTER AS WELL AS A MAKE & TAKE PEPPA PIG & GEORGE MASK

3:00p.m.

PASSIONATE Animer la passion

en français!

INSCRIPTIONS EN TOUT TEMPS Écoles élémentaires Écoles secondaires

UN ENVIRONNEMENT D’EXCELLENCE A CARING ENVIRONMENT Pour la réussite de chaque élève INSCRIVEZ-VOUS DÈS MAINTENANT | REGISTER NOW

CEPEO.ON.CA

613 746-3837

ecolecatholique.ca APRIL 2015 11

MAINSTAGE SCHEDULE SUNDAY SUNDAY APRIL 12TH PUPPET TAMER

TIM WILL ENTERTAIN AUDIENCES WITH HIS UNCOOPERATIVE PUPPETS AND CIRCUS STUNTS

9:30a.m.

JUNO NOMINATED SPLASH’N BOOTS ARE ONE OF THE TOP CHILDREN’S ACTS IN THE COUNTRY AND ARE SEEN DAILY ON TREEHOUSE TV

12:15p.m.

MINI TFO

MINI TFO

A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY THE FRENCH SPEAKING TRIO OF MINI TFO (THIS IS A FRENCH SPEAKING ONLY PERFORMANCE)

10:30a.m.

JUNKYARD SYMPHONY

JUNKYARD JONNY AND JUGGLING JOE PROVIDE FULL TIME ENTERTAINMENT WITH THEIR UNIQUE INSTRUMENTS

11:30a.m.

SPLASH’N BOOTS

1:30p.m.

PEPPA MEET & GREET

FOLLOW US FOR MORE INFO & UPDATES!

THE PEPPA PIG EXPERIENCE INCLUDES A MEET & GREET WITH THE POPULAR CHARACTER AS WELL AS A MAKE & TAKE PEPPA PIG & GEORGE MASK

2:30p.m.

facebook.com/ CapitalParent @capitalparent #kidsfestOTT

PUPPET TAMER

3:30p.m.

HO Pi

Now Offering

e! ur

a bright fu o t nt

Also offering summer camps, birthday parties & play classes.

Barrhaven • Bridlewood • Orleans • Kanata North Findlay Creek • Riverside South • Rockland info@tinyhoppers.ca

12 APRIL 2015 | c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a |

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

@capitalparent |

p i n t e r e s t . c o m /c a p i t a l p a r e n t /

“What he becomes isn’t as important as who he becomes” Learn more about our values-based education ocsb.ca/french MARCH 2015 13

SOUND ADVICE

What are the best shower gifts?

AN OPEN DOOR TO THE AUTHENTIC FRENCH CULTURE

Y

our BFF is expecting her first baby. What must-have item would you give her (or the baby!) at her shower? We asked our Facebook fans, and here’s what they told us:

Anik Sorrell: “Muslin swaddle blankets, a bassinet, milk feeding bibs, sleep sacks of different sizes, a feeding pillow (can be used to prop baby up at times other than feedings), and one piece footie pajamas!”

Sherry McKee-Freeman: “Hydrasense nose aspirator and saline. This is a lifesaver when they are congested, even if it does look like you’re trying to suck their brains out from their nose. ;)”

Melissa Petit-Clerc: “An Exersaucer, Camilla, gripe water and a pack of boogie wipes!”

Dawn Pickering: “Gift card towards a sling of her choice and the book or DVD of The Happiest Baby on the Block. Both saved my sanity more times than I could count with my own two little monkeys.”

Misty Pratt: “I would put together a package of pampering stuff for her - Milkmaid tea, belly cream, nipple cream, postpartum healing stuff.

And maybe something super cute for the baby Either that, or I’d buy her a wrap!”

July 6th to 17th | July 20th to July 31st 2 GROUPS: ages 6 to 8 and 9 to 11 OTTAWA EAST INFORMATION & REGISTRATION

Childcare before and after camp available

1-888-332-3637 | CEPEO.ON.CA/CAMP

Cindy Winikoff Cottin: “My breast friend nursing pillow and the Ergo baby carrier.”

Sarah Smith: “Couldn’t have lived without the bouncy seat!”

Jennifer MacKie: “Vibrating baby chair” Jamie-Anne Gorley: “A slow cooker and a bunch of pre-made freezer meals.”

Kate Suppa: “A bottle of wine to be enjoyed as soon as she is able to - lol.”

Bethany Elkins: “Baby books (Goodnight Moon and The Going to Bed Book by Sandra Boynton are among my favourites), washcloths, and hooded towels. I’m a practical gifter...”

Shelley Miller Boulay: “A Sleepy Wrap and comfy pjs for mom.”

Are you following Capital Parent on Facebook?

Follow us at facebook.com/CapitalParent for parenting-related news, great recipes, local events, and more.

Ottawa’s only bilingual girls school since 1954 | La seule école bilingue pour filles à Ottawa depuis 1954 2221 Elmira Drive | Ottawa ON, K2C 1H3 | scholarships available | Telephone: (613) 728-6364 | Fax: (613) 728-2895 14 APRIL 2015 | C a p i t a l P a r e n t . c a |

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

@CapitalParent |

pinterest.com/CapitalParent/

we LOve

★★★★/4 – The Toronto Star

The Sweetest Digs

THE NATIONAL BALLET OF CANADA

BY LYNN JATANIA

Life sure is sweet for Gemma Bonham-Carter of The Sweetest Digs (thesweetestdigs.com) – not only does she have an adorable infant daughter, but she’s spent years surrounding her family with good food, crafty DIY projects, and a simply gorgeous house. Her writing and her design skills both show off her natural talent for simple, clean, and elegant stories.

Gemma’s archives tell an epic tale of the work she and her husband have done on their tiny little home – originally a one-bedroom bungalow. They began with small makeovers of each room, changing them into colourful sweet places with just the right touches of decoration to make it homey.

She’s got tons of great little projects on her blog, everything from furniture makeovers with wallpaper to bubble gum Easter wreaths to decorating plates with sharpies. It’s all seriously beautiful, and we’re amazed at how easy (and inexpensive!) Gemma manages to make it.

Once their daughter was born, Meet Gemma Bonham-Carter of The Sweetest Digs (thesweetit became clear that they needed to estdigs.com). Photo by Michelle Ma Belle Photography (michelgrow, and rather than move, they lemabellephotography.com). made the bold decision to put a second story on their house. We are loving living cater to kids. There are high chairs, disposable vicariously as Gemma puts her magic touch on bibs, kids’ cutlery, and if your kid yells there everything from tile selection to traffic flow to is such a buzz of other people that it sort of scoring the ultimate deal on kitchen cabinets, all gets drowned out. Particularly while we have told with honesty, humour, and gorgeous photos. no kitchen countertops or sink and are loathe There’s just so much to dream about when you’re to do dishes in our bathroom, eating at IKEA following an inspired designer on a major project is a regular affair. like this – we can’t wait to see the finished work, Browsing around IKEA with a 17-month and in the meantime, we’ll be looking at our own old has been a fairly hilarious (and sometimes homes with a critical eye. frustrating!) experience. She will usually sit This is one blog that is just as energizing and in the cart for the first 15 minutes, but then lovely as the woman herself. Check out Gemma’s wants to get out and run around. She wants fantastic ideas and enthusiasm – and soon you’ll to touch and carry around ALL THE THINGS. have your own sweet digs to call home.

And have you tried getting a toddler to not

Notable Quote Over the last few months, we have been spending a very substantial time at IKEA. The reasoning is two-fold: 1) because, if you’ve been reading this blog for a while you will know, we have bought a ton from IKEA for our house reno and 2) because it’s such an easy place to eat with a toddler. The food is cheap, you can get healthy meals, and they really

ADVENTURES INWONDERLAND with the NAC Orchestra

DON’T MISS THE DANCE EVENT OF THE SEASON

HOTEL PARTNER

MEDIA PARTNER

APRIL 9–12 Tickets from $25

April 9–12 8 p.m.

April 11–12 2 p.m.

Greta Hodgkinson in The National Ballet of Canada’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland • Photo: Christopher Wahl

ParENtiNg BloGs

Made possible by Jerry and Joan Lozinski and The Honourable Margaret McCain, C.C.

nac-cna.ca

Pancake Brunch • Horse Drawn Rides Taffy on the Snow • Petting Farm Hertige Sugarshack • Gift & Maple Shoppe

do something when they really want to do it? Tantrum city. You can bet I’m that redfaced parent who is trying to manage the cart, while trying to pull her daughter off the chaise lounge, and worrying about the IKEA staff seeing (especially since Maya is in her big winter boots! no!).

Read the rest of this post and more at The Sweetest Digs (thesweetestdigs.com).

APRIL 2015 15

CRAFTY KIDS

A cracking good project for a birthday party

BY ANDREA TOMKINS

Now accepting registrations for the 2015-2016 school year.

• Preschool, Kindergarten & Elementary Grades 1-6 • Independent, Non-Profit Co-Ed School • Enriched Curriculum, Extended French & Extended Gym • Low Student-To-Teacher Ratio • Before & After School Programs

613.746.0255

principal@fernhillottawa.com www.fernhillottawa.com

50 Vaughan Street, Ottawa, ON K1M 1X1

Photo by Andrea Tomkins.

We are counting the days until our chives start to sprout. It won’t be long now!

W

e’re big fans of crafty activities around here, especially at a birthday party. It gives kids a chance to settle down and focus on something fun.

Besides, it’s so satisfying to make something with our own hands.

Kids will love to make these little eggshell planters. They are natural, biodegradable, and can easily be transplanted outside when it warms up. As an extra bonus, the eggshell will break down and provide nourishment to the plant and soil around it once it gets a permanent home in the garden.

By preparing the shells ahead of time, this little project can be completed fairly quickly, leaving lots of time for cake and presents.

YOU WILL NEED: • egg shells • potting soil • seeds (we opted for chive seeds because kids really enjoy an edible garden, but you can also use grass or clover seeds) • small spoons • spray bottle filled with water • egg cups, or egg holders made out of egg cartons (optional) • markers (optional) Prepare the egg shells before the guests arrive, preferably the day before. Count on at least one shell per person. Pro tip: make extras just in case!

Make them by scoring the wider end of the egg with a sharp knife and carefully removing the top part of the shell. Dump out the egg and save it for later. (Little helpers can scramble up the eggs for 16 APRIL 2015 | C a p i t a l P a r e n t . c a |

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

@CapitalParent |

pinterest.com/CapitalParent/

lunch!) Rinse the shells gently and let dry.

TO MAKE THE EGGSHELL PLANTERS: 1. Prepare the work surface beforehand. We like

to use a lined plastic tablecloth but a layer of newspapers works well too.

2. Decide how much decorating the party guests are going to do and prepare accordingly. For example, the kids can cut egg holders out of egg cartons, or simply decorate the eggshells with markers. Polka dots, stripes, faces, anything goes! But do note that it’s easiest if you have the kids decorate the egg carton holders and egg shells before filling them with dirt!

3. Use small spoons to fill the shell with potting soil. Tamp the soil down gently, leaving a bit of room at the top.

4. Sprinkle the seeds on the surface of the soil.

You can use a toothpick to separate the seeds and spread them around if they’re too close together. (We used chives because they come back every year and are essentially foolproof.

No green thumb required!)

5. Spray the surface gently with water.

6. Instruct the children to leave the eggshell planter in a sunny spot and spray the soil with a little bit of water every day. That’s it!

A group of these would also make a lovely centerpiece for a special Easter dinner as well, especially if you happen to have a cute collection of egg holders.

Looking for more crafty ideas? Follow us on Pinterest at pinterest.com/capitalparent.

FAMILY MATTERS

Thank you cards: old school thinking, or a modern lesson in mindfulness?

BY ANDREA TOMKINS

D

o you encourage your children to write thank you cards? It’s a practice that many parents are letting fall by the wayside (myself included!) but maybe there are good reasons to keep this tradition alive.

I asked Molly van der Schee, the owner of the Village Quire in Westboro, for her thoughts about thank you cards. We chatted about penmanship, and spelling practice, as well as an opportunity for kids to sit down for some focused quiet time, time that is becoming increasingly hard to find.

Then there’s the idea of mindfulness.

“The idea of being thoughtful, and grateful, that someone is thinking about them is really important,” says Molly. “Hopefully we’re raising kids who don’t take things for granted.”

It makes sense. People who are mindful tend to be happier individuals, and the idea of mindfulness might be a good habit to cultivate at an early age.

Molly is a big fan of “anytime cards,” whether they are for a friend who lives down the street, or relatives who live half a world away.

Do you encourage your kids to write thank you cards? We asked our Twitter followers and here’s what they told us: @jackiebrandwood It’s a lovely way to say thank you, especially to relatives & grandparents who don’t get to see each other often.

@brark My Mom always pushed my “thank you’s” when I was young and as a Girl @girlguidesofcan leader, I do the same with my Girl Guides!

@zoojourneys

The best thing about sending cards, is receiving cards.

“It’s about staying connected with your people, no matter where they live,” says Molly. “I remember my dad making me sit down and write thank you cards because it was the proper thing to do, when really it should be about having a relationship with the people that you love.”

HOW’S THIS FOR A NEW APPROACH TO THANK YOU CARDS? 1. Limit thank-you cards to “special recipients”

such as grandma and grandpa, or the aunt and uncle who sent a special birthday package in the mail. Insisting that kids send thank you cards to the two dozen friends who attended his birthday party is asking a lot, and setting the bar so high might not work out well in the long run.

2. Let your child choose his or her own thank

you cards. If they feel a connection with the design they’re more likely to want to spend the time to send them to friends and family.

3. You can also make thank you cards at home. If you have access to a scanner and printer you can scan some of your children’s artwork and use that as the basis of a great card.

4. Consider asking children to write a practice thank you card before committing their message to the good copy. Use a sharp pencil and good eraser. You don’t want smudgy cards!

Growing up, I always wrote thank you cards. Now, not so much. The Kids know that it’s the right thing to do.

5. Keep the message short and sweet.

@middleton_sj

6. Keep a supply of postage stamps on hand,

I do. I just think it’s the right thing to do and want my kids to be the kind of people who demonstrate their gratefulness.

and keep some in your purse or glove compartment. That way the cards don’t linger for too long.

7. Too young to write? A picture is worth a 1000 Do you follow Capital Parent on Twitter?

Find us at @CapitalParent.

words.

2015 SUMMER DRAMA CAMPS A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, JULY 6-24 * LEGALLY BLONDE - AUGUST JOIN US FOR SALAMANDER THEATRE’S SUMMER DRAMA CAMPS AGES 10-18 * REGISTRATION OPENS FEBRUARY 16, 2015 TO REGISTER EMAIL ABARLOW@SALAMANDERTHEATRE.CA PHONE 613-569-5629 APRIL 2015 17

Top toy picks

top 5 books

best

O 1

ur theme this month is birthdays, and celebrating with a book is a great way to mark the day!

This month’s book list is by Ann-Marie Miller, Supervising Librarian at the Ruth E. Dickinson Branch of the Ottawa Public Library.

Birthday Monsters, by Sandra Boynton Ages 0-3 This is a ridiculous, rhyming romp through the day of little hippo’s birthday. The birthday monsters arrive at 6 a.m. and seem to ruin the whole day for little hippo. Will they redeem themselves and save the celebration?

2

Whopper Cake, by Karma Wilson and Will Hillenbrand Ages 3-7 Grandad likes to bake a nice big cake for Grandma every year on her birthday, and this year will be the biggest cake ever. Soon the cake outgrows the kitchen, but Grandad has the perfect solution.

BY MARCIA MACQUARRIE, THE NOISE ON TOYS

Perfect as a birthday gift, the Fun Felt Masks kit works well as a birthday party activity and take home favour. It includes six masks and a generous assortment of self-sticking shapes and rhinestones, as well as curly yarn to add some hair – plenty of supplies for party guests to share. Our testing parents loved that there’s no gluing or cutting required, so kids can create with minimal help and no mess. The stickers peel off easily and stay well-stuck to the mask, even after weeks of play. Best of all, these foam-backed, felt masks are comfortable to wear – they fit all our testers faces quite well and the fabric elastic doesn’t snag or pull the child’s hair. A wonderful crafting activity that makes a valued addition to the dress-up box, these masks inspire lots of imagination. The next party activity might be to stage a play!

Visit thenoiseontoys.com to read more about this and other great activity kits – or to apply to our play-testing program.

Judy Moody and Friends: Jessica Finch in Pig Trouble, by Megan McDonald Ages 4-7

3

Jessica loves pigs, and all she wants for a birthday present is a real pet pig. Judy Moody helps Jessica snoop around the house for her present but still ends up in the ‘un-friend zone’ – at least until the day of Jessica’s birthday.

Alvin Ho: Allergic to Birthday Parties, Science Projects, and Other Man-Made Catastrophes,

by Lenore Look Ages 7-10

4

VISIT ONE OF OUR MANY OTTAWA LOCATIONS 809 Bank Street

Alvin Ho was born scared and never goes anywhere without his PDK (Personal Disaster Kit). When he is invited to two birthday parties on the same day, disaster finds him even though he has a special birthday party PDK.

(in the Glebe shopping district)

Switched at Birthday, by Natalie Standiford Ages 10-12

5

Scarlet is the tall, athletic girl at school and Lavender is the short, clumsy one. Yet, their birthdays coincide, and magically, the day after each girl wakes up in the other’s body. Will they ever make it back or, even be the same again?

m rs t i ggyw ink le s . c a

s e i t r a p y a d h t r i b We do !! s p m a c g n i z a m and a 613-482-4029

www.ottawa.madscience.org 18 APRIL 2015 | C a p i t a l P a r e n t . c a |

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

613-234-3836 Bayshore Shopping Centre 100 Bayshore Drive 613-721-0549 Rideau Shopping Centre 50 Rideau Street 613-230-8081 Place D’Orleans 110 Place D’Orleans Blvd 613-834-8988 315 Richmond Road

(in the Westboro shopping district)

613-761-6055

Plan to succeed.

Whatever your plans, our personalized approach to financial planning can help make them a reality. Let me help you provide for the people you care about… now and over time.

Get advice. Contact me and get started today. ™ Trademark owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations.

Investment products and services are offered through Investors Group Financial Services Inc. (in Québec, a Financial Services firm) and Investors Group Securities Inc. (in Québec, a firm in Financial Planning). Investors Group Securities Inc. is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

MP1766 (10/2011)

@CapitalParent |

pinterest.com/CapitalParent/

Ann Hill CPCA Consultant (613) 742-8018 www.annhill.ca

annm.hill@investorsgroup.com

E T A R B E L E C G D

S S S T H V T E P I E

L D A T D T Y T B F E

C H N R R T T I D T L

S T N E S E R P T S P

F AM I I NA B N E E A V L D L I H T L T R AO A P F O TM L N I I E S OO E R NAO T

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATE PARTY BALLOONS PRESENTS

L Y E E S L P T I A S

Y S I C D B A T D S L

STREAMERS GIFTS FRIENDS INVITATION FAMILY

OUR family

CaleNdaR

Kidsfest Ottawa APRIL 11 & 12

We’re so excited about Kidsfest 2015! There is a lot of great stuff in store for Ottawa families including performances by Juno nominees Splash n’Boots, a meet & greet with Peppa the Pig, and much more. It’s a great afternoon for the whole family. For details and tickets go to kidsfestottawa.ca, or flip to page 9 for the show guide!

The Children’s Theatre Festival APRIL 18

Canterbury High School is offering local families a free day of fun theatre made especially for children between the ages of 4-10.

Amy and the Moonfrogs, ages 4-6 Billy Bear’s Birthday Cake, ages 4-6 Cindy and the Land of Sand, ages 6-8 William Wallaby the Water Waster, ages 6-8 James and the Giant Peach, ages 8-10 The Spleicher Shrinker, ages 8-10 All plays are directed, produced and performed by Canterbury drama students. There will also be games and entertainment, as well as a bake sale. There is no admission fee, but donations are welcome. All shows will be on Saturday, April 18 with performances at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 a.m., and 1 p.m. at Canterbury High School (900 Canterbury Ave.). For more information contact childrenstheatre.chs@gmail.com or call 613-731-1191 ext. 525

birthday celebrate party balloons presents streamers gifts friends invitation family

family snap The great thing “about getting older is that you don’t lose all the other ages you’ve been. ” - Madeleine L’Engle

We‘re a blended family stretched across the country but love and laughter has always connected us. This celebration involved four generations. My mum the matriarch was turning eighty and her great-granddaughter had just turned one. Eighteen people all linked together, maybe not by blood but certainly by a common bond of sharing happiness, sadness and occasions like this. Definitely what family is all about.

Photo submitted by Caroline Ives.

SEND US YOUR PICS We’d like to see your BEST family photos and selfies! Submit your favourites and you might see one or two in a future issue.

For more details go to capitalparent.ca

Earth Day APRIL 22

What kind of mark are you going to leave on the world? There are so many great family activities you can do for Earth Day. Check out the official website at earthday.ca/kids for some inspiration.

All Aboard for the Ottawa Train Expo!

APRIL 25 & 26

Be a part of the biggest train show in eastern Canada! The Aréna Clarence-Rockland Arena will host over 100 vendors, displays, layouts, demonstrations and clinics representing all aspects of the hobby. Seasoned train enthusiasts, model railroaders and families will have the opportunity to enjoy the experience, learn new skills and get involved in the hobby. Model trains will be running on highly detailed modular railroads. Thomas the Tank Engine’s Branch line and a Lego display will bring out the kid in all of us. There will be interactive displays, demonstrations and clinics where experienced modelers will be working on projects and show everyone how to achieve effective results. Vendors and manufacturers will present the latest products, offer locomotives, rolling stock, track, structures, scenery supplies and scratch-building materials. Everything needed for those just getting started as well as for the seasoned modeler!

For more information go to ottawatrainexpo.com.

Ottawa PoutineFest MAY 1-3

Get your forks ready for Ottawa PoutineFest! The World of Poutine is set to take over downtown Ottawa at Marion Dewar Plaza near City Hall. 20 vendors featuring local favourites and some special guests from Montreal and Toronto will be serving

poutine from around the world. There will also be a craft beer garden, live entertainment, a poutine eating contest, and potatothemed games for the whole family. For more information go to ottawapoutinefest.ca.

We’d like to stay in touch with you Sign up for Capital Parent’s email newsletter to get the latest news, events, profiles & tips for Ottawa’s on-the-go need-to-know families.

It’s free! capitalparent.ca/email-update/ MARCH 2015 19

UN ENVIRONNEMENT D’EXCELLENCE A CARING ENVIRONMENT Pour la réussite de chaque élève

EXCELLENCE

CARING

Nos élèves ont les meilleurs résultats en Ontario au Test provincial de compétences linguistiques (10e année) et aux tests standardisés de lecture, d’écriture et de mathématiques (3e année).

Our schools’ Christian values foster a caring approach by the school staff, who take the success of each and every student to heart. More than 89% of our students like going to school.

INSCRIVEZ-VOUS DÈS MAINTENANT | REGISTER NOW

613 746-3837 ecolecatholique.ca 20 APRIL 2015 | C a p i t a l P a r e n t . c a |

facebook.com/CapitalParent |

@CapitalParent |

pinterest.com/CapitalParent/