Capital Parent September 2014

Learn top homework tips from the experts

How do you raise great readers?

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SEPTEMBER 2014 | FREE | capitalparent.ca | Ottawa’s Parenting Toolbox

HARVEST TIME!

PHOTO BY KATE SETTLE

Get the insider scoop about the freshest farmers’ markets in Ottawa, fall fairs, & much more!

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From The Editor

PHOTO : JASON CODE

I can hardly believe that summer is winding down. Early on I promised myself that I wouldn’t complain about the heat and humidity, given the seemingly endless winterspring we endured. I was able to stay true to my word and I made an extra effort to be grateful for the limited number of sunny days we have to enjoy the outdoors and recharge our batteries. (I’ve always insisted that I’m a solar-powered mama!) At the same time, I really like September and find myself looking forward to it every year. The nights are a little cooler, the crickets accompany a glass of wine enjoyed on the back porch, and I get to dig those sweaters and boots out of the closet again.

It’s a time for school, and fresh beginnings. It’s also harvest time, which is our cover story this month. If you’ve never been to a farmers’ market, this is the best time to go and pick up some fresh finds. On page 5, you’ll find a piece about Ottawa’s farmers’ markets by Paula Roy. It’ll help you decide where to go, and what to look for while you’re there. Another activity that is synonymous with this time of year is the fall fair.

Doesn’t the sound and the smell and the excitement of our area agricultural fairs bring you right back to your own childhood? On page 6 Katharine Fletcher provides a list of her top picks as well as extra details about each one. For many parents, however, the month of September is mostly about going back to school and starting up old routines again. Parents of kids of all ages will definitely find Anita Grace’s article about raising readers interesting, as well as an accompanying piece with great homework tips on page 11. And if you’re looking for a new way to get kids interested in writing, you should check out the piece on page 8 about postcard collecting. Who knows, it might kickstart a new family hobby!

As always, we have our favourite regular features in this issue, which include Lynn Jatania’s humour column on page 4, as well as her pick for parenting blog of the month on page 12. And don’t miss Ottawa Public Library’s book picks on page 13! It might make your back-to-school transition a little smoother.

ANDREA TOMKINS andrea@capitalparent.ca

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Cover Story

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>365 days of the Wimpy Kid

mark@greatriver.ca

This school planner is a great addition to the backpacks of Wimpy Kid fans. Keep track of homework assignments, upcoming tests, orthodontist appointments, important birthdays, and extracurricular activities. There are fun drawings on every page and lots of space for kids to write and add doodles of their own. $13.00 at chapters.indigo.ca

Andrea Tomkins

>Ink it up

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Many people may agree that tattoos are a great way to show the world who you are, but who needs to make a permanent commitment to lifelong ink when there are temporary tattoos to be had? Tattly has fantastic designs for adults as well as kids. This new science-themed set is just about as cute as it gets, and it’s a great way to get kids excited to go back to school. (“Wait until your teacher sees your new tattoo!”) You can buy them individually or in sets.

Online at tattly.com

Tanya Connolly-Holmes

Food Huggers are reusable silicone covers designed to keep leftover fruits and veggies fresh and reduce the need for plastic wrap, tin foil or baggies. The flexible designs wrap snugly around leftovers and each set comes with four sizes to ensure a good fit. They can also be used to cover lidless jars, glasses or mugs, (which might help prevent milk spillage in the fridge).

The Avocado hugger is also pretty darn cute, with a “pit pocket” that folds in or out.

Available online at foodhuggers.com.

BUNCH

andrea@capitalparent.ca twitter.com/capitalparent CONTRIBUTORS Julia Boggia • Nathalie Dugan • Katharine Fletcher • Jason Haug Anita Grace • Lynn Jatania • Marcia MacQuarrie • Dr. Maria Rogers Paula Roy • Kate Settle COPY EDITOR Judith van Berkom

613-238-1818 ext. 253 creative@greatriver.ca DESIGN & PRODUCTION Sarah Ellis sarah@greatriver.ca ADVERTISING Alison Stewart 613-238-1818 ext. 226 alison@obj.ca CAPITALPARENT is published by

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Mark Sutcliffe PRESIDENT

V.P. SALES Terry Tyo 613-238-1818 ext. 268 terry@greatriver.ca OFFICE LOCATION: 250 CITY CENTRE DRIVE SUITE 500, OTTAWA MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. BOX 3814, STATION C

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.

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EDITOR

OTTAWA, ONTARIO K1Y 4J8

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2 SEPTEMBER 2014 | c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c Ialo ve | yo uf a c e b o o k . c o m / C a p i t a l P a r e n t | I

PUBLISHER Mark Sutcliffe

>Food huggers

Who’s on the cover? It’s Emma Ellsworth, age 10!

A little something special for We asked our photographer, Kate Settle, about her photoshoot capitalparent.ca readers for this month’s cover and this is what she told us: “I can be found at a market with family most weekends. In fact, Send your kids to school with a little somea farmers’ market is among my favourite places for a quick stop, or thing extra in their lunch this week with these a lazy morning stroll with my two boys. There’s so much to look at lunch box notes. You can download and print and chat about, not to mention taste. The connection farmers’ mara free PDF at capitalparent.ca. Draw a picture kets help build to our food and environment is invaluable. Not to PRINTABLE onINthe mention, it’s a photography gold mine - colours, shapes and people.

PR TABLEback or share your favourite knock knock joke. It’s a fun way of letting your chilFor this month’s Capital Parent cover shoot we headed to the We’re them, and it dren know you’re thinking about Main Street Market with Molly Bell, Stephen Ellsworth, and PEAsad S to be away B I’mEmma Ellsworth (10). Even in the drizzly fall-like weather there I’m someone who may cheer up in isa po A N d A NAS BANhome.

ANA for yowere u from lots of people, and lots to see and taste (free farm fresh hot for you S You’re the corn.

I mean, really!) A big thank you goes to Notre Petite Ferme, You’re a APPLE You’re a of my eye who are lovely, and at the market every week, for supplies of the B E R RY BERRY good kid beautiful veggies that we used in our shots (most of which we good kid We make a good You’re bought and ate afterwards)!”

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Michael Curran

LUNCH BOX N UNCH BOX N OTES OTES

We’re

editor ’s

@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 /

CARING FOR KIDS

New immunization requirements for children attending school

BY JASON HAUG, PROGRAM & PROJECT MANAGEMENT OFFICER, OTTAWA PUBLIC HEALTH

A

s a parent, keeping your child safe and healthy is your number one priority. Ontario’s Immunization of School Pupils Act (ISPA) protects children from vaccine preventable diseases like measles, and reduces the risk of outbreaks in schools, .

This act requires that all students in Ontario (unless a valid exemption is given) have proof of immunization against diseases that could easily spread in a school setting. These diseases include tetanus, diphtheria, polio, mumps, measles, and rubella.

The Day Nurseries Act also requires that children in licensed childcare must have up-to-date immunization for their age.

CHANGES TO THE ACT FOR 2014/15 SCHOOL YEAR Starting this fall, children in Ontario will now need proof of immunization against three additional diseases in order to attend school: • Meningococcal disease • Pertussis (whooping cough) • Varicella (chickenpox), which is required for children born in 2010 or later HOW DO VACCINES WORK? Vaccines help your body help itself.

They trigger your body to fight off disease. Vaccines are a safe and important part of growing up healthy.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD IS UP TO DATE? Check your child’s Personal Immunization Record (the yellow

card). Ask your health care provider if you have any concerns.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR MY CHILD?

boosters have been reported to OPH. If you are new to Ottawa, it’s a similar process to that of kindergarten.

If your child has kept up to date with the Publicly Funded Immunization Schedule for Ontario, no further vaccines will be needed. If your child does not have the required vaccines please contact your health care provider to schedule the missing doses.

Some vaccines are offered through school-based clinics to children in Grade 7 and 8 (such as the meningococcal - Menactra - vaccine). Children who are not fully immunized may not be allowed to attend school.

IF YOUR CHILD IS STARTING GRADE 7

IF YOUR CHILD IS STARTING KINDERGARTEN You will need to provide a copy of your child’s immunization record to the school when registering. The school will forward your child’s record to Ottawa Public Health (OPH). Any vaccines given to your child after that date must be reported directly to OPH. IF YOUR CHILD IS STARTING GRADE ONE Your child’s immunization records should already be in the OPH database unless you are new to Ottawa.

Make sure that the 4-6-year-old

Make sure that your child’s Hep-B and Men-C-ACYW consent form is returned, even if you are refusing the vaccine. Keep in mind that the Men-C-ACYW (Menactra) vaccine is now mandatory. If you wish to decline the vaccine for your child, call OPH (613-580-6744 ext 24108) for an exemption.

VACCINES NEEDED BY AGE 2 2 MONTHS • Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) (five-in-one vaccine) • Pneumococcal conjugate-13’ • Rotavirus

12 MONTHS • Measles, mumps, rubella (three-in-one vaccine) [must be given on or after first birthday] • Meningococcal conjugate-C • Pneumococcal conjugate-13’

4 MONTHS • Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) (five-in-one vaccine) • Pneumococcal conjugate-13’ • Rotavirus

15 MONTHS • Varicella

6 MONTHS • Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) (five-in-one vaccine)

18 MONTHS • Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) (five-in-one vaccine)

VACCINES FOR CHILDREN 4-6 YEARS • Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, (four-in-one vaccine) • Measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (four-in-one vaccine)

13 YEARS (GRADE 8) • Human Papillomavirus (HPV-4) (females only) (3-dose series)

IF YOUR DAUGHTER IS STARTING GRADE 8

12 YEARS (GRADE 7) • Hepatitis B (2-dose series) • Meningococcal conjugate- ACYW

14-16 YEARS • Diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (three-in-one vaccine)

Make sure that her signed HPV consent form is returned.

VACCINES FOR PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS

IF YOUR CHILD IS STARTING GRADE 9 Make sure they get the booster when it is due (14-16 years, and 10 years after the booster given at age 4-6) and report it to OPH. All students new to Ottawa need to provide their immunization record to OPH. Boosters also need to be reported. Most boosters administered by the community health care providers are given at age 4-6 and 14-16. These must be reported to OPH (except the flu vaccine).

65 YEARS

• Pneumococcal polysaccharide

EVERY 10 YEARS (EVEN AS ADULTS)

• Tetanus, diphtheria (two-in-one vaccine)

EVERY AUTUMN (6 MONTHS OF AGE OR OLDER)

• Influenza

The table above is the Publicly Funded Immunization Schedule for Ontario, and outlines which vaccines children need and when they should be given.

For more information about immunization, visit ottawa.ca/health or call 613-

580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656). You can also connect with OPH on Facebook (facebook.com/ottawahealth), Tumblr (ottawahealth.tumblr.com), Twitter (@OttawaHealth) and on Pinterest (pinterest.com/otthealthsante).

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The personnel of the 38 FRENCH PUBLIC SCHOOLS of the CEPEO is thrilled to welcome your children for the 2014-2015 school year and wishes a happy back-to-school season to all members of its community !

The challenges of raising great little readers

BY LYNN JATANIA

I

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“The bear went into the cookie?”

“Um… Yes?” Come on bus, do your stuff! Indeed.

Now I’m on to the youngest and I feel like, with all the (sort of) readers around her, she should get the hang of it pretty easily. We’ve done everything you’re supposed to do. We read to her every night from a young age, faithfully chanting along to Barnyard Dance, beaming with pride when she used board books as tent-homes for her stuffed animals (she touched a book! FUTURE GENIUS.).

We relived story details afterwards, and if you think it’s weird to be having a post-reading book club analysis of Goodnight Moon with your six month old, you don’t know parenting.

We have set a good example by reading ourselves (Pinterest recipes totally count, right?), and I’ve got my Bachelors of Electric Company.

We encouraged them to ask questions and then helped them look up the answers in books, and now we totally regret it, as we can no longer get in a word edgewise between “Does Spiderman have a belly button?” and “Are Snap, Crackle, and Pop brothers or just good friends?”

Some days it goes well.

She reads Barbie books about dresses and puppies, and remembers that soft C is followed by I, E, or Y. But then, due to the plethora of other budding readers at her disposal, she gets lazy. She’ll ask her brother what is written on the cereal box, or ask her sister what the sign at the park means, and not even attempt to read the captions on the foreign language film I got them from the library.

SHEESH. Take chances, make mistakes, get messy! Or at least consider it briefly during commercial breaks of Power Rangers Super Megaforce.

In the end, sometimes, you just have to chill, and understand that, as a parent, you’re mostly a bystander in this whole “bringing up baby” thing.

Give them the tools – repeatedly – and then give them some space to let it all simmer together in that soupy mess that is a child’s brain until some quality chicken noodle pops out.

The other day my husband came home to find our middle daughter had received an early birthday present of books from her grandmother. He called to her, “Where are you?” and she said, “In my room!” Then he asked, “What are you doing?” and she replied, “Reading, of course!”

Sometimes this parenting gig is worth it, after all.

Take chances, make “mistakes, get messy! Or

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was an avid reader when I was young; always with my nose in a book. I assumed my kids would be the same way. You know – eating while looking down at a magazine on their lap; ignoring relatives over Christmas visits to read in a corner; sneaking a novel and a flashlight under the covers at night. Aren’t all kids like that? Turns out: no, not so much, actually.

To my astonishment, my children seem to think that reading is actually work. Hard work. Sure, they’re into Paddington, Pippi Longstocking, and Winnie the Pooh – if I read it to them. Doing little voices for each character, pausing to show all the pictures, acting out major scenes with finger puppets – okay, maybe not quite that far – but it feels like that’s what’s required some days.

So with improbable dreams of molding them all into my library geek image, I gave the kids reading goals over the summer, with all the inspiration and encouragement of Ms. Frizzle in The Magic School Bus (my point of view) or perhaps more draconian, like Serverus Snape (the kids’ point of view).

Either way, our house has plenty in the way of Intro To Reading books and flashcards as I attempt, like Helen Keller’s teacher Annie Sullivan, to become a Miracle Worker.

I’ve been working on the oldest for a few years now. He’s a rule follower, and there’s little that is more frustrating than trying to explain the socalled rules of the English language to a miniature F. Lee Bailey.

“The pie was all goooone…”

“Actually, that word is ‘gone.’”

“But you SAID that an ‘e’ at the end of the word…”

“Yes, I know, but this one word is different.”

“FINE. The pie was all GONE but you can have sooooome cake.”

“That’s ‘some’ cake.”

“READING SUCKS.” My middle daughter is not a rule follower. She’s a guesser, who takes one look at the first letter and tries to fill in the blank. Rules are for chumps, losers, and NFL linesmen. Even though she’s a pretty good reader now – Archie comics totally count, right? – she’s still mainly a Reader By Hunch and Conjecture.

“The bear went into the… C… C… Cabinet?...

Car?... Church?... Cookie?”

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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 /

”

ACTIVE FAMILIES

Ottawa area farmers’ markets bring the country to the city

BY PAULA ROY

F

rom spring through fall, visiting a farmers’ market is a feast for all the senses. There’s the sight of gorgeous baskets brimming with freshly picked fruit and vegetables, the sound of happy conversations between producers and consumers, the scent of delicious baked goods, the taste of myriad sampling morsels and often, the sound of live music upon which to feast your ears.

We’re fortunate to have more than two dozen farmers’ markets – mostly seasonal – located less than an hours’ drive from downtown Ottawa, making it easier than ever to access locally grown and produced items of all kinds, including heirloom and exotic varieties of fruit and vegetables. So why make the trip to a market? There are numerous environmental, social and economic reasons for supporting local producers. Plus, farm-fresh doesn’t just taste better; its storage life is also superior to much of what you’ll buy in a supermarket.

The human element of shopping at farmers’ markets can’t be overlooked. You’ve got experts at your disposal – after all, farmers are eaters too so they can often dispense excellent advice about the best ways to store, cook or preserve the fruits of their labours.

Perhaps the most important thing of all is that we can shop directly from farmers and producers who put heaps of effort, care and love into what they bring to market.

HERE’S THE LOWDOWN ON SOME OF THE REGION’S MOST POPULAR MARKETS: The Ottawa Farmers’ Market has three locations

– Fridays in Orleans, Saturdays in Westboro and Sundays at Brewer Park (moving to Lansdowne Park next January). The combined markets include over 200 vendors offering produce (including lots of organic items), locally raised meat, honey, maple syrup, eggs and grains, baking, artisanal chocolate, preserves and arts and crafts. While the Orleans market is smaller, the larger weekend editions serve as a wonderful social hub thanks to the food court, kids’ play area, market musicians, chef demonstrations and tasting events showcasing the best of what is in season.

Ottawa’s food heritage. Located in Hintonburg, the Parkdale Market is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year and is home to a mix of local producers and resellers, easily identifiable thanks to the Savour Ottawa signage. The ByWard Market, established

by Colonel John By in 1826 to provision the builders of the Rideau Canal and their families, is one of Canada’s oldest continuously-operating markets.

Pro tip: One of the many good reasons to visit an Ottawa Farmers’ Market location is to pick up delicious baked goods from Art-is-in bakery, which can otherwise now only be purchased at their City Centre location since they stopped wholesaling to other retailers.

OTHER NOTABLE MARKETS INCLUDE:

The newest market in the region is the delightful Beechwood Farmers’ Market, operating on Saturdays at 99 Beechwood Ave. in New Edinburgh.

In its first season it has already developed a loyal following, thanks to an array of excellent vendors including many of the region’s favourite purveyors of prepared foods. Special features include kids’ activities, their Roaming Breakfast, an in-house chef and weekly local musicians.

Ottawa Organic Farmers’ Market – Ottawa’s only year-round Organic Market is open on Saturdays at Bank and Heron, behind the Canadian Tire, offering certified organic meats, baked goods, produce, teas, herbs and skin care products.

Main Farmers’ Market – operating on Saturdays at Saint Paul University, this is a community-run market, featuring nearly three dozen local produc-

Carp Farmers’ Market – the largest producer-based Farmers’ Market in Eastern Ontario takes place on Saturdays at the Carp Fairgrounds from May through October. The market includes frequent seasonal events including a kids’ club as well as a Garlic Festival and special Easter and Christmas markets.

Marché Vieux Hull – The market takes place on Thursdays at Gatineau’s Laval, Kent and Aubry Streets and features over 35 producers, growers and artisans offering a variety of regional food and agricultural products. Freshly prepared lunch items are on offer.

Marché Vieux Chelsea – Operating on Saturdays, this popular market includes many certified organic growers as well as such treats as smoked fish, wild foods, wine and ice cider, crafts and more. On the last Saturday of each month, “Mini Marketeers” under 16 are invited to open a market stall of their own.

Pro tip: This is the first Ottawa-area market to take advantage of the opportunity to sell VQA approved wines; the first winery on board is Prince Edward County’s Harwood Estates.

The City of Ottawa oversees the popular ByWard and Parkdale Markets, an important part of

CHOCOLATE BEET CAKE

PHOTO BY KATE SETTLE

Pro tip: The ByWard Market is open 363 days per year, with evening shopping – the only market to do so – on Thursdays.

ers selling their own goods. Special events include seasonal food festivals, a petting zoo, wagon rides, face painting and more.

4 medium sized beets 2 cups flour 1 1/2 cups brown sugar 1/2 cup cocoa powder 1 1/2 tsp baking soda 2 eggs 3/4 cup warm water 1/3 cup olive oil 1 tsp vanilla extract

Stephen Ellsworth, Molly Bell, and Emma Ellsworth (10), at the Main Street Market.

PHOTO BY KATE SETTLE.

This recipe is from Miranda Boyer, owner and founder of Chez Vous Cooking School.

1) Preheat oven to 350F. Place beets in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 30 minutes until very soft.

2) Drain beets and let sit until cool enough to handle. Peel and puree in a food processor until completely smooth.

3) Sift flour, sugar, cocoa powder and baking soda into a small bowl. Set aside.

4) Whisk eggs in a medium bowl. Add water, oil and vanilla. Add 1 1/3 cups beet puree.

5) Fold dry ingredients into wet. Scrape into a parchment paper covered 9” cake pan.

Cook for 45 minutes. Let sit in the pan for 20 minutes, and then invert onto a cooling rack to cool completely. Finish with your favourite chocolate glaze or frosting.

Let your kids pick out some veggies next time you’re at a farmers’ market. They may surprise you by choosing something new.

PHOTO BY PAULA ROY.

Not sure what seasonal fruits and veggies are ready to eat this time of year? Whether you’re in the market for apples or zucchini, you’ll find a bountiful amount of fresh produce at Ottawa’s farmers’ markets right now. Check the Ottawa Farmers’ Market website for a handy calendar: ottawafarmersmarket.ca/ whats-in-season.

SEPTEMBER 2014 5

ACTIVE FAMILIES

Your cure for Super Ex withdrawal is here

BY KATHARINE FLETCHER

K

ids and fall fairs are a natural fit.

Not only do they introduce city kids to the country life, in which animals, produce, and culture is celebrated in a different way, but they offer endless amusement that can’t easily be found anywhere else. (Not to mention the midway, the games, and the food!)

These are some of our favourites: SHAWVILLE FAIR August 28-September 1 shawvillefair.ca Shawville’s slogan is “The Valley’s Most Family Friendly Fair” and we agree! There’s a lot to love here. The Shawville horse fair is one of the most popular events, from heavy horse teams to western shows to carriage horses. Homecrafts are a big draw, and definitely worth a peek. The farm machinery displays are also pretty cool. Don’t be shy about asking what’s what!

What’s extra cool? Kids will love the petting zoo with lambs, ponies and more. The smash-up derby is always a big hit too. Just make sure you arrive early to find seats as the stadium-style seating fills up quickly.

Pro tip: There’s a live poultry exhibition at the Shawville Fair, which can be pretty interesting for inquisitive city kids. Check out the colourful feathers, the sharp beaks, and the combs and “topknots” on their heads. Some of the breeds even have feathered feet! If you’re lucky maybe you’ll see some chicks too.

RUSSELL FAIR September 4-7 russellfair.com Don’t miss the West Coast Lumber Jack Show at the Russell Fair. Started in 1982, this popular demonstration and show celebrates professional lumberjacking with amazing daredevil displays.

Prizes are awarded to the fastest sawer, quickest climber, “most steady on the logs” and other categories. You won’t believe your eyes. (It’s up to you whether you want to have your kids try these things at home or not!)

What’s new? The Hockey Canada 100th Anniversary Celebration Century Tour across Canada will be visiting this fair. Visitors can browse an interactive timeline highlighting some of the best hockey moments in history.

Pro tip: Don’t miss the Gymkhana Western Games and see what the cowboys of the wild west did (and still do!) during western horse games and cutting horse demonstrations. Check the website for the full schedule and time your visit accordingly.

RICHMOND FAIR September 18-21 richmondfair.ca This year marks Richmond Fair’s 170th anniversary. It’s a great opportunity to celebrate agricultural life in the Valley, plus take in art, craft, produce, livestock and other exhibits and shows. And it’s in the City of Ottawa!

Pro tip: The popular youth talent contest takes place on Sunday September 21. Cash prizes are up for grabs! Look for it at the outdoor stage and cheer on the contenders.

CARP FAIR September 25-28 carpfair.ca The Carp fair is practically an Ottawa Valley institution (it’s their 151st year). It’s wildly popular with locals as well as visitors from across the region, so put it on your mustvisit list if you haven’t already paid a visit The grounds are picturesque, the vibe is super-friendly, the crowds give the grounds their enthusiastic support – and Carp village is oh-so-pretty.

What’s extra special? Draft horses (Belgians, Percherons, Clydesdales and other hefty breeds) once performed agricultural work that machines like tractors do today. At the Carp Fair, you can watch a competition that determines who wins the title of top draft horse.

This year marks the third such competition, and the goal in 2016 is to have crowned regional champions compete at Toronto’s famous Royal Winter Fair. Kids and parents alike will be wowed by these gentle giants.

Pro tip: You will laugh and be amazed by the President’s Choice Super Dogs Wild Wild Woof Show. Watch as enthusiastic doggies dance to country music, leap through an obstacle course, and do some fantastic tricks. It’s guaranteed to entertain the whole family, and might even inspire you to teach your old dog a few new tricks.

METCALFE FAIR October 2-5 metcalfefair.com The Metcalfe Fair located in south Ottawa has been celebrating the agricultural life since 1856; it’s the heartbeat of this rural community. Kids will enjoy seeing the 4H displays; young people compete and show the farm animals they helped raise. See if you can guess who will win!

There’s also a full schedule of children’s special entertainment planned for the Kidzland Tent and includes Little Ray’s Reptiles, Marvin the Magician, and the Doug Barr Children’s show.

Pro tip: Make sure you catch the step dancing and fiddling competition on October 4 at 11:00 a.m. It’s an authentic Ottawa Valley tradition. Can you imagine playing the violin and step-dancing at the same time? These folks are dance masters with years of training behind them.

There’s more to Ottawa Valley’s fall fairs than just the midway (even though we totally love it)!

FAIR FOOD One of our favourite parts of visiting the fair is enjoying some special treats, such as the mini beignets. It’s neat to watch these little rounds of dough fry right before your very eyes, isn’t it? Here’s an easy way to make something similar at home.

You will need: Oil for frying One package of Pillsbury biscuit dough Icing sugar or a mixture of cinnamon & sugar 1) Heat a layer of oil in a deep frying pan. While the oil is heating up, separate the biscuits and cut round holes in each biscuit using a sharp knife. This allows for even frying. Flatten each round slightly.

2) Fry each biscuit until browned on both sides.

3) Toss with sugar, and eat them while they’re warm. That’s it!.

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NATURE NOTES

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BY KATHARINE FLETCHER

T

he phrase “busy as a beaver” perfectly describes North America’s largest rodent.

But why?

INDUSTRIOUSNESS PERSONIFIED Beavers hate the sound of running water, love quiet ponds, and are perfectly designed to build and maintain dams.

According to Mike Keizer, a manager at Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada boasts the longest beaver dam in the world: “It is not very high due to the landscape of this park, but it is 850 meters long. In fact, it was spotted on Google Earth which displays images taken from space. Although we have no way of knowing how many generations may have worked on it, air photos show it has been worked for more than 40 years,” says Keizer.

Now, that’s commitment! It’s interesting to think about how beavers evolved to make them such busy builders.

ENGINEERING ADAPTATIONS Beavers weigh up to 32 kilograms and may grow more than one metre long. Their sturdy physique includes prominent buckteeth and an oval, flat tail.

Their fur is brown and thick, with an undercoat that keeps their bodies dry and cozy in the water and while overwintering.

Both their homes (called lodges) and dams are constructed in the water from tree branches, they fell using their teeth. It’s an amazing sight! They sit on their hind legs using their tails as supports, grasp the tree trunk with their “arms” – properly called forelegs – and just start chewing!

Once the tree is down, they drag it to the water’s edge and float it to their construction site, using their tails as rudders. They are vegetarians, and feed on herbaceous plants including tree leaves and bark. So, if you spy chewed, peeled branches floating on a lake – you know a beaver might be nearby!

HOW DO THEY BUILD? Other adaptations assist beavers in building their

lodges and dams. Their hind feet are webbed, enabling them to scoop up mud and secure it between sticks, cementing the dam with their dextrous front paws. Once the height of the dam suffices to keep water from escaping, their work seems done – but it isn’t. Just like our homes, lodges and dams require constant maintenance because they leak or break. Small valves located in beavers’ ears and noses are key adaptations for the beavers, because they close when the animal is swimming and performing their underwater construction tasks.

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SMACK ’N SPRAY Perhaps most famously, beavers use their tail as an alarm, slapping the water with it to create a loud smack and accompanying spray as they dive to safety.

TALK ABOUT FUR! Beavers were the reason the English and French raced into Canada’s hinterland. Beaver hats became all the rage in the later 1600s and demand for pelts exploded.

This is essentially how Canada became a country!

NATIONAL SYMBOL In 1621 when Sir William Alexander granted title to Nova Scotia, a beaver was included on its coat of arms. In 1678 the mammal was adopted as the Hudson Bay Company’s symbol.

That was a long time ago, but beavers are still everywhere. Find a nickel, what do you see? A beaver! Also, in Ottawa we are famous for our delicious Beavertail pastries.

WHERE TO FIND BEAVERS Look for beavers below Parliament Hill, swimming in the backwaters of the Ottawa River near Turtle (Victoria) Island. Gatineau Park lakes are home to countless beavers too. Check out Fortune Lake Lac Lapeche at dusk to spy them.

Make sure you bring binoculars so you can see them clearly. They are good at blending in to their surroundings!

For its tenacity, engineering skills, and ability to survive cold long winters, the beaver is an apt Canadian symbol, don’t you agree?

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CREATIVE KIDS

Put a stamp on it

BY ANDREA TOMKINS

K

ids are natural collectors. Hockey cards, interesting rocks, and sea shells from trips to the beach fill their pockets and the shelves of their bedroom, but some families have discovered that the mailbox is a great place to build a unique collection from around the world.

Postcard collecting has been around since the dawn of mail service, but it’s a dying pastime. Mail has been in a serious decline with the advent of Facebook, Twitter, and blogs –postcards even more so – but it’s not quite dead yet.

There’s something really special about sending and receiving mail, and there’s no easier way to do it than with postcards, especially with early readers and beginner writers. It’s an inexpensive hobby, and curating a postcard collection is a collaborative project that can involve all members of the family.

First, consider whether or not you want to buy your way to a postcard collection, or by sending and receiving via the post office. Shopping for cards when you travel can be interesting – that way you’re buying cards you know you like – but collecting

them gradually over time by sending and receiving can be more satisfying.

Sending postcards encourages both language and penmanship practice, which is a good thing for kids of all ages (and parents too)! For kids, writing on a postcard may be less daunting than sitting down with a pen and paper or a blank thank you note.

The small space on the back of a postcard leaves just enough space to pen a quick greeting or witty message, or just leave a little doodle.

Whether your postcards are travelling to another part of the city or to far away places, it’s always a geography lesson. You can look up where the postcard originated and how far it travelled.

It’s also an exercise in patience, one that happens to make the family mailbox a happier place. In an

Aidan (11) and Emmett (9) McCann show

off their international post card collection.

PHOTO BY ERIN ASHTON.

era of instant gratification, waiting awhile for a return message is a good thing.

There’s something nice about the process too: choosing a postcard, picking out postage stamps, writing the card, and finally popping it in the mail.

If you make it a family affair, everyone will feel like they’re contributing and have ownership of the collection. For example, you can make a point of choosing the stamps and postcards and addressing them together. If the child is too young to write, he or she can help decorate it, or stick on the postage stamp.

There are a few different ways families can start their own postcard collections: 1. Make it a habit of sending postcards to people you

know while you’re away on holiday, even if you’re just visiting relatives the next city over.

Potential recipients include BFFs, grandparents, favourite teachers, or even your neighbours. If you’re lucky they’ll even write back!

2. Take it one step further and ask likeminded families to send postcards when they travel too. You can use Facebook for this very effectively because many people post updates while they travel.

3. Sign up for a postcard exchange at a website such as Postcrossing.com. It’s free. All you need to do is open an account and send postcards to members who are assigned to you. Once you start sending, you will start receiving. You can keep the postcards in a scrapbook or display them on the wall for everyone to enjoy.

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Ba

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Register Now! ottawa.ca/recreation

YOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD TO PLAY A KID’S GAME Thousands of courses are available in the Fall-Winter eGuide available online now at ottawa.ca/recreation. With incredible ways to get active during the fall season, the City of Ottawa’s recreation and culture program line-up is sure to please! Find something to tickle your fancy, excite the imagination and get physical!

At your neighbourhood recreation centre you can try a new sport, perform on a stage and reach the next martial arts belt. Don’t regret not learning to play a musical instrument or a dance step - live those childhood dreams now.

Be active with Aquafitness through to Zumba®. Find classes geared for beginners to experienced, crawling babies to sitting yoga. Learn a Sport for Life: practice your skills and drills and sign up to play the game.

Children can try cooking, gymnastics or pottery. After School programs are a fantastic opportunity to stay active and make friends, with activities focused on healthy child development. Our certified staff are passionate about delivering an outstanding experience.

PLAY TOGETHER IN OUR FAMILY CLASSES

Learn Hip Hop or Belly dancing. Try wheel and handbuilding in pottery classes. Stretch and tone with Yoga. Take your family sports team out for badminton, basketball, soccer or volleyball.

OLDER ADULTS GET TO PLAY TOO

Try photography, line dancing or computers. Increase physical activity with classes for all levels and interests. Get outdoors with the Active Living Club on weekly hiking outings.

Try Pickleball – plenty of laughs, no skill required. The city Senior Recreation centres program for adults age 50 and over. Fill your days with new friends, activities and exercise.

FALL CLASSES START SOON!

Browse online at ottawa.ca/recreation to discover affordable fall and winter programs. Visit your favourite facility where knowledgeable and friendly staff will help you discover your next adventure. Call 3-1-1 for more details.

KIDS & PETS

FAMILY MATTERS

Ask the experts: Back to school homework tips

Have kids? Have pets? Have a great picture of them together?

Share your snaps with Capital Parent and each month we will publish our favourites in print and online.

SPECIAL TO CP BY JULIA BOGGIA, NATHALIE DUGAN & DR. MARIA ROGERS

O

ne of the biggest challenges that parents face is guiding their children through school, ensuring their children’s academic success and enjoyment.

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Many parents have questions about how to best support their children’s academic endeavours: Should they be helping their children with homework directly? Should they give their child the right answer, or let them get it wrong? What about incentives and rewards?

Dr. Maria Rogers, assistant professor and clinical psychologist at the University of Ottawa, and her students have been conducting research examining different parenting strategies in relation to homework, with some important implications for parents.

Research has shown that helping children with their homework is important. There are many different ways that parents can be involved at homework time, but how parents assist their children with homework can either help or hinder a child’s learning. At one end of the spectrum, there is supportive parenting, characterized by encouragement, attentiveness, and praise. On the other, there is controlling parenting, characterized by the exertion of pressure, punishment, criticism, and intrusion. It’s rare that parents are true to one particular style; most parents use a combination of the two, mixing some more controlling methods (such as giving children direct orders) with more supportive methods (such as giving their children praise).

Dr. Rogers and her team recently conducted a study measuring these parenting strategies in homework supervision, children’s emotion regulation, and academic achievement. They’ve concluded that emotion regulation is a key factor in a child’s academic success, as it allows children to face challenging situations without breaking down. The findings are compelling: children who perceived their parents as more controlling demonstrated worse emotion regulation and decreased academic achievement. On the other hand, children who perceived their parents as more supportive demonstrated the opposite.

Why does parenting strategy during homework matter? The answer lies in how a child is affected by these interactions. Controlling parenting techniques teach children to use their parents as an external regulator of their behaviour and emotions. The child then becomes more dependent and is less able to regulate themselves. Supportive parenting techniques, on the other hand, allow children to explore their abilities with supportive reinforcement, which helps them become more independent in the long run.

When it comes to helping children with homework, being supportive and patient is crucial.

Children will thrive if they feel confident in their abilities, and are reinforced and encouraged.

BE THERE. Parents are usually juggling home-

@capitalparent |

work time with other daily tasks. If possible, carve out some uninterrupted time to be with your child while they are doing their homework. This is especially important for children who are struggling with their schoolwork. Show them that you are paying attention and caring for them during a challenging time.

PRAISE HARD WORK. It’s easy to praise a child for getting the right answer or for a good grade, but more importantly children need to be praised for working hard, especially during difficult tasks. If they are giving it their best shot, praise this effort. “You worked so hard to get that answer” will go further in developing their confidence and abilities compared to “Good job getting the right answer.”

ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO COME UP WITH THEIR OWN ANSWERS. It’s easy to become frustrated when your child is having trouble answering a question or getting the wrong answer, and it’s tempting to just give them the answer. Instead, let your child brainstorm their own answers, and help them think through the solution.

SUPPORT THEIR AUTONOMY. It can be tempting to tell your child which questions to answer first or how fast to work, but children need to work at their own pace and organize their work in a way that makes sense to them.

Don’t insist that your child do their homework your way, but do encourage your child to ask you for help when they need it.

AVOID PUNISHMENT FOR FAILURE. Punishing children for poor work is counterproductive to their efforts and developing independence, and can lead to negative attitudes and beliefs about school. Use punishment at your discretion for behaviour, but not for school achievement. Praising hard work will be far more effective in the long run.

DON’T SHOW DISAPPOINTMENT OR FRUSTRATION. Your children can pick up on these emotions, and it will discourage them. Try to be positive, accepting of mistakes, and be there to listen and help problem solve.

For more information, or to participate in a parenting study, contact the ADHD and Development Lab at the University of Ottawa: adhd.lab@uottawa.ca or 613-562-5800 (ext. 4132).

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FAMILY MATTERS

How do you raise good readers?

BY ANITA GRACE

P

arents often hear that reading is one of the most important skills for their children to develop. So they may worry if it doesn’t come easily to their child.

Amy Taylor, an elementary school teacher and mother of 5-year-old twins, knows it is common for parents, teachers and children to wish that one could learn to read “instantly.” But it’s a skill that takes patience and perseverance to develop.

So how can parents help their children master the skill of reading?

Elizabeth Thornley oversees the children’s programming at the Ottawa Public Library. She says it’s important to start early. Playing games, singing songs, making up stories – these are just some of the many ways to develop narrative skills and vocabulary. And no child is ever too young for books.

“Read them everything,” says Rachel Eugster, author of the children’s book The Pocket Mommy, and mother of two. “Don’t make assumptions about what is kid suitable. Challenge their imaginations. Challenge their creativity.”

“Find something they like to learn about,” suggests Carrie Archibald, a constable with the Ottawa Police Services and volunteer with the OttawaReads program. “If they want to talk about trucks, read about trucks.”

As a mother of two, Archibald knows it can be challenging to find time for books. “From the time we get home to getting kids to bed, it can be hard to get time for reading.” So as with many families, her family has made reading part of their bedtime routine. “Our kids won’t go to bed without it.”

But while most children will enjoy being read to, how do we encourage them to read for themselves?

Zaccary Dyck, 16, remembers when reading was “a bit of a chore.” He preferred it when his parents would read to him so that he “didn’t have

to do the work.”

But as he got older, somewhere between the ages of 8 and 10, his preference changed.

“Reading on your own is much more liberating than having a parent read to you,” he says.

So his advice to parents? “Encourage [your kids], but also give them space. Let them discover reading at their own pace.”

Taylor, who loves teaching children how to read, agrees that it should never be forced. She warns that insisting that kids read a certain amount each day can smother any pleasure they might have, and turn something enjoyable into a chore.

“If it gets into a battle, then step back,” echoes Thornley. Return to the things that are fun, like the parent simply reading to the child. She also suggests that a reluctant reader may respond well to things like comic strips, graphic novels, or riddle books.

Remember too that reading can also happen anywhere, anytime. It’s not just about books.

Read street signs, recipes and posters. Make it fun. Then, as children master the skill and gain confidence, keep finding ways to challenge them.

Always read to them beyond the level that they are reading at, suggests Thornley. “Capture their imagination and they’ll understand the reason for reading.”

And don’t write off something because it is too long or too hard. “We have a tendency to make assumptions about children, like that they have short attention spans,” says Eugster. “Give them the opportunity to really engage. Let their imagination roam wild.”

Giving children their own space to read, even if it’s just under the covers for a few minutes after bedtime, is a great way to get kids reading more.

10 great books kids should read before they’re twelve Thanks to Capital Parent Facebook fans, who provided some of these suggestions!

Charlotte’s Web, by E B White Holes, by Louis Sachar The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, by CS Lewis The Borrowers, by Mary Norton Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, by Roald Dahl James and the Giant Peach, by Roald Dahl The Secret World of Og, Pierre Berton The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle Where the Wild Things Are, by Maurice Sendak The Harry Potter series, by JK Rowling What would you add to the list? Send your favourite book titles to editor@ capitalparent.ca and we’ll add it to the web version of this story at capitalparent.ca.

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ParENtiNg BloGs

we LOve Refashionista

BY LYNN JATANIA

I

t’s the little things that Melissa Dimock really values; little things, like three adventurous and nature-loving boys, always curious and funny and growing. Things like a great cup of fair trade coffee and a delicious homemade gingersnap on the side. Things like finding small ways to help the environment and live more naturally. You’ll find all these wonderful little things captured with great beauty over at her blog, Refashionista (refashionista.wordpress.com).

Melissa is a thoughtful, grounded mom who cares deeply about being gentle with this earth.

If she can create, remake, or reuse an item, she definitely will – she wants to tread lightly in this world, and is raising her kids to do the same. She has great ideas for environmentally friendly baby care, tons of easy and delicious recipes for dishes to make at home, and lush photos of her wild and brilliant flower gardens. Her caring, crafty, and resourceful nature comes across in every post.

She has lots to say about parenting, too. There

are charming stories of her boys – after a few reads, you’ll feel like you know them yourself.

There are moving posts about her delight at being a mom – and her sadness at a recent pregnancy loss. You’ll find great book suggestions – both adult fiction (check out her Books Read lists from previous years for helpful one-line reviews) and fun titles for boys of all ages. Lastly, there are intelligent, kind, and gracious thoughts on how to be a good person in this world – with discussion of some examples on both sides of the coin.

Melissa can often be found on Twitter too (@refashionista) – she even live-tweeted the home birth of her youngest son.

Be sure to find her online one way or another – you’ll feel a little warmer and a little sweeter just for having met her.

Noteable Quote We natter on endlessly about how life is all about the little moments, the small things, those fleeting moments of kindness, but

beyond the triteness how many of us pause to put those ideas into action?

On a particularly bad day, a nameless someone did a drop and dash at my door: It was exactly what I needed to hear at that moment, because you start doubting your worth when you feel like the Universe is conspiring against you. That this person had no personal insight into what was going on in my life made it that much more touching. I won’t lie — this reduced me to a blubbering mess of tears — but the timing could not have been more perfect.

Like ripples on a pond, the kindness you extend someone has the potential to go on and on and on, touching others, making an impact, brightening a day, changing one’s outlook. Kindness is cheap and kindness is easy — so easy — and all it takes is a moment to open a door, to give that compliment, to thank someone, to pay it forward when someone pays consideration to you.

Meet Melissa Dimock from Refashionista (refashionista.wordpress.com).

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY MELISSA DIMOCK.

I will be paying this forward. In my experience, kindness begets kindness. It’s a snowball effect. No act of kindness is too small to be worthwhile.

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top 5 books

best

Top toy picks

BY MARCIA MACQUARRIE, THE NOISE ON TOYS

G

oing back to school, or going to school for the very first time, can bring new challenges and exciting experiences for all. The following titles suggested by Kirsten Partanen from the Greenboro Branch of the Ottawa Public Library can help children and young teens navigate the beginning of a new school year.

Love Waves,

by Rosemary Wells

1

Ages 3-5 This is a sweet story that speaks of goodbyes when Mom and Dad leave for work. It’s a wonderful book for children who may be starting with a new caregiver or at a new school and it’s equally relevant for the parent who might be having a hard time returning to work and is leaving their child for the first time. It is suitable for all ages, but is primarily aimed at younger children.

Never Glue your Friends to Chairs,

by Katherine Applegate

2

Ages 6-8 This is the first book in the Roscoe Riley Rules series. Meet Roscoe, an active first grader who tends to spend some time in the time out chair. He is a child with great ideas but they don’t always work out as planned. This series is great to read to first graders, so that they know that they are not alone in their experiences and occasional mishaps. As an early chapter book, this series will also appeal to Grade 2 or 3 students who enjoy reading.

How to Write a Report,

by Cecilia Minden and Kate Roth

3

Ages 8-10 This book is from the Language Arts Explorer Junior series.

As children begin to learn more about research and expression of knowledge, this easy to read and nicely illustrated short book presents them with the different steps from defining their topics to organizing research into a well presented report. Aimed at children in Grades 3 to 5.

Preprinted clues make it quick and easy to set up a treasure hunt that’s both fun and educational with Ukloo Treasure Hunt games.

The Early Reader Edition (4+) helps boost sightword recognition. Non-readers can decode the clue word by matching the letters to the illustrated words on the included poster. Our testers had so much fun traipsing from clue to clue that they didn’t even care if there was a surprise at the end. In fact, the game has been so well received there’s a new Riddle Edition for older kids (7+) that not only helps practice reading skills, but involves a fun riddle to solve,

too. Our testing parents love that depending on the cards selected, either game can be tailored to the activity level and length of hunt that best suits their child’s attention span, energy level and the time available.

For more information about this and other award-winning educational toys – or to apply to our play testing program, visit thenoisneontoys.com.

VISIT ONE OF OUR MANY OTTAWA LOCATIONS 809 Bank Street

(in the Glebe shopping district)

How to Talk to an Autistic Child,

by Daniel Stefanski

4

Ages 7-12 Coping with new environments and making friends go hand in hand with school. Not all of us think or interact in the same way.

Daniel Stefanski (who is autistic) wrote this book when he was 14.

It presents, in easy terms, how a child or teen with autism views and interprets the world around him. This book is not only handy for helping a child to make friends with someone with autism, but also for those with autism to share to help others understand them.

m rs t i ggyw i nk l e s . c a

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(in the Westboro shopping district)

613-761-6055

The Strange Case of Origami Yoda,

by Tom Angleberger

5

Ages 10-13 Middle school can be a difficult time. It is nice to have a wise figure to help solve some of the day-to-day issues of life. Enter Origami Yoda, who speaks words of wisdom through the young socially awkward man on whose finger he lives. It’s a fun look at navigating the world and what it might throw at you. Tweens in grades 5 to 8 will enjoy this title the most.

SEPTEMBER 2014 13

FAMILY FUN Meet the McInnes/Eustace/Gallivan family! They have been taking family beach

vacations every year together for nearly ten years, and have travelled to Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Dominica. For the past few years they’ve visited Great Exuma in the Bahamas. “We LOVE travelling together,” writes Leah (pictured in the purple). “[My husband] Jeff, the kids, my parents, my sister and her fiancé and my nephew; we already have our next trip booked (for two weeks this time!) in January.

We are counting down the days.”

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

family snap PHOTO BY LEAH EUSTACE

CARROT POTATO APPLE GARLIC ONION

whom we must chiefly combat, are within.

“Our greatest foes, and- Miguel ” de Cervantes

OUR family

CaleNdaR Mosaika Sound & Light Show NIGHTLY, UNTIL SEPTEMBER 6 This is your last chance to catch this free sound and light show projected on to Parliament Hill and the Peace Tower. The bilingual production tells Canada’s story through the eyes of its people. Bring a blanket or chairs to sit on. The show begins at 9:00 p.m., but can be cancelled in poor weather conditions. You can keep tabs on cancellation notices on the Mosaika Facebook page at facebook.com/mosaika.en.

Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival AUGUST 28SEPTEMBER 1

This year marks the 27th edition of the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival. It’s one of the area’s most visible celebrations (look up, waaay up!), and with multiple stages it’s as much about the music, arts and culture as it is about the balloons. See the full schedule online at montgolfieresgatineau.com.

Bug Day SEPTEMBER 6 Are the kids feeling ANTsy about going

Martin’s St. e s r ry School Nu Established 1964

Next open houses August 27th & September 4th 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  ECE or Equivalent teachers  Stimulating spacious educational environment  Enriched variety of learning centres integrating Music, Art & Gym  2, 3 & 5 morning programs & 3 afternoon programs for children 21/2 to 5

Check party dates, details & availability online!

Dovercourt Recreation Centre

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 Kindergarten Program for 4 year olds

2120 Prince Charles Road (1 Block North of Carlingwood Shopping Centre)

FOR INFORMATION CALL (613) 722-7500

stmartinsns@rogers.com • www.ncf.ca/stmartinsns

14 SEPTEMBER 2014 | c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a |

back to school? Take them to Bug Day at the Canada Agriculture and Food Museum and find out what it really means to be a bug.

Visit the “Taking Care of Beesness” exhibition and try to spot the queen bee in the live observation hive. Get the buzz on how bugs help pollinate food crops such as blueberries and apples, and join the Entomological Society of Ontario for insect nature walks, face-painting, cockroach races, and loads more. Admission to the Museum is free on September 6 thanks to the Ottawa FieldNaturalist’s Club. For more information go to cafmuseum.techno-science.ca.

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Ottawa Folk Festival SEPTEMBER 10-14 This year marks the 20th anniversary of this popular music festival. This year’s acts include Foster the People, Blues Traveller, Lorde…. and the Wiggles! The fun happens at the scenic Hog’s Back Park. Check the schedule for details about special children’s and family performances, artisan and craft vendors, and more. For details go to ottawafolk.com.

Fibrefest SEPTEMBER 13-14 Combine this unique event with a day trip to Almonte, one of our favourite destinations in the Ottawa Valley. The Mississippi Valley Textile Museum’s 19th annual Fibrefest celebrates all things fibre, and takes place at @capitalparent |

BEANS BROCCOLI CAULIFLOWER EGGPLANT KOHLRABI

the textile museum and the Almonte Arena.

Old favorites include “Button Mania”, vintage clothing sales, demonstrations, and a fabric flea market. Over 80 vendors will be in attendance. New to Fibrefest this year: Alpaca Ontario’s fleece sort-a-thon and a special fabric exhibition from Nuno, Japan. Free parking. Admission is $5:00. For information, go to mvtm.ca.

Tastes of Wellington West SEPTEMBER 13 This community street party is a great opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the neighbourhood from a new perspective. Enjoy performances, sidewalk sales, family activities, free workshops and food samples at the annual celebration of Wellington West’s vibrant urban streets from 11:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. For more information follow @Wellington_West on Twitter or visit wellingtonwest.ca.

Gem & Mineral Show SEPTEMBER 20 & 21 Calling all area rockhounds and wanna be gemologists! Check out the annual Gem, Show at the Nepean Sportsplex for displays, seminars and informal gemstone evaluations. The hall will be filled with dealers and customers shopping for some of the best fossils, gemstones, minerals, carvings, beads, and more. For information go to olmc.ca.

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