Capital Parent March 2013

Healthy Snack Recipes SEE INSIDE FOR DETAILS

page 7

Bible Boot Camp at The Armor of God

Spring Break: March 11 to 15 Come and join the army.

For more information call 613-248-3461 ext.: 111 knesrallah@steliaschildcare.com

MARCH 2013 | FREE | www.capitalparent.ca

Animal Tracking You be the detective!

PHOTO : JUSTIN VAN LEEUWEN

Active Indoor Birthday Ideas

Saturday&Sunday April 13-14 | 9am - 5pm Ernst & Young Centre (formerly CE Centre)

Dora&Diego

Meet Dora & Diego at Kidsfe st!

Meet & Greet / Photo Oppo rtunity

singer, Are you an aspiring ounger?

12 years of age or y tottawa.ca w.kidsfes If so, check out ww w to enter! for more info on ho

Buy your tickets now at www.kidsfestottawa.ca

Save up to 25% Use promo code: kidsfestOTT

Expectant&New Parents

• Save with show specials on the latest and greatest products • Talk to the experts • Learn tips and tricks

2 MARCH 2013 | w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a

tures Animal Adveptn iles debuts

Ray’s Re Be there when Little ow, Swamp Thang! sh his newest exhibit &

FAMILY MATTERS

The First Cut is the Deepest And of course, that’s exactly when the nurse walked in, and saw me, and saw the baby, and, her face full of shock and horror, shrieked, “What are you DOING?” What I felt right then was complete and utter humiliation. If I’m ever in an acting class, and the instructor claps his hands together and says, “Now let’s all think of a time when we felt humiliated,” then I WIN. It turns out that a newborn’s fingernails are joined to the fingers with some sort of very tender membrane, and this membrane won’t separate from the white part of their nails for a few weeks, and thus, cutting your brand new baby’s nails is not really a good idea, unless you have an acting class planned and need to do a little research.

Luckily we still had those little baby mitts – to cover up the evidence.

Lessons learned : • Never, ever, try to cut your newborn’s fingernails with clippers.

• You can mess up with the second just as badly as the first.

• You may want to consider moving within a block or two of your mother-in-law.

Take it from me…a mom who’s been there.

Vote!

?

?

?

What Remains Will Reign VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE DINO!

FIVE DINOSAUR FOSSILS ENCASED IN PLASTIC JACKETS SINCE THE EARLY 1900s have been brought out from storage in the national collections. All of them are unique and important discoveries; but, unfortunately, not all can be revealed. Your vote will determine which DINO IDOL gets selected and worked on by museum palaeontologists.

*Orleans, Carling, Kanata, Nepean, and Gatineau

Visit the CANADIAN MUSEUM OF NATURE between February 16 and March 17 to see our five DINO IDOLS, and vote for your favourite!

Go to participating* Boston Pizza restaurants from February 15 to March 3 to receive your kid’s free admission to the Canadian Museum of Nature. And when you visit the museum during this period, you can get coupons for Boston Pizza.

240 McLeod Street, Ottawa, Ontario 613-566-4700 nature.ca w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a | MARCH 2013 3

Capital Parent Newspaper

?

Your

66976 / Canadian Museum of Nature - Dino Idol

?

APPROVED BY

Dino Idol

publication

W

hen you’re pregnant with your first, you spend a lot of time thinking about the birth.

How will it feel? How long will labour last? Will I conduct myself like a respectable lady, or will I be reduced to bashing myself in the head with my husband’s fist (not that I ever did such a thing, oh no)?

Most first-timers don’t spend nearly as much time thinking about what they’re going to do when, shortly after the birth thing is all over, they are handed a screaming, wrinkly, poopy piglet wrapped in a blanket. At best, maybe you’ve given some vague thought to disposable versus cloth diapers, or you’ve had a casual flip through the sleep book your sister gave you.

One thing I guarantee you don’t think about: fingernails.

Babies are born with tiny spikes growing out of the end of their fingers. Spikes that appear small, yet are able to make both you and your child seem to have been in a recent throw-down with a cat. Or cats. Many cats. Within hours of the birth of my firstborn, my son’s face and my chest looked like matching London subway maps, where every line was the red line.

My hastily consulted baby books cheerfully birth, my friend sat there with her baby in one suggested biting them off. But my brand new hand, nail clippers in the other, and trepidation son’s tiny baby nails were so soft and rubbery, in her heart. One quick call to the MIL Hotline, that biting them felt like gnawing on really and her mother-in-law bustled in a few minutes gelatinous beef jerky. I swear I chomped down later, clipped the baby’s nails efficiently and on those suckers as hard as I could, and no dice calmly, dropped a dozen muffins on the counter, – they just gently bounced back like the Botoxed then bustled on out. forehead of a Hollywood actress.

Now that’s what I call hitting the Mother Lode.

Plus, it just felt awkward and weird. I kept Eventually I had a second baby, and by then worrying that someone would walk in on us and I’d spent months clipping my older toddler’s think I’d given up on hospital nails. I knew everything there food and decided to have Baby “I kept worrying that was to know about babies, for dinner. ever! I was ready to face down someone would walk I had nail clippers with a newborn and her nails, yes in on us and think I’d sir. I would show those nails me, but it was just impossible to come at my little one who was boss. given up on hospital with such a sharp object, so So there I was, alone in food and decided to we slipped on some wee baby the hospital with my dear, mitts (someone had given us a have Baby for dinner.” sweet, day-old daughter - and pair as a shower gift – I never her cat-clawing fingernails of would have thought to buy some) and managed doom. I got out the clippers. I balked at first – to solve the cat-attack problem. Within a few baby fingers were so much tinier than I rememdays, we got up enough nerve to file off some bered. But I was tough. I was the Experienced of the sharper edges with an emery board. Still, Mom. I dove in. it was weeks before we were brave enough to The baby fussed, then whined, then finally attempt the baby clippers. broke out into a full-on wail. “Just a few more I have a friend who was lucky enough to live moments, honey,” I said. within two blocks of her mother-in-law. Now, Midway through the second hand, I noticed you might not think that’s so lucky – she herself something funny. Every finger on the first hand had mixed feelings about it before her first baby was bleeding. Not a lot, but enough to clearly mark was born – but one day shortly after her son’s me as the WORST MOTHER OF ALL TIME.

docket / client

THIRD TIME’S THE CHARM

BY LYNN JATANIA

PH OT O

:

E COD ON S JA

From The Editor

T

his isn’t going to come as a big surprise, but I’ve officially decided that Ottawa is the best place to raise a family.

Andrea Tomkins andrea@capitalparent.ca

Follow us at:

capitalparent.ca facebook.com/CapitalParent

I’ve often thought about what makes parenting different in Ottawa. For starters, there’s our geography, both real and metaphorical.

Somehow we have found ourselves firmly rooted at the intersection of Small Town and Big City.

And you know what, it’s a pretty great place to be. Ottawa is still small enough to make travelling around it fairly manageable (and as a bonus we are even likely to run into someone we know). At the same time it’s big enough to host world-class events and stay interesting to sports fans, arts and culture lovers, fashionistas, and foodies. In addition to all this, there’s easy access to the outdoors. A few minutes in either direction gets us to a trail, a forest, or a body of water. How we decide to use these natural resources is entirely up to us. In my experience, getting out there and being active outdoors – whether it’s in the form of cycling, swimming, camping, hiking, or skiing – is half the fun of

raising a family in Ottawa. As a mother of two, I am very thankful to be living in such a great city.

This particular issue is kind of a big deal for us here at Great River Media. It marks a brand new direction for Capital Parent, and we’re thrilled that you’re here for the ride. As editor, I’m hoping to bring you stories that inspire you, make you laugh, and help you along your parenting journey.

It occurs to me that the other great thing about parenting in Ottawa is the strength of our community, which is extremely important given that parenting is the kind of occupation that can be challenging and even isolating at times. And we want to continue to build that community and make it even stronger. That’s why I’m really looking forward to meeting other Capital Parents during Kidsfest, the Capital Parent & Kids Show on April 13 and 14. I hope to see you there. In the meantime, thanks for reading!

Best regards,

pinterest.com/capitalparent/

We want to hear from you!

Email your feedback to andrea@ capitalparent.ca or leave a comment on our Facebook page.

Next month we’ll be publishing a few of your comments in the paper, so please make sure you sign your full name.

Thank you!

I

4 MARCH 2013 | w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a

What exactly does that mean?

It means we’ve updated our logo and the design of this newspaper.

It means we’ve launched a website dedicated to Capital Parent. We’re adding exclusive content on a regular basis and an email newsletter is soon to follow.

We’ve also resuscitated our Facebook account and other social media channels are being explored.

And let’s not forget events. The Capital Parent and Kids Show, now in its 12th year, is moving to a great kid- and strollerfriendly venue, the $40-million Ernst and Young Centre near Ottawa’s airport. We’re confident this fun-filled two-day event will provide thousands of area parents and kids with quality entertainment, vital information and shopping opportunities

EDITOR Andrea Tomkins 613-238-1818 ext. 279 andrea@capitalparent.ca CONTRIBUTORS Katharine Fletcher • Lynn Jatania Paula Roy • Simone Parniak The Parent Resource Centre Ottawa Public Library

COPY EDITOR Judith van Berkom GRAPHIC DESIGN & PRODUCTION Sarah Ellis sellis@greatriver.ca ADVERTISING Mike Beard 613-238-1818 ext. 270 mbeard@obj.ca CAPITALPARENT is published by

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Mark Sutcliffe PRESIDENT Michael Curran CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Donna Neil

From The Publisher f anyone knows about exciting new chapters, it’s parents.

Whether it’s the arrival of a newborn, children acquiring new skills or those milestone moments – such as the first day of school – parents are all about change.

Here at Capital Parent, we’re also excited about a new chapter. In this case, it’s a new chapter for our publication, our digital media outreach and events that bring us face-to-face with our readers.

Beginning in October, Capital Parent joined Great River Media, an Ottawa-based company that also includes titles such as Ottawa Business Journal, Ottawa At Home magazine, Centre Ice magazine and Kitchissippi Times community newspaper.

And like any proud parent, we’re eager to see Capital Parent reach its full potential.

PUBLISHER Mark Sutcliffe mark@greatriver.ca

as well. Finally, as every parent knows, children must be nurtured. A skilled and loving hand is needed for guidance.

When it comes to Capital Parent, this guidance will come from our new editor, Andrea Tomkins. Andrea has built a following among thousands of local parents as the parenting blogger behind “a peek inside the fishbowl.” Her work has been published in many local and national magazines and she is acknowledged as a Canadian pioneer in blogging and social media.

Andrea will be reaching out to readers for input (and using her considerable expertise) to make sure Capital Parent matures into an indispensable source of information for local parents.

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 OTTAWA, ONTARIO K1Y 4J8

www.capitalparent.ca

CARING FOR KIDS

Parenting Blogs We Love: Is Your Baby Getting Kids in the Capital Enough Tummy Time? r ’s edito

pick

BY ANDREA TOMKINS

O

ne of the reasons we like to read local parenting blogs is because of the unique information they can offer us about the city we live in: what to do, where to go, and what to see. This can be extremely useful for parents who are juggling work, childcare, laundry, and everything else. It’s the kind of thing that can actually make our lives run a little smoother!

The question is, if you’re not already reading blogs, how do you find the best of the best? That’s exactly why we will be sharing one of our favourites here every month. No need to search and sort, just click and read!

We thought we’d get the ball rolling with a local favourite called Kids in the Capital (www.kidsinthecapital.ca).

Kids in the Capital is a group blog with multiple authors – all parents – with kids of different ages. This provides welcome perspectives and different experiences – the more the merrier, right? Kids in the Capital is a reliable source of great little tips and resources, all with a distinctly Ottawa flavour, from one parent to another. For nearly three years, Kids in the Capital has been sharing stories about kid-friendly activities and local events, arts and crafts, recipes, and is a good source of parenting-related inspiration. We like how down-to-earth it is, and appreciate the range of family-friendly events and activities they share with their diverse group of regular readers. And we think you will too!

Noteable Quotes “There are so many things I love about staying home but there are things I miss about working. I miss being challenged, having tasks to complete and deadlines to meet, but most of all I miss the adult interaction. I used to spend a lot of my time corresponding with people by email and over the phone, consulting co-workers and management, and chatting with coworkers who became friends.

Being at home can be very isolating, especially in the cold winter months, so I do my best to get out of the house. Seeing people saves my sanity and I’m sure my kids love getting out too.”

Check out the growing list of our favourite Ottawa-area parenting blogs at www.capitalparent.ca. Do you have one to suggest? Send an email to editor@capitalparent.ca

BY SIMONE PARNIAK, as part of University of Ottawa’s TCHP project at CHEO

I

n 1994, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development launched the “Back to Sleep” campaign in response to the increasing rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The aim of the campaign was to decrease SIDS by alerting parents of the importance of putting their child on their backs to sleep. This campaign has been successful with rates of SIDS decreasing by almost 50% since its implementation. However, as result of the campaign, there have been unforeseen consequences.

Infants are now rarely placed on their stomachs, even when awake. This has led to such issues as developmental motor delays, congenital muscular torticollis, and plagiocephaly.

Plagiocephaly, or the flattening of the head, is a result of the infant being placed in the same position on their backs. This can lead to a change in facial characteristics, such as asymmetrical eyes, ears or cheeks. Torticollis is the weakening of the neck muscles on one side that leads to a limited range of head motion. Infants with torticollis may only be able to turn their head to one side and find it difficult or uncomfortable to lift their head.

These issues are extremely common, especially in the Ottawa area. In the past decade, the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) has seen a dramatic increase in the number of cases of infants with both torticollis and plagiocephaly. In 2006-2007, the physiotherapy department saw 184 infants for a total of almost 500 visits.

By 2010-2011, the numbers had increased to 263 infants for a total of 785 visits. Evidently, plagiocephaly and torticollis are becoming a major issue for infants in Eastern Ontario, conditions that are easily preventable if infants are placed on their stomachs for a period of time each day.

These conditions develop as early as the first month, so it is important to practice “tummy time” as soon as parents arrive home from the hospital. This will also help make it part of a routine, in which infants will become more comfortable with being on their stomachs for longer periods of time as they age. Using toys or other distractions to keep the infant entertained and placing a rolled blanket under their chest can help make them more comfortable. It is important to make sure that the infant is supervised at all times while tummy time occurs.

Ideally, tummy time can become a fun way for the parent to interact with their child and play a key role in decreasing the rates of plagiocephaly.

and toriticollis within the Ottawa area.

Evidence has shown that infants who

are more rarelyinformation placed onabout theirtorticollis stomachs For go gross motor and fine motor skill to:have http://www.cheo.on.ca/en/torticollis delays. Milestones such as crawling and rolling are delayed in infants who don’t spend enough time on their stomachs.

Certified Paediatric Dentist Dr. RAj-Deep Mahal B.SC., D.D.S., M.Sc., F.R.C.D. (C)

• No referral necessary • Accepting new patients & emergencies • Dental treatment provided in child friendly atmosphere

• Sedation or general anesthesia available • Dental trauma management • Treatment & continuing care (hygiene) • Free parking

1335 Carling Ave., Suite 313 (beside Westgate at the Qwy.) Tel.: 613.722.0233 • Fax: 613.722.0719 w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a | MARCH 2013 5

FROM PARENT TO PARENT

Active Birthday Party Ideas

B

irthday parties hosted offsite (that is, not at home) are a great option for parents who want to have a memorable day and keep the mess to a minimum. But what are the best places to go for an active party, one that the kids will enjoy and burns off the sugar rush too? We got to wondering so we posed the question on Facebook.

Here’s what some Capital Parents had to say: Chantal Lemieux-McEvoy: “We hosted a skating party at a local rink. The kids loved it. It was an hour of skating and then the kids spent the second hour running around the party room like crazies. It was a lot of fun (very unstructured but fun).”

Karen Reyburn: “Starr Gymnastics on Lancaster.

Had 5-yr-old birthday party there but with kids up to age 11 in attendance. It was great! Party is run by a Starr instructor and is done like a laid-back gymnastics class. Second hour is in party room.

Bring your own food. Very affordable too.”

Ljiljana Krstic: “We’ve rented the gym at Fisher Park for my son’s birthday party for several years.

Its great, an older teen/young adult acts as a facilitator and keeps the kids going with whatever interests them - floor hockey, indoor soccer, basketball, or just fun stuff with gym mats, balls, hula hoops, and whatever other equipment they have. You get a separate room for snacks/cake/wind down. Much fun!”

Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary Grades Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary Grades Before & after school supervisionElementary Grades To register or arrange a school Preschool, Kindergarten, Before & after school supervision Extended tour, please call or email Before &French afterprogram school supervision To register or arrange a school Independent, co-ed school Extended non-profit French program Extended French program tour, please call or email Extracurricular programs including: skating, gymnastics, Independent, non-profit co-ed school dance, science, jiunon-profit jitsu & violin co-ed school Independent, principal@fernhillottawa.com Extracurricular programs including: skating, gymnastics, Low student-to-teacher ratio Extracurricular programs including: dance, science, jiu jitsu & violin skating, gymnastics, www.fernhillottawa.com Advanced preschool literacy program dance, science, jiu jitsu & violin Diverse international student community Low student-to-teacher ratio principal@fernhillottawa.com Low student-to-teacher 50 Vaughan Street, Flexible full & half day programsratio Advanced preschool literacy program www.fernhillottawa.com Ottawa, ON K1M 1X1 Enriched curriculum: Music,literacy Art, IT, French, Spanish Advanced preschool program

613.746.0255

613.746.0255

Diverse international student community Diverse international student community Flexible full & half day programs Flexible full & half day programs Enrichedcurriculum: curriculum:Music, Music, Art, French, Spanish Enriched Art, IT,IT, French, Spanish

Now accepting registrations for Preschool to Grade 6 for the 2013-2014 rgarten, Elementary Grades school year.

50 Vaughan Street, Ottawa, ON K1M 1X1

To register or arrange a school tour, please call or email

613.746.0255

principal@fernhillottawa.com www.fernhillottawa.com

hool supervision To register or arrange 50 Vaughan Street, Ottawa, ON K1M 1X1a school program 6 MARCH 2013 | w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a tour, please call or email n-profit co-ed school ograms including: skating, gymnastics,

613.746.0255

Tracey Catherine O’Somers: “Sensplex indoor soccer field rental ... Solid hour of running wild!!!

Parents vs. kids too.”

Jennifer Jager: “Clip n’ Climb rock climbing at Altitude Gym. I loved that everyone was given an intro lesson & equipment check, and then the kids were safe to go climb (supervision is provided).

There was something for everyone there - the adventurous risk takers and the timid climbers too (like this nervous nelly). It was very fun - and I made the party loot rock-themed with pop rocks and more.”

Kerry Lyn Humphrys: “My daughter turned 6 years old last month. We had a princess dance party at the dance studio she attends. The girls dressed in their fanciest dresses and danced for about 45 minutes with her ballet teacher before taking a break for snacks, cupcakes, opening presents then they all went back for more dancing…. It was like being at home without all the major cleaning, safety checking but yet the kids had so much more space to run, jump, laugh and be kids.”

Now that you have a good idea where to host your child’s next birthday party, the next question is probably about what to serve. Is there such a thing as a healthy party snack? Well, we have the answer!

See next page for some great recipes.

KITCHEN INSPIRATION

Healthier Party Snacks

BY PAULA ROY

I

t’s not easy to find snack foods that appeal to kids but aren’t off the charts for salt, sugar or fat. Here are a few recipes that deliver the flavours most children love, in a healthier format. For a party, serve using colourful bowls and some cheerful plates – or for younger kids, a well washed truck or tea set – to add visual appeal.

Good luck keeping the adults away from these tasty, kid-friendly treats!

HERBED PITA CRISPS Since fresh pita bread tends to go stale quickly, toss the last few rounds of each package into the freezer. When you’ve accumulated a bunch, whip up a batch of these crisps. You can play around with the seasonings to suit your tastes. ½ cup regular or roasted garlic olive oil 2 teaspoon dried thyme ½ teaspoon salt 6 – 8 whole-wheat pita breads Preheat oven to 350F. Cut each pita into five strips with scissors and separate into single layer strips.

Place strips, split side up, in a single layer on baking sheets; brush lightly with oil.

Sprinkle evenly with thyme and salt.

Bake until crisp and just turning golden brown,

about 5 to 7 minutes.

Cool on wire racks and store in an airtight container for up to two weeks. Makes 50 + crisps.

and lemon juice, adding just enough water to make it smooth.

Serve with vegetables or pita crisps for dipping.

HEALTHIER HUMMUS Hummus is often high in sodium and overloaded with garlic, which is a turn-off for some kids’ palates. Here’s a lighter version that’s sure to be a hit.

PUMPKIN PIE FRUIT DIP

½ cup dry raw garbanzo beans (chickpeas) OR 1 cup canned chickpeas ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon cumin 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 - 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (to taste) 1 - 2 tablespoons water Soak dry garbanzo beans in water overnight.

Drain. Put in a pot with 1 cup fresh water and bring to a boil; reduce heat, simmer until tender (about an hour). Drain and let cool for 15 minutes.

If using canned chickpeas, drain, then soak in cold water for an hour, changing water once to extract some of the salt from the canning liquid. Drain thoroughly.

In a blender or food processor, pulse together the drained chickpeas with the seasonings, oil

Mix yogurt, honey, vanilla and cocoa powder together until well blended. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Serve with strawberries, sliced bananas and pineapple pieces.

This delicious dip really tastes like pumpkin pie. ½ cup unseasoned canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) 1 tablespoon 2% plain Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons maple syrup ¼ teaspoon each powdered ginger, cloves, allspice and cinnamon Stir all ingredients together; serve with sliced apples or pears.

CHOCOLATE DIP Chocolate and fruit are a favourite combination and this dip is so yummy the kids won’t even know it’s healthy! ½ cup 2% plain Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons honey ½ teaspoon vanilla 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional)

“Put some Spring into your child’s step” -Rob the Shoeman

1177 St. Laurent Blvd

(directly across from the mall)

613-746-6411

w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a | MARCH 2013 7

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hen schools close for March Break, it’s the perfect time to offer your child a boredombusting treat!

All across the region, the City of Ottawa will be delivering loads of great programs at numerous recreation and culture facilities, pools and arenas. There is a wide selection of active and interesting camps – many right in your neighbourhood – as well as specialty camps for young athletes, artists, and more.

The Nepean Museum offers several half-day camps during March Break. At the museum’s main location, crafts, games, cooking and lots more fun activities are on the menu, while at Fairfields, the Bell family homestead, campers

8 MARCH 2013 | w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a

G FEATURE -

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BCS Summer Language Camp A residential summer camp for boys and girls ages 11–16

June 30 – July 27, 2013 Classroom instruction in English or French

SUMMER CAMP

W

hether it’s the thrill of being away from home for the first time, the chance to meet new friends or the opportunity to try new activities, summer camps are a great way to boost a child’s independence and self-confidence.

Bilingual sports and recreational programmes Small classes with students from around the world

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52 years

of summer fun!

Summer@BishopsCollegeSchool.com (819) 566-0227 ext. 319 • Sherbrooke, QC

Fascinating summer camps RegisteR online now aviation.technomuses.ca sciencetech.technomuses.ca

10 MARCH 2013 | w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a

- ADVERTISING FEATURE -

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There are lots of great options out there. With the largest selection of summer day camp programs in the Ottawa area, the Dovercourt Recreation Centre develops unique and creative themes and specialty camps for campers of every age. Great new additions this year include overnight camps, 911 Rescue, climbing camp, Parmar Soccer camps and a hands-on television production camp.

Gaming and Alien Art Attack. Associates at the affiliated Canada Agriculture Museum offer great summer camps as well.

Summer learning programs make for an experience that is enriching on many levels.

Bishop’s College School (BCS) in Lennoxville, Quebec provides a four-week summer language camp in both English and French, with equal emphasis on academic progress and personal The Canadian Science & Tech- well-being. Drawing students nology Museum provides amaz- from all over the world, the BCS camp includes cultural trips and ing hands-on experiences that a lively sports and activities promake learning about science, aviation and astronomy so much gramme. fun. Many camps take place Savvy parents know many at the Canada Aviation and programs fill up quickly so it’s Space Museum, where campers will enjoy an actual flight over not too early to make a funfilled and memorable summer the city! New offerings include for your children. model rocketry, Adventures in

w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a | MARCH 2013 11

YOUR ACTIVE FAMILY

Animal tracking in snow: Who goes there?

BY KATHARINE FLETCHER

M

St. Martin‛s Nursery School Established 1964

2120 Prince Charles Road

Open House Thursday, st February 21 pm. to 8:00

6:30pm

1 Block North of Carlingwood Shopping Centre

ECE or Equivalent teachers Stimulating spacious educational environment Enriched variety of learning centres integrating Music, Art and Gym 2, 3 and 5 morning programs and 3 afternoon programs for children 2 1/2 to 5 Kindergarten Program for 4 year olds

REGISTER NOW for 2013/2014 School Year

www.ncf.ca/stmartinsns For information call (613) 722-7500

12 MARCH 2013 | w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a

ost of us understand that animals leave “footprints” behind them as they move about. Whether an animal has cloven (split) hooves (such as white-tailed deer), single hooves (such as horses), or paws (such as coyotes, domestic cats and dogs, or a squirrel), all critters leave tracks.

And in winter, tracking in freshly fallen snow is fun.

Deciphering who has passed by, however, can be confusing.

Was that a red fox, coyote or a domestic dog? Or, was it a cat?

Differences can be baffling!

Let’s think of pet dogs and cats. If you have one, next time your pet is outside with you and the kids, take a close look at their tracks.

First, can you spy claw marks in the print? Because canines cannot retract their claws, you can see the pointed marks of claws in prints of any member of the dog family. As well, canine paw prints tend to be diamond-shaped.

In marked contrast, cats’ claws are sheathed (tucked inside the foot pad) until they need to use them for defense or to kill their prey. Felines are notoriously silent hunters because of this – and so, if you see a round-shaped paw print in the snow without claw marks, it’s probably a cat.

Right away, we now have two rules of thumb for canine (dog family) and feline (cat family) prints. When we bundle up our kids and take them into one of our many Ottawa-Gatineau area parks, we can watch for domestic dog prints. But we also have two other canine family members in the area: red fox, and coyote. Of the latter two, fox prints are smaller than coyotes but, pending the dog breed, may be smaller or larger than dog prints.

Wild vs. domestic canines How can we differentiate between a domestic and wild canine track? Dogs have a “sloppier” track. They zig-zag about, whereas a fox is more purposeful, leaving prints in a straighter line.

Why? Because domestic pets are well fed and not dependent upon hunting prey for survival. They can afford to waste their energy by playing in the snow or weaving about. In total contrast, wild animals must be precise in their movements to conserve energy and also be discrete and secretive while hunting their prey – and not becoming prey themselves.

Foxes, coyotes and many wild animals, such as weasels, leave direct-registered tracks, meaning that at some gaits (usually walking; possibly trotting) the back paw is directly placed (that is, directly “registered”) over the front paw print. The resulting track looks linear and purposeful, not meandering like a pet dog.

Sign Sign refers to all the other clues that show an animal has passed by, such as scat (droppings) and browse (twigs that have been nibbled by a deer, for example) or food detritus left on the snow

(parts of an acorn or fruit that has been eaten).

Scat of carnivores often has hair in it because of their prey.

Herbivores such as the snowshoe hare (a large member of the rabbit family) have small, oval droppings in which we don’t see any fur. Tip: Never touch scat because it can contain harmful bacteria.

In winter, there’s another fascinating layer, quite literally, to “sign.”

That’s the sub-nivean (underneath-snow) world. Ever seen a red squirrel sticking its head up out of the snow? It has created a subnivean tunnel. Squirrels, mice, voles all create and use tunnels to dash about beneath the snow, to access plant roots, tree trunks, and move about more safely… However, “safety” is relative because oh-sostreamlined, tubular-shaped weasels use these underground networks

Matthew Taylor, Sarah Cosgrove, Henry (4) and Simon (3) look for signs of wildlife along NCC trails PHOTOS : JUSTIN VAN LEEUWEN

to hunt their prey. So yes, the sub-nivean world is very useful for predators, too.

What kinds of animals live here?

Animal tracks we can look for in and near Ottawa include: red, black and gray squirrels; snowshoe hares; red fox (and even in the city, coyotes); white-tailed deer; long-tailed weasels and ermine; porcupine; mice and voles. Gatineau Park, Jack Pine Forest, and urban parks such as the Arboretum, are great places to look.

Don’t forget bird tracks too. If you have a bird feeder, look for tiny tracks of chickadees, redpolls, and juncos and mid-sized birds like cardinals and blue jays. Along the woodland trails, also look for the typical three-toed bird tracks of ruffed grouse – and the much larger yet similar tracks of wild turkey. And, if you are fortunate, you may find wing prints of an owl or hawk, where it has swept down to scoop up a meal of mouse, vole, or bird.

Go to capitalparent.ca for a list of local trails to visit and other useful resources.

PARENT EDUCATION top 5 books

best

Children’s Services staff at the Ottawa Public Library love children’s books. They have read the classics - oldies and goodies - and keep up with the latest too. They read all they can and keep track of what’s new and hot by reading book reviews and best books lists from Canada and beyond. This month, Elizabeth Thornley, Coordinator of Children and Teen Services, shares some of her favourites.

Baby Food to Table Food Wondering how much food your older baby needs?

Discuss feeding challenges and recipe ideas. For parents of babies aged 10-18 months at the time of the workshop.

Tue Feb 19, 1:00- 3:00 pm Katimavik Preschool Resource Centre 180 Katimavik Road (entrance on McGibbon) Contact: Katimavik Preschool Resource Centre 613-591-6030 Good Discipline, Better Behaviour What to do when children’s unacceptable behaviour causes a problem for parents? This workshop suggests several steps to try before using heavy measures. Tired of repeating yourself and not being obeyed? Come learn new techniques to add to your repertoire.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED* Wed Feb 20, 6:30-8:30 pm Vanier Community Service Centre 270 Marier Avenue (first floor) *Childcare available on request Info: www.cscvanier.com/en/family Contact: 613-744-2892 x1432

Happy, by Mies van Hout (Ages 3-7) What a great title for a book and the lovely fish on the cover radiates happiness. Inside, adjectives like curious, furious, proud and afraid are paired with fish drawn in bright pastel scribbles that express each emotion.

A great way to explore the language of feelings with young children - “How do you think that fish is feeling?” “What makes you feel nervous?” Conversation started!

Sleep: Making It Work For You An honest discussion on the many facets of sleep in the first year. We will explore sleep patterns of different cultures as well as what is taught in North America. Come and discover what will work for you.

Thu Feb 21, 1:30 pm Katimavik Preschool Resource Centre 180 Katimavik Road (entrance on McGibbon) Contact: 613-591-6030

Mud Puddle, by Robert Munsch (Ages 4-8) This early Robert Munsch title – one of his best – about an “over the top” mud puddle, is given new life with Dušan Petričić’s lively illustrations. Munsch’s timing is perfect, reminding me why his books are Canadian classics.

Are You Listening? – The Heart of Effective Discipline In this workshop, you’ll learn to recognize the habits that block good communication. You’ll also learn some practical strategies that will help you listen more effectively and avoid misunderstandings and conflict.

It’s easier to get children to listen and obey when they feel that you have heard what they have to say.

Mon Feb 25, 12:45-2:15 pm Carlington Community Health Centre 900 Merivale Rd. Contact: Parent Chat Info/Registration Line 613-722-4000 ex.423

The Super-Duper Dog Park, by Aron Nels Steinke (Balloon Toons series) (Ages 6-9) Want to keep that new reader reading?

This book and others in the series will do the trick. Simple, humorous text in conversational speech bubbles, graphic novel format and awesome artwork will keep them laughing and reading.

Extreme Earth Records, by Seymour Simon (Ages 7-12) With more than 250 science books for kids to his credit, Seymour Simon is one of the best if not the best writer of this genre. Here, his vivid explorations of world extremes like “the most remote place on earth” and “the deepest place on earth” will make middle grade adventurers feel like they have almost been there in person.

Wonder, by R.J. Palacio (Ages 9-13) Severe facial deformities and multiple operations have meant that Auggie Pullman has always been homeschooled – until now - as he starts fifth grade. This is a serious and sensitive book about bullying and difference and how those differences affect not just Auggie but those around him. A great book club pick for older kids.

Community Events

PHOTOS : RHÉAL DOUCETTE, OTTAWA PUBLIC LIBRARY.

Baby Signs Workshop Learn about the research behind the Baby Signs Program and the many benefits of using sign language with your baby: reduced frustration, stronger parent/ infant bond, and a boost in self-confidence. This workshop is designed for parents of children from birth to 24 months and will teach you all you need to know to begin using the Baby Signs Program at home.

Wed Feb 27, 9-10:30 am St-Laurent Academy 641 Sladen Avenue Info: www.babysignsprogram.com/withkristina Contact: Kristina Schmitt 613-410-7207 Picky Eaters Either you have a picky eater or you know of one. How do you ensure the picky eater is getting nutrition as well as variety in their diet? Join our workshop, and get some great ideas – recipes to improve both nutrition and variety of the picky eater’s diet. Receive handouts

of recipes and menus and learn how to disguise even the leafiest vegetable. For adult participants only.

Please arrive 10 minutes before starting time.

Wed Feb 27, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

City View Centre for Child and Family Services, 1099 Longfields Drive, Home Child Care entrance.

Contact: 613-825-5990 Choosing Quality Child Care This workshop is designed to help parents/guardians who are searching for childcare in the city of Ottawa.

Child Care Information will offer an overview of the different childcare options available. We will also provide tools to assist parents/guardians in making an informed decision and also how to register your child on the centralized waiting list.Registration required.

Wed Feb 27, 1:30 - 3:00 pm OEYC Ottawa South 2330 Don Reid Drive Info: www.afchildcare.on.ca Contact: 613-737-6369 1-2-3 Magic This program provides easy to follow steps for disciplining children age 2-12 years. With 1-2-3 Magic you will learn: How to get your kids to stop doing what you don’t want them to do (arguing, whining, tantrums, sibling rivalry; how to encourage your kids to start doing what you want them to do (tidy up their toys and rooms, going to bed, homework); how to avoid the “Talk-persuade-argue-yell syndrome”; how to handle misbehaviours in public.

Thu Feb 28, 6:30-9:00 pm Centrepointe Early Childhood Resource Centre 75 Hemmingwood Way Info: www.centrepointechildcareservices.com Contact: Lisa 613-225-4819 Setting Consequences Children learn self-discipline when they have to experience the consequences of their actions. But what consequences should be imposed and when? This workshop will discuss at what age to start using this way of teaching self-discipline and will help you set and maintain reasonable consequences. Consequences don’t need to be severe to work, just inevitable.

Tue March 5, 7:00- 9:00 pm Katimavik Preschool Resource Centre 180 Katimavik Road (entrance on McGibbon) Contact: 613-591-6030 Parent Camp During this guided discussion and family learning series, parents learn that parenting comes with more questions than answers, and we will try to address some of those questions! In this series, we will look into many of the hot topics of the preschool years. The topic for discussion on March 6 is “Food and Your Family.”

Wed March 6, 7-9:00 pm Soloway Jewish Community Centre 21 Nadlony Sachs Contact: Tara Cogan 613-798-9818 x 294

Compiled by The Parent Resource Centre | For more great resources visit capitalparent.ca w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a | MARCH 2013 13

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We’d like to see your best family photos!

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Corinna, Tony, with Noah (13), Jonah (10), and Ben (5)

love to downhill ski, play hockey on their local outdoor rink, and skate on the canal... as long as there are Beavertails involved! They also hike and lake swim in the Gatineaus with their dog, Lucy, and enjoy visiting the museums, especially the Museum of Nature.

Never let success get to your head, “never let failure get to your heart. ”

In our unique and inspiring learning environment, Elmwood girls continually outperform academically, especially in math and science. Each student receives a well-rounded education that prepares her for success at university and in her future career, all the while developing strong character, confidence and a lifelong love of learning. Surrounded by excellent teachers and supportive peers, each girl is encouraged to challenge herself, find her passion and achieve her goals.

Elmwood School is Ottawa’s premier school for girls from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Learn more about how we can inspire your daughter to reach her full potential—call 613-744-7783 to RSVP for our upcoming Open Morning on Wednesday, February 20.

Check party dates, details & availability online!

Dovercourt Recreation Centre

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With weekly themes like For the Love of Art, Bon Appetit and Music and Movement, girls 4 to 14 will experience new challenges and develop friendships at Elmwood’s safe, active and fun March Break camps!

Camps run March 11 – 15 and 18 – 22, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cost is $285 per week and includes lunch, excursions and a cool camp t-shirt.

Call (613) 749-6761 or visit www.elmwood.ca to register. w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a | MARCH 2013 15

Come live an interactive trip around the world at the Children’s Museum, where parents have as much fun as their kids!

100 Laurier Street, Gatineau, QC 819-776-7000 | 1-800-555-5621 | www.civilization.ca