Capital Parent May 2013

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THIS WEEKEND! SATURDAY & SUNDAY

picks

Favourite Ottawa Playgrounds page 19

For tickets: kidsfestottawa.ca/tickets

ABC

’s of Active

Family Play page 8

Bible Boot Camp at The Armor of God Come and join the army.

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

MAY 2013 | FREE | www.capitalparent.ca

May Day!

Pack a picnic and explore our area falls

PHOTO : JUSTIN VAN LEEUWEN

start on page 5

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From The Editor

PHOTO : JASON CODE

I

Andrea Tomkins andrea@capitalparent.ca

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s it just me, or was winter a little bit too long this year? My family got through it well enough but I will confess that I’ve spent the last month (possibly more) seriously pining for sun. I truly believe that in order to enjoy winter you have to get out there and take part in it: whether it’s skating, sledding, or skiing. We’re fans of cross-country skiing and had the good fortune of discovering a few new trails this year. For a while we were heading out every weekend, which was fabulous while it lasted, but now I’ve had about all I can take of toques and soggy mitts. I’m aching for Spring, and I know many Ottawa parents are too.

This time of year can be utterly unpredictable. We can find ourselves in a heat wave or a blizzard or a downpour and everything in between. We hope for sun, and when it comes, look out! Ottawans go wild and shed layers faster than you can say “pass the sunscreen.” Suddenly restaurants start setting up their outdoor patios, parkas are exchanged for sundresses and shorts, and the streets and bike paths fill up with runners, cyclists, and dog walkers. Never mind that there’s pasty skin as far as the eye can see (I include my own pastiness in here of course) but when the warm weather hits the excitement is palpable and contagious.

This month’s issue of Capital Parent is themed around getting outside and enjoying the Spring sunshine – regardless of whether it’s five degrees or 25 degrees out there! Local writer and naturalist Katharine Fletcher introduces (or maybe re-introduces!) the splendor and majesty of seven area waterfalls, all places that are worth exploring.

If there’s one thing that kids enjoy, it’s an adventure.

So why not make an event out of it and bring a special meal to share? Writer Paula Roy knows food – and she knows where to get the good stuff.

In this issue she recommends eight great places to

grab lunches to go. This is fast food, but not in the way you might think, and we hope it inspires you to try something new! Capital Parent is also pleased to introduce local foodie Kelly Brisson. Many of you may already know Kelly from her blog: The Gouda Life. I’ve been a big fan of hers for a long time, and I’m thrilled that she’ll be sharing some of her best recipes with us.

And speaking of recommendations, we want to hear about your favourite summertime activities and Ottawa-area destinations. Get a sneak peek at the questions on page 19 and fill out a quick survey at capitalparent.ca. Every completed survey that’s attached to an email address will be in the running for one of five family day passes to the Canadian Museum of Nature. We will be publishing your top picks in our big summer issue. I’m very excited about it. It will be the kind of feature you will definitely want to keep around for future reference, if only to help nip summertime boredom in the bud.

We hope you’ll consider it a useful guide to having a great summer. I know I will!

@capitalparent you guys find the absolutely coolest #craftideas ever!!

- @sarahmc_photo

Send us a tweet @capitalparent

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

EDITOR Andrea Tomkins 613-238-1818 ext. 279 andrea@capitalparent.ca CONTRIBUTORS Kelly Brisson • Emina Campbell Katharine Fletcher • Lynn Jatania Justin Van Leeuwen • Paula Roy Ottawa Public Library

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

On the cover: The Tuffo picnic blanket pictured on the front cover and on page 5 is from Tag Along Toys. It’s perfect to bring to a picnic, measuring 54” x 84”, water resistant, totally washable, and comes with a handy carry bag. At $39.99 it comes in a variety of colours.

@capitalparent

Sweet Tweets

PUBLISHER Mark Sutcliffe mark@greatriver.ca

CAPITALPARENT is published by

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Mark Sutcliffe PRESIDENT Michael Curran CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Donna Neil V.P. SALES Terry Tyo 613-238-1818 ext. 268 terry@greatriver.ca

Letter to the Editor I really enjoyed the April issue of Capital Parent.

This free little newspaper “For Smart, Savvy Moms & Dads” has a fresh new look that I love. I really enjoyed the theme of the April issue of dining out with your kids. It was chock-full of humour and information that was fun, relevant, & useful.

I can’t wait to see what you have up your sleeve for the next issue. I hope it will include more easy, healthy recipes, book recommendations, and things to do around Ottawa. How about a page dedicated to tweens/teens? Or maybe a request for kids to submit their own stories, poems, & artwork to showcase on a page or two?

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!

Thanks, and keep up the good work!

Joy Mills.

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YOUR ACTIVE FAMILY

Lucky Seven: Our Capital Waterfalls SPRING’S MELTWATERS BRING DRAMA TO LOCAL WATERFALLS: EXPLORE ALL SEVEN!

BY KATHARINE FLETCHER

M

ay is the best time to discover our National Capital Region’s pretty waterfalls because winter’s melted ice and snow provide extra volumes of runoff to transform falls into dramatic cascades. Moreover, the first two weeks of May are usually blackfly- and mosquito-free – always a good thing!

So grab the kids, make sure they’re dressed in comfy clothes and shoes that can tolerate some mud or water, pack a picnic – and head to the hills! Here’s an idea, why not make it your mission to visit all seven?

OTTAWA CITY WATERFALLS

New Edinburgh: Rideau Falls In French, “rideau” means “curtain” – an apt descriptor for Rideau Falls. Here, a set of twin cascades create Green Island – home to city hall.

They also mark the confluence of the Rideau and Ottawa rivers. The main (eastern) waterfall resembles a turbulent drapery drawn from one side of the river’s mouth to the other, a watery curtain descending from the flat bedrock of the Rideau’s riverbed to the Ottawa.

French explorer Samuel de Champlain described the Rideau Falls in his diary – apparently Algonquin peoples hid here from their Iroquois enemies, using the curtain as an effective hiding spot from ambushes.

Today? No worries! A convenient catwalk spanning the river above the falls allows your family to safely observe the rushing water. Note how the colour alters from a tannin-brown to frothy white, as oxygen fills the water while it tumbles over the edge. Tip: You’ll get wet from the spray – but hey, isn’t this a great way to “thrill to the falls”?

Vincent Massey Park: Hog’s Back Falls Further south, the Rideau River’s Hog’s Back Falls presented a huge challenge to Colonel John By, engineer of the Rideau Canal – Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss the interpretive panels that recount how engineers constructed the dam enabling boat traffic to circumvent the jagged spine of rocks giving this chute its name.

Trails wend through the woods, so you’ll find several viewing stations overlooking Hog’s Back. Again, you can get a good birds’ eye view of the falls navigating the rocky chasm,

by walking onto Hog’s Back bridge and looking down. Tip: Picnics on the lawn-like parklands are lovely here. Go early to get a table!

OTTAWA VALLEY WATERFALLS

Pakenham In the heart of Mississippi Mills – a region west of Ottawa, where quaint former mill towns such as Appleton, Almonte and Pakenham dot the Mississippi River – you’ll find a 1901 stonearch bridge. Scottish settlers built it after the design of many in their home country. But here, it’s unique, being the only five-arch masonry bridge in North America.

Beneath its 82-metre span, the Mississippi flows in cascading rivulets which chatter as they tumble over rocks. Not precisely a fall – more rapids – but easily accessed, making a fine country drive. Tip: Old-fashioned Pakenham General Store has yummy ice cream – a treat adding summer appeal to your trip. Consider timing your visit to the Pakenham Fall Fair on August 17!

QUÉBEC WATERFALLS

Gatineau Park: Lusk Falls Find Lusk Falls Picnic Ground immediately north of Highway 148 Ouest, at Luskville’s hôtel de ville (the town hall). The waterfall, created by an ancient upthrust along a fault line, tumbles down the southernmost boundary of Gatineau Park: the Eardley Escarpment. Even toddlers love scrambling about here: clinging to your hand, they’ll want to peer at the frothing falls! Older kids enjoy the good albeit steep hiking trail that sometimes hugs the 290-metre waterfall. It’s refreshing to sit on the rocks beside this chute, to feel the rush of cool breeze created by the falling water.

Tip: bring binoculars if you ascend the escarpment, because you’ll win grand views of the Ottawa River Valley and perhaps spy soaring hawks and vultures.

Gatineau Park: Bridal Veil Falls / Lauriault Trail Sir Winston Churchill visited former Prime Minister Mackenzie King at his estate in Gatineau Park. We can imagine the two statesmen strolling, deep in thought, from the house, descending through the woods to what Mackenzie King dubbed Bridal Veil Falls. These days we, too, can enjoy the reverie created by walking amid

Parents Jeanette Rule and Dennis Van Staalduinen with Archer (3), Elliot (6), and Rachel (8) picnic at Hog’s Back Falls. PHOTOS : JUSTIN VAN LEEUWEN

tall maple trees. A little stone wall makes the perfect perch from which to view the gentle falls.

Tip: These are seasonal falls that can dry up over a long hot summer and are best viewed in the Spring.

Wakefield Village: La Pêche Falls Who doesn’t enjoy Wakefield, that cozy village nestled alongside a bend in the Gatineau River, approximately 20 minutes north of Ottawa? Find Mill Road; follow it, hugging the La Pêche River until you arrive at the Wakefield Mill Inn. Park, then carefully stroll onto the old-fashioned span, to gaze down at these falls that once powered grist and woollen mills. Walk back down Mill Street and, immediately past the mill building, find steps to the back patio overlooking La Pêche Falls.

Here you can find interpretive signs and feel the spray of the falls. Tip: Wakefield Mill is a delicious luncheon destination or, try casual, funky Le Hibou in the Village.

Chutes Coulonge Chutes Park These are the mightiest chutes in the region.

The Coulonge River churns through a narrow

chasm – the beginning of a 762-metre canyon.

With stunning views, excellent (and completely safe) lookouts, this is a trip down history’s lane.

Ottawa lumber baron George Bryson constructed a log chute on the cliff edges, enabling logs to course safely past the waterfall, down to the Ottawa River. Destination, Quebec City!

This park offers a kid’s aerial adventure too, a 100-metre challenge course suspended aloft in the white pines. Older kids – and you perhaps – will also thrill to ziplines and via ferrata, which is a climb along the canyon’s rock face using cables and anchor points to help along the way.

Tip: the visitors’ centre has a video of old-time logging, and you’ll also find a self-guided historical walk explaining how the Coulonge River was used in the heyday of logging.

Katharine Fletcher is author of Historical Walks: The Gatineau Park Story, Capital Rambles: Exploring the National Capital Region, and Capital Walks: Walking Tours of Ottawa.

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HEALTHY LIVING

Pick up and go picnics!

BY PAULA ROY

T

here’s no better way to get your family engaged in an outdoor activity than to include food as part of the adventure. To make it easier, assemble a delicious picnic with minimal effort by gathering a few tempting treats from local purveyors. Just grab a few ice packs and a picnic blanket (lightweight and washable, old bedsheets are ideal) then check out these top take-out spots. A picnic is the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of another outdoor season.

Thyme and Again – This popular takeout food shop offers a lot more than just their famous heatat-home meals – they have loads of packable picnic options, dished up in compostable containers.

Flavourful salads share the spotlight with a recently refreshed sandwich menu that includes loads of temptations showcasing the finest local producers of breads, vegetables and meats. The rotating selection includes such delights as braised beef short ribs, heritage pork and more. There’s always a variety of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices too. Along with local cheeses, fruit salad, squares and cookies, the shop now also bakes cupcakes and cake pops – perfect, portable sweets. Call ahead and pre-order

your picnic choices for super speedy service. 1255 Wellington Street West at Huron.

The Nutty Greek Bake Shop – It’s an ideal spot to fill your picnic basket with a wide range of nibbles. Perhaps it will be tzatziki and pita, olives, spanakopita, or maybe a grilled Greek pita wrapped around your choice of fillings for a unique sandwich? The barley lentil salad is luscious, as are the other Greek-inspired salad choices. Being a bakeshop, the sweets are plentiful, including baklava, mini cheesecakes and mega cupcakes. Don’t forget to pick up a dozen or two of their loukoumades – the most delicious honey-dipped donut holes you’ll ever taste; they come in a variety of scrumptious flavours. 490 Rochester Street at Beech.

Farm Boy – Ottawa’s homegrown Farm Boy chain has created a mini food revolution with loads of fresh fare at fair prices. For a picnic, zoom in on their incredible salad bar featuring over sixty items, including fresh greens, fruit, grains and proteins – why not let each member of your picnic party assemble their own nutritious meal? Be sure to check out the Greek chickpea salad and the quinoa salad with its sublime honey-lemon-garlic dressing.

Add in a baguette and some house-made hummus, or fresh salsa and chips. For a finishing touch, grab a bag of easy-to-eat cinnamon crisps that taste just like Beavertails! 13 locations across the city.

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T&T Supermarket – This large Asian grocery store stocks items from many countries and cultures. Check out their generously-stuffed banh mi – Vietnamese submarine-style sandwiches. Equally delicious are the onigiri – cute little triangles of rice with various kinds of meat or fish, wrapped in nori (seaweed). Sweet treats from T&T include a terrific mango loaf. Add a little more freshness to your feast by cruising through T&T’s extensive produce department and picking up a few exotic fruits like durian, mangosteen or Nansui pears. Just be sure to pack a sharp knife and extra water to wash the fruit before cutting into it. 224 Hunt Club Road near Riverside.

Art-is-in Bakery – Famous for its handmade Dynamite White bread, this fantastic food emporium also boasts an ever-expanding line of houseprepared goodies, including inspired sandwiches crafted on their handmade breads. A real winner is the buttermilk-brined chicken caesar sandwich on jalapeno cheddar bread. There are also loads of decadent sweets, such as exceptional pastries, impossibly delicious gluten-free chocolate cookies and Berliner donuts. New for spring, you can order pre-packed picnic baskets – the perfect option for a busy family! 250 City Centre Avenue, Unit 114 (at Albert Street).

Robz – This hot new take-out spot serves up a

wide range of tasty fare including fresh home-style sandwiches created with slow roasted meats including beef and pulled pork. Particularly pleasing is the Robz Club, featuring smoked turkey breast, sweet chilli aioli, lettuce, tomato, cheese and bacon.

Sides include soups, fries, salads and more. Their generously-portioned family meal pack offers great value too. 1679 Carling Avenue at Cole.

DiRienzo’s – It’s one of the most popular sandwich joints in all of Ottawa, for so many good reasons. This little Italian deli has old-school charm, with prices to match. At just $5 each, their madeto-order, over-stuffed sandwiches are a bargain. If you’re lucky, they’ll also have some of their divine cannoli in stock to make your picnic just that much sweeter. 111 Beech Street in Little Italy.

30 years!

THANK YOU

Ottawa

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for keeping it fun and we look forward to the next 30 years!

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• Regular price merchandise only • Cannot be combined with shoe club card discount or any other offer • Limit one per family

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FAMILY MATTERS

When THIRD TIME’S THE CHARM

BY LYNN JATANIA

T

here’s so much I wish I’d written down when the kids were younger. Not that they’re all toddling off to university or anything – thank heavens, because we’re still working on basic hygiene and complex life skills like eating when hungry – but it’s amazing how much I’ve forgotten in such a short period of time. Those blurry days of early motherhood leave you with nothing but grey hairs and several pairs of yoga pants as mementos, while the truly landmark events fall by the wayside.

I’ve been through motherhood twice already, so for the third one, it seems fair that I shouldn’t have to endure the great unknowns once again.

We should know exactly when the youngest will be ready to wipe her own bum (any day now, princess). We should be able to predict, with some accuracy, when she can be expected to lose graciously at a board game. I should have a countdown clock going to the day when she’s emotionally ready to watch Star Wars. Sadly, though, my mind ditched all these Crossroads of Childhood in favour of tracking the careers of every American Idol winner ever.

I also wish I’d made note of these kinds of

turnings of the tide because, out of nowhere, video game, which would surely come in handy WHAM, it seems they’re big kids. I feel like my when he writes his future memoir entitled, “The ability to properly reminisce over these starts and Boy Who Played All The Video Games, Ever.” stops will keep them young somehow.

And it was just last year – or was it the year I wish I could remember exactly when they before – that he grew too cool for his Thomas first spontaneously thanked a stranger (Me: the Tank Engine bed sheets (one sheet set for “The queue for Mother Of The Year Accolades sale, slightly discounted due to The Great Flu Of forms to the left.”). Or the first Some Christmas Or Another). time they used a swear word When was it I had my I wish I knew exactly properly in context at the mall last discussion entitled Why when we finally got You Can’t Have Smarties For (Me: “Really, can you believe the courage to remove Breakfast, or Why We Need to some other people’s children?

Sheesh.”) And when was the Our Underwear Every the Baby On Board Change last time I changed a poopy Day? When did we finally put diaper? If I knew that one, sign from the rear car to rest the debate over why I’d throw a bloody ticker tape Dora is wearing shorts, but window, if only to parade on its annual anniverBoots is naked? When did laugh at my young, sary in celebration – you’d all they stop thinking that “and green self and her be invited. beyond” was a number highI wish I knew the date I’d er than infinity, as per Buzz white-knuckled need heard my last screeched PoopLightyear’s declaration? to keep it at least 20 And-Eyeballs joke, if only How could such important to bring hope to mothers of under the speed limit. turning points have slipped young boys everywhere. I wish from my memory?

I knew exactly when we finally got the courage to The other day, my younger sister asked me remove the Baby On Board sign from the rear car when we stopped sleeping with a baby moniwindow, if only to laugh at my young, green self tor, and I … just wasn’t sure. This, after it and her white-knuckled need to keep it at least seemed like such an enormous, hand-wring20 under the speed limit. ing decision at the time. I remember being I wish I’d noted the day my son played his first shocked, SHOCKED, at my sister-in-law when

she couldn’t quite remember how old her sons were when they finally stopped using a high chair. LANDMARK EVENTS, people. And now, the shoe is on the other foot – or more likely, squarely in my mouth. Much the same way I always think I won’t possibly forget the contents and storage dates of tin foil packages I stuff in the freezer, I thought I’d “just remember” all these defining moments, too.

Maybe it’s time to stop looking back, and let it go. After all, there’s still so many firsts and lasts to come. The first time they scratch up the car, and park it on the far side of the garage so you don’t notice. The last time I’ll yell at someone to put his or her backpack away (next week, fingers crossed?). The first time something comes out of their mouths that sounds exactly, perfectly, just like something you would say.

Good times, good times. I’ll be there for them all – pen in hand.

Lessons Learned: 1. Write stuff down, because This Is Your Brain On Parenthood.

2. The date you last played The Wiggles CD in the car should be a Family Holiday.

3. Every day of parenting is a day of landmark moments – some good, some bad, some ugly, but all sweet family souvenirs.

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

ACTIVE LIVING

The ABC’s of Active Play

BY EMINA CAMPBELL, PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE, OTTAWA PUBLIC HEALTH

A

s parents, we sometimes struggle to manage our busy schedules filled with work, errands and family needs. After a long day at work, we often find ourselves making grocery store trips and taking kids to soccer practice or play dates. This can lead to a lot of time spent sitting and driving our cars and little time being active. When we do get some time to ourselves we often spend it in front of the TV or computer, unwinding. It is no wonder then that nearly 50% of Ottawa adults spend 15 hours or more per week in front of screens outside of work or school.

But while we are watching television our children are watching us! As parents we need to be role models who set good examples.

Many of today’s children have traded in their running shoes and active play adventures for video games and television remotes, just like us. Three out of five Ottawa students exceeded current Canadian Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines, with daily screen times of more than two hours each day. We need to get our children moving more, and weekly soccer or hockey practice isn’t going to cut it.

Just like learning how to read, children have to learn to move their bodies so that they can take part in and enjoy physical activity. These fundamental movements, like running, jump-

ing, skipping, throwing and kicking are called physical literacy skills and usually develop from birth to 8 years old. So, how can we help our children learn these skills? The best way is through fun family activities that encourage active and structured play!

Active play is free and unlimited. Let children be creative and encourage them to take the lead! Some ways to increase fun family activities and active play include: • Exploring different environments! Indoors and out, play on the ground, in the air, in water and on ice; • Getting down on the floor with your kids, introduce different toys and let them lead the games they want to play; • Visiting playgrounds or parks and letting your imagination run wild. Pretend to be in a jungle or at the zoo and act out different animals; • Throwing on a fun upbeat CD and dancing to the music; • Using toys like skipping ropes and hula hoops in new ways. Hula hoops become lily pads and skipping rope can be used for tug-of-war!

When it comes to structured play, it’s the parents’ turn! It is our chance to make sure children practice the fundamental movement

skills they need to become healthy, active adults. Encourage children to: Play sports that encourage various skills like running, kicking, jumping, throwing and catching. Think soccer, baseball, Frisbee and dance!

• Practice the above skills using both feet and hands at different speeds and distances; • Use toys and equipment of different sizes and weights when playing games or sports • Organize a neighbourhood game of baseball with your kids to help them practice their skills.

There are many simple things we can do to influence the physical literacy skills and physical activity levels of our children. Studies have shown that active parents raise active children.

Start by reducing the amount of time the family spends in front of screens and replace that time with active family time. You will model healthy behaviours and provide quality family time while helping children develop the skills they need to be active for life.

It is never too late to increase family physical activity and encourage the development of physical literacy skills. It can be as simple as going to the park to run, jump, play catch and have fun. It really can be as easy as ABC!

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

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

w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / C a p i t a l P a r e n t

@capitalparent #kidsfestOTT

For more information on physical literacy, visit Canadian Sport for Life or Active for Life or contact Ottawa Public Health’s Information Line at healthsante@ottawa.ca or 613-580-6744

PHOTO : ANDREA TOMKINS

editor ’s

Our Family Calendar faves International Astronomy Day

April 20 Curious about the wonders of the heavens?

The universe is yours to discover, and there’s no better time to do it than on International Astronomy Day! The Canada Science and Technology Museum has some great stuff planned for Ottawa families. There are daytime activities planned for the wee ones, and the lucky kids with later bedtimes can check out a free star party and enjoy views of the moon, Saturn, and Mars through a variety of telescopes, including Canada’s largest refracting telescope.

Cross your fingers for clear skies, because this outdoor activity is weather permitting! For more information go to: www.sciencetech.technomuses.ca/english/ whatson/2013-international-astronomy-day.cfm

Earth Day

April 22 Earth Day is one of the largest environmental events celebrated around the world, and it’s a great opportunity to do something Earthfriendly as a family. Nearly every school child in Canada takes part in an Earth Day activity too. Check out the Earth Day Canada website for daily challenges, community discussion, and great ideas for family activities. Think global, act

local! Past local initiatives have included park cleanups, garden brigades, and bicycle parades.

For more information see: www.earthday.ca

National We Day

April 29 We Day is about youth coming together to create global change. It’s both a celebration and a movement that inspires, educates, and changes lives. It promises to be a jam-packed event that is sure to energize and galvanize young people.

Free The Children’s co-founder Craig Kielburger, along with Canadian pop-rock band Neverest (and many other special guests!) will be in attendance. If you can’t be there in person it’s worth noting that the event will be live-streamed on the website and accessible to anyone with an Internet connection. For more information go to www.weday.com.

Tinted Portraits at the Canadian Museum of Civilization

Until April 30 Famous Canadian personalities are the centre of attention in a new portrait exhibition called Double Take, but the focus here is the creation of hand-tinted portraits. You can bring black-andwhite photographs to life by using your fingers as well as your imaginations!

Hand-coloured photographs were popular in the mid-to-late 19th century before the invention of colour plates and film, but this pictureperfect activity is getting an update with the use of iPads instead of vintage cameras. Go to www.civilization.ca/category/calendar for days and times.

Right to Learn, Power to Achieve Speaker Series and Resource Fair

May 4 This informative and educational event is presented by the The Learning Disabilities Association of Ottawa-Carleton and is open to parents, professionals, and students who are living with or supporting children or adults with learning disabilities or ADHD. The keynote speaker is David Boulton, creator of Children of the Code: The Code and the Challenge of Learning to Read it. For more information go to: ldaocspeakerseries.eventbrite.ca

Mother’s Day

May 12 What do you do to make this day special for mom? Do you make her breakfast in bed?

A stroll around Dow’s Lake to see the tulips

followed by a special brunch? We bet she’d love to come home to a sparkling clean house.

Mark your calendars and make your plans soon!

CENTimental Journey

Until July 8 Bid a CENTimental farewell to 104 years of Canadian pennydom at the Currency Museum of the Bank of Canada. This exhibit showcases important moments in the history of the one cent coin and also features the last penny ever minted, struck by the Honourable Jim Flaherty, Minister of Finance on 4 May 2012. Admission is always free, so there’s no need to raid your penny collection! For more information go to: www.currencymuseum.ca

We want to hear from you!

Do you know of an event that Capital Parents would like to hear about? Submit your information to: editor@capitalparent.ca

w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a | MAY 2013 17

KITCHEN INSPIRATION

The Gouda Life BULGUR & CHICKPEA SALAD WITH CRANBERRIES, TOASTED ALMONDS + CUMIN-LIME VINAIGRETTE

BY KELLY BRISSON

B

ulgur is one of those power-horse grains. It’s a quick-cooking form of whole wheat that has been cleaned, parboiled, dried, and ground into particles. It’s got a long shelf life, and is teeming with nutritional benefits: high in fibre and good carbs, rich in B vitamins, iron, phosphorous and manganese. Pair that with the well-known nutritional profiles of cranberries, almonds, and chickpeas and you’ve got yourself a little bowl of perfection.

Salad 2 cups water 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1 cup Bulgur Wheat (I’m a bulgurbacker, but you can substitute quinoa, brown rice or potted barley if you’re not.)

1 cup chickpeas, drained 1/2 cup dried unsweetened cranberries 1/4 cup almond slivers, toasted 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds 2 scallions, sliced thin crosswise

18 MAY 2013 | w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a |

Vinaigrette 1/3 cup fresh lime juice 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1 garlic clove, minced 1/2 cup good quality olive oil pinch salt and fresh ground pepper

1

Bring the 2 cups of water and salt to a boil and add the bulgur. Turn down to a simmer, cover and let cook for 12-15 minutes until water is absorbed and bulgur is soft but still has a bite to it.

2 3

Toss all the salad ingredients in a big bowl until combined.

In a small bowl, add the vinaigrette ingredients and whisk until smooth. Pour half of the dressing over salad and stir to coat the salad in dressing. Taste and add more dressing as needed.

4

I enjoyed it warm but it’s best after it sits in the fridge for an hour or two.

w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / C a p i t a l P a r e n t

PHOTO : KELLY BRISSON

Kelly Brisson is a food writer and photographer in Ottawa. She’s passionate about local fare, bright flavours, whole food recipes, and has a special fondness for cheese and a great glass

@capitalparent #kidsfestOTT

of wine. Check out her mouthwatering website thegoudalife.ca for fresh seasonal recipes and thoughtful musings about the food we eat.

PARENT TO PARENT

Your favourite Ottawa playgrounds

I

t’s easy to get stuck in a playground rut, so if you have an extra hour or two, why not grab the family, pack a few snacks, hop in the car, and explore some new digs? We asked Capital Parents on Twitter and Facebook about their favourite destinations and here’s what some of them had to say: Maranda Carvell: “In the heat of summer I really like Claudette Cain. It’s on the water and there are lots of mature trees, and it’s usually a few degrees cooler there. There’s lots of room for kids to run around, play ball or frisbee, etc. plus structures. Nice place to go with a mix of big and small.

Dawn Xavier-Franklin: “Definitely Brewer Park! I think it has the best combination of dry and wet activities during the summer, proximity to a great open field and, on Sundays during the summer, there’s a lot to see when the farmer’s market is open!”

Patti Taggart: “Centrepointe Park is great; they have a great tire swing, big long slide, swings and a fabulous water park attached to it too. Mikes Convenience store is right across from the park and we often head there for a freezie or an ice cream after playing.”

Trudy Moore: “Claudette Cain in Riverside

South. Play structure, soccer field and a splash pad. Across the street you can stop by Cake it Up for some Slushies, ice cream, or Dippin’ Dots.

There is also a convenience store for popsicles, freezies, etc. There is ample space to let your kids blow off some steam!”

Julie Harrison: “I love the park right behind the Parkdale Market! The play structures are different from most parks I’ve been to, so it really grabs the kids’ interest and allows for a nice day trip to the market at the same time.”

Judy Lincoln: “Brewer Park because it is a fully accessible playground, so important and so often overlooked.”

Vivian Cheng: “Millennium Park in Orleans.

Huuuge play structure that’s modeled after the Parliament building.”

Tanya Arcand: “Claudette Cain is our favourite.

The splash pad is great for younger children.”

Catherine Duncan: “Britannia Beach. Park, water, trails, bike paths, perfect for picnics.” @Jazzy6178: “Centrepointe Park. Great mix of play structures, shade trees, water park and washrooms/change rooms.”

Capital Parent Summer Survey Summer is coming! Are you ready?

What’s your favourite beach in Ottawa?

Where is your favourite place for a picnic?

Where can Ottawa families find the best ice cream & gelato?

Tell us about your favourite summer destinations & you can win one of five family passes to the Canadian Museum of Nature! It’s easy.

1 Go to capitalparent.ca.

2 Click on the orange Summer Survey button at the top of the page.

3 Answer 12 fill-in-the-blank questions about

your favourite things to do in Ottawa.

4 Leave your email address if you’d like to win.

That’s it!

Voting closes at noon on May 27, & the winners in each category will be published in the summer issue of Capital Parent.

w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a | MAY 2013 19

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top 5 books

best

T

he sun is back and the grass is green! Isn’t it time to get outdoors? These books, chosen by Ann-Marie Miller from the Ruth E. Dickinson branch of the Ottawa Public Library, will definitely inspire young outdoor adventurers in your family!

My Side of the Mountain by Jean Craighead George (Ages 9-12) The classic “back to nature” survival story is about a young boy who runs away from his home in New York City and goes off to live on his own in the Catskill Mountains. It’s an inspiring introduction to the author of Julie of the Wolves.

The Legend of Skull Cliff

by Kristiana Gregory (Ages 8-12)

Two brothers, a fearless cousin, a lake, a forbidden rowboat, a mysterious island and a kidnapper afoot means that summer at the cabin will be anything but boring. This the first adventure story in this series of easy reading mysteries.

Hoot by Carl Hiassen (Ages 9-12) A group of local children discover that a developer has plans for the very plot of land where they have found an endangered owl species nesting.

They stop at nothing to stop the developers. More environmental adventures by this author include Flush, Chomp and Scat.

Running Wild

by Michael Morpurgo (Ages 9-12) Will is excited by his first elephant ride until the elephant is spooked and stampedes off into the surrounding jungle. Will has to depend upon the elephant for survival until, in befriending a chimp, the two are led back out of the bush. Morpugo is the author of War Horse too.

Navigating Early by Clare Vanderpool (Age 9-12) Young Early Auden reads the number pi like a story, and believes the Great Appalachian Bear still lives and thinks his brother, The Fish, really did return from the war. In this Newbury Award winner, Early and a buddy venture upriver from their Maine boarding school to find some proof.

Spring Concert

2u0dit1io3ns

A

7 Y, APRIL 2 SATURDA & on 9am-12no MAY 25 , Y A D R U SAT on 9am-12no ity Centre n u m m o McNabb C tr S eet 160 Percy

“Stars, Moons, & Magic!”

WEDNESDAY | MAY 22 | 7PM

Dominion-Chalmers United Church | 355 Cooper Street To arrange for an audition or purchase concert tickets, contact Anna at info@ottawachildrenschoir.ca or 613-233-4440

w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a | MAY 2013 21

FAMILY FUN Parents Melissa and Allen, Graycee (2) & baby Molly live in Rockland and they love the small

Check party dates, details & availability online!

Dovercourt Recreation Centre

613.798.8950

www.dovercourt.org

town feel there. Mom and dad are slowly adjusting to busy family life with two beautiful girls and enjoy spending as much quality time together as they can.

One of their favourite things to do is to go for long walks with the girls. They like to enjoy family time together at their local café.

PHOTO : LIM ELITE PHOTO GRAPHY

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

It’s free!

capitalparent.ca/email-update/

We’d like to see your best family photos! Submit your favourites and you might see one or two in a future issue. For more details go to capitalparent.ca

family snaps

C W D G B N H J C

A S Z M I W C X H

R T N B N O N D I

D A O O W R I R C

I R R V F R F A K

N L E W E A D L A

St. Martin‛s Nursery School Established 1964

2120 Prince Charles Road

1 Block North of Carlingwood Shopping Centre

• •

 ECE or Equivalent teachers  Stimulating spacious educational

•

 Enriched variety of learning centres

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 2, 3 & 5 morning programs & 3 afternoon

•

 Kindergarten Program for 4 year olds

A I H T U P L L D

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M G B W N Y G M E

Open House April May 2nd an 25th, d May 25th 9:30 am to 10:30a m.

REGISTER NOW for 2013/2014 School Year

environment

integrating Music, Art & Gym

programs for children 2 1/2 to 5

For information call (613) 722-7500 stmartinsns@rogers.com • www.ncf.ca/stmartinsns 22 MAY 2013 | w w w . c a p i t a l p a r e n t . c a |

w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / C a p i t a l P a r e n t

@capitalparent #kidsfestOTT

The hardest “ challenge is to be yourself

in a world where everyone is trying to make you be somebody else.

”

- e. e. cummings

SPARROW

CHICKADEE

ROBIN

STARLING

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April 13-14 | 9am - 5pm Ernst & Young Centre 4899 UPLANDS DR, OTTAWA

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Dora&Diego

Meet Dora & Diego at Kid sfest!

Meet & Greet / Photo Op portunity

ainment Main Stage EnteonrtTreehouse as seen • Splash & Boots mer Ta et • Tim the Pupp iles • Little Ray’s Rept performances ol Id d Ki • Capital

PM 5:4:12 1:13

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