resources for pregnancy & parenting
island
priceless
Cover Photography: Mary Jane Howland Photography
Fall 2009
Mom-Made on Vancouver Island
A HEalthy Home For Baby Packing Your Kids a litterless
Lunch
Miscarriage: the forgotten Grief
Fall 2009
Volume 4
Issue 17
...brought to you by a proud mommy of an Island Child...
________________________________________________
EDITOR & SALES Lisa Reda DESIGN & LAYOUT Lisa Reda PROOF & EDITING Sasha Rerrie RESEARCH & REVIEWS Michael Lehay COVER MODEL Taylor ~ 17 months COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Mary Jane Howland www.maryjanescamera.ca GRAPHICS Lindsey-Lea Mercer Identity Graphic Services 250-732-5505 Michael Lahay Gecko Green Living Ltd. 250-537-1151 WEBMASTER Alisha Baker Innnersight Multimedia 250-483-6927 www.innersight.ca
CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Sandra Cottingham Karen Kerk Courtney Louise Kirkhope Michael Lahay Heather Lochner Elizabeth Martin Hayley Picard Sandra Sander Cari Snell Keri Zingle Distribution is from Victoria to Courtenay with a mid-island centre. Island Child Publication T: 250-597-3552 E: islandchildmag@shaw.ca www.islandchildmag.com Subscription or Advertising information: email us 4 issues per year for $10 delivered to your door
Table of Contents 3~ 4~ 5~ 6~ 8~ 9~ 10 ~ 13 ~ 14 ~ 15 ~ 16 ~ 17 ~ 18 ~ 21 ~
You Are What You Eat With Mr. Mom Feels the Weight Fall Fun with Crafts Dinner Vibe Fringe Mom Me, Myself & I A Healthy Home for Baby New Business Venture Why Chocolate and Childbearing Don’t Mix More Than A Back Rub Spotlight on Business Miscarriage: The Forgotten Grief Today’s Must Haves Resource Directory
Island Child is published four times per year. Opinions expressed by contributing writers may not necessarily reflect those of the Editor. Copyright 2009 Island Child Magazine
A
a Ell
a Lis
s many of my loyal readers and friends and colleagues know, I have come along on quite a journey with my magazine. I published issue #1 in early 2006 with hopes and dreams of being a work at home Mom while raising my daughter Ella, who celebrated her first birthday just weeks before the first article went into the layout. Now, almost four years later, an amazing milestone ... I walked Ella into her Kindergarten class for the first time. With that, came a whole new world of emotions, hopes and dreams for us as a family. Each day this little girl’s world is being brightened as she brings home with her a plethora of new skills, songs, sayings, and new wonders of what her day has taught her. Ahhh ... Kindergarten. This exerpt below was given to us on the first day of Kindergarten, and I thought it was a perfect eye opener to me as a Mom. ‘When I’m getting all dressed up, setting the table, caring for the babies, don’t get the idea I’m ‘Just Playing’. I may be a mother or father someday. When you see me learning to skip, hop, run, and move my body, please don’t say I’m ‘Just Playing’. For you see I’m learning as I play. I’m learning how my body works. I may be a doctor, nurse, or athlete someday. When you ask me what I’ve done at school today, and I say ‘I Just Played’, please don’t misunderstand me. For you see I’m learning as I play. I’m learning to enjoy and be successful in my work. I’m preparing for tomorrow. Today, I am a child and my work is play.’ exerpt from Just Playing, Anita Wadley
Island Child
Page 3
You Are What You Eat With:
T
hey say there’s no such thing as a free lunch. What about a waste-free lunch?
Many people have come to rely on all of the convenience products that are available, particularly when making lunch to take to work or school. Parents often pack lunch items in single-use plastic bags, aluminum foil, wax paper, or purchase single-serving items that come in their own disposable package. While these products are convenient, the environmental cost is significant. The average student’s lunch generates a total of 30kgs of waste per school year, or an average of 8,500 kgs (18,700lbs) of waste per school per year. A waste-free lunch contains no disposable packaging or food leftovers. All food and drink is packed in reusable containers within a reusable lunch bag or box. Leftover food is resealed and can be consumed (or composted) later.
Michael Lahay
Cloth napkins and stainless steel or bamboo cutlery are reusable and more sustainable than disposable paper or plastic. Choose stainless steel bottles over Tetra Paks, cans, or plastic bottles. The amount of waste created from these items has been well documented. Sure they can be recycled, but the amount of energy, pollution and money saved by investing in sturdy, reusable containers is far more eco-friendly and economical in the long run. And, of course, use a reusable lunch bag, lunch box, or tiffin to put your lunch in. Be aware that some of the insulated school lunch bags that are manufactured overseas can contain PVC, lead, and other nasty stuff, so be sure to check the label or ask the retailer.
It may take a little extra effort to pack a waste-free lunch, but you’ll save money. A typical waste-free lunch will save you around $1.50 a day. That works out to about $270 savings in a school year.
Waste is more than packaging; it includes food waste as well. Encourage your kids to put the leftovers back in the containers so it can be composted at home – it’ll also help let you know if you should pack more or less food.
Packing lunches in reusable glass or stainless steel containers allows you to buy food in bulk, rather than individually wrapped portions. Any packaging stays at home for reuse or recycling. You will also save on all those plastic sandwich baggies, cellophane, etc.
Erin Porter, Salt Spring Centre School’s principal, says, “School lunches are a great opportunity for us as parents to make earth-friendly choices, as well as for our children to see how what they use each day can make a difference… and I love as a teacher to find teachable moments to talk to my students about the benefits of less garbage and energy use.”
Sandwiches can be packed in reusable cotton bags or wraps. These bags have an inner lining free of heavy metals (including lead), phthalates, PBBs, and PBDEs and can simply be wiped clean. Alternately, you can saddle up your sewing machine and make your own reusable bags out of scrap fabric, line them with unbleached cotton, and wash as needed.
CONTEST CENTRAL! Check out Page 18 in our Must Haves! These lovely Mammas have offered up a product each to a lucky Island Child reader! We have a Rhembein camera strap and a Hazelnut Swirl Po Pos Poncho up for grabs! Simply email us your favorite Fall photo of your little one! islandchildmag@shaw.ca
Many schools across the country have started waste-free lunch programs. It is a great way for children to learn where our trash ends up and how we can reduce the amount we generate. Other schools have a ‘boomerang’ lunch program where all uneaten food and waste material is returned home and not added to the school’s waste collection. Finally, Jana Campbell, owner of the Canadian-based online litter-less lunch store Fenigo, says, “Every small change that you make to your lifestyle and daily habits in the name of the environment leaves a lighter footprint on this earth. We don’t have to become hard-core environmentalists to make a difference.” ________________________________________________ Michael Lahay is a Salt Spring Island father of two who will be packing waste-free lunches for his children this school year. Visit Michael and Claire’s shop, Gecko Green Living at 364 Lower Ganges Road, Salt Spring Island.
Island Child
MoonDance
Dynamic Arts School Dance - Celebrate Life! Classes for adults and children West African Dance & Drumming Creative Dance, Modern Dance & more!
(250) 743-5846 www.MoonDanceArts.ca
info@MoonDanceArts.ca
Page 4
Mr. Mom Feels the Weight: Hayley Picard
S
ometimes losing extra weight post-baby can be a challenge for not only the new mother, but daddy too. In a recent study completed in the UK, 25% of fathers-tobe gained an average of 14 pounds during their partners’ pregnancies, yet only 30% joined their partners in activities to lose that weight post-baby. So after baby arrives, physical fitness should be an important goal for both parents, not just a solitary endeavour for mom. Here are a few tools to place in your kit for couple’s fitness therapy.
Brenda L. Newton Director
(250) 384-0229 Vancouver Island, BC brenda@my.tupperware.ca www.my.tupperware.ca/brenda
Baby wearing... A lifestyle! 5 different types of baby carriers for all your needs.
Go for a walk together with baby. It is one of the lowest impact activities for adults and it can be done in almost all weather. There are no gym membership costs or entry fees ... just strap on a pair of runners, grab the stroller, your partner’s hand and hit the road or trail. Core rebuilding at home. This is another free activity which can be done at home and is a chance to bond with baby for both parents. Core strengthening exercises such as “bridges”, “side”, and “front planks” and “cat stretches” are great for the torso, and babies find them fun to watch! On those days that daddy is not able to join in, you have the opportunity to meet other moms at Fit 4 Two® Stroller Fitness, Tummies for Mommies, and Mom and Baby Fitness classes in the Cowichan Valley and Victoria. Visit www.fit4two.ca for classes offered in your area! Emotional support is just as important through couple’s fitness therapy, so be generous with compliments, encouragement, and be inventive with ways to be active together. ________________________________________________ Hayley Picard is the owner of Fit 4 Two – Mid Vancouver Island. She is a certified pre and postnatal fitness instructor, infant massage instructor and mother of two. For information on Fit 4 Two classes visit www.fit4two.ca or email Hayley at hayley@fit4two.ca.
Maman Kangourou inc. 819-772-0990 // 1-888-772-0990 www.mamankangourou.com
Island Child
Page 5
Fall Fun with Crafts: Keri Zingle
Tony Araujo, Artistic Director Patricia Plumley Conductor, Vancouver Island
A
s kids get into new Fall routines and schedules, make sure to set aside time each day or week to do some crafts. It is the perfect afternoon activity on a rainy Fall day, and crafting helps kids develop important skills for the future. Give these Fall-inspired crafts a try: Fall Colours Pine Cone Painting Collect various sizes and shapes of pine cones to use as paint stamps. Pour small amounts of red, yellow and orange tempura paints into dishes or plates that are wide enough to accommodate pine cones when laying on their sides. Dip cones into paints. Stamp the pine cones onto a piece of construction paper – we chose brown to keep with the Fall colours theme. Continue stamping or even rolling pine cones to create some interesting art! Water Bottle Rain Gauge Exactly how much rain do we get in the Fall? Find out with this simple idea! Cut the top off a 750ml water bottle, remove label and wash the bottle. Once dry, hold a ruler up alongside the water bottle to make height markings. Using a permanent marker, make lines at 5mm, 10mm, 15mm and so on. Decorate bottle with stickers and coloured permanent markers. Set your bottle outside to collect and measure the rain fall! Rain Cloud Mobile Cut a rain cloud shape from an old Styrofoam tray or takeout container. Cut three raindrops from the leftover Styrofoam. Cover each raindrop in tinfoil and then spread glue and sprinkle with silver sparkles. Glue a piece of string (10 to 15cm) to each raindrop. Glue other end of strings to cloud shape. Cover cloud shape with cotton balls. Let your project dry and then hang it by punching a hole into the top of the cloud form and looping string through. ________________________________________________
Join the BC Boys Choir! For boys 7–13 years.
BC Boys Choir NOW on Vancouver Island! in Nanaimo, Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. XXX CDCPZTDIPJS PSH t DBMM UPMM GSFF 1.888.909.8282
IslandchildV2:Advert-1 30/08/09 11:11 PM Page 1
Cards by Kids One-of-a-kind Greeting Cards by your favorite artists ... your kids. The perfect christmas card. The perfect school fundraiser. www.cardsbykids.ca info@cardsbykids.ca 604.987.4187
Order Today
Keri Zingle is mother of two and owner of Craft Caravan which sends crafts to kids in the mail. Like our ideas but don’t have the time to prepare? Enroll in the Kids Craft Club for monthly projects at your door! www.craftcaravan.com
Ukee Baby Boutique ukee
baby
we take phone orders and ship internationally
Coming Soon! Mamma Mia’s Coupon Book Your Must Have book for families on a budget!
"Stylin' the West Coast Kid" funky fashions and toys for NB-14
www.ukeebaby.ca
250.726.4242 250 Main Street, Ucluelet
Island Child
Page 6
Dinner Vibe:
Cari Snell
Sign up today for your free weekly e-newsletter featuring great recipes, healthy living & eating articles and connecting home ‘chefs’ through social media
Simple Lamb Chops with Greek Orzo Salad, serves 4 Ingredients - Lamb Chops 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar 2 teaspoons salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 small red onions, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/8 tsp EACH of cinnamon, allspice and garam masala 4 large lamb chops Ingredients - Greek Orzo Salad 1/2 cup orzo pasta (or other small shaped pasta) 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/2 cucumber, diced 1/2 orange or red bell pepper, diced 12 grape tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup black olives, halved 1/4 small red onion, diced For the dressing, in a jar, shake to combine: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 small clove garlic, minced pinch salt few twists black pepper, freshly ground 2 teaspoons oregano leaves, fresh, minced 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Island Child
Dinner Vibe ... Continued from page 6 Directions: For the lamb, mix together the vinegar, salt, pepper, garlic, onion, spices and olive oil in a large resealable bag until the salt has dissolved. Add lamb, toss until coated, and marinate in refrigerator for up to 1 hour. To make the salad, cook the orzo according to the package directions, then drain and set aside. While the orzo is cooking, mix together remaining salad ingredients in a large bowl. Toss with cooled orzo with the dressing and set aside. *Can be made a day ahead of time and refrigerated* Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat (you can also cook under the broiler 5 minutes per side if need be). Remove lamb from the marinade and leave any onions on that stick to the meat. Discard any remaining marinade and put the remaining leftover onions to the side. Wrap the exposed ends of the bones with aluminum foil to keep them from burning. Grill lamb to desired doneness, about 3 minutes per side for medium. Put the onions on a double layer of aluminum foil and grill on BBQ beside lamb, flipping every minute. Or, if using a broiler, saute onions in a pan. Serve onions www.dinnervibe.ca and salad with the lamb. Yum!
Blankets • Christmas Stockings • Hats • Story Pillows • Superhero Capes and more! Place your Christmas orders today! omagosh@telus.net www.omagoshdesigns.com
250.710.2633
Page 7
you you eat (with) are what
P P P P
reusable bamboo utensil set stainless steel water bottle reusable snack & sandwich bags to-go ware 2-tier food carrier
reuse • rethink • refresh
gecko green living
salt spring island 250.537.1151
Island Child
“
Fringe Mom: Fringe Mom” ... that’s what I am. One of those who is not part of any particular group of mothers at school.
At pick up from my daugher’s elementary school, I happened to overhear a conversation between a few moms. No, I was not part of the actual conversation, but I was brilliantly nonchalant as I stepped closer to eavesdrop. The conversation went like this; Mom #1: “My son is quite a handful, he finds school boring….he is gifted.” Mom #2: “My daughter was assessed but not accepted - she was having a bad day that day [mother lowers her voice slightly and leans in] which is actually good because her dance teacher has told us that she is exceptional.” Mom #3: “I don’t know how these assessments really work, my preschooler was potty trained and could write his name by two, is there a gifted preschool program here?” I slunk away ... clearly not part of this group of women with such spectacular children. I got to thinking about my own kids. I would describe them as regular kids, you know like the ones we all knew growing up - solid C+ ers who really only go to school so they can play at recess.
Page 8
Sandra Sander Nice kids that occasionally are mean to their friends, who throw away or trade the healthy stuff out of their lunch, who do not always do their homework and yes, who even lie.
Sully
Then I had a thought ... what if my children are average? Don’t get me wrong - I think my children are amazing. Every day they do and say things that teach me how to be a better person. That stolen conversation gave me a glimpse into my children’s world. Where I send them out every day to be measured in some way. The spectrum of the measurement scale is Gifted……………..Special Needs. The in-between is a vortex of mediocrity where there is no measurement. Is every single child not gifted in some way? Even if it is gifted at soothing hurt feelings on the playground. Does every child not have some special need? Maybe needs extra encouragement than usual to master riding a bike? Then I had a crazy thought ... what if this measurement thing was really about rating ourselves? Clearly if I have a gifted child who potty trained at two, is a star dancer and loves school, especially math - I must be a great Mom, right? At least better than the mother chasing her three year old still in diapers. What if we all relaxed and agreed that as women we are all in this motherhood thing together? That we are sometimes brilliant and sometimes fumbling. Let’s measure how much fun we are having being regular people raising sometimes brilliant, sometimes exasperating, but always magnificent children. _______________________________ Sandra Sander is a mother and advocate for women & children.
Island Child
Page 9
Me, Myself & I:
S
Heather Lochner
itting at my hairdresser’s I noticed the yogurt hand prints covering my jeans. Irritation quickly melted into embarrassment as I became acutely aware of my shirt. It screamed maternity wear, yet I was a year post-baby. But the clothes were only the tip of the iceberg. My hair mimicked a Dilbert cartoon character, my eyebrows resembled a Neanderthal and my iPod blared tunes from the 90s.
Get Tech ~ The Phone ~ Smartphones and Bluetooth headsets are two gadgets that make your life easier. Attach a Bluetooth to your ear and suddenly there’s no more frantic digging for your chirping phone while you have a toddler in your arm. Just a quick tap of the headset and you’re talking.
And then ... the realization came crashing down on me. After tending to nursings and nightmares, mad dashes to preschool and frenzied lunch makings, I finally woke up. It was time to take care of me. The more I spoke about my epiphany, the more I realized that I was not alone.
~ GPS ~ Maps are so passé. The GPS is where it’s at. Need directions? Just type in your destination. It will even tell you when to turn – with plenty of warning time! Is your child screaming for the bathroom in the backseat? Your GPS can even help you find the nearest reststop.
Here are a few mom-to-mom tips to help you on your road to redemption: Get Hip ~ Style ~ A few key items can go a long way. According to Vancouver stylist Nicole Sjostedt, “Keep it simple and stick to basics that suit your body type. A great pair of jeans, a simple white shirt, a beautiful scarf and a pair of ballet flats are all you really need.” ~ Make-up ~ Is your eyeliner older than your pre-schooler? Has your lipstick been used as an emergency crayon? A little bit of make-up can make a world of difference. A tinted moisturizer with SPF can minimize dark circles under the eyes and lip gloss adds colour to a tired face.
Get Out ~ Date Night ~ Life with kids makes spontaneous evenings out a thing of the past, but your relationship needs nourishing. A short walk, a nice dinner out, or a quiet cup of tea; these will all help keep the romance alive. ~ Mom’s Night Out ~ Heading out with friends is an important ritual. Able to talk uninterrupted, laugh and joke about life, we can discuss parenting issues, marital woes, or family highs. It is special time to reconnect with others. Moms remember, we are important - to our kids, our partners, and to ourselves. _________________________________________________ Heather Lochner is a freelance writer and a part-time stay at home mother. Together with her two children, husband and dog, Heather lives on her sailboat and loves cruising the coastal waters of British Columbia.
Island Child
Page 10
A Healthy Home for Baby: Karen Kerk Courtney
A
s parents, we instinctively want the best for our children. We want to protect them, nurture them and provide them with a healthy, supportive environment in which to grow. Despite our best efforts, the growing health hazards related to the natural environment around us, and the potential negative impacts, is a true concern.
Changes in your life? We have news for you... New Bride? New Business? New to the Neighborhood? New Baby? Grandparent? Retired - or thinking of it?
Important...relevant...interesting... useful information relating to your changing life, along with gifts and some very special offers for you from local sponsors. Businesses: Call Welcome Wagon to see how you can be a sponsor to promote your products and services.
2220
ME 7AGON TO
WELCOME WAGON SINCE 1930
call for a FREE visit! (866) 518-7287
LTD.
PRWKHULQJ WRXFK
Did you know that infants and children are more vulnerable to these health hazards than adults? Pound for pound, children breathe more air and consume more food, water and skin care products than adults. Given their close proximity to the floor, infants and toddlers are exposed to dust and other chemicals which settle on the floor. Most importantly, with developing immune systems, infants and children are less capable than adults of eliminating these toxins from their bodies. Studies report that indoor air pollution can be 2 to 100 times worse than outdoor air pollution! Considering that stay-athome parents, infants and young children spend up to 90% of their time indoors at home, we need to find ways to reduce their exposure to toxic chemicals - especially at home. A good rule of thumb for your household should be to try and stick with “natural� products wherever possible. More natural products for your home include real wood, glass and natural fibers (such as organic cotton) - they are not processed or finished in the same ways that synthetic products like plastics, particle board and polyester fibers are. Same goes with cleaning products - natural is better and less is more. If you are looking for specific tips on how to reduce your children’s exposure to chemicals in your home, here are a few of my top choices:
XLI TPEGI JSV RI[ I\TIGXERX TEVIRXW
ULGH LW SXOO LW
Natural y Mo ments Natur ome alMoments Photography nts Photograph Photography Natural Berle Zwaan
Berle Zwaan
SDFN LW
0) 8818-5708 18-5708 (25(250) bzbzphoto@shaw.ca photo@shaw.ca
Portraits, Landscapes,
OXJJDJH IRU OLWWOH SHRSOH
[[[ 1SXLIVMRK8SYGL GE *SVX 7XVIIX :MGXSVME
Portraits, Landscapes, Special Occasions captured in a session designed just for you www.naturalmomentsphotography.ca
Island Child
In the Nursery/Bedroom • Invest in organic cotton bedding and an organic mattress; they are not sprayed with flame retardants which are highly toxic to babies and children • Consider organic cotton sleepwear; children’s sleepwear can also be sprayed with flame retardants, or wash new sleepwear several times before wearing Home Décor & Renovations • Look for solid wood or steel furniture, hardwood flooring with a non-toxic finish, “Green Carpets”, or washable, natural fiber floor mats • Use low VOC (volatile organic paint) paint • Complete all renovations months before the baby arrives to allow for sufficient “off gassing” of paints, flooring, etc. (windows open, air exchanger on, air purifier)
Page 11
n
ancy
bellies 250-748-8006
George
PHOTOGRAPHY
births babes w w w. n g d e s i g n s . c a
Food • Breast is best but if you use a bottle, invest in tempered glass bottles with silicone nipples as glass can be properly sterilized, while heating plastic may make it disintegrate into the bottle contents • Once your baby is on solid food, try to invest in local, organic produce and grains/cereals wherever possible • Wash produce in a fruit and veggie wash, or diluted vinegar soak to help remove residues Personal Care • Less is more when it comes to infant skin care • Use a pure castile soap, only when needed, and only where necessary, bottoms, hands, etc. • Avoid baby shampoos - the scalp is a very absorbent part of the body and most shampoos, no matter how gentle they claim to be, are filled with strong detergents and scents; a castile soap will achieve the same results, if needed • Do not use baby powder of any kind (even cornstarch) as it can irritate developing lungs • Consider cloth diapers! Disposable diapers are filled with fragrances, dyes, carcinogens and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which have significant health risks associated with their long-term, repeated use Get started on finding natural alternatives that suit your family today! sources: www.bareorganics.ca, www.lesstoxicguide.ca _________________________________________________ Karen Kerk-Courtney is the Chief Organic Mama at Bare Organics Inc., a Canadian company that manufactures organic skin care products and organic cotton baby care accessories.
Have You Seen the World Through Your Child’s Eyes? It’s never too soon for your child’s first thorough eye examination. South Cowichan Eyecare
Dr. Trevor
Miranda* Dr. Anita
Voisin* Dr. Carla
Clarke Optometrists * Denotes optometric corporation
56 - 1400 Cowichan Bay Rd. (Valleyview Centre) Cobble Hill
743-8899
Chemainus Family Eyecare 105 - 9844 Croft Street Chemainus 246-3405
www.myeyecare.ca
Island Child
Page 12
www.momodesignhouse.com Durable linen baby slings, silky bamboo bedding & sleepwear, & organic cotton onesies!
Free shipping when you mention this Ad!
+ !& % % $ !# ) ) # ! & % # ( ! $& #$ #! * % &$% )$ ( ' !% # % "#!' % ( % ) " &$ % "#! & %$ # ! % %! )! )!& % $ $! # % %! !( % ) # %&# ( % ! # & $ " # $ % , ##
#!$$ #! % ! # ((( #! ) !& % $! "' %!# ! $"!% !
Island Child
Page 13
New Business Venture: john close
s a father of three and pet owner of two, Cowichan Valley resident John Close understands the desire parents have to keep their loved ones safe and secure. He also understands the desire of parents to have a lush lawn they can be proud of. Lush Eco Lawns is a new business offering weekly gasfree lawn mowing, monthly home brewed compost tea applications, seasonal organic soil treatment programs, and a daily promise that no matter what is applied to the lawn, kids and pets will always have a safe place to play. Lush is one of a kind. Never before has a lawn care business in the Valley made the safety of kids and pets its primary goal. The demand for environmentally friendly alternatives continues its rapid growth in BC. Our world is moving in the direction of ‘eco friendly’ and this business will be ahead of the curve. The reality is, GREEN is no longer just a buzz word but a paradigm shift. Having served families with kids for over a decade as a pastor, John is confident he is in touch with the needs and concerns of today’s families. John can be reached at Lush Eco Lawns at 250-597-0408, or by email to lushecolawns@shaw.ca.
s -ATERNITY s .URSING 7EAR s 3HOWER 'IFTS s "ABY 'EAR
34!4)/. 342%%4 $5.#!.
Usana
W
tara blackstock
ith a two-year-old son at home and being five months pregnant with her second child, Duncan Mom Tara Blackstock starting really thinking about her career and family finances, come the day when she would have to return to work and drop her children off at daycare. Was working four days a week in a stressful job really worth paying over $1,000 a month in childcare costs? Children grow up so fast and this Mom wanted to be with her children, to raise them, play with them and teach them. After chatting with an old friend who was earning weekly cheques from sharing high quality nutritional products with others, the thought of working from home while staying healthy with toxin-free personal care products and low glycemic foods fit perfectly with her beliefs. Most importantly, having more time with her children really excited her. Tara was eager to share these products with others, so she took the plunge and started her own business. Since becoming an Independent USANA representative, Tara has learned how poor nutrition, degenerative diseases, and toxins have adverse effects on our health. With new found knowledge on the importance of cellular nutrition, Tara wanted to share this with others. Her children both take high quality nutritional supplements and she believes as a result of this, the duration of their illnesses have been drastically reduced because of their strong immune systems. Tara is proud to represent such high quality products that have received a 5-star rating and the Gold Medal of Achievement from NutriSearch Comparative Guide to Nutritional Supplements.
erin wallis photography
Lush Eco Lawns A
If you would like to make the career move you have always dreamed about and work from home, Tara is looking for motivated, open-minded, team players who are interested in earning while caring for their children as well are improving their families’ health. ______________________________ Tara Blackstock is an Independent Usana Associate and can be reached at 250-709-9086 or by email to gtblack@telus.net. Visit www.tarablackstock.usana.com for information on this great product line.
Island Child
Page 14
Why Chocolate and Childbearing Don’t Mix: Dr. Sandra Cottingham
C
hocolate is one of the world’s favorite foods. Dark chocolate is even associated with health benefits from reducing LDL cholesterol to improving our mood. So then we should eat chocolate and enjoy good health, right? Not exactly. There is something else we keep finding in chocolate ... LEAD. The fact is, benefits or not, the likelihood is high that the chocolate you eat contains lead. Expectant mothers cannot afford the risk when it only takes the amount of lead equivalent to three tiny granules of table sugar to permanently damage the developing brain of an unborn baby. Lead has been found in a wide range of chocolate products including dark chocolate, milk chocolate, syrup, toppings, fudge puddings, and chocolate drinks. The American Environmental Safety Institute found one chocolate bunny that contained so much lead that it caused a 61% rise in a child’s blood lead level. And as with other products, “organic” does not mean lead-free. I recently watched a young woman in a department store, enjoying portions of expensive dark chocolate like it was lunch. She was pregnant. And as she feasted happily, I was reminded that we are a generation who think lead vanished from the planet when they stopped selling leaded gas and banned lead paint. I cringed as I imagined the lead moving through the mother’s blood stream, and traveling directly to her unborn child’s developing brain. I debated as to whether to try and get between a pregnant woman and her chocolate ... I opted instead for committing myself to do what I could to heighten awareness - not just about lead in chocolate, but how little lead it takes to do a lifetime of damage, and what specifically happens to children exposed to even seemingly insignificant amounts of lead. First, how can there be lead in chocolate? We know that the cocoa plant does not uptake lead from contaminated soil and that cocoa nibs are not showing contamination.
Research to date points to the process that turns beans to cocoa powder as the lead entry point. Some chocolate companies go out of their way to screen their cocoa for lead, but many do not. When we talk about the harm that lead causes, many do not realize how much is known. Lead is a proven cause of learning disabilities, ADHD, low IQ, mental retardation and behavior disorders. Lead’s synergistic interaction with mercury results in what we know as autism. Allergies, asthma, and a long list of autoimmune diseases emerge in lead exposed babies as they grow up, while increased incident of miscarriage and infertility will effect them as adults, just as lead is effecting this generation of parents. Pregnant women especially should avoid chocolate unless it is known with certainty that it is free of lead. Parents should strictly keep chocolate away from children under the age of two, since they are yet able to develop the blood-brain barrier that is needed for basic protection. While this is not to suggest that every morsel of chocolate that melts in your mouth will be lead-laden, compared to other foods, chocolate tends to contain higher amounts of lead. And dark chocolate faired worse in testing than its milk chocolate counterpart. For those of you who simply cannot live without it, contact the maker of your favorite brand and have them verify that their chocolate is lead-free. For information on lead, lead sources, and how to minimize your family’s lead exposure, visit www.enoughlead.com. _________________________________________________ Dr. Cottingham is the co-author of LEAD BABIES, a new book about what each of us can do to break the cycle of learning disabilities, declining IQ, ADHD, behavior problems, and autism.
JOIN
www.vancouverislandsymphony.com
★ Meet the Musicians ★ Attend rehearsals ★ Volunteer A FREE community outreach program sponsored by the Vancouver Island Symphony, in Nanaimo.
Island Child
Page 15
More than a Back Rub:
M
ost of us have had some experience in our lives when touch reduced pain in our body; whether it was a parent rubbing our bruised knee or a professional Massage Therapist treating the cause of chronic pain. What drew me to my career in massage therapy 10 years ago, was seeing the incredible difference and positive effect that touch had on a laboring woman. Prenatal massage is a wonderful tool to have when the discomforts of pregnancy arise, as well as to prepare the body for the birth. Relaxation massage can be a great way to alleviate stress, calm emotions and balance hormones. Yet if pregnancy creates new health challenges and painful problems, a more skilled practitioner may be needed to assess and treat the conditions. An RMT that has taken the medicalmodeled training within the last 10 years in BC, can safely and effectively manage underlying causes. Misaligned pelvic bones, scoliosis, pseudosciatica, and vertebral subluxations are quite common in the 56% of pregnant women that report back pain. The manual skills taught within all provincial Massage Therapy programs treat and prevent pregnancy discomforts.
Elizabeth Martin
These include pelvic and spinal realignment, joint mobilizations and myofascial release, among many other specific modalities. As well as the immediate benefits massage therapy provides to the mother, the treatments during pregnancy will have a therapeutic benefit for her labor and birth. Practiced breathing patterns, a faster relaxation response to touch, and the mindfulness to focus through intense sensations will all be accessible tools to a mother who has received pregnancy massage therapy. The effects of having a Doula present to touch, massage, and reassure the mother has been shown to provide the following outcomes: 50% decrease in cesarean sections, 25% decrease in labor length, 40% decrease in pitocin use, 30% decrease in narcotic pain medication, 40% decrease in forceps use, and a huge 60% decrease in epidural use. The long-term benefits of doulas at birth include a decrease in maternal fever and NICU admissions, improved breastfeeding, and less postpartum depression. The changes that occur during the natural process of pregnancy and birth are both emotional and physiological and affect every organ system. Regular appointments with an RMT during pregnancy can pleasantly and effectively eliminate the stress and discomfort many women experience and prepare the mother for an easier delivery. Having an RMT or Doula present as part of the labor support team will facilitate a gentler birth for both baby and mother. Massage therapy helps us through many health challenges in life, and is especially supportive of the entire family during pregnancy, birth and beyond. Massage therapy is an easily accessible medicine we can delight in taking! _________________________________________________ Elizabeth Martin is a BC Registered Massage Therapist, Doula, Prenatal Yoga Teacher, Labor and Infant Massage Instructor, and Chartered Herbalist living in Errington, BC. She provides services and herbal products to families in the Oceanside area. For information or support please call Amethyst Healing at 250-248-5547.
mamma mia’s coupon book
Coming to Vancouver Island stores soon! www.mammamiascouponbook.com
Island Child
Page 16
Spotlight on Business Easy Daysies - Elaine Comeau
V
ancouver Mom Elaine Comeau has created a product for children called Easy Daysies™ – a Magnetic Daily Schedule for Kids! Elaine’s creation made its debut in September 2008. As a classroom teacher, Elaine has always had a visual daily schedule up in front of her classroom showing the children the shape of the day. No matter what age her students were, they would go over the daily schedule together as a class each morning and they loved it! The Easy Daysies Restickables The students really liked knowing what was going to happen that day; it made reusable, cloth stickers that go on dressers, etc them feel safe, confident and in control of their day, which resulted in having happy, comfortable and organized students and classroom. Elaine realized that if the visual schedules worked so well in the classroom, then they would be a hit at home. When she was pregnant with her third, she knew she just had to try making schedules to help parents help their kids have easier days. She drew every single illustration on the Easy Daysies magnets to make sure that they were simple enough for even her two year old to understand. The goal of Easy Daysies is to help kids have easier days. Elaine started making visual magnetic schedules for parents to help children at home with specific chores, such as Bed Time Routines, Morning Routines, Get Ready for Soccer, and Washroom Routines. Just by looking at the pictures/words on the fridge, children are able to tell what they are doing each day. Kids love it, parents love it! No more “Mommy, what are we going to do now?” asked every five minutes. Instead, Elaine finds her children often have their shoes on raring to go out to the next activity they see pictured on her fridge! Easy Daysies™ is proudly made in Canada. Elaine even packages each and every kit on her kitchen table! You will find her ever expanding line of Magnetic Schedules sold in almost twenty stores in BC and Ontario and her business continues to grow even into the USA. She has just recently created some amazing new products called Easy Daysies ReStickables – “Helping kids put clothes where they belong!” and Easy Daysies Fold-&-Go’s! For a full look at Elaine’s product line and to order this amazing product for your family’s fridge, visit www.easydaysies.com. For more information on products, wholesaling, or fundraising please contact Elaine at info@easydaysies.com.
Big Fat Hen - Lee Capon & Emily Gidden
M
om and daughter, Lee and Emily, joined forces in business to create Big Fat Hen, an online store featuring blankets, quilts, minis, and bibs. Big Fat Hen was based on a need in the marketplace for infant bedding that was neither completely Disney-ed out or that did not cost a fortune. With no luck in finding what they were looking for, Emily and her Mom decided to design a blanket themselves. The hard work and research they put into their creations, coupled with the positive feedback from their test market, convinced these Moms to try their hand at business. They started with quilts but then realized there was a need for modern blankets that were soft but filled for warmth. Big Fat Hen’s designs appeal to modern parents who are looking for baby products that combine functionality and durability with a fresh design and look. Their products come in a variety of contemporary printed designer fabrics with the softest material, creating a look that is fresh, fun, and functional. This Fall, Lee and Emily will be adding a line of sleep sacks made from organically grown bamboo. The fabulous designs on the sleep sacks have been created by a Canadian artist and animator, Peg Serena. All products manufactured and distributed by Big Fat Hen fit their philosophy of being either locally crafted, or manufactured in a socially responsible manner. Visit www.bigfathen.ca to take advantage of free shipping on all orders over $50.
Coming to Vancouver Island stores soon! Limited space left if you want to advertise your business. Call 250.597.3552 to reserve. www.mammamiascouponbook.com
mamma mia’s coupon book ...
Island Child
M
Page 17
Miscarriage - the forgotten grief:
iscarriage is not just the death of a fetus; it is also the loss of many hopes and dreams for the future. Anyone who has experienced a miscarriage knows what a devastating blow it can be. No matter how far along into a pregnancy, its subsequent loss can cause a tremendous amount of emotional anguish. Miscarriage is defined as the loss of a pregnancy during the first 20 weeks gestation. After that, a pregnancy loss is generally referred to as a “stillbirth.” There is a 20% chance of miscarriage in any known pregnancy; this does not include those cases of loss before a woman realizes she is pregnant. The most common cause of miscarriage is due to a chromosomal abnormality of the fetus. Other causes may include age, hormonal, and anatomical factors. Men and women both mourn the loss of a pregnancy, but often experience it in different ways. A woman may start forming a bond with the baby from the moment she determines that she is pregnant. A man’s bonding may not occur until he sees the ultrasound picture or feels the baby kick. Men often try to be strong for their partner, and may suffer in silence, particularly if they have not been socialized to ‘share their feelings.’
Louise Kirkhope
To cope they may throw themselves into their work, and therefore may appear less affected by a miscarriage. Interestingly, society does not always recognize or honor the emotional pain of miscarriage, nor offer rituals for mourning. Well-meaning comments from others may include, “you can always try again;” “it was meant to be - something was not right.” For people who have not had the personal experience of miscarriage it is all too often misunderstood. It seems fitting then that it be deemed the ‘forgotten grief.’ After a miscarriage it is important to give oneself permission to express the grief. Reach out to those closest to you and ask for what you need. Nurture yourself by taking a mindful walk, reading a good book. Reconnect with your partner. Some may choose rituals to commemorate their loss by writing a letter to the baby, holding a private ceremony, and/or planting a tree to honor their loss. Seek out the support and guidance of a counselor. It is not necessary to face a miscarriage alone.
Nancy McDougall, RN CPT
Feeling sad after a miscarriage is normal. Women may feel ‘raw’ until their due date. Over time feelings of sadness will lessen and be replaced by a greater sense of joy. The best way to heal is to feel the pain of the loss and in time, learn to cope with it. There is no ‘time frame’ in which grieving must be completed. Take the time needed to heal – you are worth it! _________________________________________________
supporting children and their families to reach their potential by addressing issues of separation, divorce, low self-esteem, self management, grief, Autism
Louise Kirkhope is a clinical counselor in private practice in Nanaimo. She specializes in the areas of miscarriage/reproductive loss, infertility, life transitions, relationships and facilitates mind/body fertility programs. Contact Louise at 250-741-4421 or louise@conceivableoptions.com.
250.744.8879
www.conceivableoptions.com
Certified Play Therapist
ID96N >H 6 <DD9 96N ID B6@: HJG: I=:NÉG: I6@:C 86G: D;! CD B6II:G L=6I
EgdiZXi ndjg [Vb^an# 6h` bZ ]dl# 8dgn 7Zio 7jh '*%",'.",*)) Zmi '')* 8Zaa '*%"''-"&--. Xdgn#WZio5hjca^[Z#Xdb lll#hjca^[Z#XV$Xdgn#WZio *-%% IjgcZg GdVY! Hj^iZ '%' CVcV^bd! 78 K.I +?) Hjc A^[Z 6hhjgVcXZ 8dbeVcn d[ 8VcVYV! '%%.#
Island Child
... from making your own lip gloss ...
Page 18
Today’s Must Haves: Po Po’s Ponchos - rain poncho
... to hair cuts and curly up-do’s ...
quite a way ... this was birthday! to spend a
... to manicures and polish ...
CleanChoice eco-friendly cleaning services
Giving you back the luxury of time and a naturally clean home to enjoy it in! Simple maintenance cleaning or Complete deep cleaning, regular and occasional service .....a great gift idea for new moms and busy households
Providing professional, eco-friendly cleaning services for residential and commercial properties in the South Cowichan Valley - free in-home estimates
tracey@cleanchoicecleaners.com or 250-929-8381 insured ~ licensed ~ bonded
Royal Oak Shopping Centre Victoria, BC
W
e are personal fans here of Po Po’s Ponchos, hailing from Vancouver, BC. The original poncho first surfaced in 2007. This year they have come up with the very cool rain poncho - perfect for our West Coast weather! The outer layer is top quality rain-resistant nylon with the super warm fleece lining, and as always, the ponchos are so easy to slip on and off toddlers and preschoolers. These are sure to keep you little ones dry, warm and oh-so-stylish all at the same time! Po Po’s rain ponchos are made in three sizes and fit ages 0-6. Shop online at www.poposponchos.com. Enter coupon code islandchildmag to get $10 off your purchase!
Rhembein - camera straps
M
ost expectant parents will admit, one of the first things they do when they get the big news is snap pictures, be it of the growing belly, or the nursery, or the glowing mamma-tobe. And with the art of photography comes the art of fashion. We introduce (again ... because we love everything this creative mamma makes!), Gyl Pottinger and her newly designed Rhembein camera straps. Easy to attach, funky in design, functional in purpose, and a definite must have for ease of carrying your camera around the house snapping all the ‘firsts’ of your new baby. Shop online at www.etsy.com, ID: rhembein
(250) 479-0803 Comfy basics from Ingrid & Isabel in stock now
Everyday Essentials Collection Belly Leggings • Everywear Pant Everyday Cami • Ruched Tank Bella Band with Lace Bella Band www.BelliesInBloomMaternity.com
Caring Learning Diversity Guidance Fun www.milesofsmileschildcare.com
250.298.7374
Island Child
Page 19
...a sampling of some of the many fantastic new products and services in our marketplace these days...
Girl Gotch - girl’s underwear
D
esigned by a Calgary mom based on her need to find comfortable, simple, feminine underpants for her daughter that covered her whole bum and did not ride up. Modeled from the typical boys gotch, the Girl Gotch come in two styles: The Brief, inspired by the original “tighty whitey”, features a oneinch covered elastic waistband and material binding around the legs, and The Boxer, great for wearing under skirts or for sports. Girl Gotch are available in a box of three in either white or assorted vibrant colours. Your little girl will not only love the underwear, she’ll love the box they come in. Girl Gotch is packaged in a cute box with a magnetic closure and is sure to become a chest for her treasures one day. Check out www.girlgotch.com.
L’il Monkeys - personalized blankets
L
’il Monkeys, founded by Mom Andi Aizer of Port Moody BC, is one of the fastest growing suppliers of hand-made, personalized baby blankets in North America. Andi created her business after the soft waffle fleece baby blankets she made for her twin daughters, distinct with their own names and design, garnered immediate interest and popularity. The line was recently picked by the Plum & Frances Lunch Box Bunch, an exclusive celebrity baby gifting experience for Hollywood’s A-list Moms and Dads. L’il Monkeys offers twin, double and family sized blankets (perfect for cuddling up on the couch on those rainy BC days)!
Clothesline Clothing Casual... Fashionable...Affordable! _________________________________ Ladies • Babies • Kids • Teens • Maternity
WE NOW CARRY LITTLE SOLES www.ClotheslineClothing.ca
Little Soles - 25% OFF the original price Offer Ends October 31, 2009
* high quality * affordable * free from harmful dyes & toxins
Royal Oak Shopping Centre
(250) 479-0800
Create your personalized blanket at www.lilmonkeys.ca.
www.hardcandybaby.ca 12 - 221 Second Ave W, Qualicum Beach 250.752.4769 Vancouver Island’s FUNKIEST Baby & Kids Shop
Island Child
Today’s Must Haves: ...with an abundance of new goodies on the market this month, we bring you an extra column, as we know Christmas shipping time is upon us!
All Things Jill - baby bum powder
T
his natural, talc-free baby powder is soft and silky, made of a blend of natural vegetable starches and fine kaolin clay. It goes on lightly, spreads well, and gives a dry, clean feeling - important for little baby bottoms. Use before bedtime and the light scent of lavender will help relax your little one for sleepy time! Founded by Jill and her husband Tim of Calgary AB, All Things Jill products are in over 80 stores and gift basket companies across Canada. All Things Jill products are available from our friends at Rocky Mountain Soap Company in Mayfair Mall, Victoria.
Stonz Wear - Booties, Mittz, Hatz
W
est Vancouver Mom Lisa Will is Stonz Hatz going beyond booties with the launch of her Stonz Outdoor Apparel. The very stylish, hip and practical outdoor booties are a staple at Stonz Wear and can now be complemented with Stonz Mittz, which feature an “over the arm” design along with 5 layers of warmth for maximum protection and warmth. The toggle system ensures they stay on, just like Stonz booties. Available in sizes newborn to 7 year olds. And with our chilly BC weather, all children need to cover their heads with a Stonz Hat(z), made with quality fleece in two styles - reversible and pointed. Available in sizes up to 5 years. As always, 100% of Stonz Wear products are made in Canada. Great quality, easy to care for, easy to fit and they stay on! Visit www.stonzwear.com to check out the whole line for this Fall & Winter season!
www.islandchildmag.com www.mammamiascouponbook.com
Page 20
Roots and Wings books Seven Hands, Seven Lands
S
even Hands, Seven Lands takes readers on a journey around the world to discover the similarities they share with their global neighbours. Through playful verse, educational text, and creative illustrations, this debut from Roots and Wings Books is sure to set any child on the path to becoming a respectful citizen of the world community. The inspiration for this book really came from a desire to bring ‘culture’ to young kids. It is a collaborative project that really was a labour of love! Illustrated by a Mayne Island, BC resident, children are captivated by the art in this book as it unlike any you will find in traditional childrens books. Available online at www.rootsandwingsbooks.ca.
We have a book to give away to a lucky reader. Simply email us at islandchildmag@shaw.ca and tell us ‘Where in the world your family is from’. Mine is from Italy.
Easy Daysies - Every Day Kit magnetic planners for kids
A
product that truly lives up to its name ... Easy Daysies product line is all about parents and kids having ‘easy days’ and was locally created by a Mom/Teacher right here in BC! The Every Day Kit we tested came with 18 cute, coloured, durable magnets with easy to recognize images and you use them on your fridge (or other magnetic surfaces). Simply line up the magnets in the order of how your day will be layed out; brush teeth, make bed, have breakfast, pack bag, go to school ... that’s our routine and after only a couple of days of using the magnets, my 5-year-old has her routine memorized and takes pride in moving the magnets to the side when she has completed that task. Also available are blank magnets, which I will be ordering, to add such things like Brush Hair! as that is the one task my girl needs gentle reminders to do! Use this kit alone or mix and match it with other kits. This is a great basic starter kit that every home should have. Visit www.EasyDaysies.com to order and be sure and take advantage of a special offer for our readers.
Enter a SPECIAL CODE at the checkout screen, click on “Add Special Instructions to Merchant” and type in “IslandChildBonus” and you will receive a gift of three blank magnets!
Island Child
resource directory Adoption _____________________________________ Sunrise Family Services Society www.SunriseAdoption.com T: 888-984-2488 Creating the joy of family by adopting. Art Therapy _____________________________________ Liz McKnight, Reg Art Therapist T: 250-713-8857 Creative counselling for children and families. Beauty for Kids _____________________________________ Beaners Fun Cuts for Kids Country Club Centre 39A - 3200 North Island Hwy, Nanaimo T: 250-758-2444 Where kids can be kids and Moms can take a load off! Lizzy Lee & Me Shelbourne Plaza 3655 Shelbourne Street, Victoria T: 250-590-5568 www.lizzyleeandme.com
Child Care Daycares, Preschools, Nannies _____________________________________ International Nannies T: 800-820-8308 Free instant access to hundreds of nanny profiles Supreme Nannies Canada T: 250-483-5222 Your one-stop source for nannies and caregivers across Canada. COWICHAN BAY Treetops Daycare T: 250-748-5716 Daycare full and part time, preschool program in the morning, after school care. DUNCAN Arcadian Day Care Centre T: 250-748-3922 Happy, safe and caring environment. Ages 3 to 5. Early Childhood Educators. Kidzco Learning Centre T: 250-746-4027 Stimulating environment that includes each child’s uniqueness. 30 months to 5 years. Kingdom Treasures Christian Preschool T: 250-746-0110
Page 21 Child Care Daycares, Preschools, Nannies _____________________________________ Tree Frog Daycare T: 250-653-4998 SHAWNIGAN LAKE Precious Beginnings Early Childcare Centre T: 250-743-4477 VICTORIA Goldstream Co-op Preschool T: 250-474-3011 E: goldstreampres@shaw.ca www.vicpa.ca/gsps A parent-participation preschool with programs for 3 & 4 year olds. Miles of Smiles T: 250-298-7374 www.milesofsmileschildcare.com **See ad page 18 Nightingale Preschool and Jr Kindergarten T: 250-595-7544 www.nightingalepreschool.com Taking children’s learning forward, balanced approach to play and education. Ross Bay Preschool T: 250-383-7445 E: rossbaypreschool@shaw.ca Chiropractic _____________________________________
Breastfeeding Clinics & Support _____________________________________
Maureen’s Angels T: 250-715-1946 Infant and toddler group care.
DUNCAN Public Health Unit T: 250-709-3050
Sunrise Waldorf School T: 250-743-7253 Parent & Child, Nursery and K to 8.
La Leche League Support T: 250-746-1601, Christy E: christydurnion@hotmail.com
LAKE COWICHAN Kaatza Child Care T: 250-749-6422
NANAIMO La Leche League Support T: 250-754-5853, Bridget
NANAIMO Four Seasons Montessori 4960 Hammond Bay Road Nanaimo, BC V9T 4G8 T: 250-758-8979 Full day and half day programs plus enrichment and French.
Nanaimo FASD Society T: 250-758-6317 E: danielle@nanaimofasdsociety.org Charitable organization providing information sessions and workshops and community events aimed at sharing education and awareness for the prevention of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder in the mid island region.
QUALICUM Little Star Children’s Centre T: 250-752-4554 Earth friendly philosophy with an inspired, academic curriculum.
Nanaimo Unique Kids Organization T: 250-753-1133 Autism and FASD.
Nanaimo Breastfeeding Centre T: 250-755-3388 Individual breastfeeding counselling and support. The Nanaimo Mother and Baby Society T: 250-754-5090 PARKSVILLE Parksville Health Unit T: 250-248-2044 La Leche League T: 250-390-5184, Lesley www.LLLC.ca Kathy Dutton Certified Lactation Consultant T: 250-951-9886 VICTORIA La Leche League Support T: 250-727-4384
Morning Glory Childcare Centre T: 250-752-6777 E: mgs@shawcable.com www.morninggloryschool.ca Warm and caring Waldorf based programs in a lovely rural setting minutes from Qualicum Beach. Oceanside Montessori T: 250-738-0305 Providing your child with a beautiful Montessori environment, both inside and out, so as to generate a curiosity and zest for life! Self-paced learning to build confidence and independence. Ages 3 to 5. SALTSPRING ISLAND Saltspring Daycare and Preschool T: 250-537-2114
Valleyview Family Chiropractic Dr. Vanessa White 11 - 1400 Cowichan Bay Road, Cobble Hill T: 250-743-3775 **See ad page 5 Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder _____________________________________
Foster Parent Support __________________________________ Foster Parent Support Services Society T: 1-888-922-8437, 250-598-1500 www.fosterhope.ca Information for those interested in becoming foster parents. Health and Wellness _____________________________________ USANA Health Sciences T: 250-709-9086 www.tarablackstock.usana.com Exceptional, science-based nutritional and personal-care products. **See ad page2 **See write-up page 13
Home Schooling _____________________________________ Wondertree Homelearners’ Network T: 250-754-1227, Suzanne www.wondertree.org Providing homeschooling registration across BC; supporting self-directed learning. House Cleaning & Maintenance _____________________________________ Clean Choice Cleaners T: 250-929-8381, Tracey Giving you back the luxury of time and a naturally clean home to enjoy it in! **See ad page 18 Lush Eco Lawns T: 250-597-0408, Joh E: lushecolawns@shaw.ca Gas-free lawn mowing, seasonal organic soil treatments, and environmentally friendly lawn maintenance. **See write-up page 13 Midwives _____________________________________ Midwives Association of BC/ College of Midwives will provide a list of midwives in your community T: 604-736-5976 VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Mid-Island Midwifery T: 250-246-4083, Laurie Untereiner Providing holistic care during the childbearing year. Serving communities from Crofton to Nanaimo. Attending births at the Cowican Hospital, Nanaimo Hospital and at home. COWICHAN VALLEY Cowichan Midwifery Group T: 250-709-2040 SALTSPRING ISLAND Community Midwifery Care T: 250-537-2243 Offering experienced care for low-risk local moms. Will consider clients from communities with no Midwives. Music and Dance _____________________________________ Allegra Performing Arts T: 250-709-4048 www.allegradance.com Offering Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Acting, Pilates & Adult Dance Classes **See ads page 10 BC Boys Choir T: 1-888-909-8282 www.bcboyschoir.org For boys aged 7 to 13, in Nanaimo Monday evenings. **See ad page 5 MoonDance Dynamic Arts School T: 250-743-5846 www.MoonDanceArts.ca West African Dance & Drumming, Dance from India, Hip Hop & more! **See ad page 4
Island Child
resource directory Music and Dance _____________________________________
Party Planning _____________________________________
Salsa Babies and Salsa Tots T: 604-461-7827 www.runnersandbootiesfitness.com Dance back into shape with baby as partner! **See ad page 16
A Piece of Cake! Children’s Parties T: 250-715-0286, Nicole www.childrensparties.ca Children’s party planning consultant.
Steps Ahead Dance T: 250-701-0203 www.stepsaheadbc.com Quality dance instruction for children, RAD ballet, ISTD Modern, ISTD Tap **See ad page 11
Photography _____________________________________
Vancouver Island Symphony www.vancouverislandsymphony.com Noteworthy Kids: A free community outreach program sponsored by the Vancouver Island Symphony, Nanaimo. **See ad page 14 Victoria Suzuki Piano School T: 250-385-8355 www.VSPA.ca Montessori-styled music environment for young children. Online Resources _____________________________________ www.westcoastmoms.ca **See ad page 15 www.cowichanvalleykids.com www.dinnervibe.com www.kidsinnanaimo.com www.kidsinvictoria.com www.MyBabyStuff.ca www.savvymom.ca Optometry _____________________________________ South Cowichan Eyecare Chemainus Family Eyecare T: 250-743-8899, 250-246-3405 www.myeyecare.ca **See ad page 11 Salt Spring Eyecare Dr. Andrea N. Varju, Optometrist 158A Fulford-Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Isl T: 250-537-4356 **See ad page 14 Party Planning _____________________________________ 99 in the Shade Balloons & More www3.telus.net/99intheShade over 70 kids party themes, party favours and pinatas, online ordering available A Perfect Party by Cody T: 250-384-6266, Kris www.perfectpartybycody.com/VictoriaBC Party supplies for all occasions delivered to your door. Giggle Box Party Rentals T: 250-882-1865, Kim www.gigglebox.ca Specializing in children’s party theme rentals.
Donna Budd Photography www.DonnaBudd.com T: 250-248-4985, Parksville E: photos@donnabudd.com Newborn, Baby, Family, Headshots. See proofs first...Love what you see. **See ad page 17 Mary Jane Howland Photography www.maryjanescamera.ca Contact: Mary Jane Babies, bellies, family & wedding photography; all photos provided on CD. **Cover Photo Photographer **See ad page 6 Nancy George Photography, NG Designs www.ngdesigns.ca T: 250-748-8006, Nancy E: nancy@ngdesigns.ca Mother and creative portrait Photographer serving southern Vancouver Island. **See ad page 11 Natural Moments Photography www.naturalmomentsphotography.ca T: 250-818-5708, Berle Portraits, landscapes, special occasions captured in a session designed for you! **See ad page 10 Sheri Jackson Photography www.sherijacksonphoto.ca T: 250-740-5904, Sheri Artistic, babies, kids, families, maternity, weddings.
Page 22 Pre and Postnatal Yoga, Massage and Fitness _____________________________________
Retail ~ CONSIGNMENT: Clothing & Accessories _____________________________________
VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Belly Love T: 250-748-6080, Kris Lang Prenatal & Postpartum massage and yoga instruction.
DUNCAN Indigo Childrens Consignment 131 Station Street, Duncan T: 250-709-2042 Toys, clothes, car seats, furniture, maternity **See ad page Back Page
Fit 4 Two Pre and Post Natal Fitness www.fit4two.ca **See article page 4 Mambo Moms: Fitness Fun For Baby & Mom
T: 250-754-7090, Susan www.MamboMoms.com Classes in Nanaimo, DVD for fitness fun at home or a unique baby shower gift. Shop ‘n Stroll T: 877-479-9429 www.runnersandbootiesfitness.com Classes run all summer long Mayfair Mall and Woodgrove Centre **See ad page 6 VICTORIA Jane Podmore Massage Therapy Mosaic Wellness Clinic Suite 314 - 1061 Fort Street, Victoria T: 250-388-0111 ext 2 E: info@janepodmoremassagetherapy.com www.janepodmoremassagetherapy.com Prenatal, postnatal, family health and wellness massage therapy for your growing family. VICTORIA Mothering Touch Prenatal Yoga taught by specialized perinatal yoga teachers. Monday and Thursdays from 5:30-7 Sundays from 2:30-4 Mommy-and-Baby Yoga Thursdays from 1:15-2:15 Mommy and Toddler Yoga Mondays from 10:30-11:30 Prenatal Fitness Wednesdays from 5:30-6:30
Play Therapy _____________________________________
Baby-Bootie Camp - postnatal fintess. Wednesdays from 10:30-11:30
VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Nancy McDougall, RN, CPT T: 250-744-8879, Nancy Supporting children and their families. **See ad page 17
Real Estate _____________________________________
Prenatal Classes _____________________________________ Beautiful Birth Birthing From Within classes and Certified Doula Care T: 250-597-2770, Catherine Quaglia CD(DONA) www.beautifulbirth.ca Pre and Postnatal Yoga, Massage and Fitness _____________________________________ COWICHAN VALLEY T: 250-746-0327, Lilian Bianchi www.namasteyoga.ca Prenatal and Postnatal (moms and babies) yoga classes.
Kinderbeez Children’s Consignment 2755 Beverly Street, Duncan T: 250-748-2345
Sarah Binab, Binab Strasser T: 250-360-1929 E: sarah@binabstrasser.com www.binabstrasser.com Helping families find the perfect neighborhood! **See ad page 8 Reiki _____________________________________ Crystal Clear Reiki T: 250-743-9259, Cathy Simons E: crystalclearreiki@shaw.ca www.crystalclearreiki.com Reiki for everyone, kids love it! Healing & Training, wonderful for Pregnancy and Birthing.
LADYSMITH Indigo Childrens Consignment 436 First Avenue, Ladysmith T: 250-245-2042 Melissa & Doug, Robeez, Bumbo, Padraigs **See ad Back Page LAKE COWICHAN Izzy & Ollie’z Children’s Consignment 104 South Shore Road, Lake Cowichan T: 250-749-3229 VICTORIA Clothesline Clothing Royal Oak Shopping Centre T: 250-479-0800 www.clotheslineclothing.ca Casual, fashionable, affordable! **See ad page 19 Little Treasures Children’s Consignment 1606 Stanley Avenue, Victoria T: 250-590-4228 www.shoplittletreasures.ca Victoria’s newest children’s consignment clothing shop. Offering a great selection of quality brand name kids clothing. Retail ~ MATERNITY: Clothing & Accessories ____________________________________ DUNCAN Pancia Bella Maternity 53 Station Street, Duncan T: 250-748-1143 Maternity/nursing wear and accessories, diaper bags, nursing bras, nursing covers, specialty lotions and much more! **See ad page 13 VICTORIA Bellies in Bloom Maternity 104 - 4489 Viewmont Ave, Victoria T: 250-479-0803 www.belliesinbloommaternity.com Catering to casual, fashionable moms. **See ad page 18 La Mama Maternity 620 Broughton Street, Victoria T: 250-388-3977 www.lamamamaternity.com Maternity wear, nursing wear, diaper bags & more! **See ad page 9 Mothering Touch 975 Fort Street, Victoria T: 250-595-4905 www.MotheringTouch.ca The place for new & expectant parents. **See ad page 10
Island Child
Page 23
resource directory
Retail ~ ONLINE: Products and Services for Mom and Baby _____________________________________
Retail ~ ONLINE: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
Retail ~ ONLINE: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
Happy Nappy Diaper Service www.happynappy.ca Changing the world one bottom at a time!
Apples ‘n’ Oranges www.apples-n-oranges.com Your online shop for childresnwear 0 - 5.
my Kidsquarters www.mykidsquarters.com
Mabel’s Labels www.mabel.ca Labels for the stuff kids lose.
Baby ‘n Me www.babynme.ca Hip unique gear and natural care. Bare Organics www.bareorganics.ca Organic skin care products for mama and baby, new baby and new parent gift baskets. **See ad page 15 Bealoo Kid’s Decor www.bealoo.etsy.com Fun and funky art decor for babies and kids Bermuda Babies Baby Gear www.bermudababies.com Big Fat Hen www.bigfathen.com **See write up page 16 Booties in a Box www.bootiesinabox.com Genuine leather baby booties, 0-2 years. Doodlebaby www.doodlebaby.ca Affordable, handmade baby gifts, custom orders welcome. Dragonfly Distributing www.tiptoeyjoey.com Tip Toey Joey Baby Footwear Eco Bambini Planet www.ecobambiniplanet.com Organic, fair trade products: pregnancy & beyond, gifts, baby carriers. Eco-Chic Baby www.theecochicbaby.com Quality toys, cloth diapers & more! Hip Melon www.hipmelon.com Funky, stylish, exclusive SLINGS. Mama Kangaroo www.mamakangaroo.com Five models of comfortable, ergonomic and four different types of traditional carriers. **See ad page 4 Mega Mood Baby Boutique www.megamood.com Milk Factory www.milkfactory.com Mommy’s Yelling Girl No-Slip Clips www.no-slip-clip.com Accessories for baby boys & girls, big girls and Mommies too! Momo Design House www.momodesignhouse.com Durable linen baby slings, silky bamboo bedding, organic cotton onesies. Free shipping offer. **See ad page 12
My Life Storybooks www.mylifestorybooks.com Personalized children’s storybooks Oma Gosh! Designs www.omagoshdesigns.com Custom products, blankets, superhero capes, storybook pillows and more! **See ad page 7 PerryWinkles Kids www.perrywinkleskids.com Specializing in hand-smocked dresses for girls. Po Po’s Ponchos www.popoponchos.com Jackets your kids WILL wear! **See ad page 19 R Little Babe www.rlittlebabe.com Trendy and funky baby gifts with unique flair! Saltspring Island’s online boutique Sacred Baby Slings www.sacredbaby.com Stylish baby carriers. Snug Bug Clothing www.snugbugclothing.com SOXY www.soxy.ca Fabulous, affordable sox for women and children. **See ad page 6 Tot-To-Go www.tot-to-go.com T: 604-523-9339 E: info@tot-to-go.com Baby slings, nursing covers and essentials. YOU Pillows www.YOUpillows.com A must-have for mom, baby and the whole family! Retail ~ ONLINE: Products and Services for Mom and Baby _____________________________________ AB Corp The Identakey - create custom ID cards, all stored on a USB flash drive www.abcorp.ca Cards by Kids www.cardsbykids.ca One-of-a-kind greeting cards by your favorite artisits ... your KIDS! **See ad page 5 Craft Caravan www.craftcaravan.com New crafts every month, fun mail for kids! **See ad page 9 Easy Daysies www.easydaysies.com Magnetic schedules for kids. **See write-up page 16
Rocky Mountain Soap Company 100% Natural Bath & Body Mayfair Shopping Centre, Victoria **See ad page 12 Tupperware www.my.tupperware.ca/brenda T: 250-384-0229, Brenda E: brenda@my.tupperware.ca **See ad page 4 Retail ~ STORES: Children’s Clothing, Furniture, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________ DUNCAN Indigo Childrens Consignment 131 Station Street, Duncan T: 250-709-2042 Toys, clothes, car seats, furniture, maternity **See ad page Back Page Kinderbeez Children’s Consignment 2755 Beverly Street, Duncan T: 250-748-2345 LADYSMITH Indigo Childrens Consignment 436 First Avenue, Ladysmith T: 250-245-2042 Toys, clothes, car seats, furniture, maternity **See ad page Back Page NANAIMO Kool & Child 208 Wallace Street, Nanaimo T: 250-716-1777 Educational toys for children. Pumpkin Pie Kids Wear www.pumpkinpiekids.com 411A Fitzwilliam Street T: 250-754-3933 Quality items for baby and older; clothes, toys, shoes, layette.
Retail ~ STORES: Children’s Clothing, Furniture, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________ VICTORIA Bellies in Bloom Maternity 104 - 4489 Viewmont Ave, Victoria T: 250-479-0803 www.belliesinbloommaternity.com Catering to casual, fashionable moms. **See ad page 18 Clothesline Clothing Royal Oak Shopping Centre T: 250-479-0800 www.clotheslineclothing.ca Casual, fashionable, affordable! **See ad page 19 Dreamland Kids 3194 Douglas Street, Victoria T: 250-381-5437 Furniture, room decor, toys and more! **See ad page 19 JamTots Baby & More Store 748 Goldstream Avenue, Victoria T: 250-478-1737, 1-888-703-8687 www.jamtots.com Sprouts Kids 202 - 536 Herald Street, Victoria T: 250-388-9525 www.sproutskid.com **See ad page 7 Scrapbooking _____________________________________ Creative Memories Consultant Traditional, Digital Photo Books & Decorative Displays www.mycmsite.com/dawnportman T: 250-591-3672, Dawn Portman E: dawnportman@shaw.ca Offering solutions for everyone’s style of celebrating photos and memories. Sleep Consultants _____________________________________ Cheeky Chops www.cheekychops.ca T: 778-552-0069, Dawnn Whittaker Baby Contentment and Sleep Consultant
QUALICUM BEACH Hard Candy Baby Boutique 12 - 221 Second Ave W, Qualicum Beach T: 250-752-4769 Cool kicks and clothes for kids! **See ad page 19 SALT SPRING ISLAND Gecko Green Living 364 Lower Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Island T: 250-537-1151 Organic and eco-friendly clothes, bottles, bibs, and more! **See ad page 7 UCLUELET Ukee Baby Boutique 250 Main Street, Ucluelet T: 250-726-4242 www.ukeebaby.ca Funky fashions and toys, NB to 14. **See ad page 5
thanks for taking a peek!
TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! FURNITURE • CAR SEATS
TOYS • CLOTHES • BOOKS
At our DUNCAN store we're sure to have everything you'll need to keep your little ones happy!
CRIBS • MATERNITY WEAR
SPORTS WEAR • STROLLERS
Our LADYSMITH location has NEW and gently used brand names, including these and more...
DUNCAN • 709-2042 131 Station St.
LADYSMITH • 245-2042 436 1st Avenue
Keep your children's world green by recycling your gently used toys and furniture with us