resources for pregnancy & parenting
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Cover Photography: Sheri Jackson Photography
Fall 2010
Mom-Made on Vancouver Island
sensitivity The Mockingbird Story
The Unplanned miracle The Mommy Consultant Answers Your Questions Honey, They Drywalled the kids
Fall 2010
Volume 5
Issue 22
...brought to you by a proud mommy of an Island Child...
________________________________________________ EDITOR & SALES Lisa Reda DESIGN & LAYOUT Lisa Reda RESEARCH & REVIEWS Michael Lahay COVER MODELS Owen ~ 8 years COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Sheri Jackson Photography www.sherijacksonphoto.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 Opinions expressed by contributing writers may not necessarily reflect those of the Editor.
CONTRIBUTORS Julie Bernhardt Sarah Burnham Joanne Cerazy John Close Kevin Flescher Minnow Hamilton Alisa Harrison Michael Lahay Kerry McLoughlin Carmen Scott Roxanne Weech 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~ 7~ 8~ 9~ 10 ~ 11 ~ 12 ~ 14 ~ 15 ~ 15 ~ 16 ~ 17 ~ 18 ~ 20 ~
Forming Friendships from Toddler to Teen The Mommy Consultant Long Live the Queen Facebook Status Updates get you in Trouble Space Pirate Lands on Vancouver Island Mr. Sensitivity How Street Smart are your Kids? New Business Venture Lawns Are Worth It Mixing Kids and Fitness Over the River and Through the Woods Spotlight on Business What’s New in Business Lunch Commandments Feed Your Kids for Success Today’s Must Haves Resource Directory
Island Child is published four times per year.
Copyright 2010 Island Child Magazine
I
isa
L Ella &
just wanted to start out by saying a huge thank you to all the dads who picked up the very special summer issue we put out, which was 100% written by men, and dedicated to dads. It was a huge success and we had tons of awesome feedback on how fun it was to read a man’s perspective on parenting. Lots of you asked for some follow-up and here’s what we have for you ... Aleasha said ‘yes’ to Rob and they got engaged as she was reading his article. It was a total surprise to her and Ryelee! They are planning a Mexican wedding in 2011 (or thereabouts, as they have a little bundle of joy on the way). We are so so happy for the newly engaged couple! Secondly yes, Ed is still single. He has met a few more women, and even some who emailed us to get in touch with him! The struggles of dating with kids is still an obstacle but one he will overcome! And lastly, Dr. Nielsen has indeed be inundated with new referrals for vasectomy consultations, as many men did not realize they could have this procedure performed locally in Duncan. You’re welcome Tanya for the extra load of phone calls! Happy Fall everyone, enjoy this issue!
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Forming Friendships from Toddler to Teen: Kerrie McLoughlin
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s parents, we want our kids to make good friends, friends who they have fun with and can confide in. Of course not all kids are social butterflies, so how do you encourage friendships at every stage of the game from toddler to teen? Toddlers and Preschoolers I envy the easy way in which the tiny crowd makes friends. They can plop down next to any random kid at a park, daycare or preschool, start chatting and … BAM! … they are instant pals. Taking your child places and providing chances for him to be around other kids is what it takes for her to make new friends during this special time. Playdates for instance, are a great way for toddlers and preschoolers to try out their social skills. Never underestimate the power of play! By taking turns and sharing through activity and play, children are beginning to build friendships. It is important to help a child learn this through built-in fun and play-oriented activities that promote taking turns, sharing and caring about their new friends. Having children learn these at a young age helps them build a foundation for successful relationships as they mature into adults. It may seem a little early to be thinking ahead to friendships during the teen years, but don’t forget that your child is watching you and how you interact with them and with others (friends, family, your spouse or partner) right now.
Elementary Age Kids If your child attends school, making friends should be easy with so many kids to choose from. Other ways for your child to make friends at this age include: groups like Cub Scouts or Girl Guides; sports (organized through the school or through a parks and recreation department), or clubs where your child can meet kids who share similar interests. If you homeschool, chances are there are many groups in your city where you can attend events and where your child can make friends. When your child reaches elementary school age, you will want to make sure you are still modeling what makes a friend because she’ll learn a lot from you based on how she sees you interact with your spouse, family, co-workers and friends and how you work out disagreements. It is also important to talk about what makes a friend (eg. a friend is someone who doesn’t tease you or try to hurt you; someone who doesn’t talk badly about you behind your back; someone who comes to your birthday parties, listens to you, shares their things, offers to have you over to their house or do things with them, etc). As with the toddler and preschooler period, parents are the ones who model friendships. Ask “what if” questions like, “What if a third kid wants to play with you and your friend?” because you want your child to think about how to treat existing and new friends. Talk to your child about sharing, teasing and playing fair; play board games with them; teach them not to get physical or retaliate. While getting to know your child’s school friends by having them over often is important, it’s also helpful for kids to have friends in their own neighborhood that they can visit easily and spend large amounts of time with. Rachel Elvin, mom of 2, says, “It’s great that my kids have friends who live in our neighborhood. After getting to know the parents, we now just let our sons walk across the street or ride their bike a block up to hang out at their friend’s house.” Tweens and Teens Drama rules during the tween and teen years, and you have the added challenge of helping your child learn how to deal with strong peer pressure along the lines of music, drugs, sex, drinking, how to dress, how to act and more. This season of parenting can make chasing after a marker-wielding toddler seem like a piece of cake.
Continued on Page 19
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The Mommy Consultant: Sarah Burnham
The ultimate interactive guide for kids activities in Victoria and beyond. www.childsplay101.com
Q: We are expecting our second child in a few months, an unplanned miracle. There is going to be a six year gap between our first and second child. We gave away all of our toys and baby items to friends and family after having our first child. Would it be inappropriate to ask for some of the items back? A: A miracle like that is exciting! I am going under the assumption that you gave away the items as you did not expect to be using them again. I don’t see anything wrong with inquiring with those families, however you have to understand that six years is a long time and those families had no expectation of returning anything to you. Some of those items may have been further passed on or disposed of since then. Two other things to consider are expiration dates and the treatment of those items. For example, car seats have an expiration date (usually seven years), for safety reasons. They should not be used passed those dates. If money is the issue and to be safe, my recommendation is to purchase the big items new (like car seats, mattresses and cribs), then look for your closest baby consignment store for any other items you need. Otherwise, enjoy this miracle and take pleasure in baby shopping; a lot has changed in six years. _________________________________________________ Check out The Mommy Consultant’s new website: www.mommyconsultant.ca as we help train you for motherhood. Sarah can be reached at mommyconsultant@shaw.ca. Write in to Sarah with your questions, stories or experiences because the more you know the better choices you can make for your family. Maybe your question will be featured in the next edition of Island Child Magazine. COWICHAN BAY, Gigi & Lulu’s, Whippletree Junction CUMBERLAND, Polka Dot Pants, 2720 Dunsmuir Avenue DUNCAN, Indigo Children Consignment, 131 Station Street Kinderbeez Children’s Consignment, 2755 Beverly Street LADYSMITH, Indigo Children Consignment, 436 First Avenue LAKE COWICHAN, Izzy & Ollie’z Children’s Consignment, 104 South Shore Road NANAIMO, Kit n’ Caboodle Quality Childrens Consignment, 36 - 1925 Bowen Road PARKSVILLE, And Tiger ... Two!, 138 Middleton Avenue VICTORIA, A to Z Kids, 801 Goldstream Avenue Clothesline Clothing, Royal Oak Shopping Centre Little Treasures Children’s Consignment, 1606 Stanley Avenue Sailor Jack Family Consignment, 424 Craigflower Road Abra-Kid-Abra, 2024 Oak Bay Avenue
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Long Live the Queen:
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here definitely aren’t as many pictures of my pregnant tummy this time as there were the first time around. But now the ones I do have for baby number two all have something strangely similar about them. Of course the subject of them is all the same ... my grinning mug and my ever expanding mid-section ... but there is something else, something in the lower corners of all the photos. It’s not exactly a menacing presence, but neither does it give the viewer the warm fuzzies. The ‘presence’ I speak of is my soon to be 3-year-old daughter Ava. She is scowling, frowning, and/or armcrossing in most of the pictures we have taken of my baby bump. There we are on the ferry to Vancouver: scowling face. Here I am on our veranda: arms crossed and scowling face. And here we all are at a family function: full on temper tantrum caught in full-bloom. The second question people ask about my pregnancy after ‘when are you due?’ (September 26th, thank you very much) , is ‘how is Ava going to take it?’ To this I answer you all: not well! And time I tell her that I can no longer pick her up or lean down to tie her shoes I am met with the cold reality of what is to become of my fate once our new baby is brought into the world. We tried to address the problem at the beginning of my pregnancy by including Ava in conversations and decisions regarding the baby: “What kind of wash cloth do you think baby would like?” But that always led to demands from her about what kind of baby gear SHE would like instead.
The situation got even uglier when we decided to find out the sex of the baby. Apparently Ava did not want a baby brother (not much I can do about that sweetheart, sorry.) If she was going to have anyone playing with her toys, sleeping in her old crib, and eating from her old dishes, the very least I could have done was produce a baby sister for her to play with. Well, I guess I just can’t win. From here on in, my partner and I have decided to leave the baby talk for times when we are alone. With Ava, as is best with most 3-year-old conversations, we focus on the present, with occasional forays into the past via Ava’s baby scrapbooks and stories we have about her as a baby. I guess only time will tell ... wish me luck! ________________________________________________
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Don’t Let Facebook Status Updates get you in Trouble ... what NOT to post on your Facebook page ...
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acebook status updates let your friends know what’s going on in your life. Be careful what you post though, because anything you write can be used against you. All that anyone really needs to do is take a screen shot of their page - with your post on it - to create a permanent record of whatever you’ve said. Of course you’d like to think that none of your Facebook friends would do such a thing, but it’s best to be on the safe side and just avoid posting anything that could be misinterpreted or used against you. Examples of questionable Facebook status updates: ‘If he thinks he’s taking the kids this weekend, he has another thing coming!’ ‘I wish my ex had picked up the kids. They’re driving me crazy!’ Why it’s important to draft your Facebook status updates carefully: * Facebook status posts can be used against you in court. * They can easily be misinterpreted. * They can be used as supporting evidence in an attempt to prove what your ex or someone else is trying to say about you. * Your Facebook status updates can also cost you your job if your boss or company finds out that you’re posting negative messages related to work. * Your Facebook status updates include the date and time too, so they can be used to prove that you were online at a certain time of day.
At our DUNCAN consignment store we are sure to have everything you might need to keep your little ones happy all year long. Or check out our LADYSMITH location with NEW as well as gently used brand name items including these brands and much more...
How to make sure your Facebook status isn’t questionable: * Think about what you are writing when you post a status update on Facebook or any other form of social media. * If your update could be considered snarky, or if it implies a negative message about your ex, your children, your boss, or your workplace, do not post it. * If your Facebook status update reveals more information about yourself or your children than you’d like, don’t post it.
__________________________________________ Jennifer Wolf is a writer with About.com. She has a great column for single parents at www.singleparents.about.com.
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Space Pirate Lands on Vancouver Island
CPTN THNDRPNTZ is an intergalactic space pirate who was accidentally marooned on our planet when his space galleon was shipwrecked in a cosmic squall. While he has been stuck here on our planet repairing his ship, the SS Kookamunga, the captain has been learning traditional folk songs and folk stories from around the planet. He has taken up singing these songs and telling these tales to earth children to pass the time and pay for rum and sweet potatoes, (the special fuel on which his space ship runs). We recently caught up with the captain and asked him a few questions.
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IC: So, why do you spell your name with no vowels? CT: Shiver me timbers! Vowels be for sissies, yaaarrrrgh! I know ye be barking at me when ye be barkin’. IC: What instruments do you play? CT: Well blow me down! I be playin’ the guitar, the squeezebox, the tin whistle and the marimba, but most of all, me loves the kazoo. The finest noisemaker on yer planet. IC: Why do you like these old songs and folk tales, and why do you pass them on? CT: Well, number one, me likes ‘em, singing and storytellin’ makes me not so homesick for me own galaxy. Number two, these songs are like precious booty that must be shared to be appreciated from generation to generation, and lastly I need to earn enough rum and sweet potatoes to get me space galleon flying again! IC: So, where can we catch one of your performances? CT: Well, I be playin’ here and there y’know, schools, parties, concerts, libraries, festivals and such, I sometimes play at the Wanderin’ Moose café in Cumberland. IC: If somebody wanted to book you to perform at an event, how could they get a hold of you? CT: Well I’ll be keel-hauled! The surest way would be to cook up some sweet potatoes and click your heels together three times and yell “CPTN THNDRPNTZ!!! Come git some booty!” As loud as ye can. If that don’t work, ye can email me earth friend at kevin.flesher@gmail.com and he’ll hook ye up!
9/24/10
5:07 PM
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Treat yourself.
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Mr. Sensitivity:
“
Let’s play baby,” my 3½ year old son Nicholas, says to me as he crawls into my lap. It is a favourite game of his since his younger brother Myles came along a year ago. “Sing me a song.” I am used to this, so I hold him close, in a cradle. “That’s not very comfortable,” he says a few times, until I adjust him into a satisfactory position. I begin singing Rock-a-bye Baby. When I get to the last line, I sing, “... and down will come baby, cradle and all,” just to see what he will do. “No! And down will come Nicholas!” he corrects me. So I sing it through again, ‘properly’ this time. He is a little too wired, bouncing around in my lap and not acting at all baby-like. I recognize it as the wind-up before the crash so I suggest we read instead. “No, I’m your baby! Waah! Waah!” He ‘cries’ through slitted eyes, watching me carefully to see what I will do. I am tired of Rock-a-bye Baby, so I try a different song. “Hush little baby, don’t say a word. Mama’s gonna buy you a mockingbird...” The baby stops crying. It’s been a long time since I’ve sung this song to him; probably since he was a little baby himself. So I rock him and hold him tight, and sing it softly to him. His expression turns serious as he listens. When I finish the song, he is silent. “Did you like that song, Nicholas?” I ask. He nods slowly. “Would you like me to sing it again?” Another nod.
Julie Bernhardt
“Hush little baby, don’t say a word...” As I sing the last line of the song: “You’ll still be the sweetest little baby in town...” his lower lip sticks out a little bit. We sit in silence for a few seconds, and then he gives a little sniff, and his lip sticks out a bit further. Uh-oh. Suddenly the ‘baby’ lets out a full-blown cry, big alligator tears streaming down his cheeks. “I NEED A NAP!” he cries through his tears. I am cradling him for real this time, and I carry him upstairs and tuck him in for his much needed nap. I know it is partly the fatigue that did him in, but it is also because he is one of the most sensitive kids I know. He gets that from yours truly. I remember crying in class because I was told, quite nicely, that my answer was incorrect. Prone to tears, we are. So when I ask him later why he was crying, I’m not surprised by his answer. The mirror breaking, the horse and cart falling down – it made him sad. It makes perfect sense, except why doesn’t he get upset about the baby falling out of the tree branch, cradle and all? But I hold my tongue, give my beautiful son a hug, and tell him I will stick to much ‘happier’ songs from now on. _________________________________________________ Julie Bernhardt lives in Victoria with her husband and two boys. You can visit her blog at: www.julie-momandwife.blogspot.com
1010 Broad Street, Victoria 250.388.3977
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How Street Smart Are Your Kids?:
ith the days getting shorter and the nights getting cooler, I can no longer ignore that quiet whisper in my head ‘fall is here, school has started’. And with this change, I have recently started to ask myself, is my daughter prepared to get to school without me ... is she street smart? Here is a list of tips to help street smart your child. 1. Before and after school Always know where your child is going before and after school. Will she be going straight to school or stopping at a friend’s house, and what route will she take? It is important that your child understands that she is not to take short cuts to or from school, but to use the agreed upon route. 2. Communication If possible, have your child carry a cell phone. 3. Walk with others Tell her not to walk alone; the larger the group the safer. (Start a walking school bus program in your neighbourhood: www.walkingschoolbus.org) 4. Stay alert Talk to your kids about staying alert while they’re walking. This means no music, video games or books - you want them to notice what is happening around them and who is walking near them. 5. Stranger danger No stopping to talk, or to answer any questions from people that she does not know. Always remember to stay two arm lengths away from a stranger. You should talk to your child about the types of stories that some people will use to get their help, ie lost dog, your mom has been in an accident etc. Remind her that adults don’t ask kids for help, they ask other adults.
6. Names on clothes Don’t put your child’s name on jackets or hats. If someone is calling your child by her name, she might think that she knows this person. 7. Anxiety For those children who might be more anxious about walking to school alone, try walking a block behind them until they feel more comfortable. You can also talk to them on a cell phone while they are walking to school. It is never too early to talk about street smarts. Even if your child is very young, you can talk about issues such as how and when to cross the street, and how to behave when approaching an animal. Remember that when you are not with your child, your child is in charge of their own safety and security. They need to understand that with freedom comes responsibility. Some children will rise to the occasion while others might need a little encouragement. The most important rule is to let your child know that nothing that they carry with them is more important than their personal safety. If someone should try to take their backpack, you need to let your child know in this kind of situation they are to give up the pack and run for safety. So with practise runs and tons of ‘going over’ the rules, my daughter is going to school on her own for the first time. ________________________________________________ Carmen Scott is a wife and mother to a pre-teen daughter. She has a bachelors degree in clinical psychology and is the co-founder of two community service websites, ChildsPlay101.com & GreyPlay101.com. Carmen can be seen weekly on CHEK News - Island30 as the resistant parenting expert.
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New Business Venture:
Sweet Unique Little Boutique
jennifer burgin
A TRULY UNIQUE BOUTIQUE he idea behind Sweet Unique Little Boutique is to combine fun, bold and contemporary patterns with classic baby clothing from a period in time when women made their clothing for their children. All of the clothes are handmade by two loving mothers using new and re-purposed materials to create unique pieces for wee ones.
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Boutique founders, Nathalie and Jennifer, hand select all of their materials, and also upcycle materials into something new; what was once a man’s shirt becomes an elephant appliqué on a soft bib, or a pair of socks becomes little leggings with a hand knitted flower accent piece. All designs and patterns are their own, and they do all the cutting and sewing. Production occurs during nap times, when hubby comes home from work, or late in the evening when the little ones have settled. Garages have doubled as workshops; dining room tables as cutting tables. You’ll find bibs, dresses, tutus, skirts, overalls, leggings, headbands, shirts, t-shirts and blankets online at www.sweetuniquelittleboutique.com. Be sure to check out their new fall line, which includes dresses in a soft cord or cozy flannelette, and warm pajama pants.
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Special Delivery
kristen leclair
ooking for the perfect alternative to sending flowers to the new mom and baby in hospital? Look no further than Special Delivery. The brainchild of Kristen LeClair, formerly of Pancia Bella Maternity, Special Delivery allows you to send diaper cakes to many of the hospitals and birthing wards on Vancouver Island. You can choose from ‘pre-baked’ diaper cakes, or ‘create your own’. The menu consists of both fat-free cakes (simply decorated and made of diapers), as well as deluxe cakes (decorated and made of diapers - but also containing products inside). They also make Special Delivery baskets which are filled with great items that can be delivered as well. The inside contents range from shampoos and creams to receiving blankets. Special Delivery cakes and baskets are also available for pickup for baby showers or personal hospital visits. Order online at www.panciabella.ca.
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Calling all mid-Vancouver Island Mammas!
Mother’s Morning Out is a group that meets weekly for coffee/tea, chats, crafts, guest speakers, and more. Childminding is provided by the ladies of the Duncan United Church. This is a fabulous way to meet other mom’s in the community. Mother’s Morning Out : Duncan United Church : Tuesday’s from 9:30-11 : Cost is $2 to cover tea and coffee costs : email mmoduncan@gmail.com for more info
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Lawns Are Worth It: John Close
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awns have been a symbol of the modern family for generations. Beginning in Britain, they surrounded the homes of rich noblemen as testaments to their wealth and power. It was not long before wealthy Americans caught on and began to have rolling greens of their own. As with most new things, grass eventually became accessible to the common man and in a few short decades, a house without a lawn would be a strange house indeed. As you can imagine, this new found green created a massive business opportunity. Armed with albeit flawed N-P-K research (those little numbers on the bags of fertilizer), many lawn care businesses became successful in convincing the world that in order to have a lush lawn and garden you needed to apply large amounts of chemical fertilizer - in some cases as many as six applications a year! It didn’t stop with fertilizer as companies also sold their weed killers, Miracle Gro for plants, and even their own soil. This resulted in a multi-billion dollar ‘green’ industry, but the average lawn and garden were far from healthy. Decades later, the chemical addiction remains, even in the midst of numerous studies proving that chemical fertilizers sicken plants and disrupt life in the soil, and weed killers endanger far more than just weeds. Unaware of a better way, many still chemical bomb their landscapes to their hearts content. Others try to act more responsibly by practicing IPM - only using chemicals ‘if they have to’. Still, others think lawns are the problem and would love nothing more than to see every lawn ripped out and replaced with something ‘less toxic’.
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
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I believe lawns are worth it. Take away the lawn and you take away kids soccer, outdoor weddings, family picnics, amazing naps, and your dog’s favourite place to squat. Poison the lawn and you do even worse. The fact is, it is quite simple to have a lush lawn that isn’t toxic. It just takes education and commitment. Some people assume organic lawn care will be extremely expensive so they don’t investigate it any further. The truth is, it may cost a bit more money initially but it is FAR LESS COSTLY over time - in many, many ways. Take a look at your own lawn. Now what will you do? _________________________________________________ John Close is the owner of Lush Eco Lawns and is about to celebrate his first year in business as an organic lawn specialist. Visit www.lushecolawns.com for more information on organic lawn programs, fall treatments, friendly weed killers & much more.
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Island Child
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Mixing Kids and Fitness: Alisa Harrison
W
hen my youngest was a baby, I loved bundling her into the carrier for power walks, and later the jogging stroller while I ran. She’d drift into sleep and I would workout in the fresh air. Bliss. Then it happened: my happy, snuggly baby became a writhing, wriggling child who made it eminently clear that she did NOT want to sit still in a stroller while I got to move around. The days of calm and quiet jogs were over. It was time to figure out what else to do. Giving up exercise was not an option, and I wanted a routine that didn’t depend on other people for childcare. But in the haze of mothering, finishing a graduate degree and working, my creative juices weren’t exactly flowing. So I took the easy way out by joining a gym with on-site babysitting. I can see now that there were lots of other ways I could have mixed fitness with parenting. Don’t get me wrong - there is a unique reward in exercising alone, enjoying the intensity and relaxation of a workout that responds only to your own needs. At the same time, fitness and family don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Having kids can be a real fitness boost, if we follow their lead. When I surveyed some friends about how they mix kids and fitness, the consensus was clear: play! They shared the experience of being climbed on, wrestled with, and otherwise interrupted while trying to do at-home solo workouts. But when they opened their ideas about fitness to play, and became the ‘mommy monster’ chasing kids around the house, or threw a dance party with a kid deejay and partner moves that redefined the meaning of resistance training, they found a new world of options to get the sweat pouring and muscles firing.
Caring Learning Diversity Guidance Fun www.milesofsmileschildcare.com
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Older children often show interest in â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fitness activities, too - and their antics may be enough to keep stroller-bound younger siblings entertained for the duration of a workout. Even my ornery toddler loved the jogging stroller when she got to watch her big sister bike circles around us while I ran. My kids, now 3 and 13 respectively, still love to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;danceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; together (and make fun of me when I practice new fitness choreography or do aerobics videos). A friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sons lift colourful 1.5lb hand weights while she strength-trains at home. Another invites her kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; friends for hikes: a baby in a back carrier adds a fitness challenge for the adult wearer while groups of children motivate each other to keep going in harder terrain, and everyone gets a great workout. Kids of all ages love to move, with each other and with us. Let their natural energy inspire you to move in new ways. _________________________________________________ Alisa Harrison is a mom of two, BCRPA-certified Pre and Postnatal Fitness Specialist, research consultant and writer. As the owner/operator of Fit 4 Two Mid Vancouver Island, Alisa teaches classes that make fitness fun for moms-tobe, and moms and babies throughout the Cowichan Valley. Contact Alisa at alisa@fit4two.ca or visit www.fit4two.ca/area/duncan-vancouver-island.
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FREE TRIAL prenatal fitness class by Fit 4 Two Pre and Postnatal Fitness on Tues Oct 26 from 7:30 to 8:45pm at the Shawnigan Lake Community Centre. RSVP to alisa@fit4two.ca or call 250-701-8634. Connect with other moms-to-be and enjoy the benefits of staying fit throughout your pregnancy! This class combines cardio and strength training, specialized core work for pregnancy, gentle stretching and relaxation. Regular weekly classes begin Nov 2.
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Over the River and Through the Woods: Tips for Family Hikes
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all is a great time to explore your city’s parks and trails, but you need more than sunscreen, water and high-energy snacks to enjoy a family hike. To maximum the fun and keep the cries of ‘are we there yet?!’ to a minimum, try these suggestions. Ready, Set, Go! Taking the time to plan your family’s next outdoor adventure can mean the difference between an okay experience and a great one. Here are some steps you can take before you hit the trail: Choose a trail that matches your family’s hiking skill and experience. Always pace your outing to the youngest or slowest walker in your family and build in time for breaks. If your family is new to hiking, choose a short, easy, circular trail. No matter how short or long your hike, remember to pace yourself and take frequent breaks. Familiarize yourself with the trail before you go. Use your local library and the internet to gather resources about the area you’ll be exploring. Determine what is the best time for your hike, based on your family’s routine, and plan around nap-time, if necessary. A good rule of thumb is to double the estimated time you think the hike will take. Use shady trails or hike in the morning when temperatures are cooler. Boardwalks along a beach or river are excellent places for a family excursion but, because they are often exposed to the elements, they can really heat up. Start out early so you can beat the heat and get on the trail before other hikers have had a chance to spook the wildlife. Most animals are more active in the morning and many cold-blooded critters - reptiles, amphibians, and insects - are trying to warm up and might be sitting right out in the open.
Out on the Trail! The key to kid-centered hikes is to focus on exploring and enjoying, not on a distance to cover or destination to reach. Try these ideas once your family is out on the trail: Lift up or roll over a log or rock and investigate what’s underneath. A magnifying glass or box is useful for holding and observing small creatures. Just remember to release any creature next to where you found it and take care not to crush any plants or insects when you replace the log or rock. Fill up a small bag or jar with objects you find along the way. Try to use objects with a distinct texture or smell - a pine needle, a feather, a seed pod, for example. Ask your children to close their eyes and to guess what each object is using only their sense of touch or smell. Plant a fake item along the trail and challenge your children to spot it. Choose objects that are small and easily overlooked - like a pipe cleaner animal, artificial flower or toy insect – so that your kids develop their powers of observation. Stop walking, close your eyes and listen for a minute. Then invite everyone to name, describe or imitate what they heard. Encourage children to move in different ways. They can take giant steps, small steps, skip, pretend the ground is quicksand, play red light/green light, or imitate animals. We made it! The fun and learning don’t have to end when the hike does. Encourage your family to savor the moment and create memories with these activities: Record your hikes in a journal. Family members can take turns recording the sights, sounds and sensations of your outings. Even younger children who can’t yet read and write can glue in trail maps, make leaf rubbings, trace natural stencils or draw pictures. Use a real map or Google Earth and invite your children to recount the high and lows of the experience. For example, ‘Here’s where we walked over that log bridge.’ Whether it’s a half-mile stroll around the neighborhood park or a day-long excursion, hiking is something the whole family can enjoy. Keep this in mind and your next hike will be a walk in the park.
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Spotlight on Business
What’s New in Business
Crave Boutique
Kinderbeez
rave Beautique opened it’s doors on Station Street in Duncan just over three years ago now. Make-up artist and store owner Cortnie Clarke had a vision to design a place where women of all ages and lifestyles could go to get professional, helpful, and honest advice on make-up and skincare. Crave soon became the place for women to get their makeup done for the big events, be it weddings, grads, or just a night out on the town. When Cortnie first opened, she just sold makeup and skincare, and did makeup applications and lessons. Her dream was to expand her space into selling clothing, shoes, and accessories and throughout this pst year, she has been able to reaps the rewards of that hard work. At any given time you will find Crave stocked with the most current, cool, classic and chic clothing, footwear, jewelry and accessories. A-list shopping is now in Duncan ladies! Once inside the pink walls and curtains, you will notice the fun and girly atmosphere with the generous and helpful sales ladies, and likely you will hear the current episode of Y&R on the big screen. Crave is the only beauty and fashion boutique that combines everything - designer clothing, shoes, and bags, fashion jewelry and professional make-up - all in one, relaxed and fun environment.
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inderbeez Children’s Consignment Store in Duncan has some exciting changes in the works. They will be launching their new Fairy Dust Boutique in November, featuring fun ‘do it yourself’ stations for girls aged 3 to 13. Kids will delight in the chance to create their own fairy dust sparkly lotions, yummy ice cream inspired bath scrubs, lip gloss fun stations, and more. Although fairy dust is geared towards little girls, they will also have ‘create your own’ critter bath bubbles for the boys. The entire fairy dust collection will be featured in this new addition, giving some exciting, never seen before in store fun, take home gifts and even ‘DIY’ fun stations to add excitement to your own lipgloss birthday parties. Expect this new and inspiring addition to Kinderbeez to dazzle the imagination of your little fairy princess!
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Pancia Bella
fter 3½ years at her Station Street location in Duncan, Kristen has decided to close her storefront and move to online sales. You can visit her at www.panciabella.ca where you will find nursing bras, some maternity wear, and more of her personal hand made collection of girls hair bands, childrens hats, pillowcase dresses, jewellry and much more.
Cortnie divulges her best sellers here ... 1. Hunter Boots, every woman needs a pair! 2. Fluxus tops 3. Jeggings by Black Orchid and Domino 4. Classified spray-on foundation 5. Freeze 24-7 lip plumper 6. Mineral makeup by Stript 7. Cor soap, once you use it you will never use anything else! Visit Cortnie at Crave Beautique at 162 Station Street in Duncan. Her number is 250-748-1919. Crave is open Mon - Wed 10am to 5pm and Thurs - Sat from 10am to 6pm.
Know of a great business that you would like to see profiled here? Call or email for details! 250.597.3552 or islandchildmag@shaw.ca
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La Mama Maternity
a Mama Maternity & More has relocated. Still in the downtown core of Victoria, you will now find this family owned and operated business at 1010 Broad Street. La Mama has been serving the needs of moms and moms-to-be since 2003. Joanne can be reached at 250-388-3977. La Mama is online as well at www.lamamamaternity.com.
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Gecko Green Living
lso loving life in a new location are the guys at Gecko Green Living on Salt Spring. Mike and Claire moved to the more central area of Ganges this past summer. All their organic and eco friendly goods can be found at 103 McPhillips Avenue in the heart of the town. Hours are Mon to Sat from 10 to 5:30 and on Sun from 11 to 4.
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Lunch Commandments: Packing Lunches
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making Island Moms Savvy Moms
acking lunch five days a week every week for the next 9 or 10 months is a task of biblical proportions. It should be homemade, but easy; tasty, but nutritious enough for the Canada Food Guide; sensitive to classmates’ food allergies, but sensitive to your kid’s likes and dislikes; sanitarily packaged, but eco-friendly. Have faith and obey a few of our lunch commandments; you’ll be saved from the sin of lunch frustration. Thou Shalt Not Go It Alone Involve the kids - even the young ones - in what they are taking for lunch and they’ll be more likely to eat it. They can help with the shopping list or choose their favourite snack to take. If you keep all the lunch-approved snacks in one place, just ask them to go and choose one for that day. With older kids, try keeping a container in the fridge full of sandwich fixings - sliced tomatoes, pickles, lettuce, cheese, meat - and get the kids to make up their own sandwiches. Thou Shalt Not Assume a Sandwich Is the Only Kind of Lunch A whole sandwich can be daunting for little ones, while bigger kids can get distracted easily by all their friends (and forget to eat). A variety of ready-to-eat finger food often goes over better than a sammie. Offer bite-size bits from a few different food groups, and they probably won’t come back home in the lunchbox: • Fruit - fresh fruit cut into cubes, wedges, balls or segments (removing pits, stems and skins as needed), dried fruit (fruit bars, cranberries, apples, raisins, apricots) or apple sauce (in tubes or single-serve cups).
• Vegetables - cut into slices or spears if needed, sent along with a small container of salad dressing (try carrots, cucumber, sugar-snap peas, grape tomatoes or edamame). • Dairy - yogurt (tubes, tubs or drinks), cheese strings or other pre-portioned cheese or cubes of cheddar. • Grains - crackers, air-popped popcorn, mini-muffins and rice cakes are a nice change from bread. Leftover rice or pasta (heated and stored in a wide-mouth thermal container) is good for a cold day. • The ‘meat’ - slices of pepperoni sticks or turkey hot dogs, cubes of lean ham or turkey breast, bean dips, cottage cheese, hard-boiled eggs, leftover pizza or quesadillas (cut into small wedges). • The ‘dessert’ - a few animal crackers, oatmeal cookies or a granola bar. Thou Shalt Limit Your Eco-Impact Reduce the use of disposable wraps and containers by stocking up on a variety of reusable containers. Make sure that the lids can be easily removed and replaced by your kids (or they will quickly turn into disposable containers). Rather than using individually packaged juices, fill a reusable drink container such as a Kleen Kanteen from a larger juice container at home. And just like that, you’ve got lunch in the bag. And we say amen to that. _________________________________________________ SavvyMom Media is the publisher of SavvyMom Today, the trusted voice for moms, covering a broad range of topics, ‘from diapers to dinner parties and everything in between’. SavvyMom Today speaks to a wide audience of moms who seek pin-point solutions to the daily dilemmas their time-crunched lifestyles present. Sign up, get savvy ... visit www.savvymom.ca.
Winter 2010 issue ... book your ad space today email or call to book 250.597.3552 or islandchildmag@shaw.ca
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Feed Your Kids for Success:
hyming words, learning the alphabet, spotting similarities and differences, following directions, and paying attention are just a few prerequisite skills that schoolaged children are expected to have in order to do well in school. The facility to perform proficiently in these areas is a good indicator that the brain is functioning properly and that a child is developing typically. But not all children follow this regular path and some struggle with acquiring these foundational skills. It is a researched and documented fact that exposure to lead causes problems with paying attention, academic learning and behaviour. This toxic metal affects virtually all cells in the body, but its most critical effects are in the brain, impacting cognition and behaviour. Lead plays a causal role in the development of such conditions as learning disabilities, ADHD, behaviour problems, increased IQ and autism. Once lead enters the body, some of it becomes eliminated and some remains in the blood system and is later stored in the brain, bones, organs and tissue. Unlike essential metals such as iron or zinc, lead serves no purpose in the human system. Unfortunately, since it mimics calcium, our bodies are tricked into hanging on to this nasty toxin. Since the 1970s, some major sources of lead have been eliminated and it is easy to be misled into thinking that because of these high-profile initiatives, the risk posed by lead has been eradicated. On the contrary, we must not be deluded into thinking that the dangers of lead have been removed. Even today, lead can be found virtually everywhere, often in the least likely locations. It is as prevalent as ever. How does lead actually get into our homes and our bodies? It finds its way into our homes in our food supply, water, personal care products and in the toys we give to our children. It can be found on dinnerware, silverware, brassware and older pewterware. It lurks in crystals and plastics, in artwork and craft materials. It is used in the production of stained glass, jewellery, printing ink, dyes, candlewicks and cosmetics. It is found in bullets, shot, fishing nets and sinkers, in yachts and diving suits, curtain weights and emblems, in pipe organs and player pianos, in caulking and sound proofing materials, in ships, and in planes. The ever-growing electronics industry makes use of massive amounts of lead. Few people have any idea that a computer screen may contain as much as four pounds of this unwelcome metal.
Joanne Cerazy
The good news is that while the damage lead causes is irreversible, it is preventable, and each of us can make small steps to ensure that this neurotoxin stays away from our children’s bodies. Nowadays, no one needs to be exposed to lead and to suffer its harmful effects. Our children can be protected from the cycle of lead’s damage. Making small changes such as ensuring that your tap water is clear of this metal, removing objects that might be laced with it, wetwiping surfaces instead of using a feather duster are effective preventative strategies. Nutrition also plays a key role in how much lead is retained by the body. Lead is absorbed more readily on an empty stomach, hence teaching our children the importance of consuming regular, healthy meals each day is not just good parenting, it is a primary step to lead exposure prevention. While we all know that eating a diet low in fat is good for maintaining a healthy weight, it is also a lead avoidance measure. Some fat is necessary for good health but foods that contain high amounts of fat encourage lead absorption. Teach your kids that fast foods, fatty meats, chips, pastries, bacon and butter need to be eaten in moderation. Well-nourished children tend to have better school attendance, fewer behaviour problems, and a better chance of reaching their full academic potential. Encouraging your children to eat a diet low in fat and rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains will help protect your children from lead exposure, and help increase their success at school. _________________________________________________ Joanna Cerazy is the co-author of a timely and empowering book “Lead Babies: How Heavy Metals Are Causing Our Children’s Autism, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Low IQ and Behavior Problems.” For more information about “Lead Babies” or lead exposure prevention, visit www.enoughlead.com or www.nomoreleadbabies.com.
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Today’s Must Haves: ...a sampling of some of the many fantastic new products and services in our marketplace these days...
Aly Dahl Designs - eye candy jewellry
POP ROCK (below): This stunning piece of icandy is made of the most beautiful pink, blue and green druzzies, the crystals in the stone catch the light like diamonds. This is a great conversation piece. Each stone is set in sterling silver and hangs from a handmade sterling silver chain. Pair this item with a little black dress, or white flowing top and jeans, dress it up or down. This piece will make any outfit truly Pop and Rock. TURQUOISE BRACELET (right): This large piece of turquoise is framed in brass and plated with gold. The silk is adorned with real gemstones and pearls. These bracelets sell out quickly and have been seen on the wrists of celebrities all over hollywood. Kate Hudson is often seen wearing two. My good friend Aly Dahl makes this amazingly stunning jewellry. Visit www.silverfingerprints.ca to see her whole collection.
Pretty Frilly Things - hair wear for girly girls
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very little girl needs pretty frilly things! We have found (right here in Duncan!), top quality, modern, stylish hair clips for little girls. Masika Allan, mom of two babes under two, has found her niche creating hair wear for girls, (clips: left), and adorable crocheted hats, (right). Pretty Frilly Things hair clips have heat sealed ribbon to prevent fraying and do not slip out of even the finest of new baby hair. Hats are adorned with flowers and ribbons and fit girls up to five years. We recently discovered her clips showcased front and centre at Indigo Children Consignment on Station Street! Visit Masika in her virtual Facebook store at www.facebook.com/prettyfrillythings. You can now shop online through your Facebook account. Huh.
The Question Journey - inspirational book, authored by Trish Bishop
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he Question Journey - Re-discovering YOU The journey of parenthood is one that is often a combination of absolute joy, unconditional love, frustration, and stark fear. As parents we want the best for our children while we simultaneously want the best from our children. When our children are infants, we tend to put our own needs by the wayside to focus on being everything we can be for these new little beings. This balancing act brings up our own memories of childhood. “Oh man, I just sounded like my mother!” The Question Journey provides a safe place for you to explore the inner workings of YOU. How you feel, what drives your behaviours and decisions, what makes you react in anger versus laughter, and so much more. Use this beautiful book to find yourself again. Put yourself first. We recently discovered The Question Journey at a local Women’s show in Duncan. An amazing look at yourself as a parent, and as a person. A great find. Visit www.thequestionjourney.com to purchase.
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Forming Friendships from Toddler to Teen ... continued from page 3 Teenagers who have received the love and support that they need at earlier ages will stay connected to their parents and at least consider their opinions. Make sure you pay attention to who your child is hanging out with. Get to know her friends by inviting them over and being the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Mom Taxiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Talk to your child about things like making good choices, how to get out of sticky situations, what a â&#x20AC;&#x153;goodâ&#x20AC;? friend looks like and how you expect to know where they are at all times. Teach your child some ways for her to make friends. Listening to others, smiling at people, keeping the gossip and cattiness to a minimum, talking to people first, being themselves, trying to have a good time, inviting someone new to sit with them at lunch ... these are all good ways. Other ideas include: trying out for a school play, participating in a sport, joining a club at school, attending church youth group activities, going to summer camp and so on.
Cowichan Valley Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Expo October 23, 2010
What if your child is hanging out with some kids you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t approve of? Tweens and teens are like ships that need a lot of steering in the murky of waters of hormones and peer pressure. One fellow mom offers this advice. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When my kids want to hang out with kids that have questionable behavior, we encourage the friends to play at our house so we can monitor what goes on. Then we treat them like we treat our kids and correct their behavior. If they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like it, they leave.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; The friendship groundwork you lay when your child is just a toddler impacts how sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll handle friendships when sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a teenager and beyond. Teach her how to get along with other kids her age (and of other ages) so she can hold onto friends and make new ones throughout her life. _________________________________________________ Kerrie McLoughlin is a freelance writer and the seasoned Mom of five. She blogs at TheKerrieShow.com.
5)& 6-5*."5& )"*3 4"-0/ 4)011& 1"35: 1-"$&
10am to 5pm
at the NEW Cowichan Exhibition Hall 7380 Trans Canada Highway (corner of Mays Rd)
All Day Stage
featuring fashion shows by Suzannes, Sheer Essentials, and more!
Nearly New Fashion Shows & Clothing Sale all proceeds to the Cowichan Valley Autism Society $5 admission
up to 50 exhibitors
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tickets available at Curves Duncan or at the door
Chocolate Lovers Beware! Indulge in your taste buds and help support Cowichan Family Life
High Tea Luncheon $10 per plate All proceeds to Cowichan Independent Living
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Island Child
resource directory Adoption _____________________________________
Breastfeeding Clinics & Support _____________________________________
Choices Adoption & Counselling Services www.choicesadoption.ca T: 888-479-9811 Licensed non-profit adoption agency in BC.
The Nanaimo Mother and Baby Society T: 250-754-5090
Sunrise Family Services Society www.SunriseAdoption.com T: 888-984-2488 Creating the joy of family by adopting. The Adoption Centre www.adoption-bc.com T: 800-935-4237 Art Therapy _____________________________________ Liz McKnight, Registered 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 **See ad page 19 Birth Announcements _____________________________________ Animal Cracker Announcements www.animalcrackersonline.com Custom made birth announcements. Breastfeeding Clinics & Support _____________________________________ VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Happy Tribe Consulting T: 250-739-3146 Karyn-grace Clarke is a registered lactation consultant offering in-home and clinicbased consultations for breastfeeding, parenting and relationship issues. DUNCAN Public Health Unit T: 250-709-3050
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 Child Care Daycares, Preschools, Nannies _____________________________________ International Nannies T: 800-820-8308 Free instant access to 100s of nanny profiles Supreme Nannies Canada T: 250-483-5222 Your one-stop source for nannies and caregivers across Canada. CHEMAINUS St. Joseph’s Early Learning and Child Care Centre T: 250-246-3191 W: www.stjosephselem.ca We believe that all children have the right to a healthy spiritual, social, emotional, physical and intellectual environment, that respects and plans for their individual interests and needs. COWICHAN BAY Treetops Daycare T: 250-748-5716 Daycare full and part time, preschool program in the morning, after school care.
Page 20 Child Care Daycares, Preschools, Nannies _____________________________________ Nanaimo Montessori School Waddington Road, Nanaimo T: 753-0649 Empowered children who model behaviours that contribute to better communities. QUALICUM Little Star Children’s Centre T: 250-752-4554 Earth friendly philosophy with an inspired, academic curriculum. 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 School Hoylake Road W, Qualicum Beach 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 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 12
DUNCAN Arcadian Day Care Centre T: 250-748-3922 Happy, safe and caring environment. Ages birth to 5. Early Childhood Educators. New infant & toddler centre.
Nightingale Preschool and Jr Kindergarten T: 250-595-7544 www.nightingalepreschool.com Taking children’s learning forward, balanced approach to play and education.
Kidzco Learning Centre T: 250-746-4027 Stimulating environment that includes each child’s uniqueness. 30 months to 5 years.
Chiropractic _____________________________________
Kingdom Treasures Christian Preschool T: 250-746-0110
La Leche League Support T: 250-746-1601, Christy E: christydurnion@hotmail.com
Sunrise Waldorf School T: 250-743-7253 Parent & Child, Nursery and K to 8.
NANAIMO La Leche League Support T: 250-754-5853, Bridget
LAKE COWICHAN Kaatza Child Care T: 250-749-6422
Nanaimo Breastfeeding Centre T: 250-755-3388 Individual breastfeeding counselling and support.
NANAIMO Four Seasons Montessori Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo T: 250-758-8979
Discover Chiropractic Family Wellness Cntr Dr. Erin Anderson 16 - 1594 Fairfield Road, Victoria T: 250-386-9355 Valleyview Family Chiropractic Dr. Vanessa White 11 - 1400 Cowichan Bay Road, Cobble Hill T: 250-743-3775
Counselling _____________________________________ INSITE www.greatrelastionships.ca T: 250-751-0111 E: info@greatrelationships.ca INSITE at Edgewood is a six-day, therapeutic process that integrates mind, body and spirit to help you achieve the life of wholeness and authenticity you seek. Shore Counselling Society www.shorecounselling.ca T: 250-716-1888 E: office@shorecounselling.ca Professional counselling for individuals, couples and families. Doulas _____________________________________ COMOX VALLEY Jesse Buchanan T: 250-334-2815 Birth & Postpartum doula Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder _____________________________________ 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. Nanaimo Unique Kids Organization T: 250-753-1133 Autism and FASD. 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 _____________________________________ Apples to Oranges Consulting T: 250-516-4234, Lori www.applestooranges.ca Difference through diet for autistic kids USANA Health Sciences T: 250-709-9086, Tara www.tarablackstock.usana.com Exceptional, science-based nutritional and personal-care products. Dr. Amy Wells Naturopathic Family Physician 1 - 2311 Rosewall Crescent, Courtenay T: 250-871-2600
Island Child
resource directory Home Schooling / Tutoring _____________________________________
Music, Dance & Exercise _____________________________________
Wondertree Homelearners’ Network T: 250-754-1227, Suzanne www.wondertree.org Providing homeschooling registration across BC; supporting self-directed learning.
BC Boys Choir T: 1-888-909-8282 www.bcboyschoir.org
Academic Advantage Tutoring T: 250-483-5496 (Victoria and Western Communities) T: 877-787-5854 (Comox Valley and Campbell River) www.schooliseasy.com Help your child get a head start! Certified teachers can help your child excel at reading, writing and math in the convenience of your own home. **See ad page 12 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 12 Lush Eco Lawns T: 250-597-0408, John E: lushecolawns@shaw.ca Gas-free lawn mowing, seasonal organic soil treatments, and environmentally friendly lawn maintenance. **See ad page 7 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. 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.
Island Kung Fu T: 250-701-0222 www.islandkungfu.com MoonDance Dynamic Arts School T: 250-743-5846 www.MoonDanceArts.ca West African Dance & Drumming, Dance from India, Hip Hop & more! **See ad page 9 Nanaimo Conservatory of Music T: 250-754-4611 www.ncmusic.ca Kindermusik, a good beginning never ends. Peninsula Academy of Music Arts 1662 Mills Road, North Saanich T: 778-426-1800 www.PeninsulaAcademy.ca Music lessons for all ages, all instruments. Accredited teachers, instrument rentals & sales, lots of parking. Salsa Babies and Salsa Tots T: 604-461-7827 www.runnersandbootiesfitness.com Dance back into shape with baby as partner! Steps Ahead Dance T: 250-701-0203 www.stepsaheadbc.com Quality dance instruction for children, RAD ballet, ISTD Modern, ISTD Tap **See ad page 3 Vancouver Island Symphony www.vancouverislandsymphony.com Noteworthy Kids: A free community outreach program sponsored by the Vancouver Island Symphony, Nanaimo. Victoria Suzuki Piano School T: 250-385-8355 www.VSPA.ca Montessori-styled music environment for young children. Online Resources _____________________________________
VICTORIA Access Midwifery T: 250-380-6329 Serving Esquimalt, Western Communities & Victoria
www.westcoastmoms.ca **See ad page 4 www.canigettherecipe.com www.childsplay101.com www.cowichanvalleykids.com www.dinnervibe.com www.kidsinnanaimo.com www.kidsinvictoria.com www.MyBabyStuff.ca www.savvymom.ca www.smalltownchicks.com
Music, Dance & Exercise _____________________________________
Optometry _____________________________________
Adage Studio T: 250-709-4048 www.adagestudio.com Class for children and adults
South Cowichan Eyecare Chemainus Family Eyecare T: 250-743-8899, 250-246-3405 www.myeyecare.ca
Page 21 Optometry _____________________________________
Photography _____________________________________
Salt Spring Eyecare Dr. Andrea N. Varju, Optometrist 158A Fulford-Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Isl T: 250-537-4356 **See ad page 4
Rebecca Joy Studios www.rebeccajoystudios.com T: 250-727-1453, Rebecca Specializing in capturing the fleeting moments of childhood and families with a fresh look, creating images that are forever.
Party Planning _____________________________________
Sheri Jackson Photography www.sherijacksonphoto.ca T: 250-740-5904, Sheri Artistic, babies, kids, families, maternity, weddings. **Cover Photo Photographer **See ad page 6
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. A Piece of Cake! Children’s Parties T: 250-715-0286, Nicole www.childrensparties.ca Children’s party planning consultant. **See ad page 7 Giggle Box Party Rentals T: 250-882-1865, Kim www.gigglebox.ca Specializing in children’s party theme rentals. Goodies Galore T: 250-510-1522, Johanna Goodie bags - birthdays, holidays, baby showers, incentive for students / children. Photography _____________________________________ Crystal Clear Photography www.crystalclearphotography.com T: 250-792-2575, Crystal Babies, boudoir, maternity, weddings and portraits. Donna Budd Photography www.DonnaBudd.com T: 250-248-4985, Donna Newborn, Baby, Family, Headshots. See proofs first...Love what you see. **See ad page 14 Greg Howard Photography www.greghoward.ca T: 250-954-4253, Greg & Vanessa E: vanessa@greghoward.ca Mary Jane Howland Photography www.maryjanescamera.ca Contact: Mary Jane Babies, bellies, family & wedding photography; all photos provided on CD. 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!
Play Therapy _____________________________________ VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Nancy McDougall, RN, CPT T: 250-744-8879, Nancy Supporting children and their families. Poison Centre _____________________________________ Your Poison Centre T: 800-567-8911 The BC Poison Control Centre provides accurate up to date information about potential hazards and recommends treatment as needed. Prenatal Classes _____________________________________ Beautiful Birth Birthing From Within classes and Certified Doula Care T: 250-597-2770, Catherine Quaglia CD(DONA) www.beautifulbirth.ca Victoria HypnoBirthing T: 250-888-5995 E: victoriahypnobirthing@gmail.com www.victoriahypnobirthing.com Hypnobirthing is based on the belief that severe discomfort does not have to be a natural accompaniment of birthing. 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. VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Belly Love T: 250-748-6080, Kris Lang Prenatal & Postpartum massage and yoga instruction. Fit 4 Two Pre and Post Natal Fitness www.fit4two.ca 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.
Island Child
resource directory Pre and Postnatal Yoga, Massage and Fitness _____________________________________
Retail ~ CONSIGNMENT: Clothing & Accessories _____________________________________
Shop ‘n Stroll T: 877-479-9429 www.runnersandbootiesfitness.com Classes run year round - Mayfair Mall and Woodgrove Centre. **See ad page 12
LAKE COWICHAN Izzy & Ollie’z Children’s Consignment 104 South Shore Road, Lake Cowichan T: 250-749-3229
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 Baby-Bootie Camp - postnatal fintess Wednesdays from 10:30-11:30 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.
Retail ~ CONSIGNMENT: Clothing & Accessories _____________________________________ COWICHAN BAY Gigi & Lulu’s Whippletree Junction T: 250-737-1715 Quality fashions for newborn to kids sz 10, maternity wear, accessories, toys, books & much more! CUMBERLAND Polka Dot Pants 2720 Dunsmuir Avenue, Cumberland Very cool consignment clothing for women and children. **See ad page 16 DUNCAN Indigo Childrens Consignment 131 Station Street, Duncan T: 250-709-2042 Toys, clothes, car seats, furniture, maternity **See ad page 6 Kinderbeez Children’s Consignment 2755 Beverly Street, Duncan T: 250-748-2345 LADYSMITH Indigo Childrens Consignment 436 First Avenue, Ladysmith T: 250-245-2042 Melissa & Doug, Robeez, Bumbo, Padraigs **See ad page 6
NANAIMO Kit n’ Caboodle Quality Childrens Consignment 36 - 1925 Bowen Road, Nanaimo T: 250-585-KIDS (5437) PARKSVILLE And Tiger ... Two! 138 Middleton Avenue, Parksville T: 250-954-0051 VICTORIA A to Z Kids 801 Goldstream Avenue, Victoria T: 250-474-7769 Clothesline Clothing Royal Oak Shopping Centre T: 250-479-0800 www.clotheslineclothing.ca Little Treasures Children’s Consignment 1606 Stanley Avenue, Victoria T: 250-590-4228 www.shoplittletreasures.ca Retail ~ MATERNITY: Clothing & Accessories ____________________________________
Page 22 Retail ~ ONLINE: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
Retail ~ ONLINE: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
Bealoo Kid’s Decor www.bealoo.etsy.com Fun and funky art decor for babies and kids
SOXY www.soxy.ca Fabulous, affordable sox for women and children.
Bermuda Babies Baby Gear www.bermudababies.com Big Fat Hen www.bigfathen.com Booties in a Box www.bootiesinabox.com Genuine leather baby booties, 0-2 years. Continuum Family www.continuum-family.com Your source for natural parenting essentials Doodlebaby www.doodlebaby.ca Affordable, handmade baby gifts, custom orders welcome. Dragonfly Distributing www.tiptoeyjoey.com Tip Toey Joey Baby Footwear
Tot-To-Go www.tot-to-go.com T: 604-523-9339 E: info@tot-to-go.com Baby slings, nursing covers and essentials. Water’s Edge Organics www.watersedgeorganics.com T: 250-947-5362 Eco lux for baby, child and mom. **See ad page 7 YOU Pillows www.YOUpillows.com A must-have for mom, baby and the whole family! Retail ~ ONLINE: Products and Services for Mom and Baby _____________________________________
Hip Melon www.hipmelon.com Funky, stylish, exclusive SLINGS.
AB Corp The Identakey - create custom ID cards, all stored on a USB flash drive. www.abcorp.ca
Kissed Baby www.kissedbaby.com Canada’s fashionable, comfortable, unpadded baby slings (and more!)
Cards by Kids www.cardsbykids.ca One-of-a-kind greeting cards by your favorite artists ... your KIDS!
Milk Factory www.milkfactory.com
CARES, Kids Fly Safe www.kidsflysafe.com FAA certified child aviation safety device.
VICTORIA Bellies in Bloom Maternity 104 - 4489 Viewmont Ave, Victoria T: 250-479-0803 www.belliesinbloommaternity.com
Momo Design House www.momodesignhouse.com Durable linen baby slings, silky bamboo bedding, organic cotton onesies. Free shipping offer.
La Mama Maternity 1010 Broad Street, Victoria T: 250-388-3977 www.lamamamaternity.com Maternity wear, nursing wear, diaper bags & more! **See ad page 8
my Kidsquarters www.mykidsquarters.com
Easy Daysies www.easydaysies.com Magnetic schedules for kids.
My Life Storybooks www.mylifestorybooks.com Personalized children’s storybooks
Fun Pass www.funpass.ca Silly stuff, smiles and giggles online.
Oma Gosh! Designs www.omagoshdesigns.com Custom products, blankets, superhero capes, storybook pillows and more!
Happy Island Diaper Service www.happyislanddiapers.com T: 866-922-7377 or 250-591-7000 The ‘BEST’ way to cloth diaper your child. **See ad page 13
Mothering Touch 975 Fort Street, Victoria T: 250-595-4905 www.MotheringTouch.ca The place for new & expectant parents. **See ad page 13 Retail ~ ONLINE: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________ Aly Dahl Designs www.alydahl.com Handcrafted bespoken jewelry created from reclaimed pure silver. Apples ‘n’ Oranges www.apples-n-oranges.com Your online shop for childresnwear 0 - 5. Bare Organics www.bareorganics.ca Organic skin care products for mama and baby, new baby and new parent gift baskets.
PerryWinkles Kids www.perrywinkleskids.com Specializing in hand-smocked dresses for girls. Po Po’s Ponchos www.popoponchos.com Jackets your kids WILL wear! R Little Babe www.rlittlebabe.com Trendy and funky baby gifts with unique flair! Saltspring Island’s online boutique Saplings Sustainable Kids Decor www.saplings.ca Creating ‘green’ spaces where children play, sleep & dream. Snug Bug Clothing www.snugbugclothing.com
Craft Caravan www.craftcaravan.com New crafts every month, fun mail for kids!
Mabel’s Labels www.mabel.ca Labels for the stuff kids lose. Mamma Mia’s Coupon Book www.mammamiascouponbook.com T: 250-597-3552 Coupons and discounts for expectant and new parents. Partial proceeds to BC Children’s Hospital. Our Baby Impressions no web T: 250-724-6881 E: joannawillis@hotmail.com Preserve the actual size, shape and lines of your baby’s tiny hands and feet in a 3-dimensional casting, mounted on a classic antique-style frame.
Island Child
resource directory Retail ~ STORES: Children’s Clothing, Furniture, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
Retail ~ STORES: Children’s Clothing, Furniture, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
COURTENAY firefly : new beginnings 435 5th Street, Courtenay T: 250-703-2848 Maternity, baby, kids & now consignment!
Dreamland Kids 3194 Douglas Street, Victoria T: 250-381-5437 Furniture, room decor, toys and more! **See ad page 13
Kradle’s Baby Boutique 226 5th Street, Courtenay T: 250-703-9516 Spoil Someone Special
JamTots Baby & More Store 748 Goldstream Avenue, Victoria T: 250-478-1737, 1-888-703-8687 www.jamtots.com
DUNCAN Indigo Childrens Consignment 131 Station Street, Duncan T: 250-709-2042 Toys, clothes, car seats, furniture, maternity **See ad page 6
Scallywags 624 Fort Street, Victoria T: 250-360-2570 www.scallywags-island.ca
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 6 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. QUALICUM BEACH Hard Candy Baby Boutique 12 - 221 Second Ave W, Qualicum Beach T: 250-752-4769 Cool kicks and clothes for kids! 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! TOFINO Tuff Kids Boutique 381 Main Street, Tofino T: 250-725-3290 www.ukeebaby.ca Clothing, toys, accessories. VICTORIA Bellies in Bloom Maternity 104 - 4489 Viewmont Ave, Victoria T: 250-479-0803 www.belliesinbloommaternity.com Clothesline Clothing Royal Oak Shopping Centre T: 250-479-0800 www.clotheslineclothing.ca
Sprouts Kids 202 - 536 Herald Street, Victoria T: 250-388-9525 www.sproutskid.com Scrapbooking _____________________________________ Creative Memories Consultant 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. Sexual Health _____________________________________ Power Up Work Shops www.powerupworkshops.ca T: 250-248-5053, Kerri E: kerri@powerupworkshops.ca Power Up workshops provide a fun and relaxed atmosphere where individuals can increase their knowledge, motivation and skills to achieve optimal sexual health. Single Parents & Step Families _____________________________________ Single Parent Resource Centre of Victoria www.singleparentvictoria.ca T: 250-385-1114 E: lhinda@singleparentvictoria.ca Sleep Consultants _____________________________________ Cheeky Chops www.cheekychops.ca T: 778-552-0069, Dawnn Whittaker Baby Contentment and Sleep Consultant Ultrasound 3D _____________________________________ 3D Baby Vision, fetal imaging 202 - 4489 Viewmont Avenue, Victoria T: 250-744-2234 E: victoria@3dbaby.ca
Page 23
Modern â&#x20AC;˘ Newly Renovated â&#x20AC;˘ Move in Condition
Newly renovated 3 bedroom 1 bathroom house for sale. Modern, updated colours, new floors, stylish kitchen, functional living room and wood burning stove. Adventure playground in the back yard. Friendly neighbourhood. Quiet street. Level road for learning to ride a bike. Parks and trails just down the road. Move in condition. $289,900 Call Danielle Strom or Vanessa Rocchio to view. 250.746.6621 MLS# 303104