resources for pregnancy & parenting
island
priceless
Cover Photography: Mary Jane Howland Photography
Spring 2010
Mom-Made on Vancouver Island
family Game Night how to make it more fun
the name of the game is organized Mom Entrepreneur 101 what you need to know
Spring 2010
Volume 5
Issue 20
...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 Lahay COVER MODELS Caley W ~ 29 yrs Petra ~ 5 weeks COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Mary Jane Howland Photography 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
T
CONTRIBUTORS Judy Arnall Sarah Burnham Minnow Hamilton Darren Johnson Aly Johnson Lara Leontowich Aaron Little Robin Little Hayley Picard Cari Snell 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~ 8~ 9~ 10 ~ 11 ~ 12 ~ 13 ~ 15 ~ 16 ~ 17 ~ 18 ~ 19 ~ 20 ~
Mom Entrepreneur 101 The Mommy Consultant Second Time Around Can I Get the Recipe The Name of the Game is Organized The Savvy Guide to Spring Golden Games Olympics, Smurf Style New Business Venture: Childs Play 101 New Business Venture: Special Delivery Spotlight on Business Family Game Night Mission Possible Today’s Must Haves When Your Child has Cerebral Palsy Resource Directory
Island Child is published four times per year. Opinions expressed by contributing writers may not necessarily reflect those of the Editor.
isa
L Ella &
his past March, I decided to make a break for it, gra my daughter and head someplace warm. There were some amazing last minute deals to be had, if you had the patience and scheduling flexibility to wait them out. We elected to visit Varadero Cuba. Most young vacationers search out the best resorts, the best beaches, the best restaurants, the best clubs. These two gals searched out orphanages and schools to visit underprivleged children. I thought this would be an amazing opportunity to show Ella how children in other parts of our world live, lots without mommies and daddies to love them and care for them. Armed with a large suitcase full of clothes, coloring books, crayons, and shoes, we bussed from our hotel over an hour to a very uncomfortable part of Cuba. From there, we went on our Spanish speaking bus driver’s directions (note: we speak zero Spanish!), and we walked and walked in 35 degree heat to eventually stumble upon what turned out to be the orphanage we Googled prior to leaving Canada. What we saw there was amazing. Upwards of 100 children, aged 6mos to 10yrs, lying on tiny cots with their first names written with a Sharpie at the foot of the cot. These cots lined the halls. The bedrooms were overcrowded. Children everywhere. We learned that there are three adult ladies who run this orphanage. Three motherly figures for that many children was heartbreaking. The suitcase we brought barely made a dent in what this place needed. They were overjoyed and very grateful to unpack all the coloring books and crayons. The smiles on the childrens’ faces was something else. We knew that our small gesture went a long way. We have taken from our experience in Cuba some amazing memories, and if Cuban laws allowed adopting out of their country, I would have taken with me a handful or more of those adorable babies!
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Mom Entrepreneur 101:
Lara Leontowich
This is an article that gives you the hard reality of what it takes to start a business, make it successful and bring home a decent income ... all while running a happy and healthy home.
I
am proud to say I am a Mom Entrepreneur and I truly love working from home. Yet five years ago when I started my business, I would have never realized what a growing experience it would be. People who know me well will tell you that I am not the most patient person. The reality for me was that starting and running a successful business takes time. This article was written to give future Mom Entrepreueurs a few hints of what it is like to start at the bottom and work all the way up. Enjoy your time getting there because once you reach the top the view is amazing and so rewarding! My wish is that this article helps future Mom Entrepreneurs avoid some of the hurdles that I encountered. Since 2005 I’ve been a Mom Entrepreneur and nothing prepared me for all the hard work it took to stay at home with my son while bringing home an income. Despite my background in sales and marketing, post-secondary education, and work experience in large corporations, I have learned the most as an Entrepreneur. At times you might even be so stressed that you feel like throwing in the towel. On an average day, I’m the website designer, the bookkeeper, the marketing guru, the receptionist, and my own assistant. And did I mention that I am my own assistant? If you don’t have the skill for a particular area then you have to hire someone. The reality is that many Entrepreneurs do not feel they can justify the extra costs to hire help when they are first starting out on their new business venture. Your Idea So you have this amazing idea for a product or service. Fantastic! Have you done your research? How much does it cost you to produce your product or service? Is anyone else offering the same product or service and if so, how are you going to distinguish your product or service from theirs? If your idea is tied to one of your hobbies, can you successfully turn it into a business and step up your productivity? As Mom Entrepreneur, don’t expect to work the typical 9am to 5pm. For me, it’s not uncommon to be up at 5am answering emails or completing a project before my son awakes up. Starting Capital Discussing money is only fun if you’re making it. If you are continually spending money before you see any sales, it can feel quite discouraging. On average, new businesses spend about $5,000 - $10,000 just getting started.
If you need inventory or rental space, your initial startup investment can be much higher. Every business needs a well-established brand. Hiring a designer to create your company logo can cost in the $500 to $1,000 range. It is not uncommon to take a business loan and not collect a salary for the first couple of years until such time your business is well established. Building Your Brand Remember the mantra: Promote, Promote, Promote. When running a business or launching a product, people need to see your company logo, brand or products from three to 27 times before they act upon it. If you want to brand your business, consider scheduling high-profile promotions in front of your customers as frequently as possible. As a tradeshow producer, I have often heard business owners who at first hesitated about investing in a tradeshow booth then realized very impressive, long-term results through the face-to-face contact with their customers. You need to promote your product continually during the first two years in order to really reap the benefits in the years to come. You can develop consistent brand awareness by placing an advertisement in your local magazine, exhibiting in a tradeshow or creating a Facebook and Twitter advertising campaign for your business. Consider this comparison, even the Superstore “No Name Brand” promotes its product line. Keep Going All too often I see new Mom Entrepreneurs give up too early in their business ventures. As a business owner you must be flexible enough to cope with trying out new ideas which don’t always work the first time. So you have to make adjustments and keep trying. Despite what might be happening in your day, if you are able to keep up with the excitement, enthusiasm and support to push forward, you’re more likely to be successful as a Mom Entrepreneur for years to come. _________________________________________________ Lara Leontowich is a proud Mom Entrepreneur and owner of Runners and Booties Fitness and Westcoast Moms Network. She is also the producer of Bellies to Babies Celebration Tradeshow in Vancouver, BC. She resides in Coquitlam, BC with her spirited five year old son and eight month old dog.
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The Mommy Consultant: Preparing you for Motherhood Q: I am due soon with my first child and I am very nervous about completing my EI correctly for maternity leave. How do I know I have done it right? ~Natasha~ A: Take a deep breath and relax because you are not alone. Any time people are required to fill out applications for government approval, nerves become a little frayed.
Sarah Burnham
This will ensure that your request matches with what you have applied for and that all the necessary paperwork is filled out. You will want to consider line-ups, time of day, and the amount of time necessary to fill out your application when deciding if your baby comes with you. This process could be upwards of two hours. You may want to bring your spouse or a friend for support.
At week 30, go online to www.servicecanada.gc.ca to review what paperwork you require to fill out your application, as well as where it can be obtained. Just be aware that some paperwork will not be available until the day you decide to go on Maternity Leave (eg. your record of employment). This is also the first day you can submit your EI application.
Being prepared is half the battle. Oh, and don’t forget to breathe.
You have the option of filling out your application at your local Service Canada Center (SCC) or completing it online. If you choose to go in person someone will be there to help and instruct you. If you apply online you will still need to go to the SCC to sign some papers. At that time, ask to have someone review your application before it is processed.
In this new column, Sarah will help prepare you for motherhood. 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.
__________________________________________ Sarah Burnham is the author of The Mommy Consultant: Guide and Checklists to Make You the Most Prepared Mom You Can Be. Sarah is using her experiences and knowledge to become the arms and legs of expectant and new parents.
Sarah can be reached at mommyconsultant@shaw.ca.
Happy kids are grass stained... John Close
Organic Lawn Specialist 250-597-0408 john@lushecolawns.com www.lushecolawns.com
Ukee Baby Boutique ukee
baby
"Stylin' the West Coast Kid" funky fashions and toys for NB-14
we take phone orders and ship internationally
www.ukeebaby.ca
250.726.4242 250 Main Street, Ucluelet
Island Child
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Second Time Around:
S
o once again I find myself in a peculiar position ... ‘up the pole’ I think the British folk say. Pregnant, for the rest of us. It has been exactly 2½ years since the last time I was here, and much like last time, I am surprised! When I was pregnant with my first child Ava (born September 2007), I had only been dating my partner for a few months and I actually didn’t even know I was pregnant for the first three months (I am presently passing the 3-month mark now and I can only shake my head at how I didn’t know!). Then, much like now, I continued to get ‘mock’ periods that lulled me into a false sense of security and allowed me to ignore the morning sickness (sudden lactose intolerance?), tummy protrusion (ok, that’s enough New York Fries), and fatigue (mono?). But this time around, at thirteen weeks (and due one week after Ava’s big day), there is just no denying my ‘up the pole’ status. I am cranky, tired, craving Cheetos, tired, light-headed, tired. Oh, did I mention extremely tired? I remember when I was pregnant with Ava, a friend who was pregnant second told me how much more run-down she felt this time around.
Roxanne Weech
She thought maybe it was because she also had a four-year-old to take care of. At the time, I had no real idea of what she was talking about. I was working parttime, riding high on just finishing my BA, and had all the time in the world to take cat naps and lounge poolside. Those days seem very far behind me now. I am just over three months and instead of finding out that I am pregnant, this time I am finding out that this fatigue is not going away. I have a toddler, a partner to care for, a home to run, a full-time job, and the demand of my days pushes me onto the couch at the end of the day. Luckily, I have a partner who is understanding and who lets me nod off while he cooks dinner and answers Ava’s trillions of questions. Unlike the first time around, I do feel blessed not to feel so frightened about what’s to come. I know I have a network of people who love me, a job to go back to, and the potential to deliver and raise a happy, healthy child. I also now have the wisdom of a true mother: this too will pass. _________________________________________________ Roxanne Weech is full-time career counsellor and mother of a precocious toddler with another on the way. She and her partner are raising their little family in the Cowichan Valley.
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
Island Child
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Can I Get The Recipe?: Cari Snell
Can I get the Recipe? is a free site providing weekly recipes complete with shopping lists, cookbook features, product giveaways and more. Subscribe today to start getting your weekly updates at www.canigettherecipe.com.
Mac and Cheese with Butternut Squash, serves 4 Can I Get the Recipe Tip: The mellowness of roasted squash adds a nice creamy texture to the pasta, as well as added vitamins. Double this recipe and freeze the remaining pasta in a separate container (minus the Panko topping) for dinner another night.
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
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salt spring island 250.537.1151
Ingredients: 1½ cups butternut squash, peeled & cut into 1/2-inch cubes olive oil 3/4 pound penne pasta 1 medium onion 1 tablespoon butter 1/8 cup flour 1 cup milk 1/2 cup heavy cream 1½ cups grated cheddar cheese 3/4 cup grated gruyere dry mustard salt pepper Panko crumbs Directions: Put the squash in a small roasting pan and coat with a little olive oil. Roast at 400 F for 30 - 45 minutes until soft and starting to brown. Set aside.
Island Child
Can I Get the Recipe ... Continued from page 6 Cook pasta according to directions, drain and set aside. Preheat oven to 350 F. Heat a small skillet over low heat. Slice onion very thin. Add onion to skillet and saute slowly until brown and carmelized. Mix into pasta. In a small saucepan melt butter over med-low heat. Add flour and stir constantly for one minute. Do not allow to brown. Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Stir until hot and smooth and slightly thickened, about one minute. Turn heat to low and add cheese. Whisk until melted. Add a pinch of dry mustard and salt and pepper to taste. Butter a glass casserole dish. Add pasta, onions, butternut squash and cheese sauce. Mix well until cheese sauce covers everything. Sprinkle panko over the top. Bake for 25 minutes. New customers to www.spud.ca ... Get $25 off your first 4 orders with minimum $25 order. Use Promo Code: CIGTR10 when signing up!
Caring Learning Diversity Guidance Fun www.milesofsmileschildcare.com
250.298.7374
Page 7
Island Child
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The Name of the Game is Organized making Island Moms Savvy Moms What’s the name of the game? Spring cleaning! How do you play? Fast! Why do you play? To get organized!
W
ith references to ‘thumping’ university drinking games aside (call it our misspent youth), the point we’re making is that we just don’t have the time to spend on spring cleaning that our moms and our moms’ moms used to. As with most aspects of our modern lives, efficiency rules the day. So over the years, we’ve developed a savvy spring cleaning approach that’s all about making a game plan to deal with the various hot zones one by one in small chunks of time. Set aside a time (15 to 30 minutes, that’s all you’ll need) every week for the next six weeks or so (we find Saturday afternoon works well, or one evening a week). Keep that appointment like you would any other appointment, pick a high-impact cleaning job and you’ll be ready for spring without too much pain. Focus on finishing one task before moving on to the next (just like a quarterback). It enhances your sense of accomplishment, ensures that the job is done, minimizes household chaos and improves your overall productivity. Recruit the kids where appropriate - they really do love to help - and make a game out of it. So what are those 30-minute workouts anyway? Kitchen: Spring Thaw • Go through the freezer and set a family goal of eating up all the food so you can make room for summer produce - have some fun thinking of recipes to use everything up. • Sort through canned goods. If you haven’t used them in a year and they are not past any expiry date, consider donating them to a food bank. • Find another home for two things you usually keep on the kitchen counter (how often do you use that popcorn maker anyway?) and create some visual calm for an easier-to-clean surface. • Attack the plastic storage containers! You really don’t need as many as you think you do. And if you have mismatched lids and bottoms - off to the recycle bin! Basement or Playroom: Toy Drive • Get the kids involved in putting all the toys back in order, making a sorting game out of it. Designate boxes or bins (we like to hot-glue a piece to the side for recognition) for loose toys like Lego or play food and have them put everything in, “like with like”.
• Rotate the location of toys - some in the kitchen, playroom or bedroom. When you switch them up, they become ‘new’ (and more played with as a result). Living/Family Room: Clear It Up • Find at least one cluttered surface such as the coffee table or bookshelf and completely clear it of clutter. Kids can help by taking things back to where they belong while you concentrate on de-cluttering and throwing things out that are no longer needed. Front or Back Hall: Changing of the Guard • Put winter clothing away (time this one well - one warm weekend does not a spring make) after washing it to make room for summer necessities. • Set up an easy-to-reach bin for each family member for hats, sunglasses and sunscreen and they’ll be much more likely to put things where they belong. Garage: Gear Shift • Move the skis and hockey equipment to the back and bring bikes, trikes, hose and rakes to the front. • Get an old laundry basket for the balls (maybe another for sand and gardening toys if you have them) and a deep pail (the all-purpose ones hardware stores sell), and encourage the kids to put the toys back in there once they are finished playing. Office: Filing Away • Create a file for each child to store information on camps and/or activity so you have one designated spot to check the oh-so-important ‘What to Bring’ list (and check out our Mom Stash while you are at it for more must-haves-in-case-ofemergencies). • Do a mini file purge (we know, the whole thing is too overwhelming). Just pick the first five in the drawer and weed through them for unneeded paper - next season do another five. So keep your head in the game by choosing one thing at a time and working room by room. It’s not as overwhelming as you think - start with those plastic containers and it’s a win! For more solutions to mom’s everyday dilemmas, sign up for your own free SavvyMom newsletter online at www.savvymom.ca.
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The Savvy Guide to Spring
E
making Island Moms Savvy Moms
ggs are, without a doubt, the pre-eminent symbol of April (preferably chocolate ones), so this month we’re celebrating fertility, chocolate, and Mother Earth. You see the connections? We’re looking to eat chocolate and to keep our earth as fertile as we can by protecting it. Here’s how: DO Plant a sunflower seed in a pot. Why? Because they sprout easily indoors and then you can move it outside when the weather gets warmer. The kids will love watching it grow and they’ll be amazed at how big it gets. GO To the Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt (CFB) Naval Dockyard. Why? As a part of the celebration of the centennial of the Canadian Navy, free tours are being offered until August 21 that cover naval history, heritage buildings, interactive activities and more fun. So you can be patriotic and play all at once. GET Some cool rain boots for you and the kids. Why? Because puddle splashing makes rainy days so much more fun, and the only way to do so is in style. We found these fab Tretorn Skerry splashers for the kids online at one of our fave shoe stores, Getoutside. They have tons of options for Mom and Dad too, with every colour and style of Hunter Wellies, Amaort boots (folding Japanese rubber boots) and many more. READ The Country Bunny and the Little Gold Shoes by DuBose Heyward. Why? Because this Bunny-Mama is as savvy as it gets, managing to be the mom of 21 kids and still beating everyone out to attain the exalted (and traditionally male-dominated) position of the Easter Bunny. Aside from being a great Easter story, it also provides an inspiring message for your little bunnies.
SURF www.swapsity.ca Why? Because it’s a fabulous way to get into the green spirit and do some spring cleaning as well. Recycle your unwanted items through this online bartering community and using their unique matching tool, find items that you’ve been looking for yourself. GREEN IT Celebrate Earth Day on April 22 with your kids. Why? Because there are community events across Canada that you can get involved in. Start by getting the kids to help clean up your own yard or a local park and encourage the neighbours to join you. We have lots of good ideas for you to get started. DEAL IT Freshen up your child’s room with bits of love - letters, that is - by using code SavvyMom for 10% off any purchase at www.kidsloveletters.com until August 31. Why? Because Kids’ Love Letters are personalized wall art pieces made using designer fabrics that are playful and decorative. And they show your love, of course. HELP Villages Pizza Adopt-a-Night Program fundraiser. Why? Because they’ve teamed up with the Times Colonist 10K race (on April 25) and are offering to donate 10% of the money from each pizza ordered and picked up (at select locations) to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. So you can feel good about ordering lots of pizza for a change! If you focus on chocolate and Mother Earth this month, you can’t go wrong. For more solutions to mom’s everyday dilemmas, sign up for your own free SavvyMom newsletter online at www.savvymom.ca.
Next issue Summer 2010 ... Book by June 5th ... Street date June 30th
220
7AGON TO
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Golden Games:
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Aly & Darren Johnson
W
hether we were for or against it happening, the 2010 Olympic Winter Games arrived in Vancouver. I think anyone who even took part in as much as walking around downtown Vancouver, truly felt something inside these Games they didn’t expect. Although I was excited, I still had very little idea how captivating such an event could be. My daughter is three and my son is two. In my eye, not the ideal age to drag kids with you to various events, but it was ... and it turned out to be so much more than the Games. To many adults, I am sure it is the sense of pride and accomplishment when we win. Children have an uncanny ability to find and feed off the underlying. With the energy in the crowds, the camaraderie and spirit all around, how could they not? How could we not? It is a type of magic as I have never witnessed before, as seen through the eyes of innocence. It was more than just Olympic Mascots, who none the less were a huge hit with children, it was about dreams. All those Olympic hopefuls hold dreams in their hearts; the same as we do in our own children. And as my daughter twirled around the living room, mimicking the elegant ice dancers, if only for a second, I let go and simply dreamed with her. The World was here ... to take in, to experience, to change. During that final game, as kids played hockey in the back yard and parents never let their eyes blink from the TV, I heard my son yell “GOAL!” His arms were up in the air as he called to everyone inside “I scored the Gold Medal!” I realized how much we won, as a country, as people, as a world. In our youth, in our future, we have our Gold Medals. _________________________________________________ Darren and Aly Johnson are parents of two beautiful children and reside in the Lower Mainland. Aly is the MomPreneur behind Aly Dahl Designs, an online jewellry making business and a good friend of mine from our Elementary School days on Vancouver Island.
Island Child
Olympics, Smurf Style: Hayley Picard
W
ith my blue jacket on, mountain pants tied securely at my waist and smurf coloured toque pulled down to my ears, I stepped into Whistler Medals as a Vancouver 2010 Olympic Volunteer on February 12th, 2010. It would be an amazing sports experience. My love for sports, fitness and event Sawyemrpian ly marketing drove me to future O apply for a volunteer position in early 2008, shortly after which I conceived my daughter Rowan. I proceeded through the entire interview and screening process while pregnant and was elated when shortly after she was born, I received an email offering me a position with VANOC in Whistler. Medals Plaza buzzed each night with a plethora of different languages, and colours swirled with flags from every country on the planet. My smurf blue outfit set me apart from everyone ... I was considered the “face of the games”, so I was not permitted to show on my face how the rain, snow or icy wind, which blew down the mountain each night, affected me. My fitness warm-up routines served me well as I stomped my feet, rolled my shoulders, jogged on the spot, danced back and forth while monitoring the stand-by line, and grooved to the nightly music entertainment as I moved throughout the plaza ... all while keeping a smile on my face and saying “hello” in as many languages as I had learned so far. After two weeks, with the energy of the Olympic Games fresh in my heart, I zipped my smurf jacket, waved farewell to my new friends, and hoped to share the positive spirit of the games with clients and friends back in the Cowichan Valley. ________________________________________________ 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.
Page 11
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
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New Business Venture:
ChildsPlay 101 carmen scott & cindy donatelli
C
hildsPlay101 was an idea that came about after years of listening to parents talk about their frustrations when trying to plan extra-curricular activities for their children. The information was spread out over so many different websites and program guides that it was difficult, and time consuming, to find just the right program for their child.
CleanChoice eco-friendly cleaning services
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tracey@cleanchoicecleaners.com or 250-929-8381 insured ~ licensed ~ bonded
Carmen and Cindy, two Victoria mothers who attended the University of Victoria in the mid-70s, wondered why there was not one central place for all this information. They saw a need in the community and filled it. Parents can now easily review all the programs over all the facilities in and around Greater Victoria. No more wondering if there is something else out there that might fit the bill. No more scrambling when a program is cancelled days before it was about to start. Parents can now browse through all the different types of activities; they may have been unaware of just how many different types of programs are offered. ChildsPlay101 makes it easy for parents to find programs tailored specifically to their children. ChildsPlay101 is an interative website which showcases all the options for getting your children active and involved in the community. It also provides a free and easy way for clubs and organizations to promote the children’s programs that they offer. ChildsPlay101 lists over 4,000 activities/programs for children between the ages of 3 and 16. There are over 230 facilities, organizations and local companies participating. It is free to use and free to list a program. www.childsplay101.com
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New Business Venture:
julaan creations J
advent calendars
ulaan Creations is a Kamloops-based company run by three wild and creative women who banded together looking for a change from their usual 9 to 5. The idea of an advent calendar to celebrate pregnancy was born during a social evening where one gal in the group was sharing with the other ladies her anticipation and joy in turning the next page in her pregnancy-by-the-day book. It reminded the ladies of excited children opening their Christmas Advent calendars. Ideas for the contents of the windows ranged from quality chocolate (who doesn’t love chocolate - pregnant or not?) to other edibles ... then finally a consensus was reached, and the maternity bracelet (where every week of your pregnancy is celebrated) was created.
The unique gift recognizes the journey from week one of the pregnancy with a beautiful bracelet and charm, to the final week, with a bead added weekly as a visual marker of where an expectant mom is in her pregnancy! As the baby grows so does the bracelet. With the arrival of the beautiful baby the bracelet is complete. The bracelet created from the windows of the calendar can either be worn or kept as a keepsake in the baby book. Julaan Creations has added the Sibling Advent Calendar to their line-up, which is all about giving your other children a chance to celebrate and count down each week of your pregnancy as well. Priced at $49.99 and $24.99 respectively, these unique calendars are a great gift for any expectant momma! www.julaan.com
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Island Child
FISHEYEPHOTO.NET 250 383 0564 VICTORIA, BC
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Vancouver Island and Online
Books are $10 and are sold online at www.mammamiascouponbook.com
$1.00 from each book sold will be donated on your behalf to BC Childrens Hospital in support of sick kids in our Province
Island Child
Spotlight on Business: Mom Entrepreneurs
Aly Dahl Designs - Alyson Johnson
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Making Impressions Last
ly Dahl Designs was created by Lower Mainland Mom, Alyson Johnson in 2008, after having her second child. Alyson worked in the financial industry for 15 years and after her son was born it seemed impossible to go back to the high pressure hours and position, so she left the investment world to be home with her two young children. Making the decision to go out on her own and follow her passion for creating and making jewellery, was the scariest and hardest decision she had ever made. It is also the one she is most proud of. Aly Dahl Designs hand crafts one-of-a-kind pieces of jewellery, specializing in taking you and your loved ones fingerprints and casting them in silver or gold; creating remarkable, extremely personal, wearable keepsakes to enjoy. Each piece is personalized and created to each specific order. Once an order is placed, an impression kit is mailed to you. The impression kit is fun and interactive for all ages. Once you mail back your impression(s), your work of art begins and the final product is cast. Possibilities are endless. Fingerprints are merely a beginning. Let your mind explore; from impressions of dog noses, your child’s foot or toe, even your favourite leaf. It is up to you.
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We are looking for you! Imagine selling a product you already love! You choose your own hours! Free gift when you call! Darcie Nolan Tupperware Star Manager Serving Vancouver Island www.twlady.ca
250.327.0587
Don’t Miss This Unique Issue ~ Summer 2010 Dads, Fathers, Grandpas, Uncles, Step Dads ... all the men in our kids’ lives. Completely written by MEN for MEN.
January 2010 marked the official opening of this new business and orders have been coming in ever since. To find out more or to place an order, please visit www.alydahl.com or call (604)970-2595.
mamma mia’s coupon book
Now available in Vancouver Island stores and online! Visit www.mammamiascouponbook.com to purchase online.
Island Child
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Family Game Night:
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t’s that time of the week that everyone looks forward to – Family Game Night! Here are some tips to make it go smoother and more fun for everyone - including Mom! Have a simple dinner. Order in pizza so that there are not many dishes to clean up and cooking is not necessary. If pizza is too expensive, plan to have a “snack” tray instead. Get a set of muffin tins or any compartmentalized tray and serve cheese cubes, fruit cubes, vegetable sticks, a few dips, meat roll-ups, raisins, nuts (not for under four year olds though), crackers, pita pieces, hummus, and various finger foods. This takes hardly any dishes, and Mom is not always getting up between game turns to cook, serve and clean-up dinner. Maintain a missing pieces bucket. Have a catch-all bucket for wayward game pieces, puzzle pieces, dice, and cards that get stuck under the sofa, behind tables and dropped into the carpet. That way, when a certain game is pulled out, the bucket can be checked for “lost” pieces before play begins. Use plastic bags for pieces. When game boxes get wrecked from overuse, use clear locking plastic bags to contain cards and all pieces. Hole punch the bag if you have young children present so it is not a suffocation hazard. Bags are also handy for travelling because they keep out dirt and are less bulky. Roll dice in containers. Save those big plastic clear pill or dip containers for dice containers.
n a nc y . g photography
250-748-8006
w w w. n g d e s i g n s . ca
Judy Arnall
Clean them out really well, and put two dice in them and then snap on the lid. It’s great for little hands to shake the dice and not spill them all over the table and floor. The clear sides allow everyone to see the dice roll. Play co-operative games. The ages of 6 to 8 years are the hardest times for children to accept losing. After eight years of age, it becomes easier for children to deal with the disappointment of not winning. Have a rule that the winner cleans up the game pieces and it might make losing a bit more palatable. Partner up. Assign a non-reading child to an adult partner to help him read his game pieces and/or write his answers, and they will play as a team. With summer coming, consider games that go beyond the kitchen table. Head to the park and play tag, red rover, duckduck-goose, fox and rabbit, and various skipping games. Google the games to find instructions and rules of play on the internet. Buy a big bucket of sidewalk chalk and use your driveway as a huge game board. You could play X’s and 0’s on the driveway as well as hopscotch, Snakes and Ladders and other simple games. Remember that it is not about the type of game, but the sheer joy of spending time together that really matters to your children on family game night. Have fun! _________________________________________________ Judy Arnall is an international award-winning peaceful parenting speaker, and bestselling author of “Discipline Without Distress: 135 tools for raising caring, responsible children without time-out, spanking, punishment or bribery.” Visit www.professionalparenting.ca.
Island Child
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Mission Possible:
one family’s journey across the world to help
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his past November, my husband Aaron and I made a decision that we hope will change the way we live our lives, and that of our three children as well. We have decided to leave our Salt Spring Island home in September 2010 and head down to Perth, Australia for one year. Aaron currently works for his father in his local drywall business. We have been married for almost seven years. I am a stay home Mom to our three children, Kamryn (7), Mikayla (5) and Levi (2). Two years ago I started up my own home based business, r little babe, (rlittlebabe.com), a successful online baby boutique. We love living on Salt Spring Island and feel blessed with the lives we have built here. We belong to Community Gospel Chapel and have chosen to live with Christian values. Once in Perth, we will be joining a non-profit organization called Youth With A Mission (Y.W.A.M.) where Aaron and I will take part in a Discipleship Training School (DTS) for three months of in-depth schooling and teachings. From there, our family will be sent out on a three-month outreach (missions) trip. We will be sent somewhere in the Indian Ocean Gateway where we will work together with our team to spread the gospel and help in that community; doing anything from working in an orphanage, holding seminars, counselling, to evangelism and organizing games for children. The opportunities are endless and the experiences gained will be priceless. We will spend the remaining six months serving on the base, helping where needed.
As you can imagine, this is going to be a huge change for our family. We have lots of decisions to make during the next six months and are already starting to prepare the kids as much as we can. The girls are old enough to understand that we will be leaving home for a year but while we are gone we will learn so much about us as a family and how we can help people in need. We have been talking a lot about what life is like for some people in the world, that although we are able to provide food and toys and little extras for them, that there are some kids in the world who have nothing. I know that as a parent I am always trying to explain to the kids that they should be happy with what they have but they do not fully understand. When we go on the outreach portion of the trip, they will see first-hand what we are talking about. We are so excited to start this journey in the Fall and are thankful that we have been invited to share the journey with you. I have started a blog so anyone interested can follow along and check in every now and again. I will have updates on how we are doing, how homesick we are, and what our needs are. Once we get to Australia we will learn where our outreach location will be so I will post that too. Upon our return to Salt Spring Island, we will share our story with you and how this amazing journey has impacted our family.
The girls will attend school while we are in Perth, and will be home schooled for the three-month outreach. This will be a new challenge for all of us, but another chance to connect with them. Levi will be at preschool while Aaron and I are in school, but the lovely thing about the YWAM base in Perth is that it is totally family-friendly and the kids are just as much a part of this as we are. Although we will be in classes, we will have family time set aside for us in the afternoons to get the kids from school and help with any homework. The financial needs for a Missions trip like this is huge. Through various fundraisers and community support, the Little’s are well on our way to reaching their goal. If you would like to help this amazing young family raise the funds they need for their trip, please contact Robin or Aaron at litrobin@gmail.com. You can also visit the base site, http://www.ywamperth.org.au, where you can directly donate in their names.
The Little’s Blog: http://www.littlesinaussie.blogspot.com
Island Child
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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...
The Happy Zebra - sundresses
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pring is here and local Island mom Sabrina Saunders has come up with some gorgeous sundresses for little girls. Sold exclusively at firefly : new beginnings in Courtenay, these adorable and functional sundresses come in a range of sizes and can fit a range of ages, thanks to some smart design features including a pretty ribbon which ties around the back. On cooler days, these one-of-a-kind dresses can be layered over tops. Some of the dresses coordinate with the gorgeous lined jackets Sabrina makes, and she always takes custom orders. Orders can be placed through firefly or can be emailed to Sabrina at: artsysabi@hotmail.com. firefly is proud to add another mumma-made product to their store’s collection, and encourages a look in-person to see how beautiful these products are. firefly : new beginnings is located at 435 Fifth Street in beautiful Courtenay. Visit www.fireflynewbeginnings.ca. Sabrina can be reached by email at artsysabi@hotmail.com.
Princess Peapod - plush fairy wings
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hese Logan Lake Mom-made plush fairy wings are a must for any young princess. The wings are made from a beautiful pink shimmer cotton fabric with half an inch wide braided elastic straps that make them easy for your little one to put on and take off all by herself. Each set of fairy wings is handmade in a smoke-free home and are very easy to keep clean by wiping or hand washing and laying flat to dry. Available online through an etsy shop (www.etsy.com/shop/cairocloset) or from our friends at Pancia Bella on Station Street in Duncan.
Grasshopper Kidz - Canadian made bamboo clothes
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his is a true made in Canada bamboo product! Featuring fully grown, processed, and sewn-inCanada bamboo fabric, garments are hand screen printed in Victoria on luxurious double thread interlock bamboo. This unique baby and kidswear line is available in navy, black, powder pink, and chocolate with a variety of unique printed motifs. Grasshopper Kidz does not have a website up and running at presstime but this line is available to see in person from our friends at Bellies in Bloom Maternity, Royal Oak in Victoria.
Bbo Bags - personalized photo handbags
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BO BAGS is an innovative company creating unique, personalized photo handbags. The process is simple: you select your favorite style of handbag (including diaper bags!), choose your options, and add your favorite image(s) to it. All bags are created to order, images are actually “baked” into the fabric through what is known as a sublimation process. This process actually embeds the image into the fabric. The result is an extremely clear image that will not fade, crack or peel. Images are printed on a white, high-quality micro fiber. The rest of the bag is also constructed with an extremely durable micro fiber. Some bags also include options for leather upgrades, and all have options for the exterior, lining, and photo finish of your bag! Very unique and one of a kind! Visit www.bbobags.com to customize your personal photo handbag today!
Photo by: Cassandra Smith of Yeosmith Studio
Island Child
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When Your Child has Cerebral Palsy
erebral palsy is a general term for a group of disorders that appear during the first few years of life and affect a child’s ability to coordinate body movements. Cerebral palsy can cause muscles to be weak and floppy, or rigid and stiff. In Europe and the United States, cerebral palsy occurs in about 2 to 4 out of every 1,000 births. Babies born prematurely or at low birth weights are at higher risk. The disorder is usually caused by brain injuries that occur early in the course of development. Cerebral palsy isn’t curable. However, getting the right therapy for your child can make a big difference. Symptoms: In general, children with cerebral palsy exhibit a wide variety of signs and symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. They may include: • Lack of muscle coordination when performing voluntary movements (ataxia) • Stiff muscles and exaggerated reflexes (spasticity) • Asymmetrical walking gait, with one foot or leg dragging • Variations in muscle tone, from too stiff to too floppy • Excessive drooling or difficulties swallowing, sucking or speaking • Tremors • Difficulty with precise motions, such as writing or buttoning a shirt The brain injury causing cerebral palsy does not change with time, so the symptoms usually do not worsen with age. Other neurological disorders - such as mental retardation or seizures - also may occur in children with cerebral palsy.
Causes: Most cases of cerebral palsy are believed to be caused by problems that occur before the baby is born, although some cases have been linked to brain injuries or infections during the first few months or years of life. Doctors can’t always determine the root cause of the brain damage that results in cerebral palsy. Prevention: Most cases of cerebral palsy cannot be prevented, despite the best efforts of parents and doctors. But, if you’re pregnant, you can take these steps to keep healthy and minimize the possibility of pregnancy complications: • Make sure you’re immunized. Immunization against diseases such as rubella may prevent an infection that could cause fetal brain damage. • Take care of yourself. The healthier you are heading into a pregnancy, the less likely you’ll be to develop an infection that may result in cerebral palsy. • Seek early and continuous prenatal care. Regular visits to your doctor during your pregnancy are a good way to reduce health risks to you and your unborn baby. Seeing your doctor regularly can help prevent premature birth, low birth weight and infections. Content provided by MayoClinic.com Christopher Jason is a 6-year-old Salt Spring Island boy who was diagnosed with Cerebral palsy at birth. His parents have done years of research on various treatments for Cerebral palsy and have decided to take him to the XCell-Centre located at the Dominikus hospital in Germany for stem cell therapy. The XCell-Center’s Cerebral palsy treatment differs from standard methods in that it attacks the root cause of Cerebral palsy inside the brain. Stem cell therapy is a drug-free alternative focused on affecting physical changes in the brain that can improve a child’s quality of life. Almost 70% of the Cerebral palsy patients treated at the XCell-Center show improvement. The results are, but not limited to, improved motor skills, better speech, and improved balance and coordination. This is an expensive treatment that is not yet offered in North America. The cost for treatment alone is around 10,000 euros plus flight and accommodation expenses for the family for the 7-day stay that is required.
www.christopherjason.ca
To learn more about Christopher Jason and his family, please visit www.christopherjason.ca, where you can read all about the various fundraising events put in place by friends and family. Your support means a lot to this local family.
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 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 La Leche League Support T: 250-746-1601, Christy E: christydurnion@hotmail.com NANAIMO La Leche League Support T: 250-754-5853, Bridget Nanaimo Breastfeeding Centre T: 250-755-3388 Individual breastfeeding counselling and support.
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
Page 20 Child Care Daycares, Preschools, Nannies _____________________________________ 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.
Child Care Daycares, Preschools, Nannies _____________________________________
SALTSPRING ISLAND Saltspring Daycare and Preschool T: 250-537-2114
International Nannies T: 800-820-8308 Free instant access to 100s of nanny profiles
Tree Frog Daycare T: 250-653-4998
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.
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.
DUNCAN Arcadian Day Care Centre T: 250-748-3922 Happy, safe and caring environment. Ages 3 to 5. Early Childhood Educators.
Miles of Smiles T: 250-298-7374 www.milesofsmileschildcare.com **See ad page 7
Kidzco Learning Centre T: 250-746-4027 Stimulating environment that includes each child’s uniqueness. 30 months to 5 years.
Nightingale Preschool and Jr Kindergarten T: 250-595-7544 www.nightingalepreschool.com Taking children’s learning forward, balanced approach to play and education.
Kingdom Treasures Christian Preschool T: 250-746-0110 Maureen’s Angels T: 250-715-1946 Infant and toddler group care. Sunrise Waldorf School T: 250-743-7253 Parent & Child, Nursery and K to 8. LAKE COWICHAN Kaatza Child Care T: 250-749-6422 NANAIMO Four Seasons Montessori Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo T: 250-758-8979 Full day and half day programs plus enrichment and French. Nanaimo Montessori School Waddington Road, Nanaimo T: 753-0649 Empowered children who model behaviours that contribute to better communities.
Ross Bay Preschool T: 250-383-7445 E: rossbaypreschool@shaw.ca Chiropractic _____________________________________ 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 **See ad page 4
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. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder _____________________________________ 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. **See ad page 7 Dr. Amy Wells Naturopathic Family Physician 1 - 2311 Rosewall Crescent, Courtenay T: 250-871-2600
Island Child
resource directory Home Schooling _____________________________________
Music and Dance _____________________________________
Wondertree Homelearners’ Network T: 250-754-1227, Suzanne www.wondertree.org Providing homeschooling registration across BC; supporting self-directed learning.
Nanaimo Conservatory of Music T: 250-754-4611 www.ncmusic.ca Kindermusik, a good beginning never ends.
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 4 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. VICTORIA Access Midwifery T: 250-380-6329 Serving Esquimalt, Western Communities & Victoria Music and Dance _____________________________________ Adage Studio T: 250-709-4048 www.adagestudio.com Offering Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Acting, Adult Dance Fit, Adult Pilates, Salsa and African Contemporary BC Boys Choir T: 1-888-909-8282 www.bcboyschoir.org MoonDance Dynamic Arts School T: 250-743-5846 www.MoonDanceArts.ca West African Dance & Drumming, Dance from India, Hip Hop & more! **See ad page 5
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.
Page 21 Party Planning _____________________________________
Photography _____________________________________
A Perfect Party by Cody T: 250-384-6266, Kris www.perfectpartybycody.com/VictoriaBC Party supplies for all occasions delivered to your door.
Sheri Jackson Photography www.sherijacksonphoto.ca T: 250-740-5904, Sheri Artistic, babies, kids, families, maternity, weddings. **See ad page 6
A Piece of Cake! Children’s Parties T: 250-715-0286, Nicole www.childrensparties.ca Children’s party planning consultant.
Play Therapy _____________________________________
Giggle Box Party Rentals T: 250-882-1865, Kim www.gigglebox.ca Specializing in children’s party theme rentals.
VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Nancy McDougall, RN, CPT T: 250-744-8879, Nancy Supporting children and their families.
Salsa Babies and Salsa Tots T: 604-461-7827 www.runnersandbootiesfitness.com Dance back into shape with baby as partner! **See ad page 12
Goodies Galore T: 250-510-1522, Johanna Goodie bags - birthdays, holidays, baby showers, incentive for students / children.
Poison Centre _____________________________________
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. 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 4 www.canigettherecipe.com www.cowichanvalleykids.com www.dinnervibe.com www.kidsinnanaimo.com www.kidsinvictoria.com www.MyBabyStuff.ca www.savvymom.ca www.childsplay101.com 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 15 Party Planning _____________________________________ 99 in the Shade Balloons & More www3.telus.net/99intheShade Over 70 kids party themes, party favours and pinatas, online ordering available
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 5 Fisheye Photography www.fisheyephoto.net T: 250-383-0564, Martine **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. **Cover photo photographer
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.
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 16
VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Belly Love T: 250-748-6080, Kris Lang Prenatal & Postpartum massage and yoga instruction.
Natural Moments Photography www.naturalmomentsphotography.ca T: 250-818-5708, Berle Portraits, landscapes, special occasions captured in a session designed for you!
Mambo Moms: Fitness Fun For Baby & Mom
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. **See ad page 5
Fit 4 Two Pre and Post Natal Fitness www.fit4two.ca 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 year round - Mayfair Mall and Woodgrove Centre. **See ad page 13
Island Child
resource directory
Page 22 Retail ~ ONLINE: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
Retail ~ ONLINE: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
Aly Dahl Designs www.alydahl.com Handcrafted bespoken jewelry created from reclaimed pure silver. **See ad page 12
my Kidsquarters www.mykidsquarters.com
Pre and Postnatal Yoga, Massage and Fitness _____________________________________
Retail ~ CONSIGNMENT: Clothing & Accessories _____________________________________
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.
LAKE COWICHAN Izzy & Ollie’z Children’s Consignment 104 South Shore Road, Lake Cowichan T: 250-749-3229
Mothering Touch Prenatal Yoga taught by specialized perinatal yoga teachers. Monday and Thursdays from 5:30-7 Sundays from 2:30-4
PARKSVILLE And Tiger ... Two! 138 Middleton Avenue, Parksville T: 250-954-0051
Bare Organics www.bareorganics.ca Organic skin care products for mama and baby, new baby and new parent gift baskets.
VICTORIA A to Z Kids 801 Goldstream Avenue, Victoria T: 250-474-7769
Bealoo Kid’s Decor www.bealoo.etsy.com Fun and funky art decor for babies and kids
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 Real Estate _____________________________________ Sarah Binab, Binab Strasser T: 250-360-1929 E: sarah@binabstrasser.com www.binabstrasser.com Helping families find the perfect neighborhood! 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 _____________________________________ 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 Melissa & Doug, Robeez, Bumbo, Padraigs **See ad Back Page
NANAIMO Kit n’ Caboodle Quality Childrens Consignment 36 - 1925 Bowen Road, Nanaimo T: 250-585-KIDS (5437)
Clothesline Clothing Royal Oak Shopping Centre T: 250-479-0800 www.clotheslineclothing.ca Casual, fashionable, affordable! Little Treasures Children’s Consignment 1606 Stanley Avenue, Victoria T: 250-590-4228 www.shoplittletreasures.ca 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! 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 13 La Mama Maternity 620 Broughton Street, Victoria T: 250-388-3977 www.lamamamaternity.com Maternity wear, nursing wear, diaper bags & more! **See ad page 11 Mothering Touch 975 Fort Street, Victoria T: 250-595-4905 www.MotheringTouch.ca The place for new & expectant parents. **See ad page 13
Apples ‘n’ Oranges www.apples-n-oranges.com Your online shop for childresnwear 0 - 5. Baby ‘n Me www.babynme.ca Hip unique gear and natural care.
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 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.
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! 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 Sacred Baby www.sacredbaby.com Designer baby gear for the modern parent. Saplings Sustainable Kids Decor www.saplings.ca Creating ‘green’ spaces where children play, sleep & dream. **See ad page 15 Snug Bug Clothing www.snugbugclothing.com SOXY www.soxy.ca Fabulous, affordable sox for women and children. 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 16 YOU Pillows www.YOUpillows.com A must-have for mom, baby and the whole family!
Kissed Baby www.kissedbaby.com Canada’s fashionable, comfortable, unpadded baby slings (and more!) **See ad page 10
Retail ~ ONLINE: Products and Services for Mom and Baby _____________________________________
Mega Mood Baby Boutique www.megamood.com
AB Corp The Identakey - create custom ID cards, all stored on a USB flash drive. www.abcorp.ca
Milk Factory www.milkfactory.com Momo Design House www.momodesignhouse.com Durable linen baby slings, silky bamboo bedding, organic cotton onesies. Free shipping offer.
Cards by Kids www.cardsbykids.ca One-of-a-kind greeting cards by your favorite artists ... your KIDS! CARES, Kids Fly Safe www.kidsflysafe.com FAA certified child aviation safety device.
Island Child
resource directory Retail ~ ONLINE: Products and Services for Mom and Baby _____________________________________ Craft Caravan www.craftcaravan.com New crafts every month, fun mail for kids! Easy Daysies www.easydaysies.com Magnetic schedules for kids. Fun Pass www.funpass.ca Silly stuff, smiles and giggles online. **See ad page 10 Happy Island Diaper Service www.happyislanddiapers.com T: 866-922-7377 or 250-591-7000 Changing the world one bottom at a time! **See ad page 7 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. **See ad page 14 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. Tupperware www.my.tupperware.ca/3bgifts T: 250-327-0587, Darcie E: 3bgifts@my.tupperware.ca **See ad page 15 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!
Retail ~ STORES: Children’s Clothing, Furniture, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________ 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. 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 13 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 6 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 4
Page 23 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 13 Clothesline Clothing Royal Oak Shopping Centre T: 250-479-0800 www.clotheslineclothing.ca Casual, fashionable, affordable! Dreamland Kids 3194 Douglas Street, Victoria T: 250-381-5437 Furniture, room decor, toys and more! **See ad page 12 JamTots Baby & More Store 748 Goldstream Avenue, Victoria T: 250-478-1737, 1-888-703-8687 www.jamtots.com Scallywags 624 Fort Street, Victoria T: 250-360-2570 www.scallywags-island.ca
Scrapbooking _____________________________________ Ella Bella Designs Nanaimo’s Scrapbook Studio www.EllaBellaDesigns.ca E: info@EllaBellaDesigns.ca Specializing in workshops, project kits, Elly Kids Programs & Crops. **See ad page 14 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 _____________________________________
Sprouts Kids 202 - 536 Herald Street, Victoria T: 250-388-9525 www.sproutskid.com Everything you need to get started off right. **See ad page 7
Cheeky Chops www.cheekychops.ca T: 778-552-0069, Dawnn Whittaker Baby Contentment and Sleep Consultant
Scrapbooking _____________________________________
Ultrasound 3D _____________________________________
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.
3D Baby Vision, fetal imaging 202 - 4489 Viewmont Avenue, Victoria T: 250-744-2234 E: victoria@3dbaby.ca
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Kradle’s Baby Boutique 226 5th Street, Courtenay T: 250-703-9516 Spoil Someone Special 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
Sydney & Hunter