resources for pregnancy & parenting
island
priceless
Cover Photography: Sheri Jackson Photography
Spring 2009
Mom-Made on Vancouver Island
The World Through a child�s EYES
Home SAFE Home
Good bye PreSchool We’re going to kindergarten!
Summer 2009
Volume 4
Issue 16
...brought to you by a proud mommy of an Island Child...
________________________________________________ EDITOR & SALES Lisa Reda DESIGN & LAYOUT Lisa Reda PROOF & EDITING Sasha Rerrie RESEARCH & REVIEWS Michael Lehay COVER MODELS Carys, Ella & Heidi ~ 5 years Mermaid make-up done by Crave Beauty, Station St Duncan
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Sheri Jackson www.sherijacksonphoto.ca GRAPHICS Lindsey-Lea Mercer Identity Graphic Services 250-732-5505 WEBMASTER Alisha Baker Innnersight Multimedia 250-483-6927 www.innersight.ca
CONTRIBUTORS Lisa Bleskie Sandy Case Stuart Labron Michael Lehay Rick Neufeld Hayley Picard Safe Kids Canada Hilary Stamper Dr. Anita Voisin 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
Table of Contents 3~ 4~ 5~ 8~ 9~ 10 ~ 13 ~ 14 ~ 15 ~ 16 ~ 17 ~ 18 ~ 19 ~ 21 ~
The Foster Family Reality Exercise...$1, $2, $3 Investing in your Child’s Future New Business Venture: Stark Natural Herbs New Business Venture: Julie’s Photography Today’s Must Haves Goodbye Preschool The World Throuogh a Child’s Eyes Breast Is Best (As Long as We Don’t See It)! Spotlight on Business If a Tree Frog Falls in the Forest... Home Safe Home Learning Through Play Resource Directory
Subscription or Advertising information: email us 4 issues per year for $10 delivered to your door Island Child is published four times per year. Opinions expressed by contributing writers may not necessarily reflect those of the Editor. Copyright 2009 Island Child Magazine
a Lis
Mom Entrepreneur. Two very important words that together are a term used to inspire us moms who want to have it all ... that perfect balance of starting your own business after starting your family. The 2009 SavvyMom Mom Entrepreneur of the Year is an amazing contest celebrating moms across Canada who have started their own businesses after having children, and who are inspired by their experiences as a mother and their passion and drive to create a career for themselves accommodating their families’ needs as well. And once again, I am proud to be in the running for my Mom-run business in Duncan, in the making of Island Child Magazine from my home. The gals at Savvy Mom Media have put together a top prize of over $15,000 in cash and business advisory services designed to take one lucky Canadian mom’s business to the next level. The contest is inspiring, and the competition is tough! You, the readers and fellow moms, need to vote. Log on to www.momentrepreneuraward.ca and click on ‘Vote’. Simply search under the letters ‘I-K’ for Island Child and read about my plight as a Mom Entrepreneur. One more click on ‘Vote Now’ and you have me one step closer to the grand prize, which would bring amazing changes to your much loved magazine. And just for voting, SavvyMom has got 80 great prizes courtesy of Starrytime Keepsakes, Mabel’s Labels and Joe Fresh Style to be won, just for voting! ... and finally, I hope you enjoy this special Summer issue as we celebrate sending the kids off to Kindergarten!
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The Foster Family Reality: The following is written for Island Child Magazine from a local Mom on her family’s journey fostering children.
M
y family and I have been fostering since 1996. It has truly been a privilege to be able to help these children and families in need. We generally care for children from newborn to 5 years old but oftentimes we stay involved with the children as they grow up ... we become a part of their extended family. The purpose of fostering is to be a temporary haven for children in need, but the reality is that a good percentage of children that come into foster care often stay for long periods of time. There are many forces at work to reunite these children with their biological families but unfortunately, that is not always possible. We spend a great deal of time facilitating family connections along with meeting all of the needs of the children. We are very lucky to have so many programs for our children and families to get the help they need. My own children were still in elementary school when we began this journey; they are now 20 and 24.
MATERNITY More than Maternity Fashions! Diaper Bags • Strollers • Bedding • Carriers And other great items! I'coo Targo Pram & Stroller
Bumbleride Indie COMING SOON!
www.panciabella.ca 53 Station St., Duncan
250.748.1143
Sandy Case
Fostering has been a huge part of my own children’s education. They now know why some children are the way they are, what has caused it and what can help it. It has not always been easy. My children have had to endure many different types of behaviours as well as the medical and emotional needs of the children who have lived with us. They have learned to share their mother and father with other children and have become generous and giving adults who can empathize with their fellow man. This has been one of the positive effects fostering has had on my family. My husband works outside of the home and I am a full time Mom. Unfortunately, it is not enough to be a regular Mom ... these children need caregivers who have education and experience to deal with their needs. Most children who come into foster care are special needs by the grief and loss they suffer from being separated from their families. Many need special care to enable them to overcome problems they have been born with or that have been created by the lifestyle they have lived. As foster parents, we have had extensive education and have taken full advantage of the Foster Parent Support Services Society. It is vital for all foster parents to keep educated and supported to enable them to do the best job they can for the children; it also makes our job much easier if we have these tools under our belts! It is never easy to let a child go when they have become part of your family, but it is the dream that something we give these children while with us will help them in another time of their lives. My husband and I still foster and currently have a full house to keep us busy. Our own children are grown and have moved out but still come home to see their little “brothers and sisters”. . . always keeping the foster family united. ________________________________________________ If your family is interested in fostering, please contact Foster Hope at 250-294-7914 or visit www.fosterhope.ca.
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Exercise...$1, $2, $3: Hayley Picard
I
n these uncertain economic times, extra cash for working out may not be in the family budget. What is great for moms to realize is that you can get back into shape on a shoe string budget. Hiking Most moms own some form of baby carrier for their little one. This is your chance to use your baby as added resistance while getting outside and exploring our worldfamous scenery, trails, and parks ... all for free. Hiking trails groomed and maintained by the Province of BC usually have a difficulty rating posted at the beginning of the trail or on their website. This will allow moms just starting up their fitness regime again to ease back into it, yet allow for progressive difficulty as time goes on and their fitness level improves.
Baby wearing... A lifestyle! 5 different types of baby carriers for all your needs.
Swimming Other than the myriad number of lakes all over our island, most municipalities have an outdoor public pool which can be used for free. When the summer heat hits, what better way to cool off and have fun with your little one than in the water? You will get a great lower body workout as you strive to move through the water and lifting/playing with baby will challenge your upper body (biceps, triceps and deltoids). For moms wanting to join an organized fitness group and save money, bring this article to my Fit 4 Two Stroller Fitness class at the Cowichan Sportsplex and receive 10% off the purchase of a five or ten punch card pass! ________________________________________________ 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 her at hayley@fit4two.ca.
Maman Kangourou inc. 819-772-0990 // 1-888-772-0990 www.mamankangourou.com
www.islandchildmag.com
Island Child
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Investing in Your Child’s Future
re you one of the thousands of Canadians who were unhappy with the returns they were getting with their Canada Savings Bonds or GICs so they invested all their child’s education savings in mutual funds instead? Are you now one of those same Canadian’s sweating the stock market crash or the loss of thousands of dollars from your mutual funds that you have saved within your child’s RESP plans? What is most disturbing is that financial institutions appear to be directing their RESP investors into products with a high element of risk, which is wrong, giving the objective of the plans, being for education savings. Instead of safe, guaranteed products like GICs or savings bonds, RESP investors are being pitched mutual funds with a high equity exposure and substantial management fees. Everyone is stunned at how severe and how deep the worldwide markets have fallen and how they still keep falling. How long will it take to recover is a very important question that nobody seems to have an answer for. Basing a savings plan for your children’s future postsecondary education on stocks or equity mutual funds is a very risky proposition and if you are not comfortable with the ups and downs of the market then you need to find a place to invest where you can sleep well at night. You need a savings vehicle that at very least guarantees your original principal contributions and offers steady growth. With the huge additional benefit provided by the federal government 20% grants, most contributors would be quite content with lower single digit returns earned by their savings plans with the knowledge that the money will certainly be there when it is needed for College or University. Feedback that is common from parents who have RESP plans close to maturing is often the same. They agree that they should have invested sooner, invested more, and also should have played it safer by putting all of their savings into more secure RESP Plans. Consider The Canadian Scholarship Trust Foundation as a very safe alternative for your education savings. As Canada’s oldest and largest Group RESP provider, The Canadian Scholarship Plan has been offering a very unique, safe and flexible way to save for your child’s RESP since 1960. Your principal is protected and we only invest in very low-risk investments. ___________________________________________________ Stuart Labron is the Branch Manager for C.S.T. Consultants Inc, the distributor of The Canadian Scholarship Trust Plans. For more information contact Stuart at 250-370-7611.
Want 7,200 reasons to start an RESP for your child? The Government will boost your savings by up to $7,200! It’s true. The Federal Government adds 20% to your RESP contributions up to $500 per year to a maximum grant of $7,200 per child! And like your RESP contributions, it’s invested to earn tax-sheltered investment income as your child grows. Don’t let this bonus go to waste - let us help you use it to boost your child’s RESP.
• We’re Canada’s largest and most experienced Group RESP provider.* • We offer secure RESPs, with your principal protected and steady investment growth. • The money will be there when your child needs it - to attend a qualified university, college or trade school in Canada or around the world. Please don’t wait to secure your child’s future. Call today! The sooner you start, the lower your RESP contributions need to be to reach your goal.
Canadian Scholarship Trust Plan The educated choice for RESPs since 1960 Distributed by C.S.T.
Consultants Inc.
Stuart Labron Branch Manager
Call for information today: [Your Name] [Your Approved Title] C.S.T. Consultants Inc.
Phone: [000-000-0000] Email: [xxxxx.xxxxx@cstresp.com]
250.370.7611
* Based on actual Education Assistance Payments to beneficiaries and assets under management as reported in the audited financial statements of Group RESP dealers since 1990. Important conditions and details of the plan are contained in the Prospectus. Please read before investing.
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REACH YOUR TARGET MARKET
Mamma Mia’s Coupon Book will be sold and promoted through • online shops • retail stores • book stores • school fundraisers • tradeshows • community events • Welcome Wagon baskets
WHO SHOULD ADVERTISE
• Mom Entrepreneurs • Online Stores • Maternity, Baby & Family Photographers • Maternity & Children’s Boutiques • Children & Family Consignment Stores • Dance & Music Classes • Recreational Activities ...
Another Vancouver Island MOM-made project Businesses ~ Call to reserve your coupon space today! Parents ~ Book debut November 2009!
www.mammamiascouponbook.com 250.597.3552
the NEW way to cloth diaper your baby Vancouver Island
phone: 250-591-7000 fax: 250-591-7010 Wes & Leslie Siegrist
#10, 1975 Boxwood Rd www.happynappy.ca vancouverisland@nappynappy.ca Nanaimo, BC
www.islandchildmag.com
They should have a fun place to get their hair cut. Beaners Fun Cuts, where kids can be kids, and Moms can take a load off. Country Club Centre #39A - 3200 North Island Hwy Nanaimo, BC (Behind Shoppers Drug Mart in the mall)
Book your appointment today (250) 758-2444
BeanersFunCuts.com
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New Business Venture:
stark natural herbs C
Celle Rikwerda-Child
reating a home based business has been the goal of Mom of three, Celle Rikwerda-Child since becoming a proud mamma nine years ago. Stark Natural Herbs is the result of that goal. Celle admits her kids have become her product testers for her new creations, showing just how gentle and natural the products she creates really are, and good for all skin types from sensitive to normal. Celle started her business because she felt there was a need for all natural beauty products designed to leave you feeling and smelling “Botanically Beautiful”, scented with both classic and fun scents to please everyone. She strives to bring the latest in herbal skincare products to her clients, using ingredients high in antioxidants, free radical fighters and skin conditioners, by combining her aromatherapy and herbalist background. The product line of Stark Natural Herbs is created using only the finest quality herbs, teas, mineral salts, exotic butters, flowers and fruit, sourced as close to home as possible. Each formulation is handmade in small batches to provide the freshest possible products. Celle’s line of products is created using no harsh chemicals and the use of natural preservatives and organic ingredients wherever possible. As a second generation Salt Spring Island Herbalist, Celle has studied extensively over the last five years in Aromatherapy and Medical Herbalism and she continues still to further her education. Future plans include a children’s line, mineral makeup, herbal first aid products, herb plants and fresh cut herbs from her market garden. Custom formulas and scents are also offered. Stark Natural Herbs are currently available at Farm Gate (160 Stark’s Rd on Salt Spring Island), and every Saturday in the Market in Ganges in front of the Local. Celle can be reached at 250-537-5758 or 250-538-7809 if you would like to find out more about her product line.
Island Child
New Business Venture:
julie’s photography Y
julie friesen
ears ago, Mom of two Julie Friesen had an experience with her firstborn that has been forever engrained in her memory. Little did she know that it would influence her career path years later. Julie’s daughter was only a few months old when she decided to make the trek to Victoria to have some professional baby photos taken. The night before their outing was full of hour-long feeding sessions, unsettled tummy troubles, and very little sleep. Julie rose out of bed feeling exhausted before her day had even begun. As anticipated, the car ride was horrendous. Her baby was at that stage where if she was not sleeping in the car, she was screaming. Upon their arrival to the studio, the digestive problems were resolved. Very well resolved. Every part of baby’s outfit had been soiled and she was in dire need of a bath! Julie raced to the washroom to clean her daughter up as best as she could. It was then that she realized that she had forgotten to pack a second outfit. Seeing the panic Julie’s face, the photographer kindly agreed to let her rush to the closest department store to purchase a new dress and tights. Running as fast as she could with baby and diaper bag in tow, Julie was close to tears, and her baby was now wanting to nurse. It was a nightmare! In the end, photos were taken, but both Mom and baby were wiped.
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Extreme Makeover:
Mom Edition calling all moms! ...new moms ...expectant moms
have we got a contest for you! As fellow Moms, we kinda like to celebrate the beauty of Motherhood year round. The winner of Extreme Makeover: Mom Edition will receive ultimate prize package including a custom makeover at Crave Beauty, a complete outďŹ t from Pancia Bella Maternity, a day at the spa, and when she is all glamoured up, a cover photo shoot for Island Child Magazine. How do you enter? Simple. Nominate a Mom. ...a Mom-to-be ...your mom ...your pregnant co-worker ...a glowing new mom ...your best friend For full contest details and opening and closing dates, visit www.islandchildmag.com, or pop by Pancia Bella or Crave Beauty on Station St in Duncan
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Years later, after a fulfilling career as an elementary school teacher, Julie realized she needed a change, which led to some exploration of a creative passion she had developed over time: photography. This passion has evolved into an occupation that she cherishes. Informed by personal experience with her newborn, she decided to offer parents a pleasurable photography session in the comfort of their own home. This allows for natural, candid moments that capture the essence of the unique connection with their loved ones. Every child is beautiful and every moment is a treasure. Julie feels blessed to do what she loves to do. I guess that trek to Victoria all those years ago was worth it!
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Julie Friesen currently lives in the Cowichan Valley and can be reached through her website at www.juliesphotography.ca.
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Today’s Must Haves: Kites in the Classroom - kites
LEARNING TAKES FLIGHT hat potential does the kite have as a teaching tool? Well, the sky’s the limit! Kites In The Classroom has been in the kite business for sixteen years, with a kiting program that serves schools, summer camps and other outdoor groups. Including kites in your curriculum is an excellent way to inject fun into learning. Kites themselves represent a fusion of art, history, culture, physics and technology. They provide a great theme to unify a whole range of subjects. Kites in the Classroom’s package includes everything you need to make a kite, easy to follow instructions and a booklet with suggestions on how to make your kite-day fun and educational. The project can be completed in a morning or afternoon, and the kids will spend hours enjoying the kites, passing the time with flying colours.
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Visit www.kitesintheclassroom.com or call 1-800-593-9389 to order a kit today. Kites in the Classroom are based in Victoria.
Shea Butter Market - sun soother
S
hea Butter Market is based in Mill Bay and they manufacture all natural skin care products made with certified organic, fair trade compliant shea butter. Our must haves feature, the Sun Soother, provides 100% natural sun protection and is safe for babies. The African shea nut is rich in cinnamic acid, which protects against harmful UV rays and they have added the natural minerals zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for additional protection. Made with certified organic unrefined Shea Butter, Beeswax, Coconut Oil, Extra Virgin Olive oil, Zinc Oxide (in the natural mineral form zincite), Titanium dioxide (in the natural mineral form), Stearyl Alcohol and an essential oil blend of eucalyptus, tea tree, peppermint, rosemary, cinnamon and lavender. Shea Butter Market products are available online at www.sheabuttermarket.com and the Sun Soother is available from our friends at Pancia Bella Maternity on Station St in Duncan.
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...a sampling of some of the many fantastic new products and services in our marketplace these days...
Victoria Suzuki Piano School - music lessons
F
or thirty-five years, Bambi Maree Donison has taught all different piano styles and developed a broad range of music programs for children in daycares, and Montessori and middle schools. She believes the best specific music methodology for young children and the longest lasting positive effects happen within a modified Suzuki environment. If you don’t have an acoustic piano at home, the Victoria Piano School is also home to The Seeds of Promise Children’s Choir. This choir encourages children to use their voice to express music in song, to feel confidence in this expression, and to enjoy the process of sharing this talent with those that they love. Repertoire includes folk, popular, classic, spiritual and secular music aspects in an Orff, Kodaly, Solfege, Montessori, Suzuki study setting.
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ancy
The Victoria Suzuki Piano School is located at 2400 Cadboro Bay Road, Victoria. To find out more and to register go to www.vsps.ca.
George
PHOTOGRAPHY
I need your vote! Go to: www.momentrepreneuraward.ca/vote Click on Island Child Magazine and help me win!
Natural y Mo ments Natur ome alMoments Photography nts Photograph Photography Natural Berle Zwaan
Berle Zwaan
bellies
0) 8818-5708 18-5708 (25(250) bzbzphoto@shaw.ca photo@shaw.ca
250-748-8006
Portraits, Landscapes,
Portraits, Landscapes, Special Occasions captured in a session designed just for you www.naturalmomentsphotography.ca
Changes in your life? We have news for you... New Bride? New Business? New to the Neighborhood? New Baby? Grandparent? Retired - or thinking of it?
Important...relevant...interesting... useful information relating to your changing life, along with gifts and some very special offers for you from local sponsors.
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
births babes w w w. n g d e s i g n s . c a
Businesses: Call Welcome Wagon to see how you can be a sponsor to promote your products and services.
250.726.4242 477-2220 250 Main Street, Ucluelet ALL 7ELCOME 7AGON TO
WELCOME WAGON SINCE 1930
LTD.
call for a FREE visit! (866) 518-7287
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you you eat (with) are what
Bumbleride Now available in Victoria! Car Seat Ready Infant Ready Toddler Ready
INCLUDES
FREE
RAINCOVER RAINCOVER
P P P P
reusable bamboo utensil set stainless steel water bottle reusable snack & sandwich bags to-go ware 2-tier food carrier
with purchase
reuse • rethink • refresh
(Available in five fresh colors)
Sprouts Children’s Boutique 202-536 Herald Street, Victoria BC 250.388.9525
www.islandchildmag.com
gecko green living
salt spring island 250.537.1151 resources for pregnancy & parenting
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Good bye PreSchool:
Heidi, Carys and Ella We asked these girls four very important questions. Here is what they told us... 1. What is Kindergarten?
3. What do you do in Kindergarten?
Heidi: Kindergarten is really fun. We get to have lots of delicious snacks and I love the circle time. I love playing in the kitchen. Carys: Kindergarten is school. My teacher is very nice. Ella: It is a big school where you get to learn about tying your shoes and you get to learn to read books.
Heidi: We have yummy snacks and circle and we play in the kitchen and all my friends play with me all day long. Carys: At Kindergarten we will make crafts and have circle time and play outside and learn about pommes (apples). Ella: You get to play on the big girls’ playground and you get to build towers that are very high.
2. What are you most looking forward to in Kindergarten?
4. What will you miss from preschool?
Heidi: Playing on my school’s new playground because it will be very fun, drawing and glueing pictures, playing in the play castle, learning French. Carys: I’m looking forward to when they test for getting all the letters right. Ella: Reading books with my new teacher.
Heidi: I’m going to really miss my friend Ella, but not Carys as she will be at my same school. And I’ll miss Dawson too forever. I’ll miss drawing. Carys: My friends, my school and my teachers, all of the toys, going for walks and playing with the babies. Ella: Everything :(
Heidi
Ella Carys
BFF
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The World Through a Child’s Eyes:
C
hildhood is a time of wonder, excitement and activity. Parents would want nothing more than seeing their children experiencing all that life has to offer – without barriers! An adult knows the importance of good vision and what good vision means. Children however, are often unaware of visual impairments. They do not know how well they should be seeing and therefore do not complain. Inadequate vision can diminish a child’s experience of life. It can get in the way of everyday learning, inhibit social interactions and even create safety problems. Once children are school age, parents want the best education for them: good schools, teachers and grades, yet vision difficulties can cause children to become discouraged and lead to frustration, avoidance of reading, negative self-image and behavioral problems. Important facts to know: 80% of all learning is visual - we learn largely by what we see; and 17-25% of all school-aged children have a vision problem significant enough to impair performance. The Myth of 20/20 Vision A child can have 20/20 vision and still have a problem. 20/20 vision describes normal visual acuity (the clarity or sharpness of vision) measured at a distance of 20 feet. A child with 20/20 vision can see clearly at 20 feet what should normally be seen at that distance. Yet 20/20 vision does not mean perfect vision. Other important vision skills, among them peripheral awareness or side vision, eye coordination, depth perception, focusing ability and colour vision, contribute to a child’s overall vision ability.
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
Dr. Anita Voisin
Beyond Basic Reading Tests An informal eye test, such as asking a child to read from a specific distance, is not adequate to test for the full range of eye disorders. A child’s ability to see up close is directly related to learning and reading skills. It is also important to test ocular muscle alignment and binocular vision. This refers to the brain’s ability to integrate the separate images seen by the left and right eyes. Occasionally, due to a weakness of an eye muscle, one of the eyes may be turned (a strabismus). This causes the two eyes to send different images to the brain and the brain often ignores one of these images to avoid double vision. The result is a lazy eye or amblyopia because one eye is favoured over the other. A lazy eye can also develop if the refractive errors (amount of near-sightedness, far-sightedness, or astigmatism) are significantly different between the two eyes. Again, because the brain will not integrate the two different images it receives, one of the eyes becomes weak from disuse. As the connections from the eyes to the brain are formed only until about the age of eight, it is vital that a turned eye or significant difference in refractive error be corrected early in life to prevent amblyopia. Otherwise, the amblyopia will persist into adulthood and never be correctable. A mild ocular misalignment, while not obvious to the untrained eye, may also lead to eyestrain, headaches and a disdain for reading. Such mild misalignment can only be detected by a complete visual examination. Treatment options range from exercises to corrective lenses to surgery.
...continued on Page 20
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Breast is Best (As Long as We Don’t See It)!
eeding a baby involves nipples, either artificial ones made from I-hope-they-are-not-toxic chemicals, or the real thing ... as in a woman’s nipples. Sadly, it’s the real thing that makes many people uncomfortable. Facebook has dubbed “obscene” and removed unknown numbers of breastfeeding images. And while over 234,000 have protested these actions, even companies focused on healthy, nontoxic living showcase 100% of a latex nipple attached to a bottle, while nowhere show even 1% of a real, living nipple feeding a baby the way humans are meant to. As a culture with a breastfeeding deficit, perhaps the majority does not understand that when a baby latches onto a breast, some fraction of the areola is almost certainly going to show. This could be why publishers unknowingly hinder the normalization of breastfeeding with rules specifying how much of a nursing breast can appear in an image, excluding “any part of the nipple.” Yet, rules like this effectively prevent people from passing on the healthy knowledge of what a normal latched infant looks like. In addition, they keep breastfeeding on the periphery of acceptable social behaviors: “Breast is best, BUT don’t let me see your nipples!” As a breastfeeding mom, I try to be discreet feeding my babies (as do all the mothers I know). Yet, if someone is looking directly at my baby latched to my breast, he/she will see some part of the areola, classified as “part of the nipple.” And while nature designed the nipple to look like a bullseye so babies could catch it, for most of our culture it marks a very different spot.
Mom Entrepreneur of the Year Award nominee ... 3 years running!
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This is a spot that makes the new mother, perhaps not a particularly outgoing mother, perhaps one that feels a bit selfconscious anyway, feel very nervous feeding her baby where others can see. How many times has society’s refusal to celebrate and normalize images of healthfully latched babies contributed to a mother giving up, uncomfortable feeding her baby anywhere but her home? To alleviate this discomfort, now for sale are the increasingly common boob burkas designed to hide the nursing baby and breast from public. Perhaps they help some mothers feel safer nursing in public, but these “aids” also help seal the secret, increase the mystery of the nursing babe. Is it possible that one day nursing will only be allowed in private breastfeeding rooms unless you don the Hooter Hider? Maybe we should ask the women in Afghanistan - I wonder if they foresaw the current requisite attire for women in their country. One might argue, “but things are getting so much better.” “Everyone is stressing the importance of Breast is Best.” And even, “The breastfeeding militia is forcing the breast on everyone!” But look European paintings from the 1200’s1800’s that include women breastfeeding - you can even see Virgin Mary’s nipple! These were times when women were clad from head to toe in clothing, yet they popped out their breast to feed their babies. And the painters sharing this history had no qualms about what fraction of the nipple was exposed. It had to start somewhere, this forced covering of a woman’s body. Women in Afghanistan wear burkas to hide their entire body. Conversely, but equally sexually, Americans highlight the flat chests of 4-year-olds with pink triangle bikinis. We feature cleavage in woman’s worksuit attire.
...continued on Page 20
“I have encountered customers from all over as a result of my advertising in your magazine; whether they picked it up at the ferry terminal in Nanaimo, or at a retail outlet in Victoria. It is nice to know I am getting a return for my investment!”
Advertising Kristen Leclair Pancia Bella Maternity, Duncan Works ___________________________________________________ To advertise, call 250.597.3552 or email islandchildmag@shaw.ca
Island Child
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Spotlight on Business Mary Jane Howland Photography
W
hen Mary Jane Howland’s friends started to get married, she would spend more time at their weddings with her camera in hand than a wine glass, fork or dance partner. Five years later she has evolved her passion for photography into a thriving business, extending her talents beyond the tossing-of-the-bouquet moments. Mary Jane’s repertoire of services now include belly (maternity), baby, family, weddings, trash-the-dress and boudoir. Her ability to capture personality and character have created thousands of uniquely striking and memorable photos: a newborn nestled in with a blanket and building blocks; a tattooed arm wrapped around a pregnant belly; a couple-in-love embracing on a breakwater; a family holding hands amidst fallen leaves. Her in-home studio is located in Langford (easy access for up-island residents) but showcases compelling outdoor spots around Victoria as well. Testimonials shared by her growing list of clients include high praise – words such as talented, creative, professional, patient, prompt and affordable. Ask her what photos she prefers to shoot and you will be hard pressed for an answer. “I love what I do” she says, “I especially love to see people smile and laugh, or even cry, when they see the unexpected special moments they didn’t realize I had captured.” Visit www.maryjanescamera.ca for more information. For inquiries, contact Mary Jane at smile@maryjanescamera.ca or 250-598-4169.
Oma Gosh! Designs
M
other and daughter duo from Ladysmith, Leola and Camille, enjoy getting creative with fabrics! Camille, a work-at-home mom, and Leola, a textile artist and teacher, teamed up in the summer of 08 making unique, one-of-a-kind, personalized creations for children. They offer custom embroidered bibs, hand woven baby blankets, all season touques, sunhats, superhero capes and crowns, storybook pillows, and Christmas stockings. The Oma Gosh! girls feel strongly that every child is different so they love to work with customers one-on-one to design their order. All products can be personalized with embroidery and with over 40 fabric choices, you are sure to find the perfect creation for your little one. Oma Gosh! Designs are all hand made in Shawnigan Lake and Ladysmith.
personalized storybook pillow
Visit www.omagoshdesigns.com for a peek at their amazing product line. Editor’s note: My daughter is the proud owner of a number of items from their collection and the high quality and uniqueness is second to none. Super hero capes make the perfect one-of-a-kind birthday gift!
Wee Travel Baby Equipment Rentals
MAKE LIKE A BABY AND HEAD OUT! ennifer Wong has done quite a bit of traveling in her time. One bag and she’d be ready to go. Now with an infant son, she finds herself stuffing two suitcases, a stroller, the car seat and more into her car. And this is just for a weekend in Vancouver! When it comes to air travel, it is not always feasible to pack everything you need; yet it is not possible to do without. Could you do without the stroller you have come to love? Or if you bring the stroller, what are the chances the airline will damage the $500 stroller or even worse, lose it? Enter ‘Wee Travel Baby Equipment Rentals’, the answer to your traveling conundrum. You can rent the items she cannot travel without! Jennifer loved the concept so much she decided to join Wee Travel and opened an office in Victoria this past Spring. Wee Travel makes it easy for parents to travel lighter by providing the hard-to-pack, top-quality baby necessities. Their equipment includes car seats, strollers, folding cribs, highchairs, toys and more. They can even provide all the little essentials such as diapers, wipes, baby food and formula. All equipment is safety inspected after each use, and is sanitized prior to delivery using environmentally friendly products. Wee Travel delivers or you can pick-up from their Victoria location, which is conveniently located in View Royal just off Highway 1, on the way for those traveling from the Victoria Airport to areas up Island.
J
Visit www.weetravel.ca for more information or contact Jennifer in Victoria at 250.885.1700, or toll free 1.800.647.9031.
Island Child
LIFE MATTERS... Steps to a more meaningful life.
WEEKLY HAND WORK CLASSES FOR: Kids (6 to 12) & Teens (13 to 18). ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Knitting, Felting, Weaving, Embroidery and Hand Sewing. Isabela Seabra, RPC ~ Fibre Artist Ph: (250) 748-7981 • Fax: (250) 748-7998 146, Queens Road Duncan, BC • isabela@lifematters-hd.org
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If a Tree Frog Falls in the Forest... everyone hears!
S
alt Spring Island’s Tree Frog Daycare offers the only four licensed group daycare spaces for infants and toddlers on the Island. They also provide care for up to sixteen preschool children. Still, Tree Frog has recently been involved in a well-publicized struggle to stay open. A countrywide shortage of Early Childhood Education (ECE) staff combined with the high cost of housing on Salt Spring made recruitment of qualified staff difficult ... and the lack of staff prevented them from being able to bring in the number of children needed to support costs. In the midst of all of their struggles, some bright spots appeared: the local community paper ran their story and they were able to make headway with fundraising. Then in April, Tree Frog’s long-term viability received an unexpected boost when an anonymous and incredibly generous donation was made to the daycare!
www.islandchildmag.com
Tree Frog has since begun restructuring. They have hired a new ECE who just moved to the island allowing them to increase enrollment, and have hired a consultant to help develop a business plan to avoid a similar situation in the future. Lisa Bleskie, Tree Frog’s Coordinator says, “This could not have been done without the phenomenal support of our community as a whole. We are so grateful to be a part of a community that places such a high value on its children and the individuals who care for them. We have come a long way since the beginning of the year, but there is without a doubt still more work to be done!” Tree Frog still needs to recruit community members for their Board of Directors and will welcome any skills and interest. And of course, the reality of operating a non-profit daycare is fundraising, so donations are always welcome. Anyone interested in helping out can contact them at (250) 653-4998 or at treefrog@ssisland.com.
Nancy McDougall, RN CPT Certified Play Therapist
Brenda L. Newton Director
(250) 384-0229 Vancouver Island, BC brenda@my.tupperware.ca www.my.tupperware.ca/brenda
supporting children and their families to reach their potential by addressing issues of separation, divorce, low self-esteem, self management, grief, Autism
250.744.8879
Island Child
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Home Safe Home
A
ccording to the Canadian Hospitals Injury Report and Prevention Program, between 1990 and 2007, there were over 1.6 million emergency room visits for children under the age of 19. Nearly half of these incidents were a result of misuse of common household products such as magnets, furniture, window blind cords, bunk beds, trampolines and baby bath seats. Young children are at most risk for falls from bunk beds and furniture. Only allow children over age 6 to use the top bunk and install padded carpeting where bunk beds are used. Small, powerful magnets also pose a risk as they can be ingested. Keep small items such as magnetic toys and jewelry away from young children. Children aged five to nine years are most at risk of injury from toppling furniture. Never use a dresser as a television stand. Instead, use anchors, anglebraces or furniture straps to secure televisions and furniture to the wall. Older children are at most risk for injuries, mainly falls and strangulation, from backyard equipment. All playground sets should be surrounded by a soft surface such as sand or wood chips and strings from children’s clothing should be removed. Never attach ropes or cords to playground equipment. All children are at risk for strangulation by window blind or curtain cords. Cut the cords short and tie them high to keep them out of reach. A simple way for parents to keep their home safe is to follow the S.A.F.E. acronym.
Clothesline Clothing Casual... Fashionable...Affordable! _________________________________ Ladies • Babies • Kids • Teens • Maternity
• See products through the eyes of your child to anticipate how they might use it. • Ask yourself if products are appropriate for your child. • Find products that follow safety standard seals such as CSA or ASTM. • Educate yourself on products that have been recalled. For more child safety information, visit www.safekidscanada.ca.
WE NOW CARRY LITTLE SOLES
* high quality * affordable
* free from harmful dyes & toxins
www.ClotheslineClothing.ca
Royal Oak Shopping Centre
(250) 479-0800
Children’s Party Planning Consultant Phone: (250)715-0286 Email: apieceofcake@childrensparties.ca Web site: www.childrensparties.ca
Island Child
Learning through Play: Lisa Bleskie
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very child is an artist, a dancer, a singer, and a creative wonder. Through creativity, children learn skills that will guide their self expression as well as their emerging skills in math, reading, writing and science. Creativity for children comes in many forms including music, dance, dramatic play and artwork. Music encourages listening skills, rhyming and repetition to support literacy. Dance teaches children to be active and in control of their bodies while expressing themselves. Dramatic play allows for communication, fine and gross motor skills development, and problem-solving skills development. A daily component of childcare is art. It is offered in many ways including painting, collage, beading, cutting and pen work. By offering an array of materials and mediums, children are encouraged to make choices and create and find their own idea of beauty. Beyond these benefits, children are preparing to write by learning to hold paint brushes, pens and scissors while controlling their hand movements. Beading further supports the fine motor development and hand-eye coordination needed to learn to write. Collaging teaches children early math skills through patterning and sorting a variety of materials. While your children build their confidence as artists and decorate your fridge, they are preparing to learn lifelong skills. Some suggestions to support your young artist’s development: ● provide a variety of surfaces - horizontal and vertical, soft, firm and textured for working on to help strengthen muscles and hand control
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CleanChoice eco-friendly cleaning services
Giving you back the luxury of time and a naturally clean home to enjoy it in! Simple to Complete cleans, regular and occasional service, even a Mother’s Reward Package.....a great gift for new moms and busy households Providing professional, eco-friendly cleaning services for residential and commercial properties from Mill Bay to Duncan
tracey@cleanchoicecleaners.com or 250-929-8381 insured ~ licensed ~ bonded
Shipping from Vancouver Island!
20% off Use coupon ISLANDCHILD
Baby Gifts! We'll ship your gift directly to the recipient!
● write the story of their picture to encourage conversation and model the left to right flow of text ● count, identify colours, describe objects and have fun ... they are all learning moments
Opening Summer 2009 Mill Bay “green” family day care, quiet location, one acre property, 12 months +
www.PeaTreeDayCare.com
Island Child
Through a Child’s Eyes ...continued from Page 14
Child’s First Eye Examination It is recommended that all children have a complete optometric examination by the age of three (and definitely prior to entering school). No time is too soon. With modern examination equipment, optometrists are able to diagnose and detect visual disorders in any aged patient. There is no need to wait until your child knows the alphabet - a thorough eye examination can take place for any non-verbal person. Children require regular examinations due to rapid growth spurts; as they grow, their eyes change. A child’s annual trip to the optometrist may improve the ability to learn and get the most out of school. Early detection will ensure children have healthy eyes for life! ________________________________________________ Dr. Anita Voisin is an optometrist with South Cowichan Eyecare in Cobble Hill. She can be reached at 250-743-8899.
Please schedule your child’s eye examination before they enter Kindergarten.
Welcome to the World Baby Hunter ... with proud new daddy Adam
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Breast is Best ...continued from Page 15 So hail the plastic nursing nipple, for it allows us to claim the woman’s body for one exclusive purpose: sexual arousal. We can almost forget that Mother Nature intended her breast to nourish. Almost, but not quite because the plastic nipple still holds that pesky shape, which looks remarkably…nipple-like. When a woman’s body becomes more about sex than anything else, it limits what a woman can do. It becomes something she uses to attract and please others, something others want to control. I grew up on the Southern California coast, playing my socially acceptable role as a bikini-clad teen shrieking down the beach on episodes of Baywatch. After years of encouraging my own objectification, I have been pleasantly surprised by the empowerment I’ve experienced using my body for nourishment as a mother. And while this might not be everyone’s experience, why do we allow society to dictate but one singular purpose for all of our female bodies? When a woman is empowered to use her own body to nourish her children, it puts her in charge. Does this scare people? Each of us can do our part to make the nursing mother feel safe and confident feeding her baby by normalizing images of breastfeeding. Or, we can hide the nursing mother, heightening the mystery and even shame associated with her nursing breasts. It strikes me that we as a culture might need to address our obsession with breasts as purely sexual “objects” to make reasonable progress. What do you think? _________________________________________________ With the birth of her first child, Hilary Stamper began advocacating for birthing and breastfeeding mothers, attempting to help them feel empowered by their birth experiences and build confidence as new parents. This article is reprinted with permission from the author. It was originally published at www.facebook.com/l/;Care2.com
Kasea Campbell: FIRST PLACE OVERALL Gold Medal winner gymnastics Vancouver Island ten year olds! Salt Spring’s pride and joy!
My dear friend Luke and his beautiful girls Leia & Alice
Island Child
resource directory Adoption _____________________________________ Sunrise Family Services Society www.SunriseAdoption.com T: 888-984-2488 Creating the joy of family by adopting. Art Therapy _____________________________________ Liz McKnight, Reg Art Therapist T: 250-713-8857 Creative counselling for children and families. Beauty _____________________________________ 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! **See ad page 7 Breastfeeding Clinics & Support _____________________________________ 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. The Nanaimo Mother and Baby Society T: 250-754-5090 PARKSVILLE Parksville Health Unit T: 250-248-2044 La Leche League T: 250-390-5184, Lesley www.LLLC.ca Kathy Dutton Certified Lactation Consultant T: 250-951-9886 VICTORIA La Leche League Support T: 250-727-4384 Child Care Daycares, Preschools, Nannies _____________________________________ International Nannies T: 800-820-8308 Free instant access to hundreds of nanny profiles
Child Care Daycares, Preschools, Nannies _____________________________________ Supreme Nannies Canada T: 250-483-5222 Your one-stop source for nannies and caregivers across Canada. COWICHAN BAY Treetops Daycare T: 250-748-5716 Daycare full and part time, preschool program in the morning, after school care. DUNCAN Arcadian Day Care Centre T: 250-748-3922 Happy, safe and caring environment. Ages 3 to 5. Early Childhood Educators. Kidzco Learning Centre T: 250-746-4027 Stimulating environment that includes each child’s uniqueness. 30 months to 5 years. Kingdom Treasures Christian Preschool T: 250-746-0110 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 MILL BAY Pea Tree Day Care Opening Summer 2009 ‘Green’ family day care, fun, learning environment, 12 months + www.PeaTreeDayCare.com **See ad page 19 NANAIMO Four Seasons Montessori 4960 Hammond Bay Road Nanaimo, BC V9T 4G8 T: 250-758-8979 Full day and half day programs plus enrichment and French. 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. **See ad page 14 Oceanside Montessori T: 250-738-0305 Providing your child with a beautiful Montessori environment, both inside and out, so as to generate a curiosity and zest for life! Self-paced learning to build confidence and independence. Ages 3 to 5.
Page 21 Child Care Daycares, Preschools, Nannies _____________________________________ SALTSPRING ISLAND Saltspring Daycare and Preschool T: 250-537-2114
House Cleaning _____________________________________ 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 19
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. Nightingale Preschool and Jr Kindergarten T: 250-595-7544 www.nightingalepreschool.com Taking children’s learning forward, balanced approach to play and education. Ross Bay Preschool T: 250-383-7445 E: rossbaypreschool@shaw.ca Chiropractic _____________________________________ Valleyview Family Chiropractic Dr. Vanessa White 11 - 1400 Cowichan Bay Road, Cobble Hill T: 250-743-3775 **See ad page 17 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.
Midwives _____________________________________ Midwives Association of BC/ College of Midwives will provide a list of midwives in your community T: 604-736-5976 VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Mid-Island Midwifery T: 250-246-4083, Laurie Untereiner Providing holistic care during the childbearing year. Serving communities from Crofton to Nanaimo. Attending births at the Cowican Hospital, Nanaimo Hospital and at home. COWICHAN VALLEY Cowichan Midwifery Group T: 250-709-2040 SALTSPRING ISLAND Community Midwifery Care T: 250-537-2243 Offering experienced care for low-risk local moms. Will consider clients from communities with no Midwives. Music and Dance _____________________________________ Allegra Performing Arts T: 250-709-4048 www.allegradance.com Offering Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Acting, Pilates & Adult Dance Classes **See ads page 8 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 Salsa Babies and Salsa Tots T: 604-461-7827 www.runnersandbootiesfitness.com Dance back into shape with baby as partner! **See ad page 4 Victoria Suzuki Piano School T: 250-385-8355 www.VSPA.ca Montessori-styled music environment for young children. **See ad page 11 Naturopathic Health _____________________________________
Home Schooling _____________________________________ Wondertree Homelearners’ Network T: 250-754-1227, Suzanne www.wondertree.org Providing homeschooling registration across BC; supporting self-directed learning.
Inspired Health Naturopathic Clinic 11 - 321 Wesley Street, Nanaimo T: 250-714-0721 Pediatrics, Autism, ADHD, asthma, allergies, pre-pregnancy detoxification and planning **See ad page 5
Island Child
resource directory Online Resources _____________________________________
Photography _____________________________________
www.westcoastmoms.ca **See ad page 10 www.cowichanvalleykids.com www.kidsinnanaimo.com www.kidsinvictoria.com www.MyBabyStuff.ca www.savvymom.ca
Natural Moments Photography www.naturalmomentsphotography.ca T: 250-818-5708, Berle Portraits, landscapes, special occasions captured in a session designed for you! **See ad page 10
Optometry _____________________________________ South Cowichan Eyecare Chemainus Family Eyecare T: 250-743-8899, 250-246-3405 www.myeyecare.ca **See ad page 14 Salt Spring Eyecare Dr. Andrea N. Varju, Optometrist 158A Fulford-Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Isl T: 250-537-4356 **See ad page 17 Party Planning _____________________________________ 99 in the Shade Balloons & More www3.telus.net/99intheShade over 70 kids party themes, party favours and pinatas, online ordering available A Perfect Party by Cody T: 250-384-6266, Kris www.perfectpartybycody.com/VictoriaBC Party supplies for all occasions delivered to your door. Giggle Box Party Rentals T: 250-882-1865, Kim www.gigglebox.ca Specializing in Children’s Party Theme Rentals A Piece of Cake! Children’s Parties T: 250-715-0286, Nicole www.childrensparties.ca Children’s party planning consultant. **See ad page 18 Photography _____________________________________ Donna Budd Photography www.DonnaBudd.com T: 250-248-4985, Parksville E: photos@donnabudd.com Newborn, Baby, Family, Headshots. See proofs first...Love what you see. **See ad page 3 Mary Jane Howland Photography www.maryjanescamera.ca Contact: Mary Jane Babies, bellies, family & wedding photography; all photos provided on CD. **See ad page 18 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
Page 22 Pre and Postnatal Yoga, Massage and Fitness _____________________________________ 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
Prairie Child Photography www.prairiechild.com T: 250-361-1602, Erin E: erin@prairiechild.com Photos moms (&dads) love
Mommy and Toddler Yoga Mondays from 10:30-11:30
Sheri Jackson Photography www.sherijacksonphoto.ca T: 250-740-5904, Sheri Artistic, babies, kids, families, maternity, weddings. **Cover Photo Photographer **See ad page 7
Baby-Bootie Camp - postnatal fintess. Wednesdays from 10:30-11:30
Play Therapy _____________________________________ VARIOUS COMMUNITIES Nancy McDougall, RN, CPT T: 250-744-8879, Nancy Supporting children and their families. **See ad page 17 Prenatal Classes _____________________________________ Beautiful Birth Birthing From Within classes and Certified Doula Care T: 250-597-2770, Catherine Quaglia CD(DONA) www.beautifulbirth.ca Pre and Postnatal Yoga, Massage and Fitness _____________________________________ COWICHAN VALLEY T: 250-746-0327, Lilian Bianchi www.namasteyoga.ca Prenatal and Postnatal (moms and babies) yoga classes. 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 **See article page 4 Mambo Moms: Fitness Fun For Baby & Mom
T: 250-754-7090, Susan www.MamboMoms.com Classes in Nanaimo, DVD for fitness fun at home or a unique baby shower gift. Shop ‘n Stroll T: 877-479-9429 www.runnersandbootiesfitness.com Classes run all summer long Mayfair Mall and Woodgrove Centre
Prenatal Fitness Wednesdays from 5:30-6:30
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 _____________________________________ DUNCAN Indigo Childrens Consignment 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 T: 250-245-2042 Melissa & Doug, Robeez, Bumbo, Padraigs **See ad page 6 LAKE COWICHAN Izzy & Ollie’z Children’s Consignment 104 South Shore Road, Lake Cowichan T: 250-749-3229 VICTORIA Clothesline Clothing www.clotheslineclothing.ca T: 250-479-0800 Casual, fashionable, affordable! **See ad page 18 Retail ~ MATERNITY: Clothing & Accessories ____________________________________ DUNCAN Pancia Bella Maternity 53 Station Street, Duncan T: 250-748-1143 Maternity/nursing wear and accessories, diaper bags, nursing bras, nursing covers, specialty lotions and much more! **See ad page 3
Retail ~ MATERNITY: Clothing & Accessories ____________________________________ VICTORIA Bellies in Bloom Maternity www.belliesinbloommaternity.com 104 - 4489 Viewmont Ave, Victoria T: 250-479-0803 Catering to casual, fashionable moms. **See ad page 18 Mothering Touch www.MotheringTouch.ca 975 Forst Street, Victoria T: 250-595-4905 The place for new & expectant parents. **See ad page 8 Retail ~ ONLINE: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________ 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. Bealoo Kid’s Decor www.bealoo.etsy.com Fun and funky art decor for babies and kids Bermuda Babies Baby Gear www.bermudababies.com Booties in a Box www.bootiesinabox.com Genuine leather baby booties, 0-2 years. Doodlebaby www.doodlebaby.ca Affordable, handmade baby gifts, custom orders welcome. **See ad page 10 Dragonfly Distributing www.tiptoeyjoey.com Tip Toey Joey Baby Footwear Eco Bambini Planet www.ecobambiniplanet.com Organic, fair trade products: pregnancy & beyond, gifts, baby carriers. Eco-Chic Baby www.theecochicbaby.com Quality toys, cloth diapers & more! Hip Melon www.hipmelon.com Funky, stylish, exclusive SLINGS. Mama Kangaroo www.mamakangaroo.com Five models of comfortable, ergonomic and four different types of traditional carriers. **See ad page 4 Mega Mood Baby Boutique www.megamood.com **See ad page 19 Milk Factory www.milkfactory.com Mommy’s Yelling Girl No-Slip Clips www.no-slip-clip.com Accessories for baby boys & girls, big girls and Mommies too!
Island Child
resource directory Retail ~ ONLINE: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
Retail ~ STORES: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
my Kidsquarters www.mykidsquarters.com
DUNCAN Indigo Childrens Consignment T: 250-709-2042 Toys, clothes, car seats, furniture, maternity **See ad page 6
My Life Storybooks www.mylifestorybooks.com Personalized children’s storybooks PerryWinkles Kids www.perrywinkleskids.com Specializing in hand-smocked dresses for girls.
Kinderbeez Children’s Consignment 2755 Beverly Street, Duncan T: 250-748-2345
Po Po’s Ponchos www.popoponchos.com Jackets your kids WILL wear! **See ad page 19
LADYSMITH Indigo Childrens Consignment T: 250-245-2042 Toys, clothes, car seats, furniture, maternity **See ad page 6
R Little Babe www.rlittlebabe.com Trendy and funky baby gifts with unique flair! Saltspring Island’s online boutique **See ad page 10
NANAIMO Kool & Child 208 Wallace Street, Nanaimo T: 250-716-1777 Educational toys for children.
Sacred Baby Slings www.sacredbaby.com Stylish baby carriers.
Pumpkin Pie Kids Wear www.pumpkinpiekids.com 411A Fitzwilliam Street T: 250-754-3933 Quality items for baby and older; clothes, toys, shoes, layette.
Snug Bug Clothing www.snugbugclothing.com Tot-To-Go www.tot-to-go.com T: 604-523-9339 E: info@tot-to-go.com Baby slings, nursing covers and essentials. YOU Pillows www.YOUpillows.com A must-have for mom, baby and the whole family! Retail ~ ONLINE: Products and Services for Mom and Baby _____________________________________ AB Corp The Identakey - create custom ID cards, all stored on a USB flash drive www.abcorp.ca Coffee Cuff www.coffeecuff.com Craft Caravan www.craftcaravan.com New crafts every month, fun mail for kids! Happy Nappy Diaper Service www.happynappy.ca Changing the world one bottom at a time! **See ad page 7 Mabel’s Labels www.reda.mabel.ca Labels for the stuff kids lose. Rocky Mountain Soap Company 100% Natural Bath & Body Mayfair Shopping Centre, Victoria **See ad page 12 Tupperware www.my.tupperware.ca/brenda T: 250-384-0229, Brenda E: brenda@my.tupperware.ca **See ad page 17
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 7
Page 23 Retail ~ STORES: Children’s Clothing, Shoes, Toys & Accessories _____________________________________
Universal Wisdom _____________________________________
Sprouts Kids www.sproutskid.com 202 - 536 Herald Street, Victoria T: 250-388-9525 **See ad page 12
Universal Wisdom www.helpingchildrenshine.com T: 250-713-7143, Wendy Mewhort Self-empowerment classes for youth. Individualized guidance and workshops for parents. **See ad page 27
Scrapbooking _____________________________________ Creative Memories Consultant Traditional, Digital Photo Books & Decorative Displays www.mycmsite.com/dawnportman T: 250-591-3672, Dawn Portman E: dawnportman@shaw.ca Offering solutions for everyone’s style of celebrating photos and memories. Sleep Consultants _____________________________________ Cheeky Chops www.cheekychops.ca T: 778-552-0069, Dawnn Whittaker Baby Contentment and Sleep Consultant
www.islandchildmag.com
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 12 UCLUELET Ukee Baby Boutique 250 Main Street, Ucluelet T: 250-726-4242 Funky fashions and toys, NB to 14. **See ad page 11 VICTORIA Bellies in Bloom Maternity www.belliesinbloommaternity.com 104 - 4489 Viewmont Ave, Victoria T: 250-479-0803 Catering to casual, fashionable moms. **See ad page 18 Clothesline Clothing www.clotheslineclothing.ca T: 250-479-0800 Casual, fashionable, affordable! **See ad page 18 JamTots Baby & More Store 748 Goldstream Avenue, Victoria T: 250-478-1737, 1-888-703-8687 www.jamtots.com Strollers, carseats, bedding, shoes, toys, nursing products & much more! **See ad back page
this mermaid is signing out
...
see you in the fall issue
book your ad space by august 5th call or email my mamma 250.597.3552
islandchildmag@shaw.ca
... oh, and if you like my mermaid costume, they sell ‘em at Indigo Children’s in Ladysmith!