August 2012 Island Parent by Island Parent Group

Island Parent The Resource Publication for Vancouver Island Parents

August 2012

10 Things to Do Before Summer Ends Water Safety for Young Kids

Education

Schools & Educational Services

Heads Up Recognizing the Signs of a Concussion For the Love of Trees Let Kids Be Kids Embrace Your ‘Baby Weight’ Exercising with Baby

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Come Skate with Saanich New Skating Lessons - New Levels

Please welcome welcome the the Greater Greater Victoria Victoria Active Active Communities Communities -- Learn Learn to to Skate Skate Program Program -- NEW NEW THIS THIS FALL! FALL! To To make make Please things easier easier we we have have named named the the levels levels as: as: Preschool Preschool 1-4, 1-4, for for 3-5 3-5 yr yr and and School School Age Age 1-7, 1-7, for for 6-12yrs. 6-12yrs. We We have have also also things added added more more skills skills to to each each level. level. For For more more information information please please check check on-line on-line at at www.saanichrecreation.ca www.saanich.ca or pick up or a pick up a at brochure at anyRecreation Saanich Recreation If any you questions have any questions pleaseLisa brochure any Saanich Centre. If Centre. you have please contact contact Lisa Hackwell at 250-475-5468. Hackwell at 250-475-5468.

Contents: August 2012 Feature The Life of a Family Pet................................................................................ 16

Articles Get Festy with FamilyFest Fringe..................................................................... 8 Songs and Games of the Pioneers.................................................................... 9 For the Love of Trees..................................................................................... 10 Let Kids Be Kids............................................................................................ 12 The Write Stuff.............................................................................................. 14 Wisdom of Pages?......................................................................................... 20 Embrace Your Baby Weight........................................................................... 21 Schools and Educational Services.................................................................. 22 Heads Up...................................................................................................... 35 10 Things To Do Before Summer Ends.......................................................... 46 Water Safety for Young Kids......................................................................... 50

Columns Editor’s Note................................................................................................... 3 Healthy Families; Happy Families................................................................. 52 Dadspeak...................................................................................................... 54 Just Eat It!..................................................................................................... 56 Book Nook................................................................................................... 58 Is There an App for This?.............................................................................. 60 New Parent Pages.......................................................................................... 64 Maternity & Beyond..................................................................................... 68 Nature Notes................................................................................................ 70 Cut It Out..................................................................................................... 72

Departments IPM Notes....................................................................................................... 4 Party Directory.................................................................................. 33, 34, 35 Family Calendar............................................................................................ 36 Around the Island......................................................................................... 44 Family Services Directory........................................................................ 62, 63 Preschool & Child Care Directory........................................................... 66, 67 Business & Professional Directory................................................................. 69 Island Parent Magazine, produced by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a monthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on resources and businesses for families, and a forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Letters (max 250 words) should be emailed to the Editor at editor@islandparent.ca. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the Editor. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome and should be emailed to editor@islandparent.ca. Island Parent Magazine is distributed free in selected areas. Subscriptions can be obtained by sending $28.00 (HST included) with your name and address to the address below. Canada Post: Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement 40051398.

Island Parent Magazine

Suite A-10, 830 Pembroke St, Victoria, BC V8T 1H9 Tel: 250-388-6905 Toll Free: 1-888-372-0862 Website: www.islandparent.ca

Partner Website: www.kidsinvictoria.com On the Cover: Photo by Erin Wallis Photography, erinwallis.com or erin@erinwallis.com

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President, Publisher: Paul Abra Vice-President: Anna Abra Director, Production Manager: Mada Moilliet Editor: Sue Fast Sales & Marketing: Rod Holt Publisher’s Assistant: Linda Frear Bookkeeping: Elaine Francis Distribution: Anna Abra, Ted Dawe (Mid-Island) Founders: Jim Holland & Selinde Krayenhoff Production: Eacrett Graphic Design Printed at Island Publishers Cover printed at Hillside Printing ISSN 0838-5505

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On the Water & On the Wall

he basement is cool and shadowy. I cross the cement floor and feel sawdust stick to my bare feet. The air smells of cedar and pine. I scan my husband’s workshop, looking for a missing stapler. The room is filled with tools, present day and antique—a panel saw Barry uses almost daily for his work, an ancient lathe he bought from an elderly man at a garage sale years ago, and an assortment of hand tools—each with a particular place despite the seemingly random nature of the shop. I find the stapler and turn to leave, but then stop. Amidst the tools, mounted alongside the basement window, are two hand-carved paddles. The paddles, crafted from cedar, are roughly one metre long, and 10 centimetres across at the width of the blade, narrowing to a small rounded handle, tapered specially for a child’s hands. Though the paddles have hung in this same spot for at least 10 years, this is the first time I have noticed them in almost as long. Seeing the paddles takes me back to a perfect August day, just like this one, and a Gulf Islands camping trip years ago. The campsite, an idyllic waterfront property belonging to a man named Adam, was—and still is—a family favourite, an easy commute and a quick ferry ride away. To get a jumpstart on that August long weekend, I had packed up the kids and the camping gear and set out for the campsite a few days early, with the plan being that Barry would join us at the end of the work week. The kids were young, barely seven, five, and three, and the gear was seemingly endless: a tent, sleeping bags, air mattresses, cooking gear, a few beach toys, and, best of all, if you asked the kids, a blow up boat. When we arrived at Adam’s we set up the tent first, and then inflated the rubber boat.

But before I could move it to the water, the kids tumbled into the boat and rolled around in it like they were being tossed about on a rough sea. They were too busy to notice when Adam pulled his white pickup truck into the campsite. Every time we were here, not long after we had set up, Adam would pull into the site, the back of his truck filled with firewood. Well into his 80s, a logger for much of his life, he would gather, chop, and deliver wood to each of the seven campsites. If we were lucky and he wasn’t too busy after he delivered the firewood, Adam would sit for awhile and chat. He’d tell us about the days, years ago, when his grandparents homesteaded parts of the small island. He’d describe the island back before it had roads, or a school, or a ferry, all of which he and his family helped establish. He’d tell us how when he was a young man he’d canoe to Vancouver Island—a good two-hour paddle away—to play badminton and to attend Saturday night dances. He’d discuss current and world events, and what he’d read in the newspaper that morning. And he would tell us about his family, his six sons, his wife, his grandchildren. When asked why he opened up his waterfront property for camping—charging barely enough to gas his truck—he said he did so because he enjoyed the people, preferring to share his land with others rather than keep it to himself. When the kids noticed Adam climbing out of his truck, all three of them bounced out of the boat and ran to greet him. Over the years, as the kids got older, Adam would become almost like a grandparent, watching them change and grow with each new summer. That August day, instead of going first to the back of his pickup truck and unloading

firewood, he reached into the back seat, looking for something else. “Your husband phoned,” he said from inside the truck. “Said the paddles got left behind.” I scanned the campsite quickly and realized he was right. “...said he’d bring them up this weekend.”

Editor’s Note Sue Fast I barely had time to thank him for relaying the message when he pulled two paddles— the ones now hanging in Barry’s shop—from the back seat of his truck. The handles were wrapped with black electrician’s tape to keep the kids from getting slivers, and the blades were sanded smooth. The paddles were beautiful and, for years, would take the place of the original plastic ones. I wanted to tell Adam how much those paddles, or more specifically, how much he and his generosity meant to me, to each of us. Instead, I said thank you and invited him to stay for something to eat or a cold drink. He couldn’t, he said. There was firewood to deliver, a shower to heat. He climbed into his truck, started the engine, and waved goodbye. The kids and I manoeuvred the rubber boat to the water’s edge. Once their lifejackets were on, they clamoured into the boat and started paddling in the shallow water while I watched. The breeze and sunshine felt good, the setting, like heaven on earth. I glanced back at the campsite, expecting Adam to be gone. But his truck was stopped at the top of the dirt road, his window open, and he was watching the children play. Even from where I was standing, I could see his smile.

Summer Learning Camps

Reduce summer learning loss while having fun! Campers will create a summer memory box and fill it with games, hands on activities and stories linked to learning language arts or mathematics. Locations: Sidney, Sooke, Victoria, Westshore Hours: Two hours per day, Monday through Friday Cost: $150.00 Register early as spaces are limited! See: times, locations and camp focus: www.readsociety.bc.ca/programs/children-summer-learning-camps.htm Call: 250-388-7225 for more information and to register

FA L L R E G I S T R AT I O N : AU G U S T 2 0 t h www.IslandParent.ca

August 2012 3

Christ Church Cathedral School Jr. Kindergarten (ages 3 – 4) | K – Grade 8

• Small classes, individual attention • High calibre academic instruction • Strong focus on Fine Arts • Progressive athletics programs • Before and after school care • Extracurricular programs on site • Affordable “Both of our children love attending Christ Church Cathedral School. They feel safe, respected and recognized for their individual abilities.” – A CCCS parent.

250-383-5125 | 912 Vancouver Street | www.cathedralschool.ca

4 Island Parent Magazine

IPM Notes Ride the Rails On the Alberni Pacific Railway Travel through the Alberni Valley Heritage Network aboard the steam train on Steam Days. Not only can you travel out to the McLean Mill on Steam Days, you can also see the steam-operated sawmill in action. And, on Super Steam Sundays you can see the steam donkey and the heel boom loader as well. Special events include: Summer Night (Centennial) Waterfront Train Run (Aug 3), the Old Fashioned Picnic (Aug 6, 10am only), Thunder in the Valley Waterfront Run (Aug 10, evening), Beaufort Gang Train Robbery* (Aug 11), the Extra Special Summer Run (Aug 14, 10am only) Starlight Express (Aug 18, evening), Beaufort Gang Train Robbery* (Aug 25). Tickets cost $29.95/adult, $22.50/senior or youth, $18.75/child, $60/family (*add $2 to fare for Train Robbery events). For a steam train timetable or to make reservations, visit www.alberniheritage.com.

Go Girls! Leaders Needed Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria is seeking leaders for Go Girls!, a mentoring program designed to encourage physical activity, participation, healthy eating choices, and the development of a positive self-image among girls ages 10 to 14. The school-based program, led by volunteer female mentors (19 to 30 years old) from the community, incorporates fun, educational games and activities to stimulate mentor/participant relationship building as well as self-reflection and group discussions about healthy living and emotional, social and cultural issues. BBBS Victoria runs Go Girls! in middle and elementary schools (with Grade 5 students). The program runs for 10 weeks, with each weekly session being 1-2 hours long. Mentors will be involved in two programs (with different Littles in each segment) during one school year. The fall Go Girls! runs October to December. The winter Go Girls! runs January to April. During the 2012-2013 school year, Go Girls! will run at Rockheights Middle School, Royal Oak Middle School, George Jay Elementary School, Quadra Elementary School, and Cloverdale School. If you’d like to become a Go Girls! leader this fall, visit www.bbbsvictoria.com, phone 250-475-1117 ext. 40, or email main.victoria@bigbrothersbigsisters.ca. Applications are due by Friday August 17. www.kidsinvictoria.com

Queen Alexandra Motorcar Gathering The 2012 Motorcar Gathering—in support of the Queen Alexandra Foundation (QAF) for Children—is the annual Car Picnic re-invented! Hundreds of spectacular cars, music, food, fun and family. Registration fee for show car participants is $20; admission for spectators is by donation. The Motorcar Gathering is a familyfriendly car show. Fun for the kids includes face painting, arts and crafts, a bouncy castle, Tom Thumb Safety Village Pedal Cars, a magic show, and remote control cars. The event also features a silent auction. While the event is great fun, it also serves an important purpose—to help kids. The QAF supports children and youth in need and their families on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. The Foundation proudly upholds a legacy of identifying needs in our community and raising awareness and funds to meet those needs. In the past three years the QAF has raised over $250,000 at this event with all proceeds going directly to the Foundation. This year the goal is to raise $100,000. Come out and help the Foundation reach that goal and support local children and families. To register a show car, please email Jackie at jackie.adamthwaite@viha.ca. For more information visit www.queenalexandra.org

Don’t Stop Believing at Woodwynn Farms The first-ever “Don’t Stop Believing” event takes place Saturday, August 25 at Woodwynn Farms, 7789 West Saanich Road (at Mt. Newton X Road) from 10am to 6pm. There will be activities for the whole family, with entertainment, geocaching, pony rides, silent and live auctions, a KD Cook-off (with local celebrity chefs working their magic with Kraft Dinner) and more. Door prizes include a trip for two to the set of the hit show, Glee, in Los Angeles, with a personal tour given by one of its stars—and a global celebrity—Cory Monteith, who was formerly homeless himself, here on the streets of Victoria. Each admission entitles the bearer to a chance to win. “Don’t Stop Believing” is presented by Victoria AM, a service group with a social conscience, in support of the Creating Homefulness project located at Woodwynn Farms. Richard Leblanc of the Creating Homefulness Society has been developing his vision of a supportive environment in a therapeutic community for those determined to beat their demons and participate fully in society once again. The Woodwynn www.IslandParent.ca

Why choose Cordova Bay Preschool? • A warm inviting Co-op Preschool with an ECE, ECE assistant, and a parent helper in every class • Class hours are 9:15am–12:15pm for 3 year olds and 9:15am–1:15pm for 4 year olds • Extended hours assist with transition to full day kindergarten • Free parent education speakers or workshops every month • Non-participating duty option • Room still left in 3’s class but limited space left in 4’s class

5182 Cordova Bay Road

(behind St. David’s by the Sea Anglican Church)

250-658-3441

www.cordovabaypreschool.org A member of the Vancouver Island Cooperative Preschool Association (VICPA)

Hat’s Off to 145 Years SAANICH FAIR Sept. 1- 3, 2012 Catalogues out end of May Visit our website www.saanichfair.ca

ANYONE CAN ENTER! Kids see page 49 – Junior Department

Saanich Fairground 1528 Stellys X Rd Saanichton BC 250-652-3314 Midway Ride All Day Wristbands: Now at Fair Office $32, At the Fair $40 August 2012 5

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Farms model is based on the successful program (70 per cent success rate) currently offered by the San Patrignano communities all over Europe. A day pass is $10 for adults (13 years of age and over) or $20 for a family (any size or composition). Visitors are asked to respect that this will be a smoke and alcohol-free event. Also, pets are not permitted at this venue. To volunteer, donate or purchase a day pass online or to learn more, please visit the Victoria AM website at www.victoriaam.com or phone Carol Koebbeman at 250-381-1611.

Scallywags Donates to Success by 6

Get a FREE Vancouver Attraction Pass and see the best of Vancouver by staying 20-minutes away in Richmond. Visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Science World at Telus World of Science, the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Vancouver Lookout and more - like the Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours. With a value of over $800 for a family of four and hotel rates in Richmond starting at only $89.95, it might just be the best summer getaway yet! **Offer valid only at participating hotels listed at richmondplayforfree.com. Must quote "RPFF" if booking over the phone to receive the special offer. Valid only on new bookings for stays between July 16 and September 16, 2012 of two consecutive nights or more. Full details and participating hotels at richmondplayforfree.com

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In June, Scallywags helped raise over $1,700 for Success by 6 by donating part of their sales proceeds to support Early Childhood Development programs in Greater Victoria. “We are so grateful to have such a community minded business in our city”, says Jan White, Program Manager of Success by 6. The donated funds will be used to support local programs for young children under the age of six in our region. Scallywags has also agreed to extend their fundraising partnership for a further two years. “At Scallywags, we believe that community is an important part of any healthy business. We work with several Greater Victoria schools and organizations to support arts, education, sport and just plain fun for kids. We are proud to partner with Success by 6 to help support the amazing early childhood development programs they sponsor in the region,” said Upane Vadhera, owner of Scallywags. To learn more about the programs funded by Success by 6 please visit www. SuccessBy6Victoria.ca.

Victoria Conservatory Bring the whole family down to the Victoria Conservatory of Music for a very special day. The Conservatory’s 4th Annual Open House on Saturday, September 8 from 10am to 3pm, is the perfect time for everyone in the community to discover how music can be a part of their lives. The Open House is free for the entire family. Sign up for free mini-lessons, visit practice rooms and performance halls, enjoy live entertainment, meet the instructors, take part in the “instrument petting zoo,” and enter to win great prizes. Visit the Children’s Music Department and let the kids have fun experiencing classes such as Families Making Music and Colourstrings. Providing a child with a foundation in

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www.kidsinvictoria.com

music is one of the most valuable things a parent can do. Studies show that when children take part in music classes, their social and cognitive skills are impacted in positive ways. Music facilitates learning, instils respect and pride, and increases selfesteem and positive social interaction. The VCM’s Open House is a great way to learn more about the wonderfully creative and innovative collection of music classes that can be the start of your child’s lifelong journey with music. The VCM offers something for everyone—all ages and all abilities! Mark your calendars to attend the VCM’s Open House on Saturday, September 8, 10am to 3pm, at 900 Johnson St. For more information: www.vcm.bc.ca or call 250-386-5311.

Momstowns Milestones Did you know that most small businesses don’t reach the 5-year mark? That’s why momstown.ca is proud to be celebrating five years of business in 19 communities across Canada. momstown Victoria is one of its newest chapters, 100 per cent owned by a local mama of three, connecting real moms both online and in person in the Greater Victoria region. To celebrate this milestone, momstown.ca has birthday parties taking place across the country this August. These

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events are free, family-focused, and open to the public. Enjoy entertainers, crafts, a kindergym area, a bouncy castle, balloon animals, loot bags, prizes, toy demos, snacks, and of course birthday cake! In Victoria, the event is also the official launch party and will be held on Saturday, August 25 at Pearkes Recreation Centre. The family activities will showcase the six program pillars: Literacy, Art and Music, Play and Social, Nutrition, Fitness and Adventure, and Science and Discovery. National sponsors for the event include Today’s Parent, Kids CBC, Scholastic Canada, and Red Cross. Local sponsors include Island Parent, Kids in Victoria, Par-T-Perfect and Tumblebums Solutions. For more information, visit www.victoria. momstown.ca.

Paying it Forward for Community Wellness Canadians are fortunate to have basic health care that looks after regular and emergency medical needs. But what about those health concerns that fall outside of what our provincial health plan pays for? When a mental or physical health challenge arises for a loved one, money is the last thing that should get in the way of accessing the

care they need. Local wellness centre, Valentus Clinics, has created a Pay it Forward Program to help families pay for health services that they would otherwise not be able to afford. Clients who are able to demonstrate financial need can use Pay it Forward funds for both the Valentus Pain Relief and Brainwave Optimization Programs. The Pain Relief Program, run by Dr. Jennifer Dyck, ND, is a drug- and surgery-free approach to managing and relieving chronic and acute pain. Under the care of psychologist Dr. Susan Simpson, clients of all ages are able to address emotional, mental, and physical challenges with the Brainwave Optimization Program, an advanced form of neurofeedback that can balance the brain and result in improvements for people with depression, learning challenges, memory issues, anxiety, brain injuries and more. The Pay it Forward Program is made possible with the support of community partners such as Country Grocer. Local businesses interested in learning how they can help are encouraged to contact Valentus. Pay it Forward appointments are subject to availability. For more information please call 250-590-5090, or email Appointments@ ValentusClinics.com.

August 2012 7

Amanda Farrell-Low

Get Festy with FamilyFest Fringe W

hile fringe theatre festivals are often more associated with adult-oriented content as opposed to child-friendly fare, there’s long been ways for kids to take part in the Victoria Fringe. From the ever-popular FringeKids Fest event in Market Square to the occasional matinee show aimed at younger audiences, the Victoria Fringe often has offerings for the school-aged set. This year, the Fringe is going even further to cultivate a new generation of theatergoers by creating a venue dedicated to children’s theatre. FamilyFest Fringe, taking place at the historic Langham Court Theatre in Rockland, will feature three local theatre troupes offering four kid-friendly productions during the entirety of the Fringe’s August 23 to September 2 run. Performances at FamilyFest Fringe include a local storyteller and Story Theatre, a popular local theatre-for-young-audiences company that will be performing “Beanstalk Conspiracy” and “Aladdin’s Secret Voyage,” two plays that incorporate characters and storylines from the classic Aladdin and Jack and the Beanstalk tales. Also on the bill is Trent Arterberry, a mime artist who has been creating works aimed at kids for over 20 years. His show, “The Secret Life of Walter Manny,” is about an eight-year-old boy with an extremely active imagination. “Walter has these fantasies of being a race car driver, an airplane pilot or a secret agent, and he’s transported by them…” Arterberry explains. “He gets into trouble and everybody is worried about him.” One of the themes in the show is learning how to balance a vivid imagination with functioning in day-to-day life. “It is a balance. I’ve had some teachers or administrators say, ‘I’ve got a lot of kids like that,’ or, ‘This is the story of a lot of kids,’” says Arterberry, who has done about 40 school performances of Walter Manny so far. The show is a relatively new piece by Arterberry, and represents a new direction for the seasoned performer.

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“It’s a mime show inside a play, which is to say I play five speaking characters and it’s the first time I’ve ever done that,” he says. “I’ve incorporated words with my work for years, but it’s the first time I’m actually flipping and changing speaking characters. It’s something we do in mime a lot, but silently. There’s five characters that tell the story of what’s happening in Walter’s real life, then all his fantasies occur in mime.”

Take in one of the family-friendly performances and introduce your child to the magic of theatre at this 11-day celebration of live theatre from around Canada and the world. FamilyFest Fringe runs from August 23 to September 2 at Langham Court Theatre, 905 Langham Court. Tickets are $7 for children, $11 for adults, and no Fringe visa button is required. Visit www.intrepidtheatre.com/ fringe for full schedule and information. www.kidsinvictoria.com

Jerri Carson

Songs & Games of the Pioneers

n August 2, 1862, the town site of Fort Victoria became the City of Victoria. To mark the occasion, Victoria will celebrate this 150th anniversary with celebrations and events throughout the city. Victoria has a rich pioneer history. A good way to introduce your child to the pioneer life is through songs and games. Today, children often amuse themselves with video games, computers and TV. In contrast, the early settlers had to make their own entertainment. Children in the 1900s played with simple toys such as wooden tops, yo-yos, hoops and rag dolls that were passed down from previous generations. On long winter evenings, children played games such as jacks, dominoes, crokinole or checkers. During the day, they would play marbles, hopscotch, tag, hide-and-seek, skipping and leapfrog. To get a sense of pioneer life, encourage your child to play some of these games. Try playing Snap together to get an idea of an old fashioned card game or play jackstraws which is similar to the game pick-up-sticks. Another game to try is cat’s cradle the finger and string game, or cup and all, a favourite skill testing pastime for pioneer children. Don’t forget about the importance of music during this period of history. There are many songs that were popular in the 1900s that still hold interest for our children today. Songs that involved forming an arch with the arms and the children running though the arch while singing was a favourite activity. “Oranges and Lemons” and “London Bridge” are examples of arch songs and today they are still fun to sing at birthday parties. The pioneers would add clapping and stamping to add extra sounds to the music. These songs as well as many other early rhymes and sing-a-longs can be found in the “Countdown Kids” album called “Mommy and Me: 100 songs for Kids.” Instruments such as fiddles, harmonicas or flutes were often played at work bees and barn dances. As well, square dancing, reels and jigs kept dances lively and active. Simple folk instruments such as pennywhistles, drums and triangles added extra tone colour to the music. Share this pioneer music spirit

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by listening to folk music with your child. A good book to read with your child is A Pioneer Story by Barbara Greenswood. The story follows a Canadian pioneer family through the seasons in 1840 and provides information about barn dances, schoolyard songs and games, farm chores, harvesting

crops and much more about pioneer life. This book and many other books about pioneers living in Canada can be found at the local library. The City of Victoria has many arts and cultural events planned during the 150th Anniversary. There are interactive family activities including music, entertainment, and crafts. Check out the Events Calendar at the City of Victoria’s website “Victoria 150 CityVibe.” Happy Anniversary, Victoria! Jerri Carson is a primary music teacher for SD #61. She is a member of the CRD Arts Advisory Council. Jerri plays the cello in the Victoria Conservatory Cello Orchestra.

August 2012 9

Rachel Dunstan Muller

For the Love of Trees

Bring this ad to the Westhills Display Centre to get a special Island Parent WESTHILLS PRIZE! Call Mike Hartshorne* at (250)-889-4445 for more information or visit WesthillsBC.com!

o all children love trees? Mine certainly do. My oldest daughters were so fond of the ancient apple tree in our backyard that they would leave little love notes in its knots when they were younger. That apple tree is well past its prime, but we’ve been forced to promise that we won’t cut it down unless it becomes a safety hazard. My youngest children are tree climbers, and tree huggers as well. We can’t complete a hike without stopping at least once while they wrap their arms around a sturdy trunk. I can’t say that I blame them—there’s a lot to love about trees! In this era of greenhouse gas awareness, trees get a lot of press for their ability to sequester carbon. The amount of carbon a tree can sequester depends on its spe-

again. It’s not your imagination—the air under that leafy canopy is especially clean. Deciduous trees in particular are excellent air purifiers, absorbing pollutants like carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and nitrous oxides through the pores in their leaves, and filtering out dust and other particles. And while all that is happening above ground, the trees’ roots may be removing harmful chemicals from the soil in a process known as phytoremediation. The roots are also filtering groundwater. Now take one last deep breath. Doesn’t that cool air feel lovely, especially on a hot summer’s day? Trees don’t just block the sun’s light and heat—they’re nature’s air conditioners. Water vapour escapes the stomata of leaves in a process called transpiration; the evaporation of that

cies, where it’s planted, and other factors, but a broadleaf tree can capture in the neighbourhood of one metric tonne over a 100-year lifetime. Altogether, the world’s forests currently store about twice as much carbon dioxide as the atmosphere contains. Preserving our existing forests and planting new ones are clearly important strategies in combating climate change. But trees are so much more than carbon sinks. The next time you’re in the forest, take a deep breath. That’s freshly produced oxygen you’re inhaling. Through the process of photosynthesis, trees take in carbon dioxide, and release oxygen. In fact, trees are responsible for about half of the oxygen in our atmosphere (phytoplankton in the ocean produce the other half). Now fill your lungs

vapour is responsible for 80 per cent of the cooling effect of a shade tree. If you stroll through a forest on Vancouver Island, you’ll almost certainly spy yellow cedars and/or western red cedars. Both species have great spiritual and cultural significance for the First Nations of the coast. The two cedar species provided material for canoes, homes, clothing, food storage, ceremonial masks, tools, rope and even some medicines. “Culturally modified trees” are cedars whose bark has been harvested for traditional purposes in a way that ensures the continued health of the trees. Thousands of these living artifacts can still be found in old growth forests on the coast. My forest-loving family and I are going to be tree tourists this summer—and we don’t

From Veterans Memorial Parkway, turn onto the Langford Parkway, drive past the Westhills Arena and follow the signs. *PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION

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even have to leave Vancouver Island. In a remote region to the southwest of Lake Cowichan, just inside the boundaries of Pacific Rim National Park, stands the Cheewhat Lake Cedar. At 18.34 m in circumference and 59 m in height, it’s the largest known western red cedar in Canada, and second largest in the world after the Quinault Lake Cedar in Washington State. The Cheewhat Lake Cedar may also be one of the world’s oldest trees: it’s estimated to be upwards of 2500 years! We’ll be taking a spare tire or two and some emergency provisions when we go—the road in sounds rough. We also plan to visit Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park, home of the Carmanah Giant. At a breathtaking 95 m, it’s the tallest tree in Canada, and the tallest known Sitka spruce in the world. Although the Carmanah Giant is almost twice as tall as the Cheewhat Lake Cedar, it’s a child by comparison at an estimated 500 to 700 years old. Unfortunately the fragility of the immediate environment has made the Carmanah Giant off-limits to visitors. It is possible to visit other impressive Sitka spruces in the area, however. Port Renfrew’s legendary Red Creek Fir is 74 m tall and 13.3 m in circumference. It was even taller, but its top broke off. It’s reputed to be the largest living Douglas fir in the world. The logging road to the Red Creek Fir is not recommended for lowclearance vehicles. If that’s an issue, you can visit the giant Douglas firs at Cathedral Grove instead. Cathedral Grove’s biggest fir specimens are in the neighbourhood of 800 years old, and are up to 75 m high and 9 m in circumference. You don’t need to leave the city to see some truly amazing trees. Beacon Hill Park is home to one of my favourites: the nonnative Giant Sequoia located just across the road from the petting zoo. This tree was planted only a century ago, but it’s already an impressive size. Just imagine what it will look like in a few more centuries—or in another thousand years! There are many other unique non-native trees in Beacon Hill Park. But my very favourite trees of all have to be Garry oaks, and my favourite place to visit them is on Newcastle Island, in Nanaimo’s harbour. We have lots of trees to visit this summer! For more information and directions to Vancouver Island’s special trees, check out vancouverislandbigtrees.blogspot.ca.

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Rachel Dunstan Muller is the mother of five, and a children’s author. Her previous articles can be found at www.islandparent.ca. www.IslandParent.ca

August 2012

Tim Collins

Let Kids Be Kids ook at those kids,” I said, gesturing at the boys with a nod of my head. The boys, between eight and 10 years old, were down a grassy slope, near the edge of the Inner Harbour. They were throwing stones at a couple of seagulls who were floating safely out of range. My wife watched for a moment, then turned away, shaking her head. “Pitiful,” she said. And they were. These boys, these eight- to 10-year-old boys, couldn’t throw a rock to save their lives. They threw by drawing their hands back to their ears with their elbows pointed straight ahead. The results were… well…pitiful. The seagulls, who were the ostensible targets of the boys’ efforts, eyed them with disdain. I’m sure I heard one laughing. “How can they not know how to throw a rock,” I marveled. “Isn’t that sort of natural for kids?” “Jacob! Joshua! What are you doing?” A woman rushed down the slope and

herded the boys away from the water. She gathered her composure and spoke in a tone that was reminiscent of the Super Duper Nannies on the Learning Channel. You know the ones, loving yet stern. “One should never throw things at living creatures! In fact, you shouldn’t throw stones at all. What if you hurt someone?” She’d knelt so that her face was level with the boys’. “Or you might have slipped and fallen into the water,” she continued. “I’m very disappointed with you. I want you to promise never to do that again.” The boys looked ashamed, or at least the older of the two did. The younger one was still clutching a rock and as mom turned to lead them away, I saw him attempt to sidearm the tiny missile toward the water. “Good on you, kid,” I thought. It was his best throw of the day. My wife took me by the arm and led me away. “None of your business,” she said. My wife knows me well. I wanted more than anything to help this young mother un-

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derstand that if she really wanted to make her children safe, confident, and capable of handling life, she had to let them live. Her sons needed to learn that if they stood on wet rocks on the shore they might fall in and get wet. They had to learn for themselves that throwing stones at animals is stupid. Seagulls have been dodging rocks for a long time, so it’s tougher to hit one than it looks. Also, if you actually manage to hit one, you’ll likely feel bad about the whole thing. So why bother? Finally, these boys needed to learn how to throw a rock. I wanted to tell the mom all of this, but I took my wife’s advice and walked away. Still, the episode came back to me the other day as I sat on the deck at our local recreation center pool. My three-year-old granddaughter was in the water for her weekly swimming lesson. Sitting next to me was the mother of another little girl in the class. “How did your granddaughter learn to get her face wet when she jumps off the side into the water?” the mother asked. “My daughter won’t jump if you don’t catch her and keep her head out of the water.” I explained that when my granddaughter was two, I took her into the pool and she

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wanted to jump off the side. That time, and every time after, when she jumped, I let her go right under water before I pulled her up. The first couple of times, she was a little shocked, but I always got her up right away and made a big fuss about how brave she was. Now she expected to get her face wet. The mother looked horrified. “Really?” I shrugged. “I sort of figured that she needed to learn that if you jump into deep water, your head is going to go under. I just make sure that, right now, I get her to the surface before she swallows any water.” And maybe that’s what grandparents are for; to step aside at the right times and let children experience life. Another case in point: If my granddaughter starts running down a grassy slope behind our house while wearing her favorite pink flip flops, I ask her once if she wants her other shoes, pointing out that they’re better for running. When she says no, I let her go. Sure, I know she might fall, bum over teakettle. So what? She’ll almost certainly survive the event and unless she has the learning curve of a pigeon, she’ll learn something about running in flip flops. No one wants a child hurt. But in a world where parents can become immobilized by fear, maybe a grandparent’s role is to help restore a little common sense. We grew up in a very different world. We were shooed out of the house and told to “go play,” the only clear directive being to come in when the street lights came on. OK, it’s not the best strategy these days, but there was some wisdom in the approach. Children need to pet dogs, climb trees and explore new places. They need to get wet jumping in puddles and go tumbling down grassy slopes with such abandon that it takes a few minutes to gather up the flip flops that they shouldn’t have been wearing in the first place. My job as a grandparent is to add a little wisdom to their world and keep mom and dad from over reacting to every perceived threat or potential danger. It’s also to make certain that my grandchildren are safe and to make sure they survive to learn life’s lessons with the confidence they gain from that survival. Through it all, it’s my job to make sure that they learn how to throw a rock. Tim Collins is a writer and freelance journalist living and working in Victoria. He also helps to raise a gloriously headstrong granddaughter who fancies herself a princess. According to Tim, she may be right. www.IslandParent.ca

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The Write Stuff

ust as important—and fun—as summer reading is summer writing. Not only do children have more time to sit down and write in the summer, but they might also have more stories to tell. Summer is also a great time to start a blog or write more letters, postcards, e-mails, journal entries, and even lists. Encourage children to write—just for the fun of it. Then leave it up to them to spin their own stories, weave their own words and tell their own tales. Story Starters: On recipe cards, write (or invite children to write) the first paragraph of a story. Make the paragraph exciting, suspenseful, intriguing, strange, or whatever else might inspire a child to imagine and then write the rest of the story. Compile a bunch of story starters and store them in a recipe box close to pens and paper, or the computer, depending upon which method your child uses to write. Have fun with the cards: sit together and, using the same story starter, write your own story and then read each version aloud; illustrate each other’s stories; add a new ending to each other’s story.

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Twisted Tales: Start with a fairy tale and invite children to create a new beginning, middle and/or end. For example, in Cinderella, the prince might fall in love with a step-sister instead of Cinderella. Or in Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Goldilocks—after entering the three bears’ house uninvited—might end up being featured on the TV show Canada’s Most Wanted. The wackier, the better. Character Cards: Like the story starters, character descriptions may be written on recipe cards. Have children come up with names of characters and their attributes including appearances, likes, dislikes, hopes, dreams, habits, occupations, and so on. Or have kids cut out a person’s picture from a magazine (or draw one) and then imagine and write about that person’s traits. Or, if they prefer writing nonfiction accounts, have kids document their family, friends and acquaintances. Pen Pals: If your child doesn’t already have friends or relatives living in another place, find a pen pal (ask friends, relatives, and co-workers if they know of any children

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who might fit the bill) and help your child get started writing old-fashioned letters. This idea can be adapted to suit e-mail correspondence, too, though there’s something exciting about finding a letter in the mailbox. Summer Memory Book: For this one you’ll need a camera—digital, iPhone, or disposable all work—and a photo album with pages that children can write on. Have kids take photographs of their summer holidays. Then have them mount the photos in their album and then write captions/memories for each one. Making Lists: Writing lists is one way to get children to put pen to paper, and it can be fun. Write grocery lists, lists of games to play at a birthday, lists of what to bring camping. Remember to help make writing fun for children. Provide a good place to write (a desk, flat surface, somewhere with good lighting); have the materials (plenty of paper, things to write with); allow time; respond to your child’s writing (focus on what is written, not how it is written) and ignore minor errors; and offer observations (Is the writing descriptive? Interesting? Imaginative?). Keep writing times fun, informal and let your kids decide when to stop. And encourage them to create some writing games of their own. •

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August 2012 15

Janine Fernandes-Hayden

The Life of a Family Pet

remember a sense of hesitation the night my husband and I brought our first born home from the hospital. Up to that point, we had had an exclusive relationship with our seven-year-old black lab named Atticus and we were a bit worried about how our dog would take to this new addition. To our surprise, Atticus’s first response was to lick my husband’s hand in loving approval and congratulations. Then, leaning his head curiously over the top of the car seat carrier, he gave our daughter a gentle lick on her forehead. It was the beginning of Atticus’s relationship with children. And it was the beginning of my daughter’s relationship with a pet.

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Three more babies came along, a bombardment to Atticus’s lifestyle. With each, his reaction always seemed mixed—an initial sigh of resignation coupled with the consolation that at least it was my husband and not he, who teetered on the bottom rung of the ladder. Regardless, Atticus remained an amazingly gentle pet. He was patient and tolerant of being put into headlock cuddles and having the children lounge on top of him. He was a loyal and faithful defender of his family, our mammalian doorbell as well as our reliable night patroller, rotating from room to room to soothe whichever child was crying or upset. Atticus was a virtuous role model in actions and in deeds. In life, Atticus was an important companion and teacher for my children. He provided them with a secure base of unconditional, non-judgmental love. Through caring for him, they developed responsibility and compassion. The flicker of an ear, the wag of a tail, the way he flopped his head to the ground with droopy eyes when he was sad or how his body stiffened up when he was in pain—all were important cues that helped to foster the children’s social intelligence and their ability to understand non-verbal communication. Finally, Atticus’s love of the woods and the beach meant that the children spent a lot of time outdoors, breathing fresh air, getting exercise and appreciating nature. Sadly, Atticus passed away this past April. At the age of 14, his days of struggle had come to outnumber his days of joy. While it was an outcome that we had been anticipating for at least a year, having Atticus euthanized was an extremely difficult decision to make and one for which we had to mindfully prepare our children. Atticus’s death was the first close death that my children have ever experienced. Yet, though sad, it was a good life lesson and one that will help them cope with other losses throughout their lives. Death is an archetypal experience, and even though children may not understand it or may seem impervious to it, especially younger ones, they are still processing it on an unconscious level. My two-year-old daughter watched with silent inquiry as we buried Atticus on our property and surrounded his grave with his old toys and comforts. A couple of days later, I asked her out of curiosity, “Where’s Atticus?” She replied, “He’s in the mud.” “What is he doing in the mud?” was my next question and she answered in a very matter of fact way, “He’s playing with his toys.” Though my two-year-old may not fully comprehend it, I believe that her first www.IslandParent.ca

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experience of death has provided her with a peaceful and even hopeful sense. Atticus’s passing presented me with some invaluable teachable moments as a parent. I was intrigued to watch how differently each member of my family reacted to this intense life experience and how they processed their feelings. I learned a great deal about my children’s emotional worlds and how I can better support them. For example, I was able to make the correlation between how my four-year-old son expresses sadness and his often raw outbursts of language and behaviour. It confirmed for me that he is an extroverted feeler. Remarks like “I hate crying” gave me great insight on how I might nurture my very emotional and sensitive boy who “feels” so strongly. My six-yearold daughter, on the other hand, is a stoic, introverted thinker. She was adamant that she did not want to be present when Atticus was euthanized. One night after his death, she asked me why I was crying. I told her, “I miss Atticus.” I then asked her, “Do you miss Atticus?” She replied, “I don’t know. There is something rolling in my stomach but there’s nothing in my head so I don’t know if I miss him or not.” Her response provided me with such clarity and understanding of her character. Atticus’s death has gifted me

with greater perceptiveness when it comes to my children. Perhaps they too have gained the same awareness about themselves. Dealing with the death or the impending death of a pet is difficult for adults as well as children. Here are some ways that our family managed: 1. Speak honestly. Kids take things quite literally. Veiled speech and the use of terms such as “putting your pet to sleep” can cause more confusion. It is often humorous to me how much kids actually do grasp and that they can understand even the gentlest honesty in no uncertain terms. Over the year preceding Atticus’s impending death, my son would often ask me, “So, are we going to kill Atticus today?” though I had never explained it to him in that way. 2. Share your feelings with your child. What are you feeling? Why are you crying? It is important for your children to see you as human with a wide emotional repertoire. It is also a great way for you to help build your child’s emotional intelligence in a relevant and personally meaningful way. 3. Create a space where your children can explore their emotions, remembering that not everyone copes in the same way. As I discovered with my eldest daughter, they may talk, they may not, but you have

at least made the opportunity available and sent the message that it is okay for them to share their feelings.

4. Explore what closure might look like for your family. Include your children in

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discussions about your pet’s end of life plans. In the months before Atticus’s death, we talked about where we would bury him and what special treasures we would bury with him. The children reminded us that we would need to bury a shoe along with Atticus given that shoes were his favourite toys. We took lots of photographs for a scrapbook that we will eventually make. The children made grave markers and drew pictures to include in the grave. The day before Atticus was put down, we celebrated Atticus’s day. It was a bit of a disappointment because we couldn’t really do with him all the things that he liked, such as take him swimming or go for long walks, but we did treat him to a one-time special breakfast of scrambled eggs, a lunch of peanut butter sandwiches and many liver treats! 5. There are some great children’s books that can prepare kids for the death of a pet. Jasper’s Day by Marjorie Blain Parker became a favourite in our home. It tells the story of a family’s last day with their golden retriever in a realistic but gentle way. Books such as this one help children to begin to process what it is that they may have to go through. 6. Remember that rituals are so important for adding meaning to events and substance to life. Have a special memorial or funeral for your pet. On the day that Atticus died, we had a special ceremony and planted a tree in his honour. Our home is empty without Atticus—we are missing a member of our family. He was an important source of love and provided a chance for us to open our hearts in compassion, respect and understanding. At this point, we may not consider getting another pet but we will never regret the time that we spent with Atticus. The other morning, while in bed together, my four-year-old son said to me, “Let’s lie back and think about Atticus’s life.” His words made me feel blessed and grateful that my children have had the opportunity to make such a special and memorable connection. I hope that they will always think back on Atticus’s life and remember the lessons he taught them about loyalty, patience, playfulness and perseverance. Janine Fernandes-Hayden is an educator and Salt Spring Island mum of four children. She hosts a parent and kids radio show called “The Beanstalk” at CFSI 107.9 FM or online at www.cfsi-fm.com.

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August 2012 19

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20 Island Parent Magazine

Jody Watson

Wisdom of Pages? S

o many parenting books prescribe the “best” and sometimes “right” way to help your child sleep, eat, play, bond and behave. They often promise to solve an assortment of other issues you may be facing as a parent. How on earth does a parent choose the “right” book? Hmmm, is there a right book or method? And what did people do before there were parenting books? I have spent countless hours and money on parenting books of all varieties. Books on attachment parenting, books on “crying it out,” books that suggest rigid schedules, books that suggest no schedules, positive discipline, 1-2-3 discipline, demand feeding to feeding at only specific times—I have read it all! What am I hoping to find? Sometimes my search is motivated by pure desperation and my being absolutely convinced that what I am experiencing with my children is not “normal.” Sometime it is motivated by pure inquisitiveness. I look on the Internet, read blogs, look at parenting forums and of course, buy more books! Seriously, I could start my own parenting book library. When my girls—3 ½-year-old twins—were babies, life was all about getting them to sleep. That was the Holy Grail for me. I found a method that promised me nights of uninterrupted sleep and I stuck to it like nothing I have ever stuck to in my life. I timed when my babies ate and when they slept. I measured food quantities, I got blackout blinds, a “white noise” maker, I swaddled, I…you get the picture. I faced a lot of judgment from people who thought this was not a proper method for bonding (many of these opinions came from people that either did not have children, or only had singletons). I waffled between not caring what these people thought to not trusting what felt right for my family. In the end, my rigid method worked. My kids slept through the night very early on and I thought I was oh-so-clever for figuring out the great mystery of how to make a baby sleep. Fast-forward three years. So has all my hard work and perseverance paid off? Do I have the best little sleepers in the whole wide world? No! I counted the other night and one of my girls got up 13 times. Here were just some of the reasons why: “I need water,”

“My baby needs to be tucked in,” “I need music on,” and on and on went the excuses. So what went wrong? Once a good sleeper, always a good sleeper, I thought. Or conversely, once a poor sleeper, always a poor sleeper. I don’t believe this anymore. Do I have regrets? Absolutely not. I am a pretty structured person and this worked really well for me. I loved that I knew that by 7 p.m. every night both of my girls would be sleeping soundly and my husband and I could hang out and have some quality time together. Here’s the only thing: I think that constantly consulting parenting books made me see certain behaviours as problems instead of seeing them as just part of the unpredictable nature of child development. Also, parenting by the book, so to speak, did not prepare me to be flexible as my kids got older. So when my daughter decided to stop sleeping through the night, I was surprised, upset and confused. Back to my question of what went wrong: The answer is that nothing went wrong, everything is as it should be. My wakeful daughter is in a phase and just like all of the other phases, this too shall pass. I have had to step back and remember that my girls are going to continue to change and need different things at different times. Wow, is parenting ever humbling. Have I stopped buying parenting books? No way! I just find now that I read them to get ideas, not to get the answers. I don’t consult parenting books to solve anything, but to know that I am not the only one dealing with a particular issue. I read parenting books to maybe give me a few strategies to try out for a specific phase. My love/hate relationship with parenting books continues. Some I love (Hold On To Your Kids, by Gabor Maté and Gordon Neufeld, for example) and some I shake my head at in dismay. I will continue to buy them, read them and pass them on because I do think that we parents can use all the help we can get. “Expert” knowledge can be good, but often your own knowledge and gut instinct about what works best for you and your family is even better. Jody Watson is a registered clinical counselor and art therapist at the Vancouver Island Naturopathic and Integrated Health Clinic.

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Jannine Murray

Embrace Your Baby Weight

f you are the mother of a little person, you understand the challenge of carving out time for yourself, and more often than not, exercise is one activity that gets shuffled to the shadowy bottom of your To Do list. You know where…right under chores and napping, written in an illegible scrawl with your wrong hand because your good hand is carrying baby or stirring some kind of wholesome food for baby. You don’t have to go crazy trying to budget your time between baby and a healthy, toned, fit physique. By doing a quick, full-body Baby Weight circuit, you will tone, have fun in the process and bond with your baby or toddler. The following exercises are a fun and interactive blend of exercise and baby games that safely and gently integrate your baby into the exercises as additional resistance or adorable sidekick. Remember, safety first. Check with your doctor before you start any post natal exercise routine, and ensure your baby can hold his or her head stable, usually around six months of age although that will vary. Always hold your baby with a secure grip, using two hands, and always move in slow, fluid, non-jerky movements. If at any point you feel uncomfortable during the workout, adapt the exercise to your comfort level or stop the exercise and resume later. Ready? Put on some comfy clothes, crank your baby’s favourite uptempo music and prepare to do all exercises as a circuit (one exercise to the next, little to no rest in between) spending about 30 seconds to one minute on each exercise. Do about three to six circuits, depending upon your time and energy. King of The Castle. This move is just like a regular crunch except that baby sits atop your stomach, lording over you like a cute emperor. Lie on the ground in a sit-up position, knees bent and feet can be up off the floor. Hold baby on your stomach or lean him against your thighs. Crunch towards him until your core engages and then slowly lower down. Keep your shoulder blades lifted off the ground. Repeat. Both hands should be on the baby’s waist to secure him, so he should be stable in this position. Baby Twists. A great exercise for arms and abs! Same position. While holding baby, tilt

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back slightly until you begin to feel your core engage. Squeeze tightly…breathe…hold. Now lift baby off of your lap, moving her over to the right side of your body, gently tapping her feet to the ground. Then to the left. Repeat. Baby Bridge. Lie on your back with your feet planted firmly on the ground. Baby is in his now familiar straddle pose. For smaller infants, you’ll want to hold them snugly against your thighs. Lift your hips high while pressing your feet into the ground and tightening your glutes and thighs, ensuring your upper back, shoulders and head are pressed into the floor. Sumo Baby Press. This move is a standard squat with a bonus move. In a standing position, hold your baby chest-to-chest with you in a big bear hug. Feet are slightly wider than hip-width apart. Squat down pressing your heels into the ground while keeping your chest elevated and smoothly straighten your arms and press baby up, keeping her weight centered above your chest, and then slowly lower her back down. Kiss the Baby Pushups. This move is just like a standard push-up, but you get a kiss for each rep. Start in push-up position, either on hands and toes or hands and knees. Baby lies on his back, between your hands looking up at you. Bend at the elbows keeping your back in a straight line and give him a smooch before pressing back up. Alternating Plank to Nose Touch. Plank position, wide foot stance. Lower your forearms to the floor so that your shoulders are directly above your elbows. Keeping your bum in and core tight, raise one arm off the ground at a time, touching it gently to the tip of baby’s nose. Bonus mom points if you make a “boop!” noise each time you do this. There you have it! A fun, interactive full body workout designed to target your core and get you back into shape. Any time your baby gets bored, just stop the exercise and resume later. If all else fails, use the remainder of your time to pick up your baby and dance! Embrace your “baby weight!” Jannine Murray is a Victoria personal trainer and womens fitness bootcamp instructor. Visit her website at janninemurray.com.

August 2012 21

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Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre has a long history of providing outstanding early learning programs to the Victoria community. We previously operated as Goosey Gander Kindergarten before moving to our new 1.4 acre site in a natural setting in the Cadboro Bay/UVIC area. We offer half- and full-day preschool programs for 3- & 4-year-olds and a small after school program for KGrade 1 students attending Frank Hobbs Elementary. Children’s curiosity, sense of wonder and innate desire to learn is supported and nurtured through inquiry, exploration, play and creative expression. www.arbutusgrove.ca, or 250 477-3731.

Cordova Bay Co-Op Preschool is nestled right in the Cordova Bay neighbourhood and has been serving families in the area for many generations. Our excellent educators and duty parent provide a stimulating environment filled with creative outdoor play, science experiments, themed crafts, imaginative dress up, story and circle time, just to name a few of the activities children participate in. Extended hours (9:15am-12:15pm for 3-year-olds and 9:15am-1:15pm for 4-year-olds) assist with transition to full day kindergarten. There is a non-participating duty option for those parents that require flexibility. Limited spaces left. Please call 250-658-3441 or visit www.cordovabaypreschool.org. Carrot Seed Preschool – Play Paves the Way! We provide a wonderfully rich, inclusive environment for children to play,

explore and “live in the moment” so they can grow into independent and self-directed individuals. Children have lots of outdoor time in our large, natural play space, which gives them the room they need to engage in both big-muscle and fine-motor skill exploration. There’s lots of opportunity for imaginative play and curiosity as children are encouraged to “ask why” and are supported in their quest to solve the mystery. Our teachers are dedicated to the philosophy of play-based learning and demonstrate their love of teaching every day. www.carrotseepreschool.com. Emmanuel Preschool is a welcoming and inclusive Christian preschool, where students with special needs have the support of an additional teacher. Our morning classes are offered either two or three days per week. Both programs are for 3- and 4-year-olds, and include stories, games, singing, arts and crafts, science activities, free play (indoors and outdoors) and some field trips. Each class is licensed for a maximum of 20 children and has two licensed and experienced Early Childhood Educators. Our staff strive to teach and model Christian attitudes and values, and to maintain a warm, caring and safe environment. www. emmanuelpreschool.ca.

outdoor environment has

Our

always piqued the curiosity of our students. This fall, it becomes part of our Kindergarten program. Come visit us for a sneak peek.

ST. M ARGARET’S SCHOOL w w w.st m a r g.c a | (250) 479-7171 22 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Oak and Orca Pre-primary School is a licensed facility offering bioregional programming for 3- to 5-year-olds. Founded on 12 years of experience in quality instruction for children, the pre-primary offers an early learning curriculum based on child-directed learning, individual awareness and choice. Natural learning is supported through investigation, experience and play. Relationships take priority for teaching time, where a focus on needs helps create harmony and self-awareness. Regular out trips connect youngsters with the natural world, while at the school they enjoy experiences in science, math, language and more. Located in the Hillside area, the program is run by an ECE and certified teachers. Info at oakandorca. ca or 250-383-6609. Positive Path Early Learning, with spaces available for September, starts your child on a journey of active exploration and discovery into the fascinating wonders that surround them. Located in Sidney, our program is for children 21⁄2 to 5 years of age learning in a culture of Christian values and virtues. With a focus on play as a powerful forum for learning, children have opportunities to practice new skills. With experienced educators who foster a strong sense of self, children build confidence and self-esteem, plus a lifelong love of knowledge. Part-time or full-time enrollment. Call 250-655-7244. Sidney Preschool has been providing a rich and stimulating preschool program based on the philosophy of “Learning Through Play” since 1972. Parents have the opportunity to participate in the classroom, which is an excellent way to be involved in your child’s education, to observe your child in a social setting and to get support from the ECE and other parents. We offer a free “Stay and Play” session on September 5 & 6 from 9-11:30am and thereafter every Wednesday from 3-4:30pm until October 31. Register before September 30 and the $75 registration fee will be waived. For more info, visit www.sidneypreschool.org or email us at sidney.preschool@yahoo.ca. Fifteen parent participation preschools exist on Vancouver Island involving hundreds of families every year. The Vancouver Island Cooperative Preschool Association (VICPA) preschools provide activities that nurture the complete development of the child—social, emotional, intellectual and physical—and encourage positive selfconcept and self-reliance. The excellent child to adult ratio and high quality program allow for considerable individual attention. Parent participation preschools promote www.IslandParent.ca

Le français au CSF, c’est bien plus qu’une langue !

Depuis sa création en 1995, le Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique offre des programmes et des services éducatifs valorisant le plein épanouissement et l’identité culturelle des apprenantes et apprenants francophones de la province. Le conseil compte aujourd’hui plus de 4 600 élèves, 36 écoles publiques et dessert plus d’une centaine de communautés réparties dans l’ensemble de la province.

Inscrivez votre enfant dans une école du CSF !

Nos écoles publiques daNs l’île de VaNcouVer Campbell River École Mer-et-montagne École secondaire Phoenix École secondaire Carihi

250-923-3359 1102 South Alder 250-923-3359 400, 7th Ave. 250-923-3359 350 Dogwood St.

M-6 7-9 10 - 12

Comox Valley

École au Cœur-de-l'île

250-339-1848 566 Linshart Rd.

M - 12

Nanaimo

École Océane 250-714-0761 1951 Estevan Rd. M - 7 École secondaire de Nanaimo 250-714-0761 355 Wakesiah Ave. 8 - 12

Port Alberni

École des Grands-cèdres

250-723-5614 4645 Helen St.

M-6

Victoria

École Victor-Brodeur

250-220-6010 637 Head St.

M - 12

csf.bc.ca

August 2012

Where Kids

Become Authors! Writing and bookmaking for all ages. Check out the website for workshops and camps. www.storystudio.ca or call 250-592-BOOK

Are you interested in a

Family Healthy Eating Study?

Dr. PJ Naylor at the University of Victoria is currently looking for parents with children aged 11 to 13 years to participate in a healthy eating study. There is NO COST to participate but it will take about 12 hours of your time over 8-weeks.

To hear more, please contact: David Trill dtrill@uvic.ca or 250-853-3141 24 Island Parent Magazine

direct involvement of parents. This makes for a unique educational family experience. Under the guidance of a qualified Early Childhood Educator (ECE), parents assist in the classroom. The children’s educational program emphasizes “Learning Through Play.” For more information, please visit www.vicpa.org or call 250-598-2667.

Schools

Christ Church Cathedral School (CCCS) is Victoria’s Anglican preschool, elementary and middle school, welcoming students from all backgrounds. CCCS offers before and after school care, a wide range of extracurricular programs, small class sizes, high caliber learning in math, science and technology, a strong focus on fine arts, and progressive athletics programs. Weekly chapel service and seasonal performances are held in beautiful Christ Church Cathedral just a few steps away. Through focused encouragement of personal responsibility, selfdiscipline, community service and engaging learning opportunities with dedicated teachers, the school helps children realize their true potential. www.cathedralschool.ca. 250-383-5125. The Conseil scolair francophone de la Colombie-Britannique (CSF), also known as BC’s Francophone School District (SD #93) was created in 1995 to serve Francophones across the province. Since its creation, the CSF offers educational programs and services geared towards the growth and cultural promotion of the province’s Francophone learners. An active partner in the development of British Columbia’s Francophone community, the Conseil has presently in its system, and distributed across 78 communities in the province, over 4,350 students and 38 schools, which includes 21 homogeneous schools. For more information visit www. csf.bc.ca (604)-214-2600 or 1-888-7152200, info@csf.bc.ca. Discovery School specializes in working with students who have learning disabilities and are not succeeding in regular classrooms. Students work at their own pace in small classes under the direction of skilled, experienced teachers. We teach B.C.’s core curriculum, augmenting it with individualized remediation as needed. Our priority is to create a dynamic, positive environment that fosters self-confidence and academic success, and improves organizational and social skills. This summer, after 36 years of operation, we are expanding our school to include Grade 11. For more information, please visit www.discoveryschool.ca, or

call 250-595-7765. We’d be happy to give you a tour. Eaton Arrowsmith School is the only school in Victoria that focuses on the potential of children with learning disabilities to benefit from the brain’s ability to change itself, in order to improve cognitive functioning for life. School aged children spend three to four years rewiring weaker areas of their brains to better remember, attend, process and reason, thereby improving their ability to read, write, spell, do math, plan, prioritize and interact socially. Our students then transfer back to typical public and private schools in the area with greatly reduced or no need for extra support. eatonarrowsmithschool. com. 250-370-0046. Elizabeth Buckley School is an independent K-6 school in Victoria, and will be the region’s first STEAM school as of September. STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics. STEAM education transforms the typical teacher-centred classroom by encouraging problem-solving, discovery and exploratory learning. Our STEAM program offers a wellrounded day including literacy, humanities and physical activity. EBS was founded 25 years ago as the school for deaf and hard of hearing children. Over the years the school has evolved, and today “typical” and special needs children learn side by side in an inclusive, integrated setting. Learn more at www.STEAMschool.ca. Glenlyon Norfolk School (GNS). As we celebrate our first 100 years, GNS is proud to be one of just eight schools in Canada to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum for grades K-12, and the Round Square extracurricular program of global service. Our students are musicians, athletes, artists and scholars, thriving in an independent day school that encourages individuality. Come to GNS and develop your global perspective. We would be happy to tell you more about the community that is GNS. Visit us at w3w.mygns.ca or call 250-370-6801. Island Catholic Schools. Whether in Victoria, the Cowichan Valley or Port Alberni, you will find an Island Catholic School family ready to greet and support you and your child. Our seven schools offer dynamic, supportive and challenging learning opportunities, ranging from preschool to Grade 12. Our dedicated B.C. certified teachers and professional staff are indeed specialists. P.E., I.T., or French language instruction? We’ve got it. Activities for environmental stewardship or student athletics? You bet. www.kidsinvictoria.com

Opportunities for system-wide activities or fine arts? No problem. Greater involvement with the local community? Of course. Lifelong and lasting friendships? Yes! Visit www.cisdv.bc.ca, or drop by one of our Open Houses. You’ll be glad you did. Island Montessori House School. Dr. Maria Montessori developed the Montessori method of education with the understanding that each child has a natural desire and ability to learn. The staff of Island Montessori is committed to providing a rich, safe, developmentally appropriate and caring environment, and to establishing rapport with each and every child. Our child-centred program promotes a sense of well-being, confidence and independence. Individual and group activities foster growth in all areas of development. We are proud to have children in our school from a variety of economic, ethnic and religious backgrounds, as well as a whole host of abilities and special needs. Our rural location at 5575 West Saanich Road is beautiful. For more information call 250-592-4411 or visit www.islandmontessori.com. Maria Montessori Academy. Maria Montessori Academy enables preschool to high school students to learn at their own pace through self-directed, hands-on learning while meeting the standards set by the BC Ministry of Education. Montessori education encourages students to reach their full potential, develop a solid sense of personal responsibility and to foster a love of learning. Our Montessori Middle School program (Grades 7 & 8) is specifically designed to meet the distinctive needs of the adolescent. Maria Montessori Academy High School will now offer up to Grade 10 in September 2012 in our newly renovated Senior Wing. 1841 Fairburn Drive. Contact us at 250479-4746 for a tour or visit us online at www.montessori.bc.ca. Oak and Orca Bioregional School is an affordable option for Kindergarten to Grade 11 in the Hillside area. The B.C. curriculum is offered in an individualized format through practical, engaging, child-directed learning. The ungraded program uses independent learning logs, conferences and workshop choices to provide children with the structure they need to learn at their own pace. Regular field trips encourage connections with the natural and cultural heritage of our home place. As part of a community of learners, children are able to communicate effectively, think and act creatively, and develop into responsible ecological citizens. Join a unique learning community! www.IslandParent.ca

So, we’re half way through the summer holiday. The children have been playing outside, learning a lot about their world and getting to know new friends. But soon it will be time to begin buying clothes and school supplies for September. Will you be facing smiles when that time comes or frustration? Will there be excitement in your house or a time of tears and disappointment? If your child struggles at school, it may be tears and disappointment you’ll face. One-on-one therapeutic tutoring is specifically designed to help these children. Karen’s focus is to build a relationship with each student to make them feel safe enough to trust her with their learning. Everything the child learns is presented using as many senses as possible. In school they use their ears and eyes, but here they also use their muscles, different textures and when possible, the senses of smell and taste. This is a completely different way of learning language arts and math which is why it is so successful. Most parents are telling Karen that they find their child’s self-esteem is improving and there is less resistance to reading, writing, spelling or math within a few weeks. Karen is offering therapeutic tutoring, in Victoria, through August to help these students get a “leg up” before September. A complementary assessment might benefit your child. She is also offering workshops for parents in several locations on the South Island over the next few months. If you’re interested in more information and an opportunity to ask Karen all sorts of questions, keep an eye on her web site for future dates and locations. There will be one near you.

Workshops Camosun College Fisher 100 Wednesday, August 22, 7–9 pm

Juan De Fuca Recreation Centre Clubhouse: Upper Tuesday, August 28, 7–9 pm

If your child is struggling at school, don’t wait. Call Karen.

Alliance française de Victoria www.af.ca/victoria victoria@af.ca

• Now is your chance to learn French • Group/Individual French Classes ~ Cultural Events P.O. Box 30065 Saanich Centre Postal Outlet Victoria, BC V8X 5E1

Tel:

250 477 5508 250 661 6942

August 2012 25

Call if you are curious about child-directed learning and bioregional education. Info at oakandorca.ca, 250-383-6609, or 1-888383-6619 outside of Victoria. At St. Andrew’s Elementary School our motto “To Build in Love” is in evidence in the classrooms, on the playing field, and in the family atmosphere of our community. Students thrive in small classes offering innovative academic programs, awardwinning fine arts and specialists teaching French, music and physical education. All faith traditions are welcome in our multicultural community. St. Andrew’s offers Victoria families a convenient downtown location, well-established preschool and out of school programs, reasonable fees and a long tradition in educational excellence. For more information, call Mr. Keefer Pollard at 250-382-3815 or visit www. standrewselem.ca. St. Joseph’s Elementary School is a Catholic school where children learn to love, and love to learn. We are building strong foundations for a bright future, with an expansion of our facilities at Burnside Road at McKenzie Avenue, in Victoria. The school will double in size, offering two sections for each grade, increasing the opportunities for children to experience full-spectrum

education, including music, band, and French. Religious education is central to the school, where children learn in a Catholic, Christian atmosphere in which the teaching of Christ are paramount. Come learn with us—space available in kindergarten and Grade 7. Phone 250-479-1232 or visit www.stjosephschool.ca. St. Margaret’s School. Nestled in a quiet neighbourhood minutes from downtown Victoria, SMS is an all-girl day and boarding school where learning is a highly personalized experience. Teachers draw on the strengths and interests of girls to create a learning environment where they can be themselves, take risks and explore. Our academic program is supported by a variety of experiential programs designed to engage students in learning beyond the classroom. Students benefit from meaningful hands-on experiences that allow for trial and error and empower them to tackle new challenges with confidence. Visit www.stmarg.ca for more details. At St. Michaels University School, we are as proud of our students’ academic accomplishments as we are of their courage, compassion, honesty, and their desire to make the world a better place. From kindergarten to Grade 12, our students flourish in

Sidney Preschool

A variety of German language classes for children, youth and adults

learning through play since 1972

An opportunity to participate in your child's preschool experience in a rich and stimulating environment. Register before Sept 30th + Save $75 Contact us about our free Stay and Play program for 2 – 4 year olds.

250-655-3333

www.sidneypreschool.org 2410 Malaview Ave, Sidney

26 Island Parent Magazine

a welcoming, interactive and resource-rich curriculum, where they can continuously challenge themselves with the support of dedicated teachers and the encouragement of their peers. Music, physical education, art, and second language instruction are not extras—they are integral to the program. At the end of their time here, SMUS grads are exceptionally prepared to find their place as engaged citizens of the world. www. smus.bc.ca. The Victoria School For Ideal Education (VSIE). At this affordable little school individual personalities blossom in a peaceful, nurturing environment. With a maximum class size of 12, VSIE provides quality individual attention to each child from kindergarten to Grade 7. Daily meditation develops clearer thinking, creativity, happier relationships and improved self-esteem. Our programs include French as a second language, Outdoor Education, and an emphasis on fine arts. In this school, “there is an atmosphere of calm respectfulness underlying a richly child-centered approach to learning.” (B.C. Ministry of Education Inspection Report) The outstanding achievements of students in more than 200 schools around the world confirm the success of meditation in education. Visit us at vsie.ca.

Classes run Saturdays or Wednesdays from September through June

To learn more please contact us: 250-886-1420 info@victoriagermanschool.org www.victoriagermanschool.org www.kidsinvictoria.com

OPEN HOUSE October 19, 2012 • February 15, 2013 TO L E A R N , TO L E A D , TO S E R V E .

A P P LY O N L I N E TO DAY ! For details, call Admissions at 250-370-6170 or visit:

D A Y S C H O O L G R A D E S K -1 2 www.IslandParent.ca

www.smus.ca

B O A R D I N G S C H O O L G R A D E S 8 -1 2

JOB #S120-13605 CLIENT: SMUS INSERTION: AUGUST, 2012 SHIPPING DATE: JULY 25, 2012

August 2012 27

Move to the front of the class.

One Tutor One Student In Your Home

Smart Tutor Referrals.com Professional In-Home Tutorial Support

Call 250-544-1588 to learn more.

Performing Arts School since 1980

re -S ch o o l P r e m m u S C l a s spe s & s p m a Da n c e Cs 15 months and u for age

Even the littlest angel can dance For more information call 250-384-3267 or email us at stagesdance@shaw.ca or visit us at www.stagesdance.com

28 Island Parent Magazine

Distributed Learning

Hands-On Home-Learning For a Sustainable World is a K-9 distributed learning opportunity offered by Oak and Orca School. This certified program weaves local and global perspectives into a supportive foundation to help your child discover her/his own learning path while satisfying the B.C. curriculum. Through regular communication certified teachers are accessible to support families in creating their own educational programming. Hands-on child-centred activities are available to supplement and enrich what you naturally offer and to cover the basics. Parents are provided with the guidance they need, without pressure. The program is free and includes an expense budget to help meet educational needs. Info at oakandorca.ca, 250-383-6619 or 1-888-383-6619. Enjoy a different kind of learning! The South Island Distance Education School (SIDES) is a K-12 public school specializing in distributed learning. A proud Saanich school, SIDES offers B.C. curriculum to students through a variety of courses, on-site activities and outings. Parents of elementary students partner with SIDES teachers to support students as they learn at home. Secondary students may supplement their in-school course schedules with one or two online classes or choose SIDES for their entire learning experience. For more information, check our website, www.sides.ca, or call us at 250-704-4979, or 250-479-7125.

Mid-Island Schools/ Education Services

Dwight International School (DIS), located on the beautiful shores of Shawnigan Lake and offering Grades 7-12, is an international Baccalaureate (IB) school and the only independent boarding high school in Western Canada to offer both the IB and B.C. Dogwood curriculum. We follow a holistic philosophy and believe in educating the entire person. We are committed to student-centred experiential learning and always put the individual learner’s strengths and interests first. Each student is given individual attention in small classes (10-12 students) with experienced teachers. Students are encouraged to engage in meaningful community service, participate in physical activities and explore their creativity as an integral part of their personal development. 250-929-0506, email admissions@dwightinternational.com. Educational toys and games are our specialty at Kool & Child. Popular items with parents and teachers include games like Ba-

nanagrams, Ukloo, and Spark Your Imagination Story Starters which promote literacy. We also have plenty of math resources like Learning Wrap Ups which help children brush up on math skills hands-on. And of course we have workbooks galore for extra practice in every subject. Teachers also love our Kool School House full of everything they need to outfit their classroom in style. We are your complete resource store for educational toys in every department from science to art, puzzles to games. 250-5851778. www.koolandchild.com. Morning Glory School, just minutes from Qualicum Beach in a beautiful natural setting, offers quality education preschool to Class 8. MGS blends the best of Waldorf ideals with the B.C. curriculum as an established Group 1 Independent School. We are able to provide students with individualized attention and encouragement to participate in all subjects. Children here enjoy a well balanced school life; academics are integrated with art and music, as well as practical skills (such as knitting, woodwork and gardening) and plenty of outdoor activities—guided and free play time. With a focus on lifelong learning, we strive to teach children to be independent and innovative thinkers. Special activities and events create a vibrant school community for both students and parents. 250-752-2722, mgs@shawcable. com, www.morninggloryschool.ca. Navigate is pleased to offer two new eCademies in September 2012. Using a blended model of classroom-based instruction and distributed learning, the Fine Arts eCademy and ENTER (eCademy of New Technology, Engineering and Robotics) are designed with the future in mind. The Fine Arts eCademy is a K-9 program emphasizing the visual, performing and music arts, as well as supporting a unique approach to curriculum integration and global studies. ENTER is a middle years program for Grade 6-8 students who thrive on learning through a hands-on, practical environment. It is centered on explorations in engineering, science and robotics. For more information, please call 250-337-5300, or visit www. navigatenides.com. Queen Margaret’s School (QMS) in Duncan has been providing an enriched education to boys and girls since 1921. We deliver inspiring co-ed programs for preschool through Grade 8 and a university-preparatory high school for girls in Grades 9 through 12. QMS staff are committed to providing an educational environment where the love for learning flourishes through involvement in www.kidsinvictoria.com

Educational Services & Programs

Learn French with the Alliance française de Victoria. We offer a large selection of courses for you to learn French for your work, travel, social or family life. Here you can maintain and advance your spoken and written French and enjoy classes with motivated students in small groups. All our courses are taught by experienced teachers who will take you through a progressive series of courses. Individual sessions may be arranged to suit individual needs. All courses will give you confidence in understanding, speaking and writing the language. www. af.ca/victoria. Artistic Statement Gallery & School of Fine Art offers fun and educational courses all year round for children ages 4-14 in drawing, painting, sculpture and cartooning, in a variety of mediums, including pastel, acrylic, water colour, pencil and charcoal. At 14, children go into adult classes and have the opportunity to enroll in the Portfolio Preparation session to prepare for college or university entrance in a variety of degree programs. Emphasis is placed on technique and everyone works at their own level. Regular classes are one hour per week for www.IslandParent.ca

CLASSES!

workshops!

birthday parties! We are a professional art studio for artists ages 2 to 15.

4Cats Comox Valley

4Cats Langford

4Cats Oak Bay

4Cats.com/comoxvalley

4Cats.com/langford

4Cats.com/oakbay

4Cats Duncan

4Cats Nanaimo

4Cats Royal Oak

4Cats.com/duncan

4Cats.com/nanaimo

4Cats.com/royaloak

Rubber Boots for the Beach When Kristjan and Taylor return to GNS in September, they'll bring their rubber boots. That's because the Junior School is on the beach and, as everyone knows, when you're busy exploring inter-tidal life—shovels, buckets and boots are required items! There are a few spaces left in some classes for September 2012. Call Admissions, 250.370.6801.

Do your best through truth and courage

Cathie Ferguson Photography

academics, the arts, athletics, service and an integrated equestrian program. Through these experiences, our students learn to embrace life, seize opportunities and face challenges with creativity, courage and intelligence. Discover at QMS. Call 250746-4185 or visit www.qms.bc.ca. Sunrise Waldorf School. At SWS we develop analytical, imaginative minds capable of prolific, life-changing ideas. Our students will shape the future, by redefining society’s concepts of intelligence, acumen and originality. For 90+ years Waldorf schools have created an educational experience that inspires students to evolve into confident, creative thinkers who are socially responsible and environmentally conscious. SWS is nestled on seven idyllic acres in the Cowichan Valley, a beautiful setting where your children will be allowed to develop naturally, supported by the wisdom of experienced teachers who are truly interested. Visit us to learn why 94% of North American Waldorf graduates attend university and 50% attain a master’s or PhD. Parents from over 2500 schools and kindergartens in 70 countries have made Waldorf the world’s fastest growing educational movement. Parent & child programs, Pre-K to Grade 8. 250-743-7253. www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org.

w3w.mygns.ca • 250.370.6801 August 2012 29

ages 4-14, and those over 14 have two-hour sessions. Lessons on SKYPE are available for homeschoolers and out of town students. Call Joan at 250-383-0566. www.artisticstatementgalleryandschool.com. Compost Education Centre “Gardeneers”: Join us once a week in our vibrant teaching garden for after-school adventures. We will be planting, growing, harvesting, and, of course, eating! Themes will focus around composting, gardening, and producing food in an urban setting. We will have games, songs, theatre, and fun-packed field trips to nearby gardens and farms. We will end our four weeks with a big fall harvest meal. Ages: 6-8 & 8-10. Dates: Wednesday (ages 6-8) or Thursday (ages 8-10) afternoons, Sept. 12/13, Sept 19/20, Sept. 26/27, Oct. 3/4. Times: 3:30-6pm. Cost: $70 for 4 sessions. Please call 250-386-9676 or email education@compost.bc.ca for more information or to register. Discovery Toys—Products for Creative Thinkers. Discovery Toys consultants like myself have been helping parents and educators to instill the love of learning, creativity and confidence in children with their highquality educational toys, books and games for over three decades. Our mission is to: Teach…learning skills through play so we

provide engaging, safe, multi-dimensional products that can be used at every stage of development with lots of open-ended opportunities; Play…we only offer products that ignite the imagination and interest of children as they learn and grow through play each day; and Inspire…children to learn, as well as inspiring parents and educators to teach and learn along with them. I offer a free, no obligation workshop on how to choose and use our toys for your specific needs. For more information and personal service contact your local “Toy Lady” Lisa Woo. 250-477-9891. lisawoo@telus.net. www.toylady.ca. Tutor Doctor provides affordable oneon-one in home tutoring. We create an individualized educational plan for each student and match tutors based on the student’s academic needs and personality. Tutor Doctor can provide support to classroom instruction and assignments and go back and deal with building blocks that were missed. One-on-one tutoring helps students build confidence, and get individualized support and better grades. Marks typically rise 10–20 per cent in the first 6 months. At Tutor Doctor we recognize that making a difference in a student’s academic performance involves having an impact on not only their

1833 COOK STREET | 250-389-1988 | WWW.LARSENMUSIC.CA

30 Island Parent Magazine

studies, but also the student’s confidence, organizational/study skills, and dreams. We want to make a lasting difference in our students’ lives. www.tutordoctor.com Fiddlesticks Studio Of Fine Arts For Young Children. Early learning through expressive artistic experience encourages children to build confidence in their own creativity and awakens a lifelong connection with the arts. Lessons at Fiddlesticks are filled with wonder-inspiring activities designed to engage, delight and challenge the whole child. At Fiddlesticks, children focus, have fun and set their immeasurable talents in motion. Integrated-arts studio classes, Kodály musicianship classes, workshops and private lessons. For children 2 1/2-10. Endorsed by The National Arts Centre. Visit www.fiddlestickschild.ca for program details and open door events. fiddlesticks. studio@shaw.ca. 250-858-7034. Karen Murdoch Therapeutic Tutor, serving Victoria. Offering specialized tutoring for children with learning difficulties or those who are low-average students. This method is so effective that parents are guaranteed to see results within three months. Specializing in reading, spelling, writing and math using a hands-on approach, the student’s own learning style and aids designed to facilitate their type of learning. The child’s self-esteem improves along with their confidence, language and math skills. I have worked successfully with children who are a little behind in one subject as well as those with ADD, ADHD, dyslexia, learning disabilities and more. To find out how I can help your child, call 778-430-3183. Kumon is an after-school math and reading program that empowers children to achieve more on their own. It helps children master the fundamental skills vital to their overall academic performance. Kumon’s individualized study approach develops not only solid math and reading skills, but also the self-confidence, self-reliance, focus and motivation that helps students succeed not just in school, but in life. More than 16 million children around the world have benefited from Kumon since it was founded in 1958. Visit www.kumon.com or call a Kumon Centre near you: Kumon of Saanich, 250-479-1800; Kumon of Sidney: 250-656-6696. Little Readers Academy. Research has proven that children who develop strong reading skills early in life learn better, are less likely to fall behind, and are more successful students. Oxford Learning’s Little Readers® is an enriched academic www.kidsinvictoria.com

program that develops the skills needed to learn and excel—including reading, writing, and math. Half-day and evening sessions available. 250-477-5550. www. oxfordlearning.com. Little Steps offers speech language therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral consulting and intervention services for children, youth and adults with special needs or those requiring short-term support for specific issues. We offer a wide variety of groups and offer individual sessions at the centre, in the home or community settings. Funding can be utilized from the following sources: Autism Funding, At Home Program, Extended Health and Medical Benefits, Independent/Home School programs, private pay. No referral necessary. Little Steps is locally owned and operated by two moms. Give us a call at 250-386-1171 for a free consult. Oxford Learning Victoria. Studies show that kids lose about 2.6 months worth of learning during the summer. This means that kids often spend up to the first 6 weeks reviewing and getting back into the swing of things, rather than learning new material. We’ll help your student catch up and keep up, all year. Now registering for fall programs for Grades K-12. 250-477-5550. www.oxfordlearning.com. READ Society. Focusing on strengths and supporting learning with diverse tools is what READ’s remedial programs have done for over 36 years. With our history of serving local families, the chance is that you know someone in the community who has come to READ—aunts, uncles, parents, grandparents, friends—the list is infinite. If you ask them to tell you their story you’ll be inspired to keep learning! This summer, READ has two learning options—Summer Learning Camps and Summer Classes. Designed by our teachers you’ll have a chance to learn new things and get ready for the new school year. See our ad and our website for details: www.readsociety.bc.ca. Smart Tutor Referrals. We want the best for our kids. In education, we want our kids to be engaged and supported, but beyond that, we hope that they can be mentored and challenged to grow in confidence and ability. This is the approach Smart Tutor Referrals takes to education. Each student and family has different needs. To truly value these differences, we need to listen and create a different tutorial experience for each student. Don’t you agree? Smart Tutor Referrals has been supporting Victoria families since 2002. Please call 250-544www.IslandParent.ca

Emmanuel Preschool

2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road (by entrance to UVic)

Openings this Fall 2012–2013 Classes! Children learn through play in our nondenominational Christian preschool. Bright attractive setting with competent and caring staff. Two teachers with ECE certification plus assistant teachers with each teacher bringing their own strengths to the team.

Opportunities for this fall: Mon/Wed/Fri morning class Tues/Thurs morning class Phone 250-598-0573 preschool@emmanuelvictoria.ca

www.emmanuelpreschool.ca

Formerly Goosey Gander Kindergarten

Open House

Arbutus Grove Children s Centre, a part of the community for over ﬁfty years is having an open house September 1st from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Thursday, August 30 ~ 1 to 4 pm Half Day & Full Day Preschool Programs

We offer full and half time Preschool in a special and professional environment. Limited Positions still available for Sept. 2011-2012

Children’s learning is supported and nurtured through inquiry, exploration, play and creative expression. 3905 Haro Road, Victoria B.C.

Arbutus Grove Centre V8NChildren’s 4A8 250-477-3731 3905 Haro Road, Victoria BC 250 477 3731 www.arbutusgrove.ca

Pre-primary School An early learning opportunity for children 3-5 years - use of compassionate communication - nature awareness and respect - learning naturally through play - experience with math and science - exposure to books and language arts

Fully licensed facility

http://oakandorca.ca 250 383 6609 August 2012 31

Pregnant? Pregnancy is a state of health. Midwives recognize what an extraordinary time this is in your life and we are available to support you through your childbearing year.

Covered by Your BC Health Care BC’s Medical Services Plan pays for midwifery care, including in-home check-ups in labour and after you’ve had your baby. You can self-refer to a midwife.

Quality Care Studies show that midwifery clients have lower rates of episiotomies, infection, Caesarean sections, forceps and vacuum deliveries and newborns that require resuscitation.

Choice of Hospital or Home Birth Continuity of Care Comprehensive Care Breastfeeding Education & Support

Registered Midwives in Victoria: Julia Stolk 250-590-7605 Misty Wasyluk 250-380-6329 Deanna Wildeman 250-592-5407 Heather Wood 250-380-6329 Amy Brownhill 250-386-4116 Michele Buchmann 250-590-7770 Chloe Dayman 250-380-6329 Uta Herold (Sooke) 778-425-0780 Deborah Little 250-592-0099 Luba Lyons Richardson 250-381-1977 Lorna J. McRae 250-380-6329 Jody Medernach 250-590-7605 Kim Millar Lewis 250-384-5940 Heather Nelson 250-380-6329 Jill Pearman 250-590-7605 Colleen Rode 250-386-4116 Angela Schaerer 250-384-9062 Beth Smit 250-384-5940 Ilana Stanger-Ross 250-590-7605 We would be pleased to schedule an appointment to answer your questions about midwifery care.

32 Island Parent Magazine

1588 or visit www.SmartTutorReferrals. com to learn how we can help you create the best learning experience for your kids. Sylvan Learning amps up the teacherto-student connection speed with learning at your child’s fingertips. How are Sylvan teachers able to create these learning connections? By using digital lessons, taught on the intuitive and engaging IPad®. By including lessons that adapt to your child’s skill and pace. By giving instant feedback and recognition. By your personal Sylvan website, supported by mySylvan™, with up-to-date progress tracking and educational activities and resources. Let’s see how quickly we can spark a learning connection for your child. Call today, 250-477-3212 or 1-800-educate. Valentus Clinics offers non-invasive, drug-free programs for children and adults aimed at improving health and wellness for the mind and body. Our Brainwave Optimization program, an advanced form of neurofeedback, helps to bring balance to specific brainwave patterns, resulting in considerable improvement in neurological, psychological and behavioural conditions. It has shown positive results with the following conditions: ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, focus and attention problems, depression, learning disorders/ challenges, concussion/brain injury and anger management. For a consultation with registered psychologist Dr. Susan Simpson, call us at 250-590-5090, or visit www. ValentusClinics.com for more information. Victoria Epilepsy & Parkinson’s Centre. Parents and kids love Tools for Success, an innovative tutoring program for children with epilepsy. Weekly sessions running from September to May, and led by UVic graduate students, are designed to give children tools to build on their strengths. VEPC also offers epilepsy education. If you would like to ar-

range to have a presentation on epilepsy for your school, class, church, club, or group please contact us. Learning about epilepsy is the best way to support those in our community who live with epilepsy. Contact VEPC at 250-477-6677, www.vepc.bc.ca, or email help@vepc.bc.ca for more details. Werner Liedtke. The Making Mathematics Meaningful books include examples from lessons and diagnostic interviews. The focus of the books is on: Strategies that foster confidence and willingness to take risks; Illustrating the power of learning through problem solving; Strategies that foster visualization; Developing mathematical reasoning; Development of spatial and number sense; Developing personal estimation and mental mathematics strategies; Connecting ideas to previous learning and beyond the classroom; Assessment strategies for the critical components and goals for students; Illustrating how learning about mathematics contributes to language development, reading comprehension and evaluative skills. Available at Schoolhouse Teaching Supplies, 2014 Douglas Street.

Other

Children’s Education Funds Inc. offers the greatest selection of RESP choices—anywhere—with the utmost flexibility, longterm growth and return on investment. Whether you select our highest paying CET Group Plan or our flexible and affordable CET Achievers or CET Self-Initiated Plans, please be assured that we are here to serve all of your “education funding” needs. We are education funding specialists—that is all that we do at CEFI! For more information, visit www.cefi.ca.•

Subscribe to our email newsletter for updates on the magazine, special contests and parenting information! Visit kidsinvictoria.com or IslandParent.ca and click on “Join our Kids in Victoria and Island Parent Newsletter” www.kidsinvictoria.com

Party Directory ctoria Gymnastics

You’ll Flip Over Our Birthday Parties * Greater Victoria’s newest, largest and cleanest facility with hassle free parking for you and your guests * * Large private party rooms * * Experienced Qualified Fun Coaches * * 3 Trampolines & 40ft Tumble Trac * * Awesome Foam Pit *

250-383-FLIP

www.lionspridegymnastics.com Located in Langford

Birthday Parties

Your child and 9 of his or her friends will have an absolute blast at one of our action packed gymnastics parties. What’s included? • We supply hats, napkins, table cover, streamers and balloons • Two Certified Instructors • Invitations • Trampoline • Foam Pit Fun • Gymnastics Games • Fun Music • NEW: 40 Foot Long Trampoline! Saturday & Sunday Afternoons

Action-Packed Birthday Parties Supervised • 2–8 Yrs

380-2442

It’s about skills, not scores.

Go to www.sportball.ca for schedules & information Call us: 250 590 4625 Email: van.island@sportball.ca

Corner of Store & Pembroke www.victoriagymnastics.com

Funtime Inflatables 250-474-0597

Largest selection of inflatable fun onVancouver Island Ask about our Referral Program • 18 bouncy castles to choose from, detachable raincovers available • Obstacle courses • 10 interactive games for youth and adults • Combo bouncers • Carnival games and party packages • Fully insured Professional balloon decorating service now available

New soft serve ice cream truck available for events and ice cream socials

visit our website at

www.funtimeinflatables.ca G

Birthday Parties!

Y M

:: Gym & Bouncy Castle, themed parties: creative kids, girl power and preschool parties from Princesses to Pirates! at Henderson Recreation Centre!

Call 250-370-7200

Pool, Skate, or Soccer parties at Oak Bay Recreation Centre!

Call 250-595-SWIM (7946)

www.recreation.oakbay.ca

www.IslandParent.ca

Organise wonderful parties conveniently delivered to your door! Party Supplies for all occasions, themes and ages

1·866·503·4397

ip@greatlittlecelebration.com www.greatlittlecelebration.com

A S T I C S

FALCON

Birthday Parties

GYMNASTICS Celebrate your birthday with us! Newly Renovated Birthday Party Rooms

38thsary

r Annive 2011 1973–

Our great instructors will treat you to an action packed two hours of fun and fitness in our great facility!

• 2 large decorated birthday rooms • Free T-shirt for birthday child, invitations for up to 10 children • The ONLY Inflatable Climbing Mountain with trampoline in town • Party Time now offered for many different groups (schools, daycare centres) Book Early: 250-479-6424

#208 – 721 Vanalman Ave

(Broadmead & Royal Oak Area)

www.falcongymnastics.com

N A S T I C S

August 2012 33

Party Directory

Horse Play Parties Unforgettable theme parties, girl time packages or just some fun with your friends

Our Cowgirl Slumber Parties Rock! Pony Rides, Farm Animals, Facepainting, Games, Hay Rides

Cowboy Campouts u Cowgirl Slumber Parties Family Farm Getaways A party you’ll never forget!

3655 Shelbourne Street, Shelbourne Plaza

250-590-5568 www.lizzyleeandme.com

Let Us Do It For You… • Full service, themed birthday parties & company picnics • Fully insured • School fairs, festivals & events • Indoor facilities available • Join our Part-T-Club for your chance to win one of our many contests!

Call

NEW

www.horseplayparties.ca Duncan, BC 250-701-9116

musical

birthday parties

…details online

Book a 45 minute interactive party in your own home for up to ten young guests from ages 3-8. Choose from three different fun themes! Visit vcm.bc.ca/departments/childrens-music/ for more information, or call 250-386-5311.

Par-T-Perfect Call

4150 Blenkinsop Rd (1.2 km north of McKenzie)

(250) 386-JUMP (5867) www.par-t-perfect.com

Mr. Tubbs Ice Cream Parlor & Family Fun Zone • 30 family oriented redemption games • huge prize counter • 2 fully decorated party rooms • foot-long hot dogs • 32 flavors of Island Farms Ice Cream

10% P Off Booarty k if yo ing u in th bring is ad

Open Year Round

@ Western Speedway 2207 Millstream Road 250-590-4369 mrtubbs.com 34 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Heads Up

Faoriry

pirate

KNIGHT or

party

Monetty Georgia par

Party

party

adult corporate party

4Cats Duncan 4cats.com/duncan•250-709-2286 4Cats Langford 4cats.com/langford•778-430-5422 4Cats Oak Bay 4cats.com/oakbay•250-598-0300 4Cats Royal Oak 4cats.com/royaloak •250-590-7233

Hassle Free Parties for kids & families You provide the space and food… We’ll provide an hour of fun with puppet shows and play

250 472 3546 www.puppetbooth.homestead.com

Read Island Parent Online! It’s as easy as clicking on the magazine image on our websites! Visit kidsinvictoria.com or islandparent.ca www.IslandParent.ca

Recognizing the Signs of a Concussion

ith fall quickly coming up, many parents will be signing their kids up for the terrific array of sports leagues that are available to us on Vancouver Island. These teams are a great way for kids to make new friends and to participate in fun and healthy activities. Unfortunately, wherever you find large groups of children, you also find kids who have been hit in the head by soccer balls, hockey sticks, and every other piece of sports equipment they get their hands on. Most of the time, the only treatment these injuries require are a tissue and a juice box, but every now and then a more serious injury will occur and it is extremely important that parents and coaches are aware of the signs of concussion and the steps they should take if they suspect a child is suffering from one. A concussion can be suspected if the child displays or reports even one of the signs and symptoms listed below. (A serious injury can occur even if there is no loss of consciousness!)

Signs Observed by Adult

Signs Observed by Child

Appears Dazed or Stunned

Headache or “pressure” in head

Is Confused about Assignment or Position

Nausea or vomiting

Forgets an Instruction

Balance problems or dizziness

Moves Clumsily

Double or blurry vision

Answers Questions slowly

Sensitivity to light

Unsure of Game, Score, or Opponent

Sensitivity to noise

Loses Consciousness even for a short time

Feels Sluggish, Hazy, Foggy or Groggy

Mood, Behavior, or Personality changes

Concentration or Memory problems

Can’t recall events prior to hit or fall

Confusion

Can’t recall events after hit or fall

Not feeling “alright” or feeling “down”

If you suspect a child has a concussion, take the following four steps: 1. Remove the child from play 2. Rather than trying to judge the seriousness of the injury yourself, have the child evaluated by a healthcare professional. 3. If you are not the child’s parent/guardian, inform their parent/guardian about the possible concussion as soon as possible. 4. Wait until a healthcare professional confirms they are symptom free before returning to play. A little awareness keeps everyone in the game. This information courtesy of T.I.P.S, The Injury Prevention Skills Manual by Keith Primeau (www.stopconcussions.com) and the Victoria Brain Injury Society (www. vbis.ca)

August 2012 35

August 2012

Generously Sponsored by and

Family Calendar For calendar updates throughout the month visit www.kidsinvictoria.com WED 1

THUR 2

The Moon Walk at Coles Bay Regional Park. When the moon is full and the tide is low, down to Coles Bay we’ll go. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to look for marine creatures like crabs, sea stars and the elusive moon snail. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Inverness Rd, off Ardmore Dr at 10am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Feeling Crabby at Island View Beach Regional Park. Red crabs, green crabs, smooth crabs, hairy crabs. Drop in between 10am and 1pm and meet the crabs of Island View Beach and their crusty cousins. We’ll explore under rocks, have a crab race, make a craft and more. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the picnic shelter on Homathko Rd, off Island View Rd. All ages. 10am-1pm. 250-478-3344. www.crd. bc.ca/parks.

Ooey, Gooey Science at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Do you want to learn how to make some slippery, slimy, weird and fun stuff? Join us for an informative and super gooey program based on Janice VanCleave’s “gloppy, gooey” science books. Learn stinky facts, strive for the golden clothespin award in a “What’s that Smell” game, and make a non-toxic smelly sample to take home. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information. Artist Andrea Soos: Strange But True for Kids at Central Saanich Branch Library. Dive into art and discover the fun and fantastical creatures of your imagination. Unleash the strange and wonderful by learning the basics of drawing and watercolour painting. For ages 6-9. 2:303:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

36 Island Parent Magazine

Ooey, Gooey Science at Esquimalt Branch Library. See WED 1 for details For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information. You Don’t Scare Me at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Do you love stories about Wild Things, Gruffalos and other real and imaginary creatures? If you do, then come to this monstrous program and enjoy stories, stomps and fun crafts. Parents and caregivers are welcome to participate. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250391-0653 for more information. Navigating the Night Sky at Oak Bay Branch Library. Blast off into space and meet the stars. Take a spin around the sun and move around the solar system in the guise of your favourite planet. View sun spots, solar prominences and more with the Royal Astronomical Society. For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

150Forward Community Celebration in Centennial Square. Experience a journey through time, interact with creatively costumed performers, enjoy refreshments and cake. Main stage show with performances that chronicle Victoria’s history, showcase diverse cultures, and highlight current day and beyond. Contribute to the Victoria 150 time capsule and anniversary greetings, and take part in interactive fun. Artist Andrea Soos: Strange But True for Kids at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED 1 for details. For ages 6-9. 1:30-2:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information. Biggest, Fastest, First at Nellie McClung Branch Library. On your mark, get set, go! Everyone will be a winner when we explore the Summer Olympics at the library. Have fun with silly action games based on Olympic events. You will even get to make your own Olympic flag. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250477-7111 for more information.

FRI 3 Between a Rock and a Hard Place at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Between a rock and a hard place is one of the few places left for creatures to hide when the tide leaves them behind. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to peek under rocks and search in the waves. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the Tower Point parking lot off Olympic View Drive at 12:30pm. 5+

www.kidsinvictoria.com

years. 10-11:30am. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

BC DAY Long weekend SAT 4 Amelia Street Block Party on Amelia Street. Enjoy a celebration of local music, storytelling, visual arts and food taking place on Amelia St and drawing attention to the history of this special pocket of the North Park neighbourhood. Admission by donation. Noon-8pm. www.ameliastreetblockparty.com. Victorian Garden Party at Craigdarroch Castle. Features a free performance by Raven Baroque from 1-2:30pm. The party will continue until 4pm with games, refreshments and children’s entertainment. 1-4pm. 1050 Joan Cres. 250-592-5323. www.thecastle.ca.

SUN 5 Victoria Symphony Splash in the Inner Harbour. Musical entertainment, food and souvenirs, ending with a live performance by the Victoria Symphony. Concert concludes with the grand finale performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture complete with cannons and fireworks. www.symphonysplash.ca.

MON 6 City United! Anniversary Celebration and Concert at St. Ann’s Academy National Historic Site and Cameron Bandshell. Spend the afternoon on the grounds of St. Ann’s Academy and enjoy interactive, creative excitement for the entire family, including live music and entertainment, crafts, cooking and gardening demonstrations and physical fun that celebrates the cultures and values of our community. Noon-9pm. Raven Baroque Concert on Mount Tolmie. Musicians in period costumes play the hits from the 1650s. Two 1-hour concerts at 1:30pm and 3pm. 250-514-8916. www.ravenbaroque.org.

TUES 7 Magical Mini Creatures at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Are you intrigued by fairies, gnomes, trolls and the like? Come to the library to ex-

plore the mysterious worlds of these creatures through stories and games. You will get to create your own mini creature to take home, too! For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-250-391-0653 for more information. Music in the Park at Rutledge Park. Arts and crafts, face painting and children’s activities. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket. 6-8pm. Admission by donation. Corner of Inverness and Cloverdale Ave. 250-477-3673.

WED 8 Act it Out! For Kids at Saanich Centennial and Nellie McClung Branch Libraries. Calling all Glee fans. Dance and sing with Jennifer Callioux, Theatre B.A., in an Acting Out workshop. Explore theatre through drama, dance, music, improvising and scene work. Drama fun guaranteed. For ages 7-12. Saanich Centennial: 10:30-11:30am, 250-477-9030; Nellie McClung: 2:30-3:30pm, 250-477-7111. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call for more information. The Story Box: Visual Storytelling and the Art of William Kurelek at the Oak Bay Branch Library. Have fun creating your own multimedia landscapes and learn about the concepts of foreground, background and horizon line. Explore your creativity and create your own personal visual language through colour and shape. You will be inspired by the iconic landscape painting of Canadian artist William Kurelek. For ages 5-8. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250592-2489 for more information. You Don’t Scare Me at Central Saanich Branch Library. See THURS 2 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information. Discover Bigfoot at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Cryptozoologist Alex Solunac will share some of the latest Bigfoot research. He’ll bring photos, footprint casts, sound recordings… examine the evidence and decide for yourself if it is strange but true. All ages. 1-2pm. 250-656-0944.

THUR 9 Act it Out! For Kids at Emily Carr and Central Branch Libraries. See THURS 9 for details. For ages 7-12. Emily Carr: 10:30-11:30am, 250-475-6100; Central: 2:30-3:30pm, 250413-0365. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call for more information. Snake Day at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Snakes, snakes and more snakes. CRD Regional Parks has teamed up with Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary and UVic for this slither event. Watch snake shows, hold a snake, play a snake game and more. Drop by the tents at the main Beaver Beach any time between 11am and 3pm. Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-4783344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Raven Baroque at St. Ann’s Academy. Enjoy hits from 1600 to 1750 played by musicians in period costume. 7:30-9:30pm. Free. www. ravenbaroque.org.

FRI 10 Summer Magic! at Emily Carr Branch Library. Do you believe in magic? Enjoy imaginative stories, songs and rhymes that celebrate this magical season. You will also create and decorate your own enchanting craft. For families with young children; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250475-6100 for more information.

ENJOY BC Salmon

Savour this tasty, easy to prepare salmon. Serve it with pasta, or boiled mini potatoes, green beans and corn on the cob. For this recipe and more visit thriftyfoods.com Customer Service: 1 800 667 8280

www.IslandParent.ca

August 2012 37

Act it Out! For Kids at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See THURS 9 for details. For ages 7-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Confidence • Self Improvement • Poise • Exercise • Social Ease

Dance Course for Children

Ballroom/Latin Dance Course for Adults

• Small Groups • All Ages • Recitals • Covering a Variety of Dance Styles

• Courses start any time • Couples and singles welcome • Personalized programs • Attend private, group and fun-filled parties • Choreographed wedding routines

Every Friday @ 5:30pm starting Sept 7 16 weeks • $256

Also offering Teenage Courses 2504 Government St #206 (corner of Bay) www.arthurmurrayvictoria.com

Falcon

Gymnastics Centre 208 – 721 Vanalman Ave, Victoria

250 220 8426

Open House

Thursday, Sept 6th, 2012 • 4 to 7pm Newly Renovated Facility

Please come in on this day to register your child for gymnastics and receive 5% discount for full registration! We are offering gymnastics classes for Preschool and School Age Kids, Teens and Adult Drop-ins, Birthday Parties… School Age start Sept 12 • Preschool Age start Sept 19 We Have It All!

250-479-6424 www.falcongymnastics.com St. Joseph’s Elementary School is canvassing interest in a Group Day Care for three and four year olds. We are considering an early September start, assuming enough interest to generate twenty places. The Day Care program would be on-site near the school. Expressions of interest can be sent to sdicastri@cisdv.bc.ca or mailed to St. Joseph’s Catholic School 757 W. Burnside Road Victoria BC V8Z 1M9 Responses to parents will come after Aug 15, 2012. 38 Island Parent Magazine

SAT 11 Raven Baroque Summer Celebration at Christ Church Cathedral. See THURS 9 for details. 10-11:30am. Free. 930 Burdett Ave. www. ravenbaroque.org. Sleuthing with Skulls and Scat at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Drop in between 1pm and 3pm and join in the sleuthing fun. Through displays and activities, use your finest detective skills to help uncover the clues that animals leave behind. Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd. bc.ca/parks. Klutz Karnival at the Children’s Bookshop. Come on in and go Klutz Krazy. Hand art. Paper flowers. Velvet art. Crayon Rubbing. And other kool Klutz krafts for you to try. 11am-3pm, drop-in. 2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney (beside Tanner’s Books). 250-656-2345. Evening Campfire at the Beach at Island View Beach Regional Park. Meet a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an evening beach walk, followed by campfire stories at the campground. Learn more about the animals that call Island View Beach their home. Bring a beach chair. Meet at the picnic shelter on Homathko Rd, off Island View Rd. All ages. 6-8pm. 250-4783344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SAT 11 & SUN 12 Arts & Music in the Gardens at The Gardens at HCP. Stroll through the gardens looking at the work of painters, printmakers, photographers, potters, sculptors and more, while accompanied by beautiful music. 11am-5pm. 505 Quayle Rd. 250-479-6162.

SUN 12 Cadboro Bay Festival at Gyro Park. Enjoy an afternoon with hands-on activities, bouncy castles, pirate school, information displays, arts and crafts stations, and food and fun for the entire family. Free. 11am-3pm. 250-475-5558. Raven Baroque Summer Celebration in Market Square. See THURS 9 for details. 1-2pm. Free. 560 Johnson St. www.ravenbaroque.org.

MON 13 “Bear” Necessities at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. We can co-exist with these magnificent forest dwellers. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to learn about the natural history of the black bear. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

S T A G E S Su m mer Pro g ra ms 2012

TUES 14 Music in the Park at Rutledge Park. See TUES 7 for details. 6-8pm. Admission by donation. 250-477-3673.

WED 15 Tide Ticklers at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. This beach program is especially for the under 5 crowd. With a CRD Regional Parks naturalist as your guide, search tide pools for fish, crabs and other marine critters. Bring along your parents. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk at the end of Witty Beach Rd at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Beach Explorers at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for a beach exploration designed for the 6 and older bunch. There will be dip nets, identification guides and “buckets” of fun. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk at the end of Witty Beach Rd at 10am. 6+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

32nd A n nual

Da nce I ntensive Aug ust 20 th - 31st

Part-day program for dancers 10 years old & up in Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop & Lyrical

Plus Week-long, part day

Youth Da nce Ca mps Throughout July & August for dancers 6-12 years old in Jazz, Hip Hop & Musical Theatre

THUR 16

A nd

Life’s a Beach at Island View Beach Regional Park. When the tide goes out, an exciting world comes into view. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help you discover the creatures that make Island View Beach their special home. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the picnic shelter on Homathko Rd, off Island View Rd at 10am. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Week-long, morning

Preschool Dance Camps Throughout July & August for 3-5 years olds in Ballet, Jazz, Musical Theatre & Tap plus

Little Dancers Classes

FRI 17

Island View Edibles at Island View Beach Regional Park. Enjoy the bounty of the sea and land with CRD Regional Park guest naturalists and First Nations guides. Sample herbal teas and local seaweeds. Guided walks at 10:15am, 11:15am and 12:15pm. Meet at the white tent near the Island View campground, on Homathko Rd, off Island View Rd. Drop-in 10am-1pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks.

are running through the summer for those 15 months to 3 years old

photo by D Haggart

Beachcombers at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to look for marine critters and treasures the ocean has tossed up. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the main beach at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Come Da nce With Us

For more information call (250) 384-3267 email us at stagesdance@shaw.ca or visit us at www.stagesdance.com

Centrepointe Ballet School Peggy Bain, Director

FRI 17 – SUn 19 Canada Dry Victoria Dragon Boat Festival in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Festival kicks off Friday at 1pm with Taoist priests who will “awaken the dragon” in the elaborate Eye Dotting Ceremony. Dragon boat races begin early Saturday morning. Live entertainment, fun crafts in the children’s tent, Forbidden

www.IslandParent.ca

August 2012

City food court, and more. Free. www.victoriadragonboat.com.

SAT 18 Wild About Books Day at the Children’s Bookshop. Animal books, funny books, science books, dinosaur books and more. Join us for a wild rumpus with super activities, prizes and amazing fun. 11am-3pm drop-in. 2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney (beside Tanner’s Books). 250-656-2345. It’s a Wrap Party at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Join Glenn Kachmar for an electrifying new science show. See wacky experiments, learn strange science facts, experience (safe) electrocution, make strange music and loads more thrills. Summer Reading Club prize winners will be announced, and there will be cake for everyone. All ages. 2-3:30pm. 250-656-0944.

SUN 19 Motorcar Gathering at Queen Alexandra Centre. Over 200 cars. Face painting, magic shows, bouncy castle, imagination craft station, radio controlled car racing, pedal cars and more. Admission by donation. Fundraiser for children and youth in need. 2400 Arbutus Rd. 250-519-6935. Woodpecker Whittlings at Francis/King Regional Park. What size hole does a woodpecker peck when a woodpecker pecks a hole? Learn

how woodpeckers are ideally suited for tree tapping and get some pointers on how to identify them by sight and sound. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks.

TUES 21 Music in the Park at Rutledge Park. See TUES 7 for details. 6-8pm. Admission by donation. 250-477-3673.

WED 22 Mystery Creature at Coles Bay Regional Park. With the help of a CRD Regional Parks naturalist, solve riddles to find clues hidden along the trail. At the end, we’ll piece the puzzle together to discover who the mystery creature is. Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Inverness Rd, off Ardmore Dr at 10am. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

THUR 23 Blood and Guts at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. They’ve got pointy teeth and sharp claws, and they don’t eat tofu. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists to learn more about animals that make their living by eating meat. Cougars and owls and bears—oh my. See live raptor demonstrations. Drop in at the tents at the main Beaver Beach between 11am and 2pm. All

ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Homeschooling: Is it Right for My Child? For Me? at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Are you exploring homeschooling as an educational alternative? Do you want to know how to go about it? What are the legalities? Marty Layne, author and pioneering homeschooling mom, will address these issues and answer some of your questions about home-based education in B.C. You’ll come away with a better understanding of what’s involved and learn ways to support your children’s learning. For adults. 7-8:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

FRI 24 Family Forest Tea Party at Francis/King Regional Park. Here’s an opportunity to bring the whole family along for a tea party in the woods. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an interpretive tea tasting featuring some of our local plants. A short guided walk to see some of the plants growing in their native habitat will precede the tea sampling. $7 + HST/ person or $10 + HST/family. Pre-registration required before August 23. Space is limited. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SAT 25 Where’s Waldo Day at the Children’s Bookshop. Help us celebrate Waldo’s 25th anni-

Also playing

Born to be Wild (July 27 – August 30)

Dinosaurs:

Giants of Patagonia

Rocky Mountain Express

250-480-4887 • imaxvictoria.com 40 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

versary with a wild Waldo wingding. Waldo watchers, we need you! 11am-3pm drop-in. 2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney (beside Tanner’s Books). 250-656-2345. Last Splash of Summer at Naden Pool. Say goodbye to summer in style. Cool tunes, games and prizes. Noon-1:30pm. Free. 250363-1009.

Hands-On Home-Learning for a Sustainable World K-9 Distributed Learning - constructive feedback without grading

Momstown 5th Birthday Party at Pearkes Recreation Centre. Join us for bouncy castle, kindergym, cupcakes, prizes and giveaways from fabulous sponsors. 1-3pm, free. www. victoria.momstown.ca.

- children learn at their natural pace

Bountiful Berries at East Sooke Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist on a walk to explore for blackberries, Oregon grape berries, salal berries and more. There will also be an opportunity to taste jams made from some of these natural delights. Meet at the kiosk in the Aylard Farm parking lot off Becher Bay Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks.

- guidance from a certified teacher

- unique hands-on learning activities - comparable expense budget

Fully certified

250 383 6619 (1 888 383 6619)

http://oakandorca.ca 250 383 6609

Ha-bat-itat at Francis/King Regional Park. This guided walk with a CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help dispel fear and misinformation about these fascinating flying mammals. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SUN 26 Dinosaurs Part 2 at the Royal BC Museum. Explore the museum for clues. Interview a scientist. Examine fossils. Develop a hypothesis. Dinosaurs’ ancient environments and fossils have left us clues about what might have happened to them—come and see what you can discover. 1-3pm. Free with admission or membership. 250-356-7226 or www. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

WED 29 Going Squirrelly at Francis/King Regional Park. What does it take to survive as a squirrel? With a CRD Regional Parks naturalist, discover what keeps these furry creatures busy at this time of year. Meet at the Francis/King Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. All ages. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

THE TERRY FOX RUN FOR CANCER RESEARCH

Inspired By A Dream Grounded In Tradition Volunteer-Driven

THURS 30 Bountiful Berries at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. See SAT 25 for details. 5+ years. 1-2:30pm. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-4783344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

NO ENTRY FEE NO MINIMUM PLEDGE

ONGOING BABIES, TODDLERS & PRESCHOOLERS Drop-in Family Storytimes at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Caregivers are welcome and encouraged to participate. Storytimes are

www.IslandParent.ca

Walk-Run-Wheel-Ride

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

1 888 836-9786

terryfox.org August 2012 41

free and drop-in. Please come early to find a space. For a complete list of drop-in programs, call your local library, or visit www.gvpl.ca.

S om e p e opl e t h in k l e ar ning d i s abi l it i e s are l ifel ong.

We d on’t .

Eaton Arrowsmith School is the only school in Victoria that focuses on the potential of children with learning disabilities to benefit from the brain’s ability to change itself in order to improve cognitive functioning for life. Strengthening learning capacities instead of accommodating for learning weaknesses. Upcoming information sessions: August 9th, 15th and 21st 7-8:30pm #200-3200 Shelbourne St, Victoria RSVP: 250-370-0046 or victoria@eatonarrowsmithschool.com

Strengthening Learning Capacities

BALLET | JAZZ | MODERN | SMALL CLASSES CLASSES FOR AGES 4 – PROFESSIONAL LIVE PIANO ACCOMPANIMENT | INDIVIDUAL ATTENTION HIGHLY QUALIFIED TEACHERS

Artistic Director: Bleiddyn Bellis, F.C.S.C. - C.I.C.B.

Developing dancers with strong technique, an inquiring intellect, and confidence in an atmosphere that fosters creativity and builds life long skills.

My daughters now aged 14 and 16, have each been Victoria Academy of Ballet students from the age of four. They have developed their artistry and musicality, and have been instilled with a sense of discipline, dedication, perseverance and teamwork. — T. Corwin, Parent v

643 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC | 1.250.590.6752 admin@VictoriaAcademyOfBallet.ca | www.VictoriaAcademyOfBallet.ca

Island Parent Magazine

kIDS Strange… But True? Summer Reading Club at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Read your way through the summer. Whether you’re reading at home or on holidays, you can keep track of your reading and enjoy some incentives along the way. Staying in town? You are invited to join us for a selection of amazing library programs at branches throughout Greater Victoria. Online registration is available for special programs. You are invited to drop by your local library to pick up a self-paced reading record. For kids 12 and under. Program runs until September 1. For more information, or to register for programs, check www.gvpl.ca. Summer Reading Buddies at the Greater Victoria Public Library pairs children who need extra practice reading with teen volunteers for fun literacy-based activities. Little Buddies and Big Buddies meet for an hour daily for one week. The program runs at different libraries throughout the summer. Sessions available until August 17. For children grades 2-4. Register online at www.gvpl.ca. Free. William Kurelek Exhibit Tours for Kids and Parents at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Exclusive to Greater Victoria Public Library members, kids and parents can register for an interactive tour of the William Kurelek: The Messenger exhibit. These special free tours will be hosted by Gallery staff who will provide the inside scoop on the life and work of this prolific Canadian artist. For ages 5-8 and 9-12 and parents. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call your local branch for more information. Thank you to the Gallery for hosting this event.

YoUTH

For Students in the Primary Grades – Fostering Numeracy For Students in the Intermediate Grades – Fostering Numeracy For Children Ages 4 to 7 – Nurturing Growth (with Jennifer Thom)

Timing Is Everything Teen Summer Writing Contest at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Time is of the essence for the teen writing contest. Enter your original short story or poem based on the theme: Timing is Everything. If your entry is selected by the judging panel, you will win a prize pack or $100 gift certificate for the store of your choice! For details, contest rules, and online entry form, see www.gvpl.ca/ audiences/teens/teen-writing-contest. For ages 13-18. For more information, email teens@ gvpl.ca. Contest runs until August 11.

An excellent resource of activities and assessment strategies for anyone interested in helping children reach the goals and critical components of the new mathematics curriculum. Available from: • School House Teaching Supplies Ltd, 2014 Douglas Street, Victoria, schoolhouse@shaw.ca • UVic Bookstore • The author at dliedtke@telus.net • The publisher, www.trafford.com

Summer Sneak Preview eBooks for Teens at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Check out great novels for teens… before they are even published. Access Advance Reading Copies in eBook format—just download these exclusive copies to your computer, tablet, eReader, smart phone or other device. For extra fun, you can submit comments about the books and the ebook experience and your name will be entered in our weekly prize draw. For ages 13-18. Runs

www.kidsinvictoria.com

until September 10. For more information, www.gvpl.ca/audiences/teens/summer-sneakpreview or contact teens@gvpl.ca. Advance Reading Copy Club at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Be the first to get all the new books. Get an exclusive copy of a book before it comes out in stores or hits the library shelves. Review it at www.gvpl.ca/ teens/advance-reading-copy-club and you get to keep the free book. For ages 13-18. Info, contact teens@gvpl.ca. Summer Sneak Preview Prize Draw at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Download, read, and win. Participate in the Summer Sneak Preview eBooks for Teens program and you could win a prize. After accessing an exclusive preview copy in eBook format, submit your comments at www.gvpl.ca/audiences/teens/ summer-sneak-preview and you could win a prize. For ages 13-18. For more information email teens@gvpl.ca.

proudly funded by

See the facts. Request our free class presentation to raise awareness about epilepsy.

FAMILIES Geocaching Adventures with the Geocaching Families of Victoria. Check out www.meetup. com for details of upcoming meetups and to RSVP. There is a small annual membership fee to help cover costs. Jerry’s Rangers at Goldstream Provincial Park Campground Amphitheatre. Brought to you by RLC Park Naturalists. Presentations at 3pm and 7pm throughout the summer. Donations are welcome to help keep environmental education alive. 250-478-9414. Unearth Government House History at Government House. Discover the fascinating history of Government House with the opening of the Cary Castle Tea Shop, Interpretive Centre and Costume Museum. Located in a former stable on the property, the museum features period pieces and ceremonial regalia. Interpretive Centre has multimedia exhibits detailing royal visits and time lines. Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 11am-3pm until late August. www.ltgov.bc.ca. Moss St. Market at Sir James Douglas School. Local organic produce, delicious food, handcrafted products and live music. Children’s activity tent. Saturdays 10am-2pm until Oct. Ferry Ballet in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Five harbour ferries gather and conduct a 15 minute performance choreographed to Strauss’ Blue Danube Waltz. Family-friendly and free. Every Sunday at 10:45am until September 2. www. victoriaharbourferry.com. Gorge Waterway Nature House in Esquimalt. Aquarium touch-tank, microscopes, interactive displays and friendly staff. Sundays 11am-4pm until the end of August. All ages welcome. Admission by donation. 250-3807585 or education@worldfish.org.•

Tools for Success. Affordable tutoringfor children with epilepsy. Register today!

VICTORIA EPILEPSY AND PARKINSON’S CENTRE 250-475-6677|www.vepc.bc.ca | help@vepc.bc.ca

Classical Ballet for ages 4 to advanced

Summer Classes

Mon, Aug 27 – Fri, Aug 31

Fall Registration Dates

Wed, Aug 22 & Tues, Aug 28 Valerie Grant

Licentiate C.S.C.-C.I.C.B., L.I.S.T.D. (Cecchetti Faculty)

Registration & Classes at St. Matthias Anglican Church Hall (Richardson St. at Richmond Rd)

250·595·3107 www.dancearabesque.ca www.IslandParent.ca

August 2012 43

Around the Island

Visit www.IslandParent.ca for these and other events and resources for families from Cowichan Valley north to Campbell River and west to Tofino WED 1

SAT 4 – MON 6

Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre, at 750 3rd St. Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Glow necklaces $2. Regular admission. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200.

Comox Nautical Days at Marina Park, Comox. Bullhead Derby, Build, Bail & Sail race, canoe jousting, dragon boat racing, main-stage entertainment. Captain Cracker’s Kids’ Festival with games, races, crafts, clowns, pet parade, face painting and more. 250-338-1120.

FRI 3 – MON 6 30th Annual Filberg Festival at Filberg Heritage Lodge and Gardens. Wander through the grounds surrounded by beautiful gardens to view the juried artisans. $15/adults; children under 12 free. Fri-Sun: 10am-6pm; Mon: 10am-5pm. www.filbergfestival.com.

SAT 4 Learn to Fish at Colliery Dam Park, Nanaimo. Catch the fun and learn about fish identification, handling, tackle and rod rigging. All equipment provided. Participants must be accompanied by an adult. 11am-1pm. Free. 250-756-5200.

MON 6 Kids Day at the BC Forest Discovery Museum. Unlimited train rides, bouncy castle, games, crafts, live music and a concession. Museum opens at 10am. Train runs every half-hour from 10:30am-4pm. Regular admission rates. 2892 Drinkwater Rd. 250-715-1113. www. bcforestmuseum.ca.

SAT 11 Shoots With Roots at Qualicum Beach Farmers Market. The market teams up with Milner Gardens to offer hands-on family activities using recycled household items. The market runs 8:30am-noon at Veteran’s Way and Memorial.

Have an Ice Day. Iced Mocha, Italian sodas, Smoothies and more...

SAT 11 & SUN 12 Coombs Fair at the Coombs Fairgrounds. Features animals, domestic science and horticulture displays. Enjoy the festivities, music and homemade pies. Sat: 8am-6pm; Sun: 8am-5pm. www.coombsfair.com Ladysmith Days in Ladysmith. Pancake breakfast, parade, street entertainment, kids’ games and activities, food fair and fireworks and more. www.ladysmithdays.com. Trains, Trucks & Tractors at the BC Forest Discovery Museum. See history in action. Barbershop quartet, steam train rides and old-time demos. Vintage trucks and steam cars show and parade. 10am-4pm. 2892 Drinkwater Rd. 250-715-1113. www.bcforestmuseum.ca.

SUN 12 54th Annual Qualicum Beach Ocean Mile Swim at Qualicum Beach. Fun, family, community event. You’ve done the training. Come and celebrate. Includes a one-mile swim. Meet at the Beach Carousel Concession. Registration starts at 1pm and swim starts at 3pm. Free. 250-752-5014.

MON 13 – FRI 17 Summer Day Camp at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Nanaimo. Games, crafts, Bible stories, singing and snacks. Free. For ages 5-12. 9am-noon. Registration forms at www. sapcnanaimobc.ca or call 250-758-2676.

WED 15 Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre. See WED 1 for details. Glow necklaces $2. Regular admission. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200.

FRI 17 – SUN 19 Vancouver Island Exhibition at the Beban Park Fairgrounds, Nanaimo. An event to advance the education of agriculture and showcase local farmers and 4-H clubs. www.viex.ca.

SAT 18 Learn to Fish at Colliery Dam Park, Nanaimo. See SAT 4 for details. 11am-1pm. Free. 250756-5200.

SUN 19

Pick up your copy of Island Parent at any of one our 25 Serious Coffee® locations. 44 Island Parent Magazine

KidFest at Parksville Community Park. Kids of all ages are welcome for a day of games and entertainment on the beautiful beachfront. Clowns, storytellers, entertainers and much more. Kids’ sandcastle competition is free to enter and everyone gets a goodie bag with a mystery prize. Free. 10am-3pm. www. kidfest.ca.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

FRI 24 – SUN 26

YOUTH

Comox Valley Exhibition at the Comox Valley Exhibition Grounds. Three days of family oriented entertainment. www.cvex.ca.

Spare Blox Youth Drop-in in Nanaimo. The ultimate place to be. This is a supervised space to hang out and chill. Open to those 12-17, it offers regular gym activities, video games, movies, foosball, air hockey and much more. Free, but you must register. 7-9pm. Mondays, Nanaimo District Secondary School; Tuesday, Oliver Woods Community Centre; Wednesday, John Barsby Community School. 250-756-5200.

SUN 26 Arts on The Avenue in Ladysmith. Artists from the local area with everything from carvings to photography. 10am-4pm. 250-245-0700.

ONGOING PRESCHOOL LaFF at the Aggie is a drop-in family & friends resource program for children ages 0-6 and their parents, grandparents or caregivers. Play area, free clothing exchange, food programs, free coffee and tea. Monday to Friday, 9:30amnoon. $2 suggested donation (punch cards available). 250-210-0870, laffcoordinator@ shaw.ca, www.familyandfriends.ca.

CHILDREN Summer Swims at Bowen Park Kin Outdoor Pool, Nanaimo. Come swim in the heated pool. 1-3pm every day July 2-Sept 1. $3. 250-753-8176. Waterparks in Nanaimo. Open to the public 9am-8pm until Sept. Three locations—Departure Bay Kiwanis Water Park, Bay St; Deverill Water Park, Haliburton St; Harewood Mining Community Water Park, Howard Ave. All children should use parks under adult supervision. Hours subject to change. Free. Playground Program in Nanaimo. Drop in to one of the neighbourhood playgrounds for free family fun. Games, arts & crafts, sports, and “Science in the Park.” Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm, Until August 24. Parents must be on premises. 250-756-5200. Learn to Fish Program at Horne Lake Regional Park. Includes one-hour hands-on teaching about fish identification and anatomy, proper fish handling, rod rigging skills and tackle knowledge, casting practice, fish conservation ethics, followed by an hour of fishing in the lake. Free. Includes all tackle and gear needed by kids and their families. For children 5-15. Fridays until the end of August. 250-927-0053 for more information. Summer at Westwood Lake. Games, races and crazy activities on the beach. Free family fun. Fridays until August 31. Parent & Child Hockey at Cliff McNabb Arena, Nanaimo. A fun, non-competitive hockey time for children where their parents can play too. Please bring your own gloves, stick, and helmet with face cage. Pre-registration required. Sundays 2:15-3pm. $5. 250-756-5200.

www.IslandParent.ca

Rec Room at Frank Jameson Community Centre. Play pool, ping-pong, air hockey, foosball, surf the net, watch TV or listen to music. Tuesdays 3-6pm features interactive events and Fridays 6-10pm is a drop-in with different activities planned. For 13-18 year olds. 250-245-6424.

FAMILY Cowichan Summer Festival in City Square, Duncan. Runs until August 6. An incredible schedule that celebrates the Centennial of the City of Duncan. Beach Volleython Tournament, performers and artists representing a large and diverse range of music and much more. Free family fun. www.cowichanfestival.com Special Swim Rate Tuesdays at Ravensong Aquatic Centre, Parksville. Running until August 7. 1-5pm. 250-752-5014. www.rdn. bc.ca/recreation. Beat the Heat Skate at Oceanside Arena, Parksville. Beat the heat this summer and go for a refreshing skate. Wednesdays, until August 22 (no session August 15). Everyone welcome. 6:45-8:15pm. 250-248-3252. www. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. Summer Concert Series in Lions Pavilion, Maffeo Sutton Park. Wednesdays August 1-29, 6-7:30pm. Free Sewing Classes at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, Nanaimo. All skill levels welcome, from beginner to expert. Experienced volunteers are invited to come along to help newbies or just sew in a fun, friendly group. Lots of materials and ideas. For more information, email Val at vfroom@shaw.ca search Facebook for Nanaimo Sewing Mamas. Mondays 6-9pm. 4235 Departure Bay Rd. Parksville Lion’s and Save-On-Foods Free Family Skate at Oceanside Place, Parksville. Free admission and skate rentals. Children under 19 must be accompanied by an adult. Pond hockey is not available during Family Skate sessions. Sundays. 250-248-3252. Concerts in the Park in the Ladysmith Amphitheatre. Open air concerts Sundays 6-8pm.•

Learning through Play Parent Participation Preschools 15 locations throughout Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands offering a unique educational family experience!

Cordova Bay • Countryside • Errington Gabriola • Goldstream • Gonzales • Lakehill Lambrick Park • Lansdowne • Nanaimo Oak Bay • Salt Spring Island • Sidney Sooke • Strawberry Vale For more information

www.vicpa.org 250-598-COOP (2667) August 2012

Waldorf Education in the Cowichan Valley Be embraced by our vibrant island community, abundant with the arts, surrounded by organic farms and endless outdoor adventures. Discover the Warmland

Things To Do

Before Summer Ends

With more than a month of summer to go, there’s still plenty of time to tackle this “Ten Things To Do” list. Now there’s no excuse for lazing around as the balmy days pass idly by—unless, of course, that’s your idea of perfect summer fun!

Visit a Festival

There’s no shortage of festivals this month. For starters, there’s the Filberg Festival in Comox (www.filbergfestival.com), a celebration of all things arts and crafts, from August 3-6 where, along with artisans’ wares, you’ll find a kids’ interactive area that includes circus shows, circus workshops, face painting, a Lego tent, an arts and crafts table, painting easels and more. Then there’s the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival (www.victoriadragonboat.com) from August 17-19 where you can cheer on the paddlers and enjoy live multicultural entertainment, crafts for kids, the Forbidden City Food Court and even a paddlers’ airband competition. Don’t miss FringeKids Fest (www.intrepidtheatre.com) in Market Square on Saturday, August 25 from 11am-4pm. This completely free one-day family festival in Market Square introduces young children to the magic of theatre, with live performances, craft activities including puppet making, an inflatable bouncy bunny, life-sized puppets and a cardboard castle for small artists to paint.

Catch a Show

Sunrise Waldorf School offers: Parent & Child Mornings Kindercottage Preschool Mixed Age Kindergartens Grades 1-8 Aftercare until 5:30pm Waldorf High School nearby Established in 1980, our 7 acre rural campus is located in the Cowichan Valley, 45 min North of Victoria. www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org Tel. 250-743-7253 46

Island Parent Magazine

Chemainus Theatre (www.chemainustheatrefestival.ca), 9737 Chemainus Road, presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, running from Tuesdays to Sundays until September 1. Follow Joseph’s journey from slavery to freedom as one of Egypt’s most powerful men. Full of fabulous music, show-stopping dancing and raucous fun, hits include “Close Every Door,” “Any Dream Will Do” and “Poor, Poor Joseph.” Suitable for ages 7+. To book your tickets, phone 1-800-565-7738. For rainy day entertainment, check out the IMAX productions To The Arctic, a journey into the lives of a mother polar bear and her twin seven-month-old cubs as they navigate the changing Arctic wilderness, or Dinosaurs: Giants of Patagonia, now playing to complement the Royal BC Museum’s newest exhibition, Dinosaurs: Ancient Fossils, New Discoveries. There’s also Rocky Mountain Express and Tornado Alley. For show times and information, visit www.imaxvictoria. com or phone 250-953-IMAX (4629).

Take a Day Trip to Sidney Spit

Sidney Island is a great place for families to spend the day. Part of the fun is taking the 25-minute ride on the foot-passenger ferry from the wharf at the bottom of Beacon Avenue in Sidney. One of the main attractions of the park is the sandbar, called the Sidney Spit, which is perfect for beachcombing, skimboarding, building driftwood forts and sand castles, and relaxing with a picnic lunch. If you explore the trails, you’ll see extensive tidal flats, salt marshes, rolling meadows, forest, and a variety of wildlife. The Coast Salish, who used Sidney Island as a summer camp, say that “Mutcha” was a giant mink transformed by the spirit God Swaneset, because of its uncontrollable greed. The long sand spit is Mutcha’s tail, while the beaches are its belly and back. Catch the Sidney Spit Ferry at 10am or 11:30am and make a day of it. You can return on the 4:30 ferry. For a full ferry schedule and rates, visit www.alpinegroup.ca and download the 2012 schedule. www.kidsinvictoria.com

See a Movie Under the Stars

If you feel like seeing a show, but don’t feel like being cooped up indoors, why not drop by one of Victoria’s outdoor venues? The Victoria Film Festival (www.victoriafilmfestival.com) is once again presenting the Free-B Film screenings on Friday and Saturday nights at Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park and at Spirit Square at City Hall, on a 20-foot-wide inflatable screen. The line-up includes Pee Wee’s Big Adventure, Teen Wolf, Muppets From Space, and Short Circuit along with a list of others. Movies start at 9pm and are free. Just bring your own snacks, flashlights and blankets.

Ride the River on Inner Tubes

Embark on a Fossil Tour

Visit the Courtenay and District Museum and Palaeontology Centre to learn about the famous discoveries made in the local area. You’ll see an actual specimen and reconstructed cast of an Elasmosaur found in the Puntledge river. You’ll also see other vertebrate fossils, such as mosasaurs, turtles, and fish—along with the invertebrate fossils of shelled creatures that lived in the warm, shallow ocean surrounding Vancouver Island 80 million years ago. A 10-minute drive and a short walk brings you to one of the many fossil sites along the Puntledge river. After a brief discussion about the history of the site and proper collection techniques, you will have a chance C

South Island Distance Education School (SIDES) is a K - 12 public school specializing in distributed learning and a proud member of School District 63. SIDES offers a variety of program options to meet the needs of all students.

Our teachers will be happy to work with you and your child in planning a program that assures a successful learning journey. For more information, visit our website or call to speak to one of our counselors or teachers.

Head to The Tube Shack at Lake Cowichan, and sign up for a $25 all-inclusive tubing package that includes your tube rental and a shuttle service from Little Beach back to Saywell Park. Then experience meandering down the Cowichan River through the crystal clear water and pristine scenery on this 2.5 hour journey. Pack and waterproof a picnic or leave one along your route. Make sure to lather up with waterproof sunscreen, wear a life jacket and a hat, and bring lots to drink along the way. If you have your own tubes and want to use just the shuttle service, the cost is $5 per person. The Tube Shack is fully licensed and insured. Located underneath Jakes at the Lake Restaurant, 109 South Shore Road, beside Saywell Park. For more information, visit www.cowichanriver.com or phone 250-510-RIDE (7433).

Thinking about a new way to learn?

www.sides.ca • 250-479-7125 • 1-800-663-7610 Rediscover T The Natural Choice…

Ask About Our Summer Recreation Program Your Package Includes: • One or more night's stay in a Family Friendly accommodation • $5 Breakfast credit per Adult in the Cedar Room • FREE Laser Bumper Tag at Riptide Lagoon • FREE Kids Welcome Amenity • FREE Kids Club Recreation Program Drop In (ages 3-12) • Plus more...

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August 2012

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to find your own fossil. A limited number of hammers, chisels and goggles will be supplied. You can keep any fossils that you find on the tour. If the species is of scientific value, you may be asked to donate the fossil to the museum collection, with the finder’s name attached. Pre-booking and your own transportation to the fossil site are required. August tours run from 9am-noon and from 1-4pm. Adults, $25; students, $20; children (4-12), $15; children under 4, free; family rate (2 adults and up to three children), $75. To book a fossil tour, phone 250-334-0686.

Concoct Orange Cream Pops

Orange Cream Pops: In a small pot, combine 1 cup thawed orange juice concentrate and 1/3 cup sugar over medium heat. Cook, stirring, until sugar is dissolved, roughly 3-4 minutes. Stir in 2 cups full-fat French vanilla yogurt. Transfer mixture from the pot to a large liquid measuring cup or juice jug, pour into popsicle molds, and insert sticks. Freeze, roughly 6 hours. Seek shade and enjoy!

See Behind the Scenes at Royal BC Museum

Ever wanted to know who’s who in Royal BC Museum’s Natural History department and what they do? Curious to see collections that have never before been on public display? Want to know how and why they create some amazSunday Afternoons Sun Hats ing things at the Royal BC Museum? Well, Now accepting Come Soon – now summer is now’s your chance to get behind the scenes Fall consignment here they are selling out fast! (literally!) and tour the Royal BC Museum’s collections. Yep, that’s right. Grab your Backstage Pass and see for yourself where Emmanuel Baptist Church they keep those jars, boxes and bins, and Emmanuel Baptist Church the working environment of the Emmanuel Baptistof Church Summer Adventure and Fun 2012 experience talented researchers and staff. There are Summer of Adventure and Fun 2012 Summer of Adventure and Fun 2012 tours of the entomology and invertebrates Emmanuel Baptist - 2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road Emmanuel Baptist Church - 2121 Cedar Hill Church Cross Road labs, the history collection and the botany Victoria, BC | V8P 2R6 BC | V8P- 2R6 Emmanuel Victoria, Baptist Church 2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road vertebrates collections. All tours pass At the Henderson Road entrance to of Victoria At Victoria, the Henderson Road entrance to Universityand of Victoria BCUniversity | V8P 2R6 Phone: 250-592-2418 |Phone: emmanuelvictoria.ca 250-592-2418 | of emmanuelvictoria.ca through the exhibition arts area, giving you At the Henderson Road entrance to University Victoria Phone: 250-592-2418 | emmanuelvictoria.ca a glimpse into the artists’ minds as they go about creating displays and replicas. Each Date Camp Theme Ages Fees Time Behind July 2-6 Good Theme Time Pre.-Kind. (ages 4-6)*Ages$45.00 9:00-11:30am Date A Zoo...ming Camp Fees Time The Scenes tour lasts 30 minutes Date Camp Theme Ages (ages 6-10) $55.00 Fees Time July 2-6 Kites..Lego..Puppets...& more! Elementary 12:30-3:30pm and is limited to 10 people. You can sign up July 2-6 A Zoo...ming Good Time Pre.-Kind. (ages 4-6)* $45.00 9:00-11:30am July July 2-6 9-13 A Zoo...ming Good Time Pre.-Kind. 9:00-11:30am Rainbow Ranch Pre.-Kind. (ages(ages 4-6)* 4-6)*$45.00 $45.00 9:00-11:30am in person an hour ahead of each tour, on a July 2-6 Kites..Lego..Puppets...& more! Elementary (ages 6-10) $55.00 12:30-3:30pm Adventures on Promise Island Pre.-Gr. 5* $35.00 for first child 9:00am-Noon July July 2-6 16-20 Kites..Lego..Puppets...& more! Elementary (ages 6-10) $55.00 12:30-3:30pm Rainbow $45.00 9:00-11:30am 9:00-11:30am VacationRanch Bible SchoolRanch for next4-6)* two first-come first-served basis (cost is included July 9-13July 9-13 Rainbow Pre.-Kind. (agesPre.-Kind. 4-6)*$20.00 (ages $45.00 Max.5$75/family July 16-20 Adventures Promise Island *$35.00 for first child $35.00 for first child 9:00am-Noon July 16-20 Adventures on Promise on Island Pre.-Gr. 5 * Pre.-Gr. 9:00am-Noon with admission). Throughout the summer, July 23-27 Science & Soccer..a winning combo! Elementary (ages 6-10) $50.00 9:00am-Noon Vacation Bible SchoolBible School $20.00 for next two Vacation $20.00 for next two Behind The Scenes will run on Wednesdays Aug. 7-10 God’s Champions! Pre.-Gr. 5 * $30.00 for first child 9:00am-Noon Max. $75/family Max. $75/family Vacation Bible School $15.00 for next two and Saturdays at 1, 2 and 3pm. For fall/ July 23-27 Science & Science Soccer..a& winning combo! Elementary 6-10) $50.00 July 23-27 Soccer..a winning combo!(ages Elementary (ages 6-10) $50.00 9:00am-Noon 9:00am-Noon Max. $60/family winter tour dates and times, check the events Aug.*7-10 God’s Champions! Pre.-Gr. 5 * $30.00 for first child 9:00am-Noon Three year7-10 olds must beGod’s 4 yearsChampions! old by Dec. 31, 2012. Aug. Pre.-Gr. 5 * $30.00 for first child 9:00am-Noon School $15.00 for next two calendar at www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca. Please enterVacation your childBible in camps in terms their ages and grades this coming school year. Vacation BibleofSchool $15.00 for next two

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Max. $60/family *Three year olds must be 4 years old by Dec. 31, 2012. * Three year olds must be 4 years old by Dec. 31, 2012. Please enter your child in camps in terms of their ages and grades this coming school year. 48 Island Parent Magazine Please enter your child in camps in terms of their ages and grades this coming school year.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Help Victoria Celebrate

The city of Victoria is celebrating its 150th birthday. There are a number of events planned, including the 150 Forward Community Celebration at Centennial Square on Thursday, August 2, noon-6pm. Get a sense of Victoria’s history, interact with creatively costumed performers, enjoy refreshments, cake and feature performances that celebrate our history, showcase diverse cultures, and highlight our current day and beyond. Record your anniversary greeting for the digital time capsule, take part in children’s games and activities, and enjoy local cuisine. There will be live music performances, free give-aways, tours of the clock tower, and more. During August you can check out the Amelia Street Block Party on Aug 4 noon-8pm, the City United Anniversary Celebration and Concert at St. Ann’s Academy on Aug 6 noon-9pm, Raven Baroque free concerts on various dates, and Chinatown Night Market on Aug 22 5-9pm. To find out more, visit www.victoria.ca/cityvibe or check the calendar in this issue.

Watch Whales

Ask most locals whether or not they’ve ever gone whale watching and chances are they’ll tell you that the closest they’ve come to watching whales is during a voyage across the strait on BC Ferries. Considered by many Islanders to be a tourist-only activity, whale watching is often left off a local’s “to do” list. This summer, when your out-of-town guests sign up for a day of whale watching, tag along—it’s an experience that shouldn’t be missed. With a host of whale watching tour companies listed online, choosing a tour operator will probably be the most difficult step. Most whale watching tours leave from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, though some depart from outlying areas such as Sooke, Sidney, and Tofino. Tours range in price from around $105 for adults and $85 for kids (riding in a Zodiac or open boat) to $100 and $80 (riding in a covered boat). Depending upon the company’s policy, children under 8 might be required to tour in the covered boat.

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Water Safety for Young Kids

rowning is the second most common cause of death for children under five years of age. Children can drown in as little as 2.5 cm of water. Many of these tragedies happen in backyard pools, and almost always in pools without four-side pool fencing and self-closing, self-latching safety gates. Take the following essential precautions to help protect your children: Babies who cannot sit without support and are too young to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) should be held by an adult at all times. Toddlers should always be within arm’s reach of an adult when they are in or around water. This includes pools, bathtubs, and beaches, and other water sources. Swimming lessons are a great opportunity for families to participate in fun activities that contribute to a healthy lifestyle. But on their own, they will not protect or prevent a child from drowning. All children should be supervised by an adult when they are in or around water and should never be left alone in a pool or bathtub, even for a moment.

The Lifesaving Society recommends a supervision ratio of at least one adult for every two young children, and one adult for every baby.

Should I use a life jacket or a PFD for my child? Life jackets are different from PFDs. A life jacket can turn the person over from face-down to face-up. A PFD will keep a person floating, but not necessarily face-up. It is lighter and less bulky than a life jacket. PFDs also keep people warmer in the water because the foam in the vest is spread more evenly around the body. You can use either a life jacket or a PFD for your child, as long as it is designed for children. In Canada, approved life jackets and PFDs are not available for infants who weigh less than 9 kg. There is no safety standard for smaller infants. PFDs or life jackets should be worn by all infants who weigh at least 9 kg and by toddlers who are swimming or playing near or in the water. Check the label to be sure that your child’s PFD or life jacket meets current national

safety standards. It should be approved by at least one of the following: Transport Canada, Canadian Coast Guard or Fisheries and Oceans Canada. It should be the right size for your child’s weight. Make sure it stays buckled up. Keep all safety straps fastened, including the crotch strap. Remember that water wings, bathing suits with flotation devices in them, inflatable wings and other swim toys ARE NOT safety devices.

What should we do if we have a swimming pool at home? Swimming pools—whether in- or aboveground—should be fenced on four sides. That means NOT having direct access to a pool from a deck, patio or back door (the house doesn’t count as a “side”). The fence should be climbing-resistant and at least 1.2 m high. Any gate to the pool area should be self-closing and self-latching. Make sure that hot tubs and spas not contained within the fenced pool area have a locking hard cover or are located in an area that can be closed and locked. Empty toddler and other portable backyard pools after use (at least once daily if you are using them every day).

Enter Our Online Contests Every month at Island Parent and Kids In Victoria you can enter to win some great prizes! August Contest: A family weekend at Beach Acres Resort, Parksville. (Some restrictions apply.) An additional 2 winners will receive their choice of an item from the prize table (includes books, Cinecenta passes and CDs). Check out the prizes and enter the contests by visiting www.IslandParent.ca or www.kidsinvictoria.com

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Parents and pool owners should learn how to swim and how to rescue a drowning victim. They should also maintain certification in first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Pool owners should have an emergency action plan, rescue equipment, and a telephone on the deck or poolside. Slide or play equipment should be designed specifically for pool use.

What are some other water safety tips? Use diapers designed for use in water. They don’t get as heavy as regular diapers and are less likely to cause your child to lose his balance in a wading pool. Empty buckets and pails, ice chests with melted ice, or bathtubs as soon as you are done with them. Do not keep a container filled with water (such as a rain barrel) around your home. When your children are playing under a sprinkler, watch for pools of water collecting on the ground. They can be slippery. Move the sprinkler often, or take a break until the water has drained. Use sprinklers on grassy surfaces only, and make sure the play area is free of toys or other obstacles. A backyard water slide should be used with caution. Set it up on a soft, grassy slope, free of bumps, and well away from trees or shrubs. Teach children to slide in a sitting position. Keep children away from ponds and streams at any time of year, unless you are with them.

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When can my child take swimming lessons? There is not a lot of research about the exact age when young children are ready to learn how to swim. Several studies show that children do not have the skills to swim on their own until they are four years old, even if they start lessons at a younger age. If your child is younger than four years old, look for swimming programs that focus on building water confidence and that teach parents about water safety. This is a great way to have fun and be active with your children. Teach your children these important pool rules and follow them at all times: No swimming without an adult. No running or pushing. No food or drinks. No riding toys. Reprinted with permission from Canadian Paediatric Society (www.caringforkids. cps.ca). www.IslandParent.ca

St. Joseph’s Elementary School is happy to announce that we are accepting applications for full day kindergarten for September 2012. The school is located at 757 West Burnside Road, Victoria BC. We offer an excellent early learning program in a Catholic Christian atmosphere. Applications are available from the school at www.stjosephschool.ca and can be dropped off at the school until July 6th, or mailed to St. Joseph’s Elementary School 757 West Burnside Road Victoria, BC V8Z 1M9 August 2012 51

Encouraging Your Child’s Creativity Child, Youth & Family Community Health South Island Health Units Esquimalt 250-519-5311 Gulf Islands 250-539-3099 (toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

Peninsula 250-544-2400 Saanich 250-519-5100 Saltspring Island 250-538-4880 Sooke 250-642-5464 Victoria 250-388-2200 West Shore 250-519-3490

Central Island Health Units Duncan 250-709-3050 Ladysmith 250-755-3342 Lake Cowichan 250-749-6878 Nanaimo 250-755-3342 Nanaimo Princess Royal 250-755-3342 Parksville/Qualicum 250-947-8242 Port Alberni 250-731-1315 Tofino 250-725-4020

North Island Health Units Campbell River 250-850-2110 Courtenay 250-331-8520 Kyuquot Health Ctr 250-332-5289 ‘Namgis Health Ctr 250-974-5522 Port Hardy 250-902-6071

www.viha.ca/prevention_services/

52 Island Parent Magazine

oung children are naturally creative. Creativity promotes language, social and intellectual development and helps children to interpret and think about their world. However, as children get older, they may feel less confident about their creative abilities, causing them to miss out on personal growth opportunities. Triple P – the Positive Parenting Program has these tips for encouraging your child to be creative: • Notice What Your Child Likes To Do: If your child shows an interest in art—whether it’s music, visual arts, dancing or acting—help her get involved. Have art and dress-up supplies available at home and look into signing up for lessons. Offer to help out by making costumes or providing equipment for theatre or visual arts. • Let Your Child Try Different Things: What seems interesting initially might turn out to be too difficult or not in tune with your child’s personality. If your child changes his mind, unless the activity is causing upset, have him complete the term. This provides enough time for him to practice; and with practice comes confidence. If he still wants to try something else, try another activity. • Offer To Help: Show support and interest by offering to help with the creative activities that your child is involved in. • Encourage Your Child’s Interest: Involve your family in fun activities that encourage an interest in the arts. Sing and dance to encourage your child’s sense of rhythm, melody, harmony and timing. Encourage dramatic play by providing dress-up clothes and props; support an interest in visual art by talking about the natural beauty you find every day. When possible, take your child to concerts and plays to see live performances. • Encourage Your Child’s Attempts: Show an interest in what your child is doing. Listen to her play an instrument, praise your child’s efforts with artwork, and avoid negative comments such as “Wings don’t belong on a kitten.” Creativity is enhanced by your child’s imagination. If she begins to show less interest, spend a little extra time with your

child while she is practicing, or frame a piece of art to encourage her. If she loses interest for a long period of time, it may be time to move on to another activity. • Provide Space for Your Child’s Activities: Provide practice space for instruments, schedule a regular practice time, and provide an audience if your child wants to perform for others. If your child’s interest is in visual arts, make art materials accessible so he can

Healthy Families; Happy Families C hild Y ou th & Family C ommu nity Health

CINDY KNOTT

work on activities on his own. When your child is using art materials and having fun, be prepared for some mess. Children can get great pleasure from participating in performance arts such as music, dance and drama, and visual arts, such as drawing, painting, photography and sculpture. Provide different opportunities for your child to express her inner-self. Encouraging creativity doesn’t have to be directly related to a specific art or craft. Lots of everyday activities can also encourage creativity. Singing, dancing or cooking can be fun. Solving a problem, sounding out a new word, storytelling or playing with blocks and other toys also encourages your child to be creative. Play encourages creativity whenever it is child-directed, so providing a safe space and open-ended materials will enhance your child’s spontaneity and creativity. And remember, step back and let your child design his own play. For more Triple P tips and ideas for all ages and stages of development or to find Triple P services in your community, visit www. triplepvip.ca or “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TriplepVIP. Cindy Knott has worked for more than 20 years supporting children and families in Manitoba and now in B.C. and is currently the Vancouver Island Triple P Coordinator.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

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Do you see what I see? Looks like Oaklands has camp for summer, winter, spring and Pro D days!! Summer Camp

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Aug 20 - 24 Artful Antics

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Outdoor Explorers 7-11yrs. $20/day Join our outdoor educator on Saturdays 9:30am - 12:00pm, for a fun hands-on adventure, exploring and learning about nature around the Greater Victoria area.

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August 2012 53

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54 Island Parent Magazine

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grew up in a house of three boys. When my brothers and I made water balloons, we did it so we could throw them at each other or in preparation for a neighbourhood water fight. I’m now the father of three girls and a few weeks ago, my daughters discovered a very different way to play with water balloons. It started after Tessa’s eighth birthday party. We had a pack of balloons left over and our girls started filling them with water. Instead of throwing the balloons at each other, they wrapped them in towels, named them and took them over to the swings to play. They called them jigglies. Evelyn, our eldest, named hers Bluebanana after the colour of the balloon itself. Tessa’s was named Ruth and Vivian, our youngest, named hers Zach. They started carrying the jigglies around in slings—little scarves tied together to form a cradle. They took them around the backyard, carried them on the swings. They pulled out our wheelbarrow, filled it with warm water and soap and bathed the balloons, towelled them off then put lotion on them. When it started to rain that afternoon, they put the jigglies under the wheelbarrow to protect them. That evening, they gathered beach towels for the jigglies to lie on and put them under the slide for protection overnight. The game went on for days and then for weeks. Other girls from the neighbourhood joined the game. They started a fast food restaurant called Jiggly Jiggly Jello and made up a menu for it. They made up jobs for each other and our backyard became a little city of jigglies. They had a day care program where you could get other kids to take care of your jigglies. They took them on field trips, though they never physically left the back yard. Every evening they’d tuck the jigglies in for the night, wrap them in towels and make them a bed under the wheelbarrow just to be sure no raccoons came along and popped them during the night. Every morning they’d run out and check on them, making sure all the jigglies had survived the night. Over time the game started to revolve around seeing what you could do to your jiggly without popping it. They sent them down the slide, one person at the top and someone else at the bottom to catch it. They

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dropped them from the porch, threw them in the air, rolled them down the stairs. The first ones they made were really big and they popped easily, but the kids soon learned to make the jigglies smaller, and not to put too much water in so the skin wouldn’t stretch. These smaller balloons could take some real punishment. I watched Tessa throw hers up

Dadspeak DaNIEL GRIFFIN above the branches of the apple tree. It landed on the grass without bursting. Despite the jigglies’ hardiness, with a bunch of kids playing, they soon ran through the entire pack. A few days after Tessa’s birthday party, she asked me for money to buy more. By that second pack of balloons, the kids had given up trying to think up new names for each balloon. Instead they just added a number after the name, and by the end of that first week, Tessa was on Ruth the 11th. Throughout most of this, my wife and I observed from a distance. The kids had invented a game. They were enthralled, and it was wonderful to watch. Once in a while one of the kids came in screaming like she’d broken a leg, but it usually turned out one of her sisters had thrown her jiggly too hard and had broken it. After a few of these accidental deaths, a kind of family feud erupted. Evelyn killed one of Tessa’s jigglies in revenge for Tessa killing one of hers. Tessa then killed one of Evelyn’s to get back at her. It was like something out of the old west without a clear beginning, but an ongoing escalation with plenty of jigglies lost. When jigglies died—either deliberately killed or burst while playing—the girls gave them short funerals. Unfortunately they didn’t bury the bodies, and soon the lawn was littered with bits of latex. There was only one formality to the funerals—adding the jiggly’s name to a list of the dead. It soon had three columns of names, and by the time the kids tired of the game—after about two weeks of playing—Tessa had filled a whole column with the many generations of Ruth.

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Daniel Griffin is the father of three children and the author of Stopping for Strangers (Vehicule Press, 2012), a collection of short stories about parents, children, brothers and sisters.

www.IslandParent.ca

August 2012

Water, Water, Everywhere

f eight glasses of water a day is recommended, then 10, or 12, or 16 must be better, right? We know what we’ve read and been told about hydration and water intake. Camelbacks, personalized water bottles, and hydration stations are all a part of the daily routines of schools and workplaces. The basic act of quenching thirst has become a common social ritual, and as is typical in much of North America, more and bigger must be better. Our hyper-competitive society often takes us to extremes, but the fact remains that too much of anything is, simply, too much. Water, long heralded as a miracle cureall for everything from constipation to bad skin, can’t be consumed without limits. Water intoxication, caused by drinking too much water, can result in unbalancing of electrolytes in the body, eventually leading to death. What goes in must come out: our bodies can only excrete about one litre of fluid every hour. Taking in more than that

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Lisa Woo, Director & Trainer 250 477 9891 www.toylady.ca 56 Island Parent Magazine

stresses the system, and we all could use a little less stress. Summer is a season of high heat and big thirst when it unfolds properly, and everyone is looking for something refreshing to cool them down. Generally speaking, water is our best bet as a thirst quencher. Reach for a glass of water after physical exercise, when you’re dripping in sweat, or when it has been an hour or more since your last one. Water is absolutely a better choice than pop, or other sugar-laden soft drinks. Water can have natural flavours added, have things steeped in it or macerated in it, and be chilled or heated. Put sliced cucumber or lemon into water pitchers with mint sprigs before bringing to the table, stir rose water from a Middle Eastern grocery store into your warm water and lemon juice in the morning. Always remember that juicy fruits help to re-hydrate us, as well: freeze grapes to add to drinks to chill them (or to pop in your mouth on hot August afternoons), slice up

watermelon to eat right away or freeze in cubes for blended drinks later. People participating in extreme exercise, such as marathon running or that type of event, should consider drinking beverages containing electrolytes to replace the ones lost through sweat. The rest of us can get a bit of an energy boost by stirring some honey into our lemonade or cold ginger tea. Happy summer, stay hydrated, and enjoy a wide variety of delicious ways to assuage your thirst!

Mango Yogurt Lassi 3 cups yogurt 1 cup crushed ice 1 cup ripe mango pieces whole cream, optional Place yogurt, mango and ice into a blender and whirl until well combined. Pour into 4 glasses; top with swirl of cream, if desired. Serve.

Barley Water 1⁄2 cup pot barley 1 lemon (organic), washed and sliced thinly 1–2 Tbsp honey, if desired Spread barley in bottom of casserole dish. Place lemon slices over. Bring full kettle of

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water to a boil, and pour over barley and lemon. Stir in honey, if you want to add some sweetness to this. Allow to steep for several hours, then drain through a sieve, discard barley and lemon slices, and serve.

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Watermelon Whip 3 cups seedless watermelon, cubed 1 cup ice cubes 11⁄2 cups strawberries 3 Tbsp lime juice sugar, to taste Whirl all ingredients together in blender, scraping down sides partway through. When fully combined, pour into glasses and serve.

250.477.5550

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Melon Fresco 2 small cantaloupe, peeled, seeded and cut into cubes 1 cup ice cubes 2–3 Tbsp lime juice 3 Tbsp icing sugar (optional) Whirl all ingredients in food processor until well blended. Taste, sweeten if desired, and serve.

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Iced Tea 3 tea bags (Orange Pekoe, or use any herbal tea) 1 organic lemon, thinly sliced 1 bunch fresh mint 3 Tbsp honey Place tea bags in large Mason jar, with lid. Fill with water, and add lemons and mint. Let sit in sunshine for a full day. Stir in honey. Strain, and serve over ice.

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Strawberry Fizz 3 cups ripe strawberries 11⁄2 cup soda water, or sparkling mineral water Place strawberries in blender or food processor: blitz until puréed. Scoop purée into glasses to serve, and top with sparkling water. Stir and serve. Kathy Humphrey lives in Victoria with her husband and two children. She tries to see cooking for a family not as a chore but as a creative outlet.

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The Wonderful World of Peter H. Reynolds

h, August. The month long considered the peak of summer; the month in which the days, already losing the harsh rigidity of the rest of the year, begin to melt together in a warm haze of sunscreen and craft glue, sandy beach towels and the sweet scent of Garry Oak meadows in the heat. And then there’s the dark side. Fliers and ads that promote neon-bright, primarycoloured backpacks and super-slick, shimmering laptops with ultra specials and amazing deals that you, as a responsible parent, absolutely cannot miss! People start using phrases like “school year,” “first day back,” and “academic preparation,” and the heart of every child, young and old, sinks just a little. However, despite the warmth that has permeated the sidewalk and our senses, despite the feeling that summer, now, could go on forever, there comes from somewhere the sense that summer is winding down and we really ought to be readying ourselves for the onslaught of hectic activity and the lashing, binding ties of outside schedules and rules that spring up in September, forcing us back into routines so carelessly and happily abandoned throughout the summer. This kind of restriction on our time, while largely selfimposed, can often feel more like a stranglehold than a system, and can very easily diminish the 58

Island Parent Magazine

creativity and inspiration that flows so freely when we have time and space to explore on our own. It is this issue, of our habit of placing restrictions on creation, imagination and exploration, which the talented and inspiring artist Peter H. Reynolds addresses time and time again, with magnificent works such as Ish (Candlewick, 2004), The Dot (Candlewick, 2003), and I’m Here (Simon & Schuster Canada, 2011). Reynolds believes that inspiration can and should come from anywhere, whether it’s “sitting in cafes,” and watching the world go by, getting to grips with your ideas through “sketching on paper,” or even wandering through his website, which he says he hopes will “inspire you to get to that project you’ve been meaning to do” and “make your mark” on the world. This phrase, often repeated in interviews with the author and across his assorted web pages, is a quote from Reynolds’ favourite of his own work: a picture book for 4+ called The Dot, about a young girl named Vashti who claims— who knows—that she is unable to draw anything; even when, at the insistence of her teacher, she manages to finally put pen to paper. That’s all she is able to do: she puts the pen on the page, produces one very tiny dot, and signs her name.

What happens next, at the hands of one very special teacher, is nothing short of magic. Clever, funny, and moving, The Dot is a wonderful reminder to children and adults alike to believe in the beauty of their dreams, the importance and significance of their talents, whatever they happen to be. This message is found too in the marvellous Ish¸ a thematic

Book Nook MaDDY SMItH sequel to The Dot and second in Reynolds’ “creatrilogy.” This clever, inspiring tale tells of a young artist named Ramon who loves to draw but who—after a callous remark by his brother shatters his confidence—is unable despite furious efforts to produce anything “good.” Luckily for Ramon, his younger sister sees things a little more clearly, and understands the power of making things “ish.” The third and final book in Reynolds’ creatrilogy comes out later this month: the bright and brilliant Sky Color (Candlewick, 2012) tells of a young girl who tries to paint the sky, but who must learn to see things a little differently in order to do so. The importance of looking at things in a new and different way is integral to much of Reynolds’ work, but perhaps it is most so in I’m Here, a story about a introverted (possibly autistic? Reynolds never says) young boy who sits alone in the playground, unable to tolerate the noise and crush of crowds, and who, through one simple action, embarks upon a magical journey, discovering friendship and adventure through the power of connection with ourselves, and with others. This August, take the opportunity to explore Peter Reynolds’ creations. Revel in his warm, thoughtful words, his colourful and engaging illustrations, and wonder at the world he creates: a world that is at once spare and simple, multi-layered and meaningful, and encourages each of us to embrace our individuality. This August, take a chance and throw yourself headlong into the moment—you have nothing to lose but your stress. Maddy Smith is a children’s bookseller and an Islander born and bred; she reads, writes, and believes in the magic of a great book.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

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pnwraptors.com August 2012 59

Life’s a Beach

Accepting Enrollment for September Book now for a tour!

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60 Island Parent Magazine

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s the summer progresses, my days have settled into a warm-weather routine. This mainly involves slathering children with sunscreen, searching for hats and mopping up watermelon juice. In between, I plan trips to the beach—not something I enjoy, but something I am resigned to. The beach, you see, is not my idea of a good time. My childhood beach days involved a pitiful patch of dirt flanking a frigid, weedy lake. My brothers and I used to daydream about a “real” beach as we tried to build castles in the scraggy gravel. With this tragic history, one would think I’d be grateful for our spectacular beach—or even enjoy it. But there is a world of difference between going to the shore to relax and going there with my kids. The former involves magazines and a Frappuccino; the latter is a five-step operation taking days to recover from. Step one: Prepare. In the name of insurance, I bring everything. Buckets, shovels, and tiny sunglasses smeared with sticky fingerprints. Enough snacks for a week. Toys. Water wings. A plastic container of 15 shelled peas—which belong to my son’s imaginary friend, a boisterous “Mr. Crumb” and which must apparently come everywhere with us. (Sometimes it’s best not to ask questions. Just pack Mr. Crumb’s peas and move on.) We need diapers, soothers, Kleenex, cellular communication devices, water shoes, and extra underwear. And bottles and bottles and more bottles of water—assuming 75 per cent will be spilled. Step two: Transport. Lugging the beach gear across several sand dunes, giant piles of driftwood, and a boulder or two while wearing an infant and trying not to stab one’s foot on a piece of crusty seaweed—how is this not an Olympic sport? Add a giant hat, a doggy doo minefield and a trail of Cheerios, and you have a recipe for pure ridiculousness. Step three: Have a good time. Snacks, sunscreen, and hats applied, sand wedged in every crevice available, and the who-getsthe-bigger-blue-bucket hierarchy sorted, the children set about serious play. Poking dead crabs, dredging elaborate canal systems, chasing seagulls, they are content for whole minutes at a time, dancing back to show me neat sticks, shrieking whenever a toe www.kidsinvictoria.com

gets wet. I man the blanket, making sure our two tons of stuff doesn’t get soaked by the tide, and trying to get the baby to nap. Of course, she gets sand in her eyes, ears, and bellybutton and screams whenever the wind blows in her face. At this point I begin counting the weeks until winter returns to put me out of my misery.

Is There an App for This? SARAH MILLIGAN Step four: Retreat. When the snacks have disappeared and everyone is on the cusp of melting down, we hustle back to the parking lot. Bribery helps immensely. Extra Goldfish crackers are stashed in the van for moments such as this. I allocate an extra 15 minutes just to shake the sand out of everyone’s shorts before buckling up. Step five: Recuperate. After driving home, bathing everyone, putting everything we own away, and vacuuming up one pound of sand, I am done with the seaside—in more ways than one. And woe to the husband who innocently asks about my “relaxing” trip to the beach. This summer, our first day at the shore proceeded in exactly this manner. Somewhere between changing a sandy diaper and fishing soggy crackers from a tide pool, I found myself sulking about being stuck on the blanket yet again. I wondered what I was doing wrong. I wondered why these outings are not more enjoyable for me, and why I never seem to be able to explore with the kids in between lugging stuff to and fro. And I had a revelation. Isn’t “holding the blanket” just what a mother does? In a vast and fascinating world, a mother is home, the spot in the world where a child returns between explorations. The place where sunscreen is provided, hats are plopped back on heads, and special rocks are admired. In this phase of life, I am the blanket, and although it may not be relaxing, I am providing what my children need. In that case, I suppose it is a worthwhile effort. Now if only a Frappuccino were involved… Sarah Milligan lives on Vancouver Island. She is grateful to her children for the joy they inspire, not to mention the endless writing material they provide. www.IslandParent.ca

Canada’s first elementary school (K-6). Hands-on, discovery-based learning infused with Science, Technology, Engineering, rts & Math. Watch your child fall in love with learning.

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Saturday September 8 • 10am-3pm

Join us for a very special day as we open our doors to the whole community. Enjoy free concerts. Meet instructors. Try out a free mini-lesson. Visit practice rooms and performance halls. Come experience all we have to offer! Find out how to get the most out of your musical journey at the VCM.

900 Johnson at Quadra • 250.386.5311 • www.vcm.bc.ca FUNDING PARTNERS:

Family Services Directory This directory, sponsored by Thrifty Foods, features not for profit agencies and organizations serving children, youth and families. BC Families in Transition (formerly the Separation and Divorce Resource Centre) is one of three non-profit agencies in North America that offers professional counselling, legal support and education for people who are having problems in their relationships. Each year we help 10,000 adults, children and youth through family changes, separations and divorces, remarriages, and complex family situations. Whether you wish to separate or remain together, call us at 250-386-4331 or visit www.bcfit.org to see how we can help. Some evening and weekend appointments available. Beacon Community Services, a community-based, non-profit social, employment and health services agency, serving Greater Victoria, Saanich Peninsula and the Southern Gulf Islands. Providing these services: child, youth and family services; a drop-in family resource centre; counselling; employment services for adults, youth and people with disabilities; home support; volunteer services and opportunities; community events; affordable, assisted living for seniors; referrals, information and resources; thrift shops. For Home Support information call 250-658-6407, for all other inquiries call 250-656-0134 or visit www. beaconcs.ca. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria provides mentoring programs to children in schools and communities. Adult ‘Bigs’, and child ‘Littles’, build a friendship based on shared interests, respect, trust, and the magic of everyday moments shared with a friend. Everyone needs someone to laugh with, to share a dream with, and just to hang out. No special skills, money, or experience are needed to be a mentor to a child, just a willingness to spend time together, to

listen, and to be a friend and advocate—in as little as one hour a week! The positive impact of mentorship lasts for a lifetime. Contact us at 250-475-1117, email main@bbbsvictoria.com, or at our website www.bbbsvictoria.com Boys & Girls Club Services offer after-school and evening social, educational and recreational programming for youth at four locations. We also offer support to parents of teens (Parents Together) and run Adventure Based Learning programs at our Camp in Metchosin. For more information on all our programs visit our website at www.bgcvic.org. For general information on after-school and evening programs at our 4 Community Clubs please call 250-384-9133. The Child Abuse Prevention & Counselling Society/Mary Manning Centre is the primary provider of therapy and victim support services for children and youth in Greater Victoria who experience sexual abuse, physical abuse, and other serious trauma, or who may be at risk for sexual abuse. Therapy services include individual and group sessions for children and youth and group sessions for parents. Victim services include intake and referral, accompaniment and support for children and youth being interviewed by police, and court preparation and support for those testifying as victims or witnesses in criminal cases. No charge for clients. Contact: 250-385-6111 or admin@ marymanning.com. Community Living Victoria supports people with developmental disabilities and their families by providing residential services, day and community supports (supported employment, parent support and

independent living). Our Host agency provides direct supports for those with Individualized Funding and Home Share service. We also provide Autism Services for youth between 13 and 19. Our family support program offers advocacy, conflict resolution, education, newsletters, workshops, support groups and a resource library. Please call 250-477-7231 ext 233. Esquimalt Neighbourhood House Society. Our Family Services offer family resource programs with a focus on early childhood development and learning, parenting education and pre and post-natal services. Our Counselling Services are free to adults and youth (12-18 years); adult and short term clinical counselling is offered for acute mental health problems. For more information call 250-385-2635 or visit 511 Constance Ave. in Esquimalt. Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) is a service agency for immigrants and refugees. Programs offered include cross-cultural counseling, parenting programs (child care available), family violence programs, employment services, interpretation and translation, diversity workshops and training, ESL instruction, volunteering, youth programs and tutoring, as well as intercultural arts programming and the Diversity Health Fair. 930 Balmoral Rd, 250388-4728, info@icavictoria.org, www.icavictoria.org. Learning Disabilities Association of BC, SVI Chapter, educates, supports and advocates for children and youth with learning disabilities and related conditions. Services include a public lending library, individual/ group support for parents and children, professional/ educational workshops for parents and professionals. Child and youth programs include: reading/writing, academic skills, social/emotional skill development and Fast ForWord. 1524 Fort St. 250-370-9513. www.ldasvi.bc.ca. Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) provides programs and services to the military family community. Services include: 24 Hour Information Line, Deployment Information and Workshops, Short Term

FUN to Skate Program

Figure skating and power skating lessons for kids aged 2-12 years. Many certified instructors providing high quality instruction, care and attention. 2012 | 2013 Season

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62 Island Parent Magazine

For info call 250-514-9227 www.racquetclubofvictoria.com www.kidsinvictoria.com

Intervention/Crisis Support, Welcome/Relocation Services, services for families with special needs and responsabilities and childcare services and support to parents. Exciting Volunteer opportunities available! Call the MFRC: 250-363-2640 (1-800-353-3329) for information. www.esquimaltmfrc.com. Parent Support Services Society (www. parentsupportbc.ca) provides support circles, parenting resources and referrals to all in a parenting role including grandparents raising grandchildren. Our training in peer group facilitation is open to the community. Support circles are free with child minding and transportation assistance available. Volunteers are always needed. Call 250-384-8042; email parent-support@shaw.ca. 1Up: Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre (www.1-up.ca) provides support, education and resources for parents in the Greater Victoria area through free counselling, volunteer training for reception and peer helper positions, a mentoring program for single moms, and a support group for dads. The Centre also offers over 20 integrated life skills and parenting courses which are open to the whole community (fees are by donation). Child care assistance is available based on financial need. The Centre provides a bread pantry and free clothing for single parents. Donations of gently-used clothing, small household items, books, and toys are very welcome every Monday and Wednesday. Centre hours are 9–4 weekdays. 602 Gorge Rd. East; call 250-3851114 or info@1-up.ca. South Island Centre for Counselling & Training is an affordable, non-profit, counselling agency serving individuals and families from all social, ethnic, and financial backgrounds. We help people with a wide range of issues including low self-esteem, depression, grief, marital and family conflict, abuse and spiritual direction. We also offer helpful “life” courses. For more information contact us at 250-472-2851; info@southislandcentre.ca. Victoria Epilepsy & Parkinson’s Centre supports families living with epilepsy by providing tutoring and one on one professional consultations to help your child to live up to their full potential. We offer epilepsy education workshops in private and public schools, and keep you up to date on the latest research about medications, lifestyle and safety for your child. Visit us at www.vepc.bc.ca to find out more, and to explore our bursaries for Camosun College. Calls are also welcome at 250475-6677.

The Victoria School for Ideal Education • Daily meditation • Connecting children with nature • Individualized instruction • BC curriculum K – Gr. 7

2820 Belmont ave

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250-383-6654 vsie.ca We aRe eXPanDInG – neW SPaCeS aVaILa B L e!

Back to

school! Come to WIN to get all your school supplies Starting AND brand name fall fashions! A ug 15 Great quality, thrift store prices. 1803 Cook St. 785 Pandora Ave.

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250-480-4006 www.womeninneed.ca August 2012

Got Milk?

ver the years of supporting breastfeeding families, I have noticed that new mothers often worry about producing enough milk and if their baby is getting an adequate amount. New parents are often surprised by the intensity of the first weeks as it takes a lot of time and work to establish a milk supply. What to Expect. It is normal for baby to nurse frequently (every two to four hours) and/or have long feedings, sometimes lasting up to 60 minutes—cluster nursing (very frequent to constant nursing) is common for several hours each day, usually in the evenings. Growth spurts are common to all babies, which is when baby wants to nurse more often than usual for a few days and may be fussy. The combination of healing from birth, hormonal shifts, lack of sleep, body changes and being on call 24/7 are some of the reasons why many women find breastfeeding overwhelming. Plan ahead to get help with meals, household chores, and any older children for the first several weeks. The intense work to establish milk supply at the beginning will definitely pay off later. Establishing Supply. During the first 40 days after a woman gives birth her body is primed to make milk, and this is also a time of intense breastfeeding as milk supply gets established. The shift in hormones after birth plays a big role in the start of milk production, but the major driver of continued milk production is how often breastfeeding occurs and how effectively the baby is transferring milk. In other words, when a baby is breastfeeding effectively, his natural feeding pattern will determine the rate of mom’s milk production. By the end of the first 40 days, a mother will be able to produce as much milk as her baby will ever need. This is why mothers are able to feed different amounts no matter what the demand is. How Much Does Baby Need? A newborn’s stomach is very small, about the size of a cherry. The first milk a mother produces, called colostrum, is all most babies will need for the first few days. By day three, baby’s tummy is about the size of a walnut and can comfortably hold 30 mL per feed. By the end of the first week, baby’s tummy is the size of a small apricot and can hold 60 mL at a feed. At two to three weeks of age, baby’s tummy is the size of a medium egg and can now hold 60-90 mL at a feed. Because babies’ growth and metabolic rate slow as they age, they continue to need

64 Island Parent Magazine

ing the day or four hours at night. As soon as weight gain is established, follow baby’s hunger cues. Most babies will want about the same amount of milk from one month to six months of age (25-35 oz or 739-1030 mL). After this adjustment period of 40 days, typically babies begin to take in more milk in less time and the number of feedings per day decreases, which makes breastfeeding more manageable. Is Baby Getting Enough? It can be difficult for a breastfeeding mom to know how much baby is taking in at a feeding because she cannot see the volume being consumed. It is important to listen for an audible suck/ swallow rhythm, as well as keep track of baby’s output. Expect one wet diaper on day one, increasing to five to six per day by the time baby is one week old. Urine should be pale and mild smelling. Baby should have three to four or more soiled diapers in a 24-hour period. Stools should be yellow (no meconium) by day five and be the size of a quarter (2.5 cm) or larger. Once mom’s milk comes in, average weight gain is about 6 oz per week. If you are concerned about your baby’s weight please don’t hesitate to contact your health care provider or public health nurse. Factors that can interfere with milk supply: • Putting your baby on a sleep/feeding schedule • Feeding baby something other than mother’s breast milk • Introduction of soothers/artificial nipples before milk supply has been established • Low fat/low carb/low calorie diet of mother • Severe lack of sleep in mother/increased stress • Not seeking assistance for latching/ positioning if necessary Tips to Maintain/Increase Supply. Put baby to breast at the first signs of hunger (hands in mouth, stirring, rooting)—crying is the last sign a baby will show for hunger. In the early days I suggest new mothers put babe to breast every time the baby wakes. Frequent nursing encourages good milk supply and reduces engorgement. Aim to nurse at least 10-12 times in a 24-hour period. You can’t nurse too often—you can nurse too little. There is no need to switch back and forth between breasts or time the feeds per side; allow the baby unlimited time at the breast while actively sucking and swallowing and then offer the second side. If your baby is sleepy and/or jaundiced, wake her to nurse every three hours dur-

New Parent Pages Diana Hurschler, BScN to nurse every two to four hours; some will cluster a few feeds in a row and then go for a longer period without nursing. Common growth spurt times are at two to three weeks, six weeks, three months and six months. Persevere through these times of increased demand and your body will respond accordingly. Nurse often, don’t skip feedings (even at night), ensure good latch/positioning, and let baby finish the first breast before offering the other side. It is so important in the early days to get a good latch because your brain won’t get a clear message to continue making more milk, and eventually your supply will not keep up with the demand. No matter what latch and positioning look like, the two questions you have to ask are: Is it comfortable, and; Is it effective (you can hear an audible suck/swallow throughout the feed)? Even if latch and positioning look good, pain and/or ineffective milk transfer indicate that there is a problem somewhere. Check out Dr. Jack Newman’s website for his latching videos or read the article “Is baby latching on and sucking effectively? How to tell” from AskDrSears.com. If baby is transferring milk and gaining weight well, and mom is not sore, then latch and positioning are good. If you are not able to latch baby or are separated from baby, milk expression by pump or by hand can keep you comfortable and establish/maintain milk supply. Express as often as you would breastfeed (8-12 times/24 hours). Have faith in your body’s ability to provide for your baby! Get help without delay if you need it. Once you work through the early days you will be rewarded with convenience and lifelong health benefits of breastfeeding for both you and your child. Diana Hurschler, RN BscN, childbirth educator, certified breastfeeding counselor has been helping families in their childbearing years and beyond since 1998. Diana is the proud mama of three little ones. She can be reached at diana@hurschler.com. www.kidsinvictoria.com

Family-Friendly Mid-Island ed!

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#102 - 2517 Bowen Road 250-585-1778 www.koolandchild.com CONSIDERING HOMESCHOOLING YOUR CHILD? Consider the blended K-9 learning programs at Navigate which offer a rich educational experience that provides the flexibility and independence of learning at home. Our elementary (K-9) programs combine online distributed learning with opportunities for regularly scheduled interaction days, field trips and community outings in the Comox Valley, Nanaimo, Qualicum Beach – and elsewhere via online video conferencing and virtual classroom technologies.

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Piano Lessons with Jacinthe Laramee

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Email jacinthelaramee@yahoo.ca Phone 250-751-2454 August 2012 65

Preschool & Child Care Directory CENTRAL SAANICH Chrysalis Child Care..........................250-652-0815 A nurturing and stimulating environment for a small group of 3–5 year olds. Qualified ECE promotes learning through play.

Colwood/LANGFORD Almosthome Childcare/Preschool...250-590-7666 Quality childcare with a preschool curriculum/kindergarten readiness program. Experienced Early Childhood Educators. Nurturing environment for ages 10 months to 5 years old. www.almosthomecare.com. Caring Touch Daycare.......................250-478-4886 A warm, loving, fun family daycare in a safe, nurturing environment. Infant/toddler care for ages 1–5 years. Jenn’s Little Bears.............................250-478-8999 A safe nurturing environment for children from infancy to kindergarten. Our Infant and Toddler Program enriches each child’s development while our 3-5 Program prepares children for kindergarten. Two separate buildings allow each age group space to grow! Miles of Smiles Licensed Child Care..........................250-298-7374 Dedicated to offering quality care where caring, learning, diversity, guidance and fun are the priority. www. milesofsmileschildcare.com Music Makers Child Care Centre.....250-294-3916 Offering an innovative environment that develops musical abilities and encourages a love of music while following a preschool curriculum/kindergarten readiness program. Group care for children 2 to 6 and infant/toddler care for ages 12 to 36 months. www.musicmakerschildcare.com

CORDOVA BAY Carrot Seed Preschool......................250-652-2311 Where children can discover, imagine, construct and learn through play. Wondrous natural playground. www.carrotseedpreschool.com. Cordova Bay Preschool....................250-658-3441 A bright and cheerful parent-participation preschool with a philosophy of “learning through play.” www. cordovabaypreschool.org. Lakeview Christian Preschool..........250-658-5082 Nurturing environment for 30 month to 5 year olds in a rural setting. Christian values emphasized. Licensed Cordova Bay facility with ECE teacher.

ESQUIMALT CIARA Early Childhood Centre.........250-386-7369 Education and fun hand in hand. Exceptional care for little ones ages 12 month-5yrs in an inclusive centre with Christian values. Island Kids Academy Esquimalt.......250-381-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). Preschool curriculum

offered within a warm, caring all-day program. Character development using the Virtues Project. Access to community programs including swimming, skating, Victoria Conservatory of Music. Part-time spaces available. www.islandkids.ca. La Pre-Maternelle Appletree Preschool..........................250-479-0292 French immersion preschool program. Small groups 30 months to school age. Licensed Christian centre/ECE. Simply Fun Childcare Centre............250-881-3958 A warm, loving, fun and nurturing place for children to grow and learn. We have spaces available for registration ages 2.5 to 12 in our Licensed Group Facility. We offer extraordinary childcare, before and after school programs and a preschool. Our teachers are extremely qualified with ECE training and have lots of experience. Call Brenda to set up a tour. Let your child’s light shine bright with us!

Highlands Lexie’s Little Bears’ Child Care Inc....................................250-590-3603 A 2 acre outdoor playground! A “Learning Naturally” interpretation. Our children explore, grow and learn from nature. Beside Bear Mountain. 12 months to 5 years. www.lexieslittlebears.com.

METCHOSIN A Growing Place................................250-391-1133 Half day program (AM or PM) for 2.5-5 yrs. ECE educator, small class size. Our own petting farm. Summer program for July. Metchosin Co-op Preschool.............250-478-9241 Come and visit our stunning natural outdoor playspace, warm, nurturing, play-based,inclusive program allowing parents to grow and learn alongside their child. Exceptional ECE Staff provide an enriching experience for 2.5 - 5 year olds. Come grow with us! Est.1960. Reg. begins Mar.1 @ 9am.

North SAANICH In The Garden Childcare Centre.......250-654-0306 A GREAT PLACE TO GROW. Offering preschool, full day care, before and after school care for children aged 2.5 to 12 years old. Open all year.

OAK BAY Emmanuel Preschool........................250-598-0573 Children learn through play in our non-denominational Christian preschool near UVic. Bright attractive setting. www.emmanuelpreschool.ca. Gonzales Co-op Preschool...............250-727-1003 Children explore their imaginations through our varied learning through play environments and large natural playground. Our Reggio-Emilia inspired program focuses on art, nature and music. Join us! www.gonzalespreschool.com.

Kindred Spirits Children’s House........250-590-6966 Now accepting registration for a small group of 2.5–5 year olds in a purpose built Montessori classroom. The prepared environment stimulates and engages the children at their own pace with hands on, size, age and developmentally appropriate materials. www.kindredspiritschildrenshouse.com Oak Bay Co-op Preschool..................250-592-1922 Children Learn Through Play in this parent participation school. Our bright facility is allergy-free with a large outdoor playground. www.oakbaypreschool.com. Recreation Oak Bay..........................250-370-7200 Fully licensed, qualified ECE Daycare and Preschool with play based learning. After school care also available.

SAANICH Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre.....250-477-3731 (Formerly known as Goosey Gander Kindergarten) Play-based, creative, active-learning programs: half/ full day Preschool. www.arbutusgrove.ca. Cloverdale Child Care.......................... 250-995-1766 Openings available for 3 and 4 year olds for September 2012. cloverdalechildcare@shawbiz.ca, www.cloverdalechildcare.com. Island Montessori House..................250-592-4411 Inclusive, integrated and nurturing preschool, kindergarten, Grade 1/2 program. Located in a lovely rural setting. Extended day available. www. islandmontessori.com. Lakehill Preschool.............................250-477-4141 Nurturing, warm environment for children to learn through play, with qualified, experienced ECEs. Different levels of participation available. www.lakehillpreschool.org. Lambrick Park Preschool & Childcare............................................250-477-8131 Gordon Head’s only parent-participation preschool and childcare centre celebrating 40 years. Offering morning, afternoon and all-day preschool options, flexible participation model, and allergy protocol. www. lambrickparkpreschool.ca Montessori Educare..........................250-881-8666 Beautiful learning environments in Broadmead and Saanichton. 30 months – 5 years. Summer program available. www.montessorieducare.com. Neighbourhood Junior Kindergarten..250-479-4410 Offering an early literacy program 4 mornings/wk. (T-F) for 4 yr. olds: play and group activities focus on developing positive social skills and kindergarten preparation. Operating in Lake Hill school in two fully equipped, bright classrooms/outdoor playground. Oakcrest Preschool...........................250-472-0668 • Two fully qualified teachers, AM classes • No duty days, wide variety of parent jobs • www.oakcrestpreschool.org

Looking for child care? Taking care of children?

Call your local Child Care Resource & Referral for free referrals and resources. Your community’s best source of child care information and resources.

www.islandfamilyinfo.ca www.ccrr.bc.ca 66 Island Parent Magazine

Victoria & Gulf Islands: 250-382-7000 or 1-800-750-1868 Sooke/Westshore: 250-642-5152 • Cowichan Valley: 250-746-4135 local 231 PacificCare (Ladysmith north): 250-756-2022 or 1-888-480-2273 Funded by the Province of BC

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Preschool & Child Care Directory Playtime Preschool...........................250-383-3101 AM or PM preschool classes up to 20 hrs/ wk. Tillicum. Spacious facility, qualified ECEs. Let’s Talk About Touching Program. www. playtimepreschool.com. Puddles & Paints Playschool............250-658-6573 Lexie celebrates 15 years as an ECE in the community. Excellence through enriched programming. Music, art, dance and play. Montly themes and curriculum. Supporting and encouraging your child’s individual successes. Ready Set Grow Preschool...............250-472-1530 A warm, caring, quality Learning Through Play environment. Gordon Head area with a highly qualified ECE. heosc@pacificcoast.net. Rogers Child Care Centre.................250-744-2643 High Quality Care and Educational Programs. Licensed for children 30 month to Grade 5. rogerschildcare@ shaw.ca or www.rogerschildcare.com St. Joseph’s Catholic Preschool..............................250-479-1232 ext 120 • A Christian child centre for 3–5 year olds. • A warm nurturing and challenging program • Offered by St. Joseph’s Catholic School. St. Margaret’s Preschool & Junior Kindergarten..........................250-479-7171 Our programme for 3 and 4 year old girls offers a nurturing and educationally stimulating curriculum provided by experienced ECE staff and specialist teachers. Our state of the art facility is located in beautiful environmental surroundings. www.stmarg.ca. Strawberry Vale Preschool...............250-479-4213 Children learn through play at our parent participation preschool. Programs for 3 and 4 year olds at “The Little Red Schoolhouse.” www.strawberryvale

preschool.org.

VICTORIA

porting healthy child development and future school success. www.victoriay.com.

Mill Bay / Cobble Hill

Footprints Academy............................. 250-590-5540 Licensed group daycare for 2.5 to 6 year olds. Open 6:30am–5:30pm. Weekly music and movement classes. www.footprintsacademy.ca.

Starchild Centre..................................250-929-3240 Unique infant/toddler daycare, combines the best of Montessori and Waldorf. Our 9 acre hobby farm enables each child to have a garden plot, participate in planting trees, picking fruit, feeding animals, and other outside adventures. www.starchildcentre.ca.

Lansdowne Co-op Preschool...........250-595-5223 An extraordinary learning environment for families with young children. Parent participation. wwwlansdownepreschool.com. Nightingale Preschool and Junior Kindergarten...................250-595-7544 – Taking children’s learning forward – One of Victoria’s leading preschools and Junior Kindergartens. Balanced approach to play and education. Programme supports literacy, numeracy. Visit www. nightingalepreschool.com. Fernwood. Parkdale Early Childhood Centre.....250-382-0512 We offer quality care and positive experiences for children in our diverse daycare and preschool programs. Our rich curriculum includes music classes from the Victoria Conservatory of Music. parkdalechildcare@shaw.ca. Rainbow Express Daycare................250-382-2314 Enriched preschool style program in a daycare setting. Visit our website at www.rainbow-express.bc.ca. Ross Bay Preschool..........................250-383-7445 Positive/supportive program motivating children to learn and discover. Curriculum builds on interests of the children. www.rossbaypreschool.com St. Andrew’s Catholic Preschool......250-382-3815 A place where children learn to love and love to learn. A warm and nurturing environment. A stimulating curriculum. The Sir James Douglas Playschool.250-389-0500 Fun, creative and educational ECE program for 3-5 year olds to grow and develop life long skills. Come play and learn in our bright and modern centre in Fairfield.

ArtsCalibre Academy........................250-382-3533 Comprehensive programs for Preschool through Grade 5, delivering academic excellence through music, dance, drama and visual arts. Outstanding educators, locations and facilities. www.ArtsCalibre.ca

Victoria Montessori...........................250-380-0534 Unique, innovative learning environment combining the best of Montessori and Learning Through Play. Open yr. round. 30mths–grade 1. www.victoriamontessori.com.

Butterfly Corner.................................... 250-381-4845 Licensed family day care in James Bay. Since 1998. ECE. Ages 1–5. Full time. Fun & Educational. http:// ButterflyCornerCreativeLearningCentre.com

VIEW ROYAL

Castleview Child Care.......................250-595-5355 Learning Through Play & Experience. Licensed nonprofit, qual. ECE staff. Since 1958. Preschool and full-time care. www.castleview.ca Cedar Daycare...................................250-479-2032 Community oriented, NFP Child Care facility. Wide variety of activities offered including the use of a private outdoor pool during the summer months. Licensed ECE educators devoted to nurturing children aged 30 months – 5 years. Centennial Daycare...........................250-386-6832 Providing quality childcare in the Burnside/ Gorge area for 30+ years. Snacks, lunches, Sportball and Music programs included. www. centennialdaycare.ca. Christ Church Cathedral Childcare.. 250-383-5132 ECE and specialist teachers provide an outstanding all day licensed program for 3 and 4 year olds in our spacious and welcoming facility in James Bay. www. cathedralschool.ca. Downtown Y Child Care Centre.......250-413-8869 Enriched program, for children ages 3-5 years, sup-

www.IslandParent.ca

A Secret Garden Preschool..............250-380-8293 Program built on Christian values. Monthly themes, weekly topics and daily activities. asecretgardenpreschool@shaw.ca. Island Kids Academy View Royal.....250-727-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). Preschool curriculum offered within a warm, caring child care environment. Character development using the Virtues Project. Access to community programs including swimming, skating, Victoria Conservatory of Music. Part-time spaces available. www.islandkids.ca. Little Friends Childcare.....................250-479-8423 “Learn through play” group childcare centre. Infants/ Toddlers/30mth–5yrs daycare and morning preschool near Knockan Hill park. Little Wonders Preschool (VROSCS)...........................................250-744-2718 A creative and suuportive program that will prepare your child for a lifetime of learning! OSC also available. www.viewroyalosc.com. View Royal Preschool........................250-479-8067 An exciting inclusive program in an exceptional care environment. Licensed 3–5 year olds. Outside play and themes enrich this program. viewroyalps@ uniserve.com.

DUNCAN Angel Care Christian Preschool.........250-746-5919 A quality, enriched program for preschool children. Located in Queen of Angels Catholic School. Maple Tree Play House Licensed Family Childcare...............250-746-5060 A daycare program that provides enriched outdoor play time and activities that build on a child’s intrinsic love of nature. Healthy meals and snacks are provided. mapletreekids@telus.net.. Parkside Academy Early Learning Centre.........................250-746-1711 Offering quality, literacy focused childcare for children aged 6 mos – 12 yrs; infant/toddler; 3–5, preschool, and after school programs at Alexander, Khowhemun and Tansor Elementary schools. Queen Margaret’s Preschool/ Junior Kindergarten..........................250-746-4185 Offering a co-ed enriched curriculum in a friendly atmosphere. Morning ECE/afternoon daycare. www.qms.bc.ca. Sunrise Waldorf School, Kindercottage Preschool Nursery......250-743-7253 A morning program for 3 and 4 yr olds in a warm natural atmosphere where wonder is nurtured and outdoor play is abundant. Details at www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org. Parent & Child programs also available!

Chemainus Cherry Tree Child Care Centre.........250-246-9195 Preschool program nurturing creative play and engaging learning activity. 30 months to age five. Qualified and experienced Early Childhood Educator. St. Joseph’s Preschool.....................250-246-3191 A Christian learning environment for 3–5 year olds. Active participation in the life of the school. Parental involvement.

Qualicum Beach Children’s Discovery Centre.............250-752-4343 Our program recognizes the uniqueness of each child and provides a nurturing, safe and creative learning environment. Preschool, Groupcare, Out of School care. ECE qualified staff. childrensdiscoverycentre@ hotmail.com. Little Star Children’s Centre.............250-752-4554 Earth friendly preschool education inspired by nature. Kinder-Prep classes. Licensed group care. ECE instructors. www.littlestardaycare.ca. littlestar@shaw.ca.

Nanaimo Nanaimo Parent Participation Preschool...........................................250-753-1939 Experienced, caring and energetic ECE using learning through play in an enriched environment. www.nanaimopreschool.com.

August 2012 67

Ad Directory 4 Cats............................. 29 89 Pacific Air Cadets........ 53 Abra Kid Abra.................. 48 Alliance Francaise............ 25 Arabesque Dance............ 43 Arbutus Grove.................. 31 Arthur Murray Dance........ 38 Artistic Statement............ 20 Carrot Seed Preschool...... 14 Cathedral School................ 4 Centrepoint Ballet............ 39 Children’s Bookshop........... 2 Children’s Education Fund........................... 72 Compost Education Centre......................... 20 Conseil Scolaire............... 23 Cordova Bay Preschool....... 5 Shannon Cyre.................. 10 Dance Unlimited.............. 48 Discovery School............. 15 Discovery Toys................. 56 Dwight International......... 59 Eaton Arrowsmith............. 42 Elizabeth Buckley............. 61 Emmanuel Baptist............ 48 Emmanuel Preschool....... 31 Erin Wallis Photography.... 51 Evergreen School............. 59 Falcon Gymnastics........... 38 Fiddlesticks..................... 54 Finn & Izzy.......................IFC Funkins Ltd...................... 15 Galey Farms...................... 7 Glenlyon Norfolk School.... 29 IMAX Theatre................... 40 Island Catholic Schools..... 27 Island Farms.................... 36 Island Montessori............. 60 JamTots............................ 4 Kate Rubin Theatre & Drama..................... 54 Kool & Child..................... 65 Larsen Music................... 30 Werner Liedtke................ 42 Lifestyle Markets.............. 18 Lighthouse Academy of Dance..................... 54 Little Steps...................... 49 Maria Montessori............. 57 Maritime Museum............ 40 Momstown...................... 14 Morning Glory School....... 65 Mothering Touch............. IBC Karen Murdoch................ 25 NIDES............................. 65 Oak & Orca School..............31, 41, 51 Oakland Community Centre......................... 53 The OCEAN 98.5............... 1 Our Ecovillage.................. 71 Oxford Learning.........IBC, 57 Pacific Dance Centre........ 21 Pacific Coast Swimming... 18 Pacific Undersea Gardens...................... 11

Pemberton Holmes.......... 50 Piano Lessons with Jacinthe Laramee........ 65 Pirate Adventures............. 60 Positive Path.................... 26 Queen Margaret’s School......................... 59 The Racquet Club............ 62 The Raptor Centre............ 59 READ Society..................... 3 Restart Computers........... 11 Richmond Tourism............. 6 Royal BC Museum........... 70 Saanich Dental................ 55 Saanich Fair...................... 5 Saanich Recreation..........IFC Saltwater Inc...............19, 41 Scallywags......................IFC Serious Coffee................. 44 Sidney Preschool............. 26 Smart Tutor Referrals....... 28 South Island Distance Education School......... 47 Sportball.......................... BC St. Andrew’s Elementary................. IBC St. Joseph’s School.....38, 51 St. Margaret’s School....... 22 St. Michaels University School.......... 27 Stages.......................28, 39 Story Studio..................... 24 Sunrise Waldorf............... 46 Sylvan Learning................. 9 Terry Fox Run.................. 41 Thrifty Foods.................... 37 Tigh Na Mara................... 47 TJs................................. 49 Tom Lee Music................ 60 Tutor Doctor..................... 71 UVic Exercise Science...... 24 Valentus Clinics............8, 17 Vancouver Island Baby Fair..................... 12 Vancouver Island Co-op Preschool Assoc.......... 45 Victoria Academy of Ballet....................... 42 Victoria Children’s Choir... 63 Victoria Conservatory of Music.................56, 61 Victoria Epilepsy & Parkinson’s Centre....... 43 Victoria German School.... 26 Victoria Kids Consignment............... 55 Victoria Midwives............. 32 Victoria School for Ideal Education............ 63 VIHA................................ 52 Vitamin Shop..................... 7 Viva Choir........................ 19 Welcome Wagon.............. 54 Western Speedway........... 13 Westhills......................... 10 Wild Play......................... 71 Women In Need............... 63 Woodwyn Farms................ 6

68 Island Parent Magazine

Dispatches from Across the Pond

’m writing this from Lacock, in Wiltshire County, UK, the location of Travels with Baby, episode one. Lacock: a nine-hour plane ride, two and a half hours of taxis, and a two-hour train ride away. Normally. But if you decide to bookend your trip with Alberta grandparent visits, tack on three days of driving. Mike is here for photography workshops, because of a Canada Council grant. He’s been counting down the days. But I’ve been worried about this “holiday” since the moment it was conceived of. I had every possible catastrophe mapped out in my mind well before our bags were packed. Now we’re here, and we’re all still breathing. If I could, I would tell my pre-trip self some things: Just because you can’t fit those toys in your luggage, doesn’t mean you should leave them at home. You have a box on the top of the car, resulting in ample room in the back. Room for that annoying talking book that Angus is enthralled with, that stuffed rabbit with the human face that Mike finds horrifying but Angus loves. Because here are the facts: you’ll end up sitting in the backseat, providing a toy rotation, trying to extend the list by adding your water bottle, a brush, Angus’s socks slipped over your fingers like a hand puppet. But your paltry selection won’t cut it. Yes, he laughs every time you read Hop on Pop at home, but the laughs will run out by Hope. And you’ll still have a long way to go. The plane will be fine. He’ll sleep for six hours and be fidgety and squirrelly for the final three, but he’ll only squawk on the descent, and even then, barely at all. The old man two rows back will comment on what a good baby you have. Success. But here’s the thing: screaming isn’t always bad. You’ll be last off the plane, waiting for the stroller, no one else in sight. But the hallways will become tight with bodies as you pass gate after gate on your way to border security. A crush of people that turns into a stampede where the line-up starts. It’s as if you’re at a rock concert; rarely have you seen such a crowd. And they’re all ahead of you in line. It’s hot, really hot, and you’ve maxed out the allocated carry-on so your back and arms are burning. The driver will only wait one hour past your arrival time,

but you can’t get your cell to work in order to call. Angus will choose this moment to scream, louder than you could have imagined possible. This is a good thing. Your wait time goes from two, three hours down to five minutes, as you are all escorted to the front of the line.

Maternity & Beyond Laura TRUNKEY Yes, a jet-lagged baby is a nightmare. Worse than a nightmare, because at least when you’re having a nightmare you’re asleep. That first night you’ll put Angus down at 9 p.m. and he’ll fall asleep immediately. For fifty minutes. You won’t succeed at returning him to sleep until 3 a.m., after you’ve played with him, changed him, nursed until you hurt, stood for a full hour beside the white noise machine rocking him in your arms. You will announce that this trip is the worst idea you and Mike have had in your entire lives. But by day three, you’ll all be on track. Angus will be going to sleep at 8 p.m., leaving you and Mike to your games of cribbage in the hotel bathroom. Promise. Please try not to worry about Angus’s eating. After ordering yourself only meals you assume he’ll eat (he won’t), Mike will commandeer someone into a ride to the grocery store. He’ll buy every unfamiliar baby snack and brand of rice cereal he can find. Angus will eat strawberries. Some nights you’ll be up every hour nursing him to fill the void. This will be way harder on you than it is on him. And all those hours you’ll lie awake at night worrying about it are hours without precious sleep. Mike will tell you over and over again that when Angus is really hungry he’ll eat something else. Stop arguing and concede that he’s probably right. And be happy that strawberries are in season. Seven bags is a lot of bags. But you and Mike will perfect a way to split them between yourselves, managing to carry Angus as well. This will be your most amazing feat to date. You will navigate the train station in this

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manner. You will even find places to stow these bags on the train, though you’ll board late enough that all the luggage racks will be full. You will arrive in Lacock of sound body, if not of sound mind. Angus will be tired and cranky, but in one piece. This is what matters. And this you will accomplish. Take a break. Give yourselves some credit. Finally, all those fears you have about France: about Paris, about the train ride to the French countryside, about navigating that country when you’ve failed to maintain your rudimentary language skills—those I can’t speak to. We’re not there yet. But how bad could it be, really? Chances are good everyone will come back alive, dreaming about the next great adventure. Laura Trunkey, mother of the amazing Angus, is a writer, and a children’s writing instructor at Story Studio. She can be reached at laurajtrunkey@gmail.com.

Business & Professional Directory Your Neighbourhood Optometry Clinic

www.chaostocalm.ca

Cadboro Bay Optometry Clinic 3830 Cadboro Bay Road Victoria 250-360-2229

Fernwood Yoga Den “Yoga classes for the whole family”

• Dyslexia Assessments with Teaching Solutions • Dyslexia Awareness Workshops for Parents and Care Givers • Telephone Support Service • Tutoring Children, Language Arts

Various Styles & Therapeutic Yoga Pre-Natal, Mom & Baby, Kids Classes and Family Yoga

BETTER GRADES START HERE! Pre-K to Grade 12 Confidence & Motivation Study Skills & Homework Support Regular Reports to Parents Call today and enroll! Victoria 250.477.5550

203-1595 McKenzie Ave. Victoria, BC, V8N 1A4 victoria@oxfordlearning.com

oxfordlearning.com www.IslandParent.ca

250 590 7572

Our Family Realtor ®

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August 2012 69

The exhibition is organized by the American Museum of Natural History, New York (www.amh.org), in collaboration with the Houston Museum of Natural Science; California Academy of Science, San Francisco; The Field Museum, Chicago; and North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh. © American Museum of Natural History. Image Courtesy of the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology.

Storytelling of Ravens on Mount Work

f there is a human pursuit, other than romance, where a lavish investment of patience and devotion is capriciously rewarded with frustration punctuated by brief moments of jubilation, it is surely birding. Birders think nothing of freezing toes and fingers as they wait in the pre-dawn chill for a bittern to emerge from the reeds, or to spot an elusive songster who will as likely as not flit back into the bushes before it can be positively identified. The learning curve, as mathematicians would say, “tends

ding clouds and the distant views of the Malahat and Finlayson Arm instill a sense of timelessness. But we are getting ahead of ourselves. First to hike in. The trail starts off Durrance Road, in the cool of the cedar-hemlock forest, with salal and huckleberry providing abundant refreshment through summer and early fall. Halfway up the cedar woods there is a fallen log with a seat cut into it, and a ledge to rest your backpack without taking it off. Accept the invitation—this is a good place

to infinity.” For birders, this is part of the draw: the object of our devotion cannot be mastered, only courted lifelong. Einstein famously wondered whether the Universe is a friendly place. It must be, for in it there exist Sweet Spots—magical places where the customary rigours are suspended, where the winged ones display for hours to our delectation. One such sweet spot is Mount Work, part of the ridge behind and parallel to Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. High up Mount Work, in a dell just below the summit, you can sit snug for hours, and observe the ways of ravens to your heart’s content. The expanse of the sky, the scud-

for a breather and a sip. As you climb on, the wet-loving cedars give way to Douglas Fir and arbutus; the steep incline soon evens out to a pleasant walk amid ocean spray, dwarf rose, bunchberry, and the occasional Columbine or Glacier Lily. Be sure to yield to the temptation of side-trails off the main trail, and you’ll discover delightful glades and exhilarating viewpoints. You will usually be able to complete the loop back to the main trail. Once you’re up on the ridge, the trail leads through a series of viewpoints and dells scattered with rocky outcrops and studded with arbutus and hairy manzanita.

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70 Island Parent Magazine

Photo: Ana Simeon

Find one or both of the Velociraptors, snap a photo and enter through Facebook. One just booked a room at this inner harbour hotel that has a crown in its logo, while the other is in Brentwood Bay at this National Heritage site. Contest closes Sept. 16, 2012

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Stands of dwarf pines and firs give off a heady fragrance. Near the summit, which is an inconspicuous rock recently robbed of the plaque proclaiming its status, there are two dells offering expansive views. Head for the one past the summit, which is sheltered from the wind. There you can settle down and discover the Way of the Raven. Ravens are fascinating to watch. As members of the order of songbirds (Pas-

Nature Notes ANA SIMEON seriformes), they are highly vocal and expressive, as the phrase “storytelling of ravens” attests. In his book Mind of the Raven, ornithologist Bernd Heinrich lists an impressive array of “choke sounds, gurgles, bill snaps, grunts, honks and quorks of high and low pitch; inflected nasal quorks, deep rasping quorks and hollow gong sounds.” If you listen carefully, you will hear most or all of these on Mount Work. On one of our previous visits to the site, my husband and I also heard a bonded pair converse in liquid, bell-like tones as they circled overhead. If the more obvious songbirds, such as vireos and warblers, are the lyrical opera divas of the avian world, ravens are the dramatic artists, with an impressive variety of expressions that often resonate with the mood of their human audience. Yet despite this vocal ability ravens are mavericks among songbirds. Seeing them swoop and soar you could mistake them for birds of prey. They do hunt, although they much prefer to help themselves to other hunters’ prey, whether the hunter is a human, a grizzly bear or a pack of wolves. In fact, ravens have a symbiotic relationship with wolves, alerting them to potential prey and sharing the spoils. Ravens’ courtship display—a breath-taking freefall, talons locked together—parallels that of eagles and other birds of prey. Like us, ravens are social, intelligent, adaptable, playful, wily and endlessly fascinating. Enjoy!

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Ana Simeon is a writer and activist in Victoria. She divides her time between working for Sierra Club BC, hiking and birdwatching.

www.IslandParent.ca

August 2012 71

Cut It Out!

Tips from Parent Educator Allison Rees of LIFE Seminars

Guilty Parenting?

othing will make you more wishywashy than guilt. Guilt will have you say “yes” when you need to say “no.” It will keep you quiet when you need to speak up and have you bending over backwards. If this is you…Cut It Out! Some guilt is healthy. The kind that has us reflect on something we did that doesn’t line up with our integrity is the good stuff. This feeling of guilt can have us right a wrong and is a wonderful guide to a healthy conscience. Then there is the other guilt, the toxic kind that attacks our feelings and cuts us off from our own needs. With parenting, toxic guilt is often accompanied by feeling sorry for your kids. Nothing could disempower a child more than sympathy. It leaves them feeling like victims, turns them into blamers and gives the message that they aren’t

capable of dealing with the givens of life. Making decisions based on guilt will also mean that you aren’t living your life fully, and when that happens, everybody pays the price, especially you. You simply won’t feel satisfied and that will make you short tempered, resentful, passive-aggressive and possibly ill. In the parenting department you will try so hard to accommodate and be “nice” that you will be astounded at how angry you can become…in seconds. Pay attention to your feelings. If you are frustrated, go with it. If you are annoyed, own it—it may have started with your poor boundaries. Is there a limit that needs to be set? Do you need to do less and expect more from oth-

ers? Are you worried about what people will think of you if you aren’t “nice?” Every relationship needs boundaries. When they exist (and it starts with you), you can be more loving, real and supportive of others. When you say “yes,” it can be heartfelt without having a price tag attached. Children learn about boundaries by experiencing them, so do some great teaching. LIFE Seminars has two books available, Sidestepping the Power Struggle and The Parent Child Connection. See www. lifeseminars.com.

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72 Island Parent Magazine

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