December 2019 Island Parent

December 2019

Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 32 Years

Gift Ideas When You Can’t Quit ‘Elf on the Shelf’

Holiday Happenings

strollers • cribs shoes • books toys • clothing car seats • carriers maternity • sleep aids diaper bags high chairs skincare • bedding 1581 Hillside Ave Victoria

778•265•5651 Across the street from Hillside Centre

SHOP ONLINE AT

MOMEASE.CA

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December 2019  3

In Every Issue

Ta b l e of C o n t e n ts

Features

5

Fast Forward Sue Fast

6

10

Need to Know

Holiday Gift Guide

20

What’s for Dinner

14

Emillie Parrish

When You Can’t Quit ‘Elf on the Shelf’

…and when the shelf is no longer good enough.

Sarah seitz

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19

Party Directory

Seasonal seaside celebrations.

Family Calendar

22

Dadspeak

Sidney Sparkles

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Leveraging Holiday Time

Bud ridout

Candace negm

Kids’ Reads

34

A mompreneur’s survival guide.

christine van starkenburg

36

Family Services Directory

38

Happy Families, Healthy Families areli hermanson & Jane barclay

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Preschool & Child Care Directory

42

Holiday Happenings

Nature Notes

Ways to make merry this month.

kalene lillico

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18

Diversabilities

Carol with the Carillon

Laura Trunkey

Jerri carson

Cut It Out!

A sing-a-long under ‘the clock tower.’

On the Cover Maisie W. (8) and Elliot W. (5) Photo by Erin Wallis Photography erinwallis.com

December 2019

Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 32 Years

Gift Ideas When You Can’t Quit ‘Elf on the Shelf’

Holiday Happenings

4 Island Parent Magazine

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Allison Rees

Jim Schneider Publisher publisher@islandparent.ca Sue Fast Editor editor@islandparent.ca Linda Frear Account Manager/Office Manager linda@islandparent.ca Kristine Wickheim Account Manager kristine@islandparent.ca Island Parent Magazine, published by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a monthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on resources and businesses for Vancouver Island families. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. Annual mail subscriptions (12 issues) are available for $35 (GST included). Canadian Publication Mail Product Sales Agreement 40051398. ISSN 0838-5505.

Island Parent Magazine 830–A Pembroke St Victoria, BC V8T 1H9 250-388-6905 islandparent.ca

IslandParent.ca

Fa stfo rwa r d

25 Days to Make Merry

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ooking for things to do to get you into the holiday spirit this month?

Then look no further. Here’s a list of family-friendly festivities…

Dec 1. See the Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade at 5pm on Beacon Avenue, followed by the Lighted Sail Past at 6pm. peninsulacelebrations.ca.

Dec 2. Support Habitat for Humanity at the Parkside Hotel’s Gingerbread Showcase from 9am-9pm. habitatvictoria.com.

Dec 3. See Sidney’s annual Nativity Exhibit from 2-9pm and make an ornament to take home. sidneynativityexhibit.ca.

Dec 4. Stroll the Festival of Trees at the Bay Centre, supporting BC Children’s Hospital. bcchf.ca.

Dec 5. Celebrate the Lighting of the Provincial Christmas Tree and the Parliament Buildings from 6-7pm. downtownvictoria.ca.

Dec 6. Salute the Sea of Lights Boat Parade, leaving Royal Victoria Yacht Club at 6:45pm. For route and times, rvyc.bc.ca.

Dec 7. Watch the Lighted Truck Convoy & Food Drive, leaving Ogden Point at 5:45pm. Route and times at ieoa.ca.

Dec 8. Embrace the cold at Royal BC Museum’s Wonder Sunday: Chill Out from 1-3pm. Included with admission.

Dec 9. See the Naden Band Christmas Concert at the Royal Theatre, 7:30pm. $10, plus an unwrapped toy. Visit rmts.bc.ca.

Dec 10. Experience Winterlights Festival and the magical exhibits at Tofino Botanical Gardens, 5-9pm until January 5. tbgf.org.

Dec 11. Get crafty at the Christmas Card Making Workshop at Ocean Pointe Resort from 6-8pm. downtownvictoria.ca.

Hear GVPL’s Choirs in the Courtyard, Central Branch at 1:30. Visit gvpl.ca.

Dec 12. Enter Miniature World’s Find the Six Santas contest, on until Dec 24. miniatureworld.com.

Dec 13. Be entertained at CBC Radio and Our Place’s Christmas Carol. First Met United Church, 932 Balmoral Rd at 7pm.

Dec 14. Bring your camera, and take free Photos with Santa at Victoria Public Market at The Hudson from 10am-3pm. victoriapublicmarket.com.

Dec 15. Attend Forest Festivities and make recycled cards and crafts at the Beaver

Lake Nature Centre, 11am-2pm. Materials included. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Dec 16. Experience the magic of the season at Lights of Wonder, Centennial Square on Sun-Thurs, 4-9pm, and Fri-Sat from 4-10pm. lightsofwonder.ca.

Dec 17. Make eggnog—see recipe on page 20—and snuggle up by the fire.

Dec 18. Watch Polar Express at IMAX Victoria, 6:15pm. imaxvictoria.com.

Dec 19. Be spellbound at Milner Christmas Magic, 5-8:30pm, in Qualicum Beach.

Dec 20. Celebrate Christmas in Old Town at Royal BC Museum and visit Santa Fri-Sun 11am-3pm. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

Dec 21. Bundle up for a Free HorseDrawn Trolley Ride downtown. Sat and Sun 11am-3pm. Visit downtownvictoria.ca.

Dec 22. See the Live Nativity Scene, running four times nightly on Dec 21-23 at 6:30, 7, 7:30 and 8pm at Topaz Park. Free.

Dec 23. Get Festive at Helmcken House Old-Fashioned Christmas, Dec 17-31, noon-4pm. Visit royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

Dec 24. Marvel at the Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens. Enjoy carousel rides, thousands of coloured lights, seasonal decorations, and children’s activities. butchartgardens.com.

Dec 25. Happy Holidays from all of us at Island Parent Magazine! –Sue Fast

Creating beautiful smiles New patients always welcome Call or email us today and our dental team would be happy to assist you with an appointment

Westshore Dental Centre

Mon – Thurs: 7:30 am – 7:30 pm Fri: 7:30 am – 5:00 pm Sat: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

152 – 2945 Jacklin Road • 250-474-2296 • www.westshoredental.com IslandParent.ca

December 2019 5

N e e dto Kn ow

Ski & Snowboard Free Kids in grades 4 and 5 can ski and snowboard two times at each of the 125+ ski areas across Canada, for just $29.99.

With a SnowPass You Get: • Access to Mt. Washington, Whistler Blackcomb, Lake Louise and more.

• Two passes at each ski area—that’s over 250 possible lift passes.

• Up to two seasons—two seasons if you apply in Grade 4, one season if you apply in Grade 5.

To apply, you need a digital photo and proof of age to qualify.

Daniel Lapp’s Home for Christmas

Visit skicanada.org.

The 16th annual Daniel Lapp’s Home for Christmas concert brings together nearly 200 Victoria Conservatory of Music’s alumni to share a variety of Canadian coast-to-coast Christmas inspired tunes and to welcome family and friends back to Victoria for the holiday season. Friday, December 20 (7:30pm) and Saturday, December 21 (2:00pm and 7:30pm) at VCM’s Alix Goolden Performance Hall. For info and tickets, visit victoriachildrenschoir.ca.

Thinking About Giving Your Kid a Cellphone?

Here are some questions to consider: • Do your kids show a sense of responsibility, such as letting you know when they leave the house?

• Do they show up when they say they will?

• Do your kids tend to lose things, such as backpacks or homework folders? If so, expect they might lose an (expensive!) phone, too.

• Do your kids need to be in touch for safety reasons?

• Would having easy access to friends benefit them for social reasons?

• Do you think they’ll use cellphones responsibly (not texting during class or disturbing others with their phone conversations)?

• Can they adhere to limits you set for minutes talked and apps downloaded?

• Will they use text, photo, and video functions responsibly and not to embarrass or harass others?

From commonsensemedia.org.

IslandParent.ca

The Gift

Ballet Victoria’s holiday tradition—the same theme but always very different.

Accompanied by the Victoria Symphony and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, this modern take on The Nutcracker follows Clara on a reimagined Christmas classic journey filled with wonderful new characters. From Harlequin dolls to dragons and fairies, a few mice and a Nutcracker ballerina, it’s an amazing holiday performance for the whole family. Performances on December 27, 28 and 29.

Visit balletvictoria.ca.

IslandParent.ca

A Very Merry Potter Marathon Just in time for the holidays, the Victoria Film Festival presents A Very Merry Potter Marathon at The Vic Theatre Saturdays and Sundays from Dec 21 to Dec 29. Watch your favourite Harry Potter films on the big screen and experience the magic of Hogwarts in the Vic lobby, complete with games, prizes, butter beer and snacks. Single tickets and marathon passes available. All ages welcome. Muggles tolerated. Let the Magic Begin. victoriafilmfestival.com.

December 2019 7

The Freya-Sophia Waldorf

Natural Childhood Store Toys, Books, Clothing ~ Art and Handwork Supplies

250-597-4763 ~ 3, 5380 Hwy. 1 ~ in the Sol Centre, Duncan Open Mon. - Sat. 10 - 4 Closed Sun. and Stats Huge Selection of: *Disana Wool Clothing *Advent Calendars *Inspiring resources for Parents and Educators!

November

Disana Sale!* 2nd item 10% off 3rd item 20% off

* on existing stock

Merry

Celebrate the season with some bookish holiday cheer at Bastion Books’ Merry and Bright Weekends on Saturdays and Sundays at noon, repeating until December 22. Enjoy a roaring fire, hot apple cider and DIY paper crafts (gift tags, cards and ornaments) to make your holiday merry and bright. All ages welcome. Materials provided, just bring your creativity. Need inspiration? Check out the Bastion Books tree at The Festival of Trees in The Bay Centre, a lush forest of beautifully decorated trees to raise funds for BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. facebook.com/bastionbooks.

&

Bright

Eagle

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Experience the Magic at Lights of Wonder Get into the holiday spirit with family and friends at the firstever Lights of Wonder—Victoria’s largest, free outdoor light display—at Centennial Square from December 13–30. Downtown Victoria is transforming the square into a holiday wonderland. This outdoor event features themed light exhibits, four interactive light tunnels, and a 40-foot festive tree.

Hours: Sunday–Thursday from 4–9pm; and Friday and Saturday 4–10pm (closed December 25). lightsofwonder.ca.

The Great Christmas Tree Debate Which tree is better for the environment: artificial or natural? The most appropriate choice is not always obvious. This can often be confusing if you want to make an eco-friendly choice. To that end, the Recycling Council of B.C. (RCBC) has listed the pros and cons of each on their website. Some key questions to consider include: which raw materials are used in producing the product? How much energy is consumed in transport? How much air and water is polluted as a result of production and transport? What becomes of the tree after the holidays are over?

Visit rcbc.ca.

Extravaganza the end of the salmon run is a signal to the Bald eagles that it is time to return to goldstream for their annual salmon feast. continuing this month until late January, goldstream Provincial Park’s visitor centre will be celebrating the return of the Bald eagles with special programs and exhibits focusing on birds of prey.

Eagle Watching Tips: • Bring binoculars, and/or a camera with a good zoom function • Schedule eagle watching during a low tide • Wear warm, waterproof clothing.

• Leave your dog at home—or you’ll risk distrubing a feeding bald eagle.

• Warm up at the Goldstream Nature house from 9am-4:30pm daily (closed christmas day). visit goldstreampark.com.

IslandParent.ca

December 2019

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Open House January 18, 10am–1pm Now accepting applications for 2020-21

• before and after

school care

• small class sizes • supportive and

caring staff

• excellent academic

foundation

• Kodaly music

A local non-profit for all children (Since 1973) 5575 West Saanich Rd 250 592 4411

info@islandmontessori.com www.islandmontessori.com

program

• lovely rural location

connecting children to nature

BC Transit’s

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Santa Bus is coming to town!

December 13 & 14 8:00 a.m .– 3:15 p.m. } Meet Santa } Candy canes } Ride free } Holiday decorations and music For routes and schedules, visit bctransit.com

Stuff the Bus for Charity!

December 14 9:00 a.m .– 3:00 p.m.

Save-On-Foods, Tillicum Centre Donations benefit the Stan Hagen Centre for Families and The Mustard Seed

Transit Info 250·382·6161

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Gift Ideas To help you choose the perfect gift for everyone on your list—from the littles to the bigs—here is a comprehensive guide to this year’s have to haves...all from local businesses, to boot! To find out more about each business, please refer to the ads in this issue.

Freya Sophia Waldorf Store (duncan)

Baby/Preschool: Beautiful, loveable Hoppa Fair Trade Waldorf Dolls from “Babylonia.” Made from 100% organic cotton, many to choose from for all ages.

Starting at $12.

Children: Disana boiled wool jackets for Kids 6+. Beautifully designed for warmth and comfort. Many colors and sizes to choose from. 100% organic Merino wool/lining: 100% organic cotton. $248. Baby and toddler sizes starting at $110.

Juvenile/Teen: Dragon Boy Trilogy by Donald Sampson—our best selling novel for youths. Straw discovers that although an orphan, he descends from a long line of dragon keepers and has taken his rightful place caring for Star, although this is something he can neither prove nor ever tell the others. In this way, the boy enters into a secret apprenticeship under the careful guidance of the dragon. $25.

Adult: Biodynamic Combo. For the Gardener or the Farmer in your life: Purchase The Stella Natura 2020 Biodynamic Planting Calendar and the Biodynamic Gardening Manual by Monti Waldin together for $50. Inspiration and practical advice for gardeners and professional growers.

Available separately or choose from other wonderful titles.

IMAX Victoria

Baby/Preschool: Squishmallows are the softest, cutest, cuddliest plush around. This line of loveable buddies is made from super-soft IslandParent.ca

marshmallow-like texture and is washable. $8.99-$24.99.

Children: Honeycombs. Match bumble bee-themed symbols on hexagonal tiles and start to build your honeycomb. Work together to build one huge hive, or go head to head and crown the Queen Bee. $29.99.

Juvenile/Teen: Pixel Art. Create and proudly display eye-catching sequin images over and over again. The best new creative pixel art platform since Lite Brite. Insert pegs and hang sequins to create your own masterpiece. $55.

Adult: Authentic, licensed NASA equipment available for a limited time during “Apollo 11s” run at IMAX Victoria. Hoodies, Tees, mugs, keychains, bags, iPad cover and more. $5.99 and up.

Lifestyle Markets

Adult: Gift Cards. Find the best stuff for your body and mind. With a vast selection of supplements, organic grocery and produce, full line of coconut products, non-dairy and meat alternatives, healthy meat and dairy, natural skin and body care and gluten-free products we have something for everyone on your list.

We have so much to offer, you’d be crazy not to come check us out. Voted “Best Health Food Store” and “Best Nutrition Store in Victoria” for several years in a row.

Kool & Child (nanaimo)

Preschool: Wow Toys. From My First Wow to Dexter the Digger, these toys are safe and age appropriate. They come with a vehicle and one or more chracters.

Children: Djeco Craft Kits. New to our store! Easy craft kits in envelopes (great for shipping). For girls and boys to create some fun.

Juvenile/Teen: Hacker “Cybersecurity Logic Game.” 120 challenges for beginner to expert. Play by yourself or collaboratively. This is “unplugged game play.”

Adult: Brain Master.

Two player strategy game. The Codemaker chooses a secret pattern and the “breaker” tries to discover it using minium turns.

Marmalade Books

Baby/Preschool: Baby Book or Picture Book Box. A selection of recently published books for ages 0-3 or 4-7, sent each month to your favourite little one.

Add a personalized note. Curated by a local children’s book expert. From $27.95.

Children: Early Reader Book Box. A selection of recently published books for children learning to read, delivered right December 2019

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to their door. Add a personalized note.

Curated by a local children’s book expert. From $27.95.

Juvenile/Teen: Middle Grade Novel Box. A selection of recently published books for confident readers aged 8-12, delivered right to their door. Add a personalized note. Curated by a local children’s book expert. From $27.95.

rotating seat that turns and stretches for bouncing. Discovery Window lets baby see their feet while they play. As baby grows, activity centre converts for easy cruising—ultimately becoming a clean, sturdy table for colouring, playing and more. $169.99.

the Whirly Squigz. Stick’em, spin’em, whirl’em! Whirly Squigz are big, bright, and full of tactile fun. The suction cups stick to any smooth surface, making them perfect for home, travel, and bath time. Little ones will love taking this toy out for a spin over and over again. 10 M +. $29.99.

Baby: Cate & Levi Hand Puppets.

Handmade in Toronto from premium reclaimed wool. The hand puppets are carefully crafted to bring you a soft and lovable toy or a gift that is responsibly made and environmentally friendly. No two puppets are identical, as each has a unique color combination. 0+. $24.99.

Preschool: Hape Stacking Music Set. Make wonderful music and explore melody and rhythm with this innovative set.

Children can stack the differently sized blocks in any way they see fit, exploring music and shapes as they play. 18 M +. $49.99.

Toddler: Farm Hoppers Bouncy Toy. Will keep your little one amused for hours—and wear them out for bedtime!

These inflatable bouncy animals are whimsically fun, and brightly coloured with soft, easy-to-grip ears or horns for children to hold while they bounce around. Made from a high quality, BPAfree plastic, and can help with core muscle development as well as coordination skills while having fun. Pump included! $35.99.

Child: The Hape Toys Gourmet Kitchen. An all-in-one wooden kitchen that inspires mini chefs to cook everywhere and everything. Encouraging collaborative and creative play, the Gourmet Kitchen can be combined with the Hape Gourmet Fridge, food and other cooking accessories for the complete ‘mini chef’ experience! $159.99.

Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea

Mini Pop Kids

It’s album Number 17 for Canada’s best-selling and longest running kid’s music group! Mini Pop Kids have officially released their newest takes on today’s hottest pop songs, including original track “Who You Are” — available now!

Parents who grew up with the infamous Mini Pops are now continuing the tradition with their own families with Mini Pop Kids Live! In storied tradition, Mini Pop Kids Live: The Bright Lights Concert Tour isn’t just an album or a show… It’s an experience for the whole family!

Momease

Baby: Padraig Cottage Baby Slippers are handmade in BC with pure wool.

Dyed and crocheted by hand. Extra soft sheepskin lining and tough leather soles for long lasting comfort. The Baby Slipper has the elasticity to stay put without being overly constrictive on young growing feet. Newborn to toddler sizes. $34.99+.

Baby: Skip Hop Explore & More 3-Stage Activity Centre. Easy to assemble, with toys that can be positioned anywhere for baby, it features a 360-degree 12

Island Parent Magazine

Baby/Preschool: Mimi and Moo. Made in Vancouver, these organic cotton toys are too precious. From rattles to crinkle toys, the baby in your life will love these quirky creatures. $20-$24.

Children: Curious Kid’s Nature Guide

by Fiona Cohen; illustrated by Marni Fylling. We love this book for its infor-

The Mothering Touch Centre

Baby: Oli & Carol Fruit and Veggie Teethers. We are really excited by this new line of natural rubber toys. Beautifully designed and look good enough to eat. Use them as teethers, sensory toys or even float them in the bath, there are no holes for water to get into to grow mold. The fruits and veggies are soft and easy for babies to grasp, safe to chew and soothing for sore gums. 4 M +. $24.99.

Baby: Fat Brain Toys—Whirly Squigz.

Created to spark curiosity and creativity. One of the most popular toys is IslandParent.ca

Juvenile/Teen: Yumbox. Lundhes and snacking made easy with pre-portioned compartments. Food won’t touch or leak.

Fun assortment of colours and sizes. $29.99-$47.99.

Victoria Bug Zoo

Baby/Preschool: Finger and hand puppets. From one-finger ladybug puppets to whole-hand hermit crabs, our arthropod puppets will make you wish you had more fingers. $4-35.

Children: Bug Collecting Kits. Inspire a future field biologist. Various collection

mation and illustrations. Don’t let the name fool you; it’s hours of fun for anyone who considers themselves curious.

HC. 85pgs. $19.99.

Juvenile/Teen: Learn and Colour the Northeast Pacific by Ricky Belanger.

Explore the fascinating world beneath the waves with this gorgeous, fun and educational new colouring book. It’s sure to leave a lasting impression. PB. 42pgs. $25.

Adult: Goldilocks Beeswax Wraps.

These beautiful wraps are made in Victoria using locally sourced beeswax. Give the gift of a healthier planet with this reusable alternative to plastic wrap. $12$30.

TJ’s The Kiddies Store

Baby/Preschool: Skiphop Explore & More Sort & Spin Yeti. Meet Yeti, our interactive learning buddy. It has 3 stages: explore with lights and sounds, sort shapes, pop match and sort, and play— offers games to challenge your little one. $38.99.

Children: No Nasties Pretty Play Make Up Kits. 100% natural and plant based.

Kits come with assorted shimmery eyeshadows, blush and lip balms. Reg kit: $29.99; Deluxe kit: $38.95.

IslandParent.ca

kits include nets and other collecting devices, binoculars, magnifying glasses and viewing containers. $5-10.

Juvenile/Teen: Starter microscope sets.

For the budding young scientist, a first glimpse through a microscope can reveal a world of wonder. $15.99.

Adult: Attracting Beneficial Bugs to your Garden by Jessica Walliser. This refreshing book delves into the fascinating relationships between insects and plants and will help you make your own insectfriendly garden. $31.95. 240pgs.•

Early Shift: Reign in the New Year On the last day of 2019, join us in the rainforest of the Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises exhibition for a jungle party for the ages. Our annual family-oriented party will be a tropical frolic, with music, activities and games.

We will be reigning in 2019, and ringing in 2020.

December 31 I 6:00–8:30 pm

Get tickets at rbcm.ca/familyevents December 2019 13

When You Can’t Quit ‘Elf on the Shelf’ I

t’s that time of the year again, when I am forced to re-evaluate my relationship with Ruby, our Elf on the Shelf. Like any relationship, Ruby and I have had our ups and downs.

I brought our first Elf home shortly after our kids started school. My daughter came home from school and told us about her friends’ Elves who were doing silly and mischievous things in their homes. It sounded like fun and like it could possibly be our new family tradition that the kids would remember fondly for the rest of their lives.

At first, I admit I was smitten with Ruby. It was fun thinking up funny and adventurous places for the kids to find her. One morning she was swinging from her ankles on the pendant light in our kitchen. Another morning she was discovered in a pile of chocolate chips after sneaking into the baking cupboard overnight. As we got deeper into December, my interest and energy waned and soon Ruby stopped pulling all-nighters. She wasn’t even moving.

After Christmas, I decided that the best thing for me was to chalk Ruby up to a parenting fail and move on. We would make different Christmas traditions—ones that were less guilt-inducing and created less resentment towards an inanimate object. I gave Ruby to a blended family who needed an Elf for each home and felt relieved that she was now someone else’s problem.

When the next December rolled around, my kids were confused about why Ruby hadn’t appeared yet.

“Was it because we’ve been bad this year?” they asked.

“Do you mean the time you tried to sell your brother for five cents? Yes, that probably had something to do with it.”

I answered half-joking.

I was surprised they remembered Ruby. I started to doubt how I ended things with her. With the discomfort of the previous Christmas season far enough in the past, I headed back to the store for another Elf on the Shelf.

I know what you’re thinking. I’m a glutton for punishment and a very, very slow learner.

This second go-around with our Elf on the Shelf has left me feeling more frustrated than before but now my kids are invested and to break up with her again feels complicated. One morning I found a hand-written note and drawing from our 8-year-old daughter to Ruby with a thoughtful and kind message inside.

It read: Dear Ruby, I hope you get presents from Elfs.

If you don’t, I got you one. This tiny gesture from my little girl allowed me to see that Ruby meant something to her and also that I should have ended things when I had the chance.

According to the book she comes with, Ruby is supposed to serve as Santa’s eyes and ears, watching for the children’s naughty and nice behaviour to report back to Santa with. As her name clearly suggests, she is supposed to do this from her superior vantage point of THE SHELF. Unfortunately for me and other parents, the societal expectation is to find creative and amusing places for the children to find Ruby in. The shelf is no longer good enough.

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There are websites, Instagram and Facebook posts dedicated to Elves NOT on the shelf. These Elves are usually involved in some kind of mischief that is often not even kid-appropriate. What started as a simple holiday game of hide-and-seek for children has become an entire industry. This is problematic for parents like me who have to move their Elf to 24 clever locations for 24 nights in arguably the busiest month of the year.

Another small but notable problem with Ruby is her 11 months of leave. She can’t live in the Christmas box because she’s magic and is supposed to be in the North Pole for the remainder of the year. She has to be carefully stored away in a box not labeled “Christmas” until the following November 30th when you begin searching for her whereabouts.

And while remembering where you stored your Elf is challenging, the real difficulty with the Elf on the Shelf is remembering to move it.

After a long day with kids and the multitude of other jobs that need to get done before your head hits the pillow, the Elf on the Shelf is one more job. There have been several nights when I’ve been tucked into bed only to realize that I didn’t move the effing Elf. There have been even more nights when I just plain forgot. It is in those moments that I truly resent this skinny red waif and plot her banishment from our home.

At the heart of the matter though, is my

IslandParent.ca

doubt as to the value of her actual job. If she is supposed to be Santa’s eyes and ears, watching out for bad behaviour, why is she herself getting into mischief? The only message I can imagine my kids get from seeing Ruby in a mess of her own making is that she’s just like them and therefore not someone they need to impress.

Instead of a role model, my kids have an accomplice.

To truly live up to her life’s purpose, Ruby should be setting a good example for our children. I would like my children to find her doing the chores I so often have to nag them to do. Imagine if they found Ruby taking it upon herself to empty the dishwasher without being asked, making her own lunch or cleaning up the Lego. That kind of goody-two-shoes behaviour may be just the ticket to turn my kids against Ruby forever.

Possibly the surest sign that a relationship is doomed is when you start to resent the mere presence of the other person. As I write this, we are a few weeks away from the holiday season and I can already feel the stirrings of resentment. I long for the simpler days when the chocolate Advent calendar was magic enough.

Sarah Seitz is a working mother, wife and writer. She spends her free time cutting off crusts and uses good coffee and humour to get through the day.

December 2019 15

Holiday Happenings Butchart Gardens presents Magic of Christmas from Dec 1-Jan 6, 2020. The Gardens sparkle with tens of thousands of coloured lights and seasonal decorations, and miles of fresh evergreen swags. Marvel at the Twelve Days of Christmas displays tucked into the landscape, and hear traditional carollers and festive brass music from 5-9pm. Whirl around the outdoor ice skating rink. Skate times run on the hour during admission hours and are 40 minutes. Skate rentals available; children’s helmets on loan. Kids 12 years old and younger can bring a handcrafted paper snowflake and exchange it for a cup of hot chocolate in the Coffee Shop. butchartgardens.com

Father Christmas in Old Town at Royal BC Museum from Dec 6-8, 13-15, 20-22 (Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11am-3pm). Photos by donation. Then take in the sights and sounds of Christmas long ago in Old Town. Marvel at the huge Christmas tree, visit the wood-cobbled streets lined with festive garlands, and see the shops decorated with Christmas finery (until January 9, 2020). royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

Canada’s National Habitat for Humanity Gingerbread Showcase is at Parkside Hotel & Spa’s atrium (810 Humbolt Street). Feast

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your eyes and nose on creative inspirations constructed out of gingerbread. This year’s theme: “Building a Diverse Community.”

Vote for your favourite. All funds raised support Habitat for Humanity Victoria, helping bring strength, stability, and independence to families living in need of decent, affordable housing. From 9am-9pm until Jan 5. habitatvictoria.com/gingerbread-showcase.html.

Celebrate the 28th annual Annual Festival of Trees in support of BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. The Bay Centre will transform into a lush forest of hand-decorated trees.

As sponsors of this event, local businesses, organizations and individuals decorate the trees until Jan 6, 2020. Vote for your favourite tree. Admission is free, though a $2 donation is suggested for every vote. The Festival will also be held in Nanaimo at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre until January 6. bcchf.ca/fot.

Enjoy a classic downtown tradition with your family this holiday season. Free HorseDrawn Trolley Rides running Saturdays and Sundays ((December 1, 2, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, and 22 from 1-5pm) until Dec 22, will circulate throughout downtown, making it easy to take in all of the sights and sounds of the Christmas celebrations. Stops at: Store St.

and Chatham St. (in front of Capital Iron); Johnson St. near Wharf St. (in front of Willie’s Bakery); Langley St. at Bastion Square (across from Re-Bar); and Government St. at Fisgard St. (in front of CRD Plaza)—hop off here to see the Lights of Wonder display. downtownvictoria.ca.

Holiday Events at Market Square. The Nerdy Days of Christmas Craft Fair is on Nov 30 and Dec 1 from 11am-4pm. Bid on nerdy treasures in the silent auction and visit with Santa. Entry by donation with proceeds going to Victoria’s Hospitals Foundation.

Celebrate Tuba Christmas on Dec 14 from 12:30-3:30pm. Tuba players from all over BC and the Pacific Northwest come together to perform in support of the Times-Colonist Christmas Fund. marketsquare.ca.

Christmas Night Market at Victoria Public Market (Thursdays until Christmas, open until 8pm) has everything you need for under the tree, and on the table. Santa will visit on December 7, 14 and 21 for free pictures (taken with your own camera) from 10am-3pm. Donations accepted on behalf of CFAX Santas Anonymous, with a Christmas Toy Drive on December 1 from 11am-3pm.

Bring an unwrapped toy to exchange for a delicious treat. victoriapublicmarket.com.

Photo: Butchart Gardens

IslandParent.ca

Children’s Health Foundation Holiday Events at Hotel Grand Pacific, 463 Belleville Street. Choose from an assortment of festive activities including: Pancakes in Pajamas with Santa on Sunday Dec 15 from 10amnoon; Visit with Santa and have cookies and cocoa on Saturday Dec 7, 14 and 21 from 1-3pm. Proceeds support Children’s Health Foundation. islandkidsfirst.com.

The Christmas Express at BC Forest Discovery Centre in Duncan, runs three weekends, Dec 6-8, 13-15 and 18-23 from 4-9pm. Ride behind Samson, the museum’s 1910 steam locomotive, through festive light displays and exhibits in the forest and on the trestle.

Visit Santa Claus, dance to live Christmas music, and make a Christmas tree craft in the schoolhouse. Santa will ride the first train, leaving at 4:30pm and then will be in the museum for pictures and visits. 2892 Drinkwater Road. bcforestdiscoverycentre.com.

The Kiddies Store

Silicone Breast Pump • 100% food-grade silicone • Soft and comfortable • Compact—no cords, batteries or assembly required • 100ml capacity • Silicone cap fits securely keeping out airborne nasties and prevents spills (sold separately or in kit) • BPA, PVC and Phthalate-free Finlayson St.

St.

3045–C Douglas St., Victoria, BC V8T 4N2 250-386-2229 www.tjskids.com

Douglas

Live Nativity Scene. The First Christmas, an outdoor Nativity pageant, features Wise Men from the east, the Angel Gabriel, shepherds with flocks, an innkeeper, King Harrod with his soldiers, townspeople, Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus. This outdoor depiction of the Christmas story runs four times nightly on Dec 21, 22 and 23 at 6:30, 7, 7:30 and 8pm at Topaz Park, between Quadra and Blanshard. Parking is available at S.J. Willis school and the park’s lot off Quadra. Free. christmasnativity.ca.

Serving the Families of Vancouver Island for Over 24 Years

Larch St.

Entrance off Larch St.

T.J.’S

Helmcken House Old-Fashioned Christmas at Royal BC Museum from Dec 17-31 (noon-4pm). Step through the doors of the oldest house in B.C., still on its original site, and experience what Christmas would have been like in Victoria over 100 years ago.

Decorations, music, and first-hand accounts will take you back to Christmas past. St. Ann’s Schoolhouse will also be open. Free with museum admission or by donation. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

Milner Christmas Magic at Milner Gardens and Woodland in Qualicum Beach. Stroll through tens of thousands of lights, enjoy local musicians and storytellers, stop by Santa’s shop for a visit, pop into the Teddy Bear Cottage and try to count all of the old bears, and enjoy tea or hot chocolate in the tea room. Dec 6-8, Dec 13-15, and Dec 18-22 from 5-8:30pm (last entry at 8pm). Entry is by donation, with proceeds supporting Milner Gardens & Woodland. viu.ca/milnergardens or call 250-752-6153.

IslandParent.ca

December 2019 17

Carol with the Carillon

R

ing in the season with your family by gathering in front of Royal BC Musuem under the Netherlands Centennial Carillon—also known as the bell tower— on December 1 from 4:30–5:15pm for a special musical event. “Carol-Along with the Carillon,” features choirs and members of the community singing holiday classics, with live accompaniment, followed by hot chocolate and cookies.

The Netherlands Centennial Carillon adds a distinct presence to Victoria’s Inner Harbour, striking each hour with its warm, loud chimes. The carillon was a gift to B.C. from the Dutch community to celebrate Canada’s 100th birthday, and also to honour Canada’s role in the liberation of Holland in World War II. There is a cornerstone at the base of the tower with an inscription about this memorial event. The carillon has regular recitals at civic events and national holidays as well as summer concerts. With its 62-bells, the Carillon is played by striking a large keyboard, which is similar to an organ.

The person who plays the bells is called a carillonneur.

The Provincial Carillonneur is Rosemary Laing. Carillonneurs play the bells by striking the keys with their fists. To play the larger bells, they must strike the keys with their feet. The bells do not actually swing. Instead, a clapper strikes each bell with the force that the carillonneur uses to strike the key. The keyboard is constructed of dowelled levers, or batons, arranged in two long rows, like a piano’s white and black keys. Each baton is connected to a wire that activates a hammer that rings one bell in the tower.

There are eleven carillons in Canada, including Soldier’s Tower in Toronto and Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls. The Peace Tower Carillon in Ottawa is the best known and most frequently played. It was inaugurated in 1927 on the 60th anniversary of Confederation. If you would like to read more about carillons, a great book to read with your kids before you attend the “Carol-along with the Carillon” is Eyewitness: Music by Neil Ardley.

With superb real-life photographs of musical instruments, the book is divided into chapters on each instrument family. The carillon is included in the percussion section, with descriptions of chimes, bells, clangers, and gongs.

The Carillon carol concert is an excellent way to promote community spirit and celebrate the festive season.

Be sure to arrive early for a spot under the carillon where you’ll hear the peals of notes and holiday tunes echoing throughout the Inner Harbour. – Jerri Carson

18 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Sidney Sparkles The Tour of Lights Contest runs until December 23. Tour Downtown Sidney and vote for your favourite holiday window display. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and take in the holiday magic. Cast your vote at SidneyBIA.ca.

Horse & Carriage Tours until December 22 from noon to 4pm, Saturdays and Sundays. enjoy a traditional carriage ride for $40 through downtown Sidney. Up to 6 people per carriage, reservations are recommended to secure your spot at 250-880-0456.

Carol Singers on the Avenue Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4pm until December 22. Sing along with the wandering holiday carollers as they spread holiday joy throughout Sidney. SidneyBIA.ca

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The Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade & Sail Past, presented by Peninsula Celebrations Society, is on December 1 from 5-6pm. The parade begins on Resthaven Drive and turns onto Beacon Avenue.

Afterwards, stroll to the Sidney waterfront around Beacon Park to see the Lighted Boat Parade. peninsulacelebrations.ca.

The Winspear Festival of Trees runs until January 5 at the Mary Winspear Centre. Take in the display of creatively decorated trees and bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Peninsula Santa’s Helpers toy drive or an item for the Sidney Lions Food Bank and give back to the local community this holiday season. Be sure to vote for your favourite tree. marywinspear.ca.

Sidney Museum’s Toys ‘N’ Teddies Exhibit runs from December 1 to 31 at the Sidney Museum. With a focus on toys from the 1970s to 1990s the exhibit should prove a “walk down memory lane’ for adults, and a visual time machine for children to enter their parents’ world of toys. As a special treat, there will be Teddy Bears at play throughout the Museum displays. sidneymuseum.ca.

IslandParent.ca

December 2019

19

W h at’ sfo r D i n n e r

Simplifying December

O

ver the past few years, December has become so full of holiday fun that it’s actually hard to find time to feel joyful. December is meant to be a time of family connection, seasonal traditions and homemade touches.

Instead it has become a bucket-list of events and activities. Between all of the Christmas concerts (a total of 5 in my musically-inclined family), the parades (at least 2, though there’s more on offer), parties (varying between 3–5 each year) it’s hard to squeeze in time for trimming trees, putting up lights, baking cookies and all of that shopping.

The trick to simplifying December is to choose traditions that are the most meaningful to you and your family. Try sitting down with your family around the beginning of the month to discuss which traditions are the most important.

Here are a few tips:

• Don’t ask “Do you like going to the Festival of Trees?” instead ask “What are your favourite Christmas activities?”

• It’s easy to let guilt cause you to say “yes” to every open house and party invitation. Don’t turn your weekends into a party-hopping extravaganza. If you have to turn down an invitation, follow it up with an offer to do dinner after the holidays.

• Make sure you schedule time to stay home and relax with your kids. There’s nothing wrong with saying no to an invitation, choosing instead to spend an afternoon baking cookies or an evening of stringing popcorn and cranberries.

Here are some simple holiday recipes that are easy, healthy and delicious. Each one will take roughly a half hour or less, leaving you plenty of time to relax and connect with your family and friends.

Whipped Eggnog

(Total Time: 5 minutes, serves 4-8)

Homemade eggnog is one of my family’s favourite traditions. Unlike thick store-bought eggnog, whipped eggnog is light and frothy. It’s also healthier because it doesn’t contain any artificial flavours and you can adjust the sugar to suit your taste. Best of all it only takes about 5 minutes to prepare and you probably already have all of the ingredients in your kitchen.

This recipe does contain raw eggs so it is not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with a weak immune system.

20 Island Parent Magazine

4 egg yolks 1⁄3 cup + 1 Tbsp powdered sugar 2 cups milk 1 cup whipping cream 1 tsp freshly grated nutmeg 4 egg whites

Spinach Dip

1. Beat egg yolks in a large bowl until the colour starts to lighten.

2. Add 1⁄3 cup powdered sugar and stir until completely dissolved. You can reduce the amount of sugar, or switch the sugar for an alternative sweetener if you want.

3. Stir in the milk, cream and nutmeg.

4. In a separate container, whip the egg whites with 1 Tbsp of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

5. Gently fold the egg whites into the egg yolk mixture. Serve immediately or refrigerate and serve within 3 hours.

Traditionally, spinach dip is served in a bread bowl, however, it’s easier to serve it in a festive glass bowl with crackers or slices of bread on the side. Add a bit of festive flare by serving it with slices of red pepper and cherry tomatoes.

(Total Time: 8 minutes)

Spinach dip tastes best if it’s made at least 1 hour in advance. It can also be made the day before for a quick and delicious appetizer.

1 package of frozen spinach (10 oz) 3 green onions 1 tsp garlic powder 2 cups plain yogurt or sour cream 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan 1 tsp salt, to taste

IslandParent.ca

PartyDirectory

1. Thaw the spinach and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.

2. Place the spinach and green onions into a food processor or blender. Pulse a few times to coarsely chop the spring onions.

3. Add the rest of the ingredients and pulse until smooth.

4. Taste the dip and add more salt if needed.

5. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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Red, Green & White Pasta Soup (Total Time: 30 minutes)

This healthy vegetable soup is warming and delicious. Serve it with garlic bread for a simple and satisfying meal. I recommend making a double batch because the leftovers are even more delicious.

2 Tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion 2 carrots 1 stalk of celery 1 medium potato 28 oz can of chopped tomatoes 8 cups of water 11⁄2 tsp salt, to taste A pinch of saffron threads (optional) 14 oz can of white beans 1⁄4 box of spaghetti noodles 1⁄2 cup of frozen green beans 4 Tbsp of pesto 4 Tbsp of grated Parmesan cheese 1. Chop the onion, carrots, celery and potato into small, bite-sized pieces.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot. Sauté the onions, until starting to soften, then add the rest of the vegetables and sauté for another 2 minutes.

3. Add the canned tomatoes, water, salt and saffron. Bring everything to a boil then reduce to a simmer.

4. Add the canned beans and green beans.

5. Break the spaghetti noodles into 1-inch pieces and add to the soup. Simmer until the pasta is tender, about 5 minutes.

6. Serve with a spoonful of pesto on top and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Emillie Parrish loves having adventures with her two busy children. She lives in Victoria and is the author of the fermentation-based blog fermentingforfoodies.com.

IslandParent.ca

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Merit Travel

Leveraging Holiday Time

A mompreneur’s survival guide

T

he holidays are here. I love this time of year. The tinsel, glitter, gingerbread latté, indulgence and family time.

It’s a happy and joyful holiday with a strong general sense of community and harmony. I love watching the season unfold through my children’s eyes and being able to experience family traditions and memory making with them.

hung, crafts to be made, gifts to be purchased, christmas parties to attend, cookies to be baked, wreaths to be made and at least 100 million school recitals, dance performances, sporting events and holiday parties to attend, and all the while a business to run.

Although our children (and even we, sometimes) may believe that we are su-

On the other hand, the holidays are also an incredibly busy time. My calendar is filling quickly with the children’s extracurriculars, family and work commitments as well as festive community outings. There are decorations to be

perhumans with endless energy and unlimited capacity to give, the reality is that living and working at a breakneck speed will inevitably end poorly. We will almost certainly burnout and summon a frustrating flu/cold or illness and inevitably feel

merittravel.com

Mothering Touch motheringtouch.ca

Royal BC Museum royalbcmuseum.bc.ca

Victoria Children’s Choir VictoriaChildrensChoir.ca

Victoria Conservatory of Music vcm.bc.ca Enquire about brochure or magazine distribution in Greater Victoria:

sales@islandparent.ca 22 Island Parent Magazine

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stressed out and deflated. I have certainly been guilty of over committing my time and overscheduling my family. In doing so, my family dynamics felt fractured and I was left feeling like I let down, not only those around me, but also myself. So the question begs, how do we manage our home, business and personal life during these busy times?

One of the methods my spouse and I use to keep our family on track is an application called Family Wall. This app is free to download and very user friendly.

Within the app you can add your spouse or other family members as well as your children as members. For young children you simply add them as a member under your account and for older children who have an email you add them via an invitation.

From there, you can integrate your schedules, meal plan, send messages, share photos, share locations, send an SOS with a location pin, and add new members through a contact book that is integrated with the contacts on your phone. I have two young children so for our family we primarily make use of this app for pickups and dropoffs, playdates,

birthday parties, lessons, special events, work schedules and personal commitments as well as the meal planning component. We are a military family and my spouse’s schedule is constantly changing.

This app allows us to stay organized and avoid schedule conflict.

Another stressor as a mompreneur during the holidays, aside from time management, is business growth management. How do you make time to grow your business when so much of your time is dedicated to being being present and making family memories? It’s a real struggle for most mompreneurs. While daydreams of avatars and clones dance through your head, we have to get real about what is possible and get really clear on when to say no. Saying no is incredibly powerful.

As a business owner I have become very honest with myself about saying no to people and prospects that don’t align with the current needs of my family and or business. I’ve adapted my goals and evaluated my family values and goals to ensure my business decisions are in the best interest of my family’s wellness.

Evaluating the current “time sucks” in my personal and professional life was an area I have recently focused my attention.

One technique that has helped minimize some of the current “time sucks” was to activate a time leverage system and delegate aspects of my work via automated systems, wherever possible. Systems, workflows and automations, through a program called Dubsado, have been a helpful time saver and have re-routed customers to the answers they need during basic lines of inquiry. These small leveraging automations have allowed my work emails to be streamlined, inquiries to land in the appropriate email box, ultimately freeing up valuable time.

Integrating these simple time leverage methods could help to make your holiday season feel more balanced and organized, giving you more flexibility with your schedule and free time with your family.

Candace Negm is a mother of two who finds passion and purpose in supporting Canadian entrepreneurs and curating the slow fashion movement at her boutique in Fernwood square, Thistle and Wren.

Royal City Youth Ballet

The

Nutcracker Experience the magic with the whole family

“Powerful, surprising and moving.” ~ Globe & Mail

Saturday Dec. 7, 2019 12pm & 4pm

Saturday Dec. 14, 2019 7pm

Tickets $28 Family Package $88

Tickets $28 Family Package $88

(2 Adults, 2 Children)

(2 Adults, 2 Children)

Ticket Centre: 250.746.2722

cowichanpac.ca

IslandParent.ca

December 2019 23

DecemberFamilyCalendar For more information and calendar updates throughout the month visit IslandParent.ca

1 Sunday V

5th Annual Creches Exhibition

11am at St. Aidan’s United Church 3703 St. Aidan’s St. Free Victoria Children’s Choir concert. Donations to Out of the Rain Youth Shelter welcomed. staidansunited.ca

2pm at Panorama Recreation Gather your family and friends for a festive afternoon of gingerbread house decorating together.

There will be a treasure trove full of decorating supplies. Your completed creation will be left on display in the lobby over the month of December. panormarecreation.ca

P

Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade and Sail Past

5pm in Sidney Parade route begins on Resthaven Drive and continues the length of Beacon Avenue, turning right onto Second Street and ending at Ocean Avenue. Once the parade completes its route, people are encouraged to move to Beacon and Bevan wharves and the Sidney waterfront around Beacon Park. From there, they will be able to view the Lighted Boat Parade, which starts at least 15 minutes after the parade. peninsulacelebrations.ca

Babysitters Certification Program

Wonderful Wintry Weather

3 Tuesday

P Glow in the Dark Skate

Gingerbread House Challenge Launch Party

5 Thursday

emergency situations, explains baby and child care, offers advice on becoming a responsible babysitter, and tips for finding babysitting jobs.

Includes manual and certificate. Pre-registration required. $49/person. rdn.bc.ca/recreation

N

6:30pm at Frank Crane Arena Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission. recreation. nanaimo.ca

V

11am at Juan de Fuca Branch Library Celebrate wintry weather with tales of snow and forest friends. Songs, rhymes and a paper craft.

For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. gvpl.ca

6 Friday V

Fantastic Fridays

4:30 pm at St. Luke’s Hall Cedar Hill Cross Road at Cedar Hill Road, Dad’s Night Out Skate N Featuring Messy Church. Family-friendly fun, games, food, crafts, music and stories. Dinner 6:45pm at Oceanside Place Arena provided. Come when you can, come as you are.

Dads, bring the kids and enjoy a skate together Free. on the pond. Sponsored by Building Learning stlukesvictoria.ca Together. Free. rdn.bc.ca/recreation

Creches of the World: a display of nativity sets

4 Wednesday Little Chefs: Pizza Party

V Victoria & Area P Peninsula W Westshore

9am at Qualicum Commons Become a Red Cross certified babysitter. Course introduces basic first aid, how to respond to

FOR YOU PASS

Comox Valley Presbyterian Church

V 725 Aspen

6pm at Gordon Head Middle School 1671 Kenmore Road Tap into your inner chef. Introduce your child to basic cooking skills and nutrition tips while learning exciting dishes that can easily be recreated at home. All ingredients and supplies provided. $15. saanich.ca

N

C

D Duncan & Area N Nanaimo & Area C Courtenay/Comox

Over 200 creches depict the birth of Jesus as seen through the eyes of artisans around the world. This is an opportunity to let your children experience the wonder of the very first Christmas as seen by children around the world. Free. cvpc.ca

7 Saturday V

Festive Holiday Crafts 10am at Gordon Head Recreation Centre 4100 Lambrick Way Get into the festive spirit and join us for an ex-

For only $15, you receive 5 drop-in admissions to use in the pool, weight room or skating rink. And, if you redeem your pass by January 31st you’ll to receive $15 off your next West Shore Parks & Recreation pass!

Max 2 voucher purchases per person

250-478-8384 24 Island Parent Magazine

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westshorerecreation.ca IslandParent.ca

citing morning of creative holiday crafting and games. Each child will have a chance to make gifts, cards, and decorations, while parents have free time to prepare for the holidays. $20. saanich.ca

39th Annual Dickens Fair

V

10am at James Bay Community School Centre 140 Oswego in James Bay ’Tis the season for holiday craft fairs and the 39th Annual Dickens Fair is decking the halls. Presented by James Bay Market Society, the Dickens Fair features more than 60 Vancouver Island artisans, a cafe and children’s activities. $2/person. jamesbaymarket/dickens-fair

Wreath Making for Families

V

8 Sunday

1pm at the Gardens at HCP 505 Quayle Rd O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy V A fun tradition for families. Make a door wreath 3pm and 7:30pm at Royal Theatre using a variety of plant materials provided for you. 805 Broughton An adult is to accompany each child/youth due to When catastrophe strikes at James and Jamesy’s the nature of the activity. $25/child per wreath.

Christmas tea party, flooding the world with tea, hcp.ca/youth-programs the friends leap into acting, finding innovative and hilarious solutions to keep them afloat.

Cookies and Crafts Open House V rmts.bc.ca 2pm at All Greater Victoria Public Library Branches Pyjama Prance Fun Run/Walk V To celebrate the holidays and thank you for sup9am at Wheeley Hall, Esquimalt United Church porting your library, each GVPL branch will have 500 Admirals Rd free festive refreshments for all and crafts for the Prizes, silent auction and runner’s wwag—all this kids. Come in for a treat and a chat. Drop-in. Free. from the comfort of your pyjamas. By donation. gvpl.ca facebook.com/pyjamaprance

JMG Garden Club

V Craigflower Elementary Holiday Craft Fair

9:45am at the Gardens at HCP 505 Quayle Rd An open concept learning opportunity for children of all ages who enjoy gardening and exploring the out of doors. Meet to assess our plot and participate in seasonable gardening with lots of hands-on activities. $10/child. hcp.ca/youth-programs

Holiday Bird Count Training

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9am at Island View Beach Regional Park Join guest bird expert Geoffrey Newell to learn your song birds and ocean ducks, cormorants, grebes, loons and sea birds. For beginners and advanced birders alike. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Road. crd.bc.ca/parks

Splish Splash Swim

N

10am at Ravensong Aquatic Centre A water adventure you don’t want to miss. The lifeguards will bring out pool toys for you to enjoy.

From the rope swing to the snake, there will be water play for everyone. Regular admission. rdn.bc.ca/recreation IslandParent.ca

V

9:30 am at Craigflower Elementary 2766 Admirals Rd Unique handmade items and popular products for you and everyone on your list. Refreshments available to purchase and great raffle prizes to be won. All proceeds support Craigflower students.

Free admission. facebook.com/events/1326959904147190

Afternoon Tea with Santa

V

Noon at Pendray Tea House Follow Santa’s footprints through the gardens and cobblestone pathways as you enjoy the enchanting lights, Christmas trees and charm of “A Winter Wonderland.” A special tea with a selection of yummy treats will be offered to kids between 6-12. Santa will be waiting by the Christmas tree for a complimentary photo and surprise gift. $58/ adults; $30/children 6-12; 5 and under free. pendrayinnandteahouse.com

Furry Forest Friends 10am at Mill Hill Regional Park Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for a fun-

V

filled forest walk with your young ones. Explore mammal adaptations, play the camouflage game and learn about our furry forest friends. No fee but you must pre-register by Dec 4 as space is limited. BC Transit #53. 5 years and under. crd.bc.ca/parks

P

Scuba Santa

2pm at Panorama Recreation Come get your photo with Santa…underwater.

Bring your festive clothing or matching outfits for the whole family. panormarecreation.ca

9 Monday Holiday Storytime

V

10:30am at Langford Heritage Branch Library Ho, Ho, Ho! Enjoy a festive storytime, a craft and a tasty holiday treat in anticipation of Christmas Day. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult.

Registered. Free. gvpl.ca

Splish Splash Swim

N

1pm at Ravensong Aquatic Centre A water adventure you don’t want to miss. The lifeguards will bring out pool toys for you to enjoy.

From the rope swing to the snake, there will be water play for everyone. Regular admission. rdn.bc.ca/recreation

12 Thursday Youth Life Skills Cooking: Holiday Chocolates

V

6pm at Gordon Head Recreation Centre 4100 Lambrick Way Cover safe knife skills and meal planning and gain hands-on experience cooking with fresh, local ingredients creating mealtime favourites. $10. saanich.ca

December 2019 25

Moss St. Market’s

25th Anniversary

Holiday Market

Over 80 vendors!

Canvas Art for Kids

7:30pm at Port Theatre 125 Front St When catastrophe strikes at James and Jamesy’s Christmas tea party, flooding the world with tea, the friends leap into acting, finding innovative and hilarious solutions to keep them afloat.

N portheatre.com

4pm at Oceanside Art Studio Jenny Hughes will guide you through how to paint an ocean sunset acrylic painting. No experience necessary. All supplies provided. 7-15 years. $25/person. rdn.bc.ca/recreation

Ongoing:

treats, oils, wine, cider, 1330 Fairfield Rd MossStreetMarket.com

26 Island Parent Magazine

13 Friday Lego Stories—Holiday Edition

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3:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Use the library’s Lego and listen to seasonal stories while you build a festive masterpiece to display in the library. Ages 5-12. Free.

Preschool

Stories in the Garden

V 0-5 years. $3/suggested donation.

Mondays 10am at the Gardens at HCP 505 Quayle Rd Seasonal and entertaining stories and garden wanders for preschoolers. Each week a new theme and story is planned around a garden adventure to explore and discover the many wonders in our gardens. $5/participating child. hcp.ca/youth-programs

V

Tuesdays 9:30am at Gordon Head Recreation Centre 4100 Lambrick Way A movement program designed for children and their caregiver to play together. Balls, hoops, ride-on toys, climbers and mats allow children to creatively explore. Staff will lead songs and circle time. Get active together for life. $3.25/child. saanich.ca

Habitat for Humanity Victoria

oaklandscommunitycentre.com

Parent & Child Drop-in Art

neighbours and enjoy the informal family play space. Activity tables, circle time with instruments, and large toy collection. Coffee, tea and snack provided. No playgroup on holidays. For

V

Tuesdays 9:30am at Oaklands Community Centre Introduction to art techniques, tools and materials. Enjoy a sensory exploration into the world of art. Supplies included. Dress in clothes you can get messy in. For 2-5 year olds. $10/family. oaklandscommunitycentre.com

Parent & Baby Group

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Tuesdays 9:30am at Oaklands Chapel For parents and babies up to 9 months old. Topics include nutrition, health, baby growth and development, family health and wellness and the joys and challenges of parenthood. Childcare provided for older children. Registered. Free. oaklandscommunitycentre.com

V Kindergym Drop-In

Cards, crafts, clothing, toys, Gingerbread Showcase Cards, crafts, clothing, toys, jewelry, purses, pottery, Cards, crafts, clothing, toys, 9am at The Parkside Hotel & Spa jewelry, purses, pottery, The Parkside Hotel & Spa, 810 Humboldt St glassworks, woodworks, jewelry, purses, pottery, The ultimate holiday treat. View the sensational glassworks, woodworks, edible creations and donate to vote for your bath products, preserves, glassworks, woodworks, bath products, preserves, November 16–January 5, 2020. Free. chocolates, baked goods, favourite. chocolates, baked goods, bath products, preserves, habitatvictoria.com hot food, winter winter veggies, hot food, veggies, chocolates, baked goods, Tiny Tykes Drop in Playgroup V treats, oils, wine, wine,cider, cider, treats, oils, hot food, winter veggies, 9:30am at Oaklands Community Centre and much, much, much muchmore... more... Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday. Meet your Sir James Douglas School & and much, much more...

Fairfield Community Centre

N

9:30am at Greenglade Community Centre The Kindergym space will be transformed into a lovely winter wonderland. Come for a morning of wintery activities and crafts, along with free play. panormarecreation.ca

Kindergym Drop-In

Saturday and Sunday Dec 14 & 15, 10am to 4pm

P O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy

Winter Wonderland at Kindergym

V

10am at Gordon Head Recreation Centre 4100 Lambrick Way Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday. A movement program designed for children and their caregiver to play together. Balls, hoops, ride-on toys, climbers and mats allow children to creatively explore. Songs and circle time. Get active together for life. $3/child. saanich.ca

LaFF Mornings

N

Mondays 9:30am–noon at Aggie Hall, Ladysmith Play-based learning stations to explore and enjoy, including a reading centre, craft area, Brio train table, snack table and more. Meet other parents, health and social service providers.

250-210-0870

IslandParent.ca

14 SaTurDay Wreath Making for Families

V

10am at the Gardens at HCP 505 Quayle Rd See SAT 7th for details. $25/child per wreath. hcp.ca/youth-programs

Breakfast with Santa

V

Christmas Eve Family Service Dec 24, 4:30 pm Service and pageant

9am at Oaklands Community Centre 2827 Belmont Ave Pancake breakfast with sides. Face painting, crafts, a sing–along and a visit from Santa with photos. By registration only. $8/person. oaklands.life

Breakfast with Santa

V

9am at Victoria West Community Centre 521 Craigflower Rd. Share a holiday breakfast with family, friends and neighbours and sing traditional songs with the Salvation Army brass band. Make Christmas crafts and enjoy a special visit with Santa. Pancakes, sausages, fruit, juice, tea and coffee. $5/person. victoriawest.ca

Forest Festivities

First Met United Church Quadra & Balmoral firstmetvictoria.com

Also on Dec 24: Carols in the Candlelight: 7:30 pm (Annabelle Stanley, harpist 7 pm) The Magic of Wonder: 11:00 pm

V

11am at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists to make recycled cards, crafts and a small swag with Scotch broom. CRD Parks will supply materials and instructions, you supply creativity. Drop in any time at Beaver Lake Nature Centre with your family and friends. All ages. BC Transit #70, #72 or #75. crd.bc.ca/parks

Rudolph’s Christmas Preschool Party n 10:30am at Oceanside Place Arena The elves are planning an exciting party for you and your parents. A variety of craft stations and a special circle time will get you all in the holiday spirit. Parent participation required. $12/person. rdn.bc.ca/recreation

Splish Splash Swim

n

10am at Ravensong Aquatic Centre A water adventure you don’t want to miss. The lifeguards will bring out pool toys for you to enjoy.

From the rope swing to the snake, there will be water play for everyone. Regular admission. rdn.bc.ca/recreation

Starlight Skate

Let’s Get Crafting!

n

7pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre Enjoy the soft light “stars” and passive LED glow lights. Great for families after dinner. Regular admission. recreation.nanaimo.ca

Toys, games and puzzles for all ages

koolandchild.com

#102 – 2517 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo 888.390.1775 IslandParent.ca

December 2019

27

15 Sunday Christmas Pageant

Ongoing: V

10:30am at St. Luke Cedar Hill Anglican Church Cedar Hill Cross Rd. at Cedar Hill Rd., Enjoy a Family Christmas pageant, experience the miracle of Jesus’ birth and sing carols. Everyone welcome. Free. stlukesvictoria.ca

Family Sunday

V

2pm at Art Gallery of Greater Victoria An afternoon exploring hands-on art making and ideas for all ages. aggv.ca

Forest Festivities

V

11am at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists to make recycled cards, crafts and a small green swag with Scotch broom. We’ll supply materials and instructions, you supply creativity! Drop in any time at Beaver Lake Nature Centre with your family and friends. All ages. BC Transit #70, #72 or #75. crd.bc.ca/parks

Add your upcoming family events at

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28 Island Parent Magazine

Children

Museum Tots

V

Saturdays 11am at Maritime Museum 634 Humboldt St, Victoria A weekly program introducing children 2-5 to the fun world of museum learning. New theme each week, allowing children to learn through crafts, play, games, song and dance.

16 Monday Splish Splash Swim

12:15pm Sundays at Oceanside Place Arena Pond hockey not available. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Free admission and skate rentals. rdn.bc.ca/recreation

dren under 3 must be accompanied by an adult.

Registered. Free.

N gvpl.ca

1pm at Ravensong Aquatic Centre A water adventure you don’t want to miss. The lifeguards will bring out pool toys for you to enjoy.

From the rope swing to the snake, there will be water play for everyone. Regular admission. rdn.bc.ca/recreation

18 Wednesday Holiday Storytime

Parksville Lion’s & Save-On-Foods N Family Skate

Breakfast with Santa at Kindergym

P

9am at Greenglade Community Centre Pancakes and fruit will be served, and Santa will be kicking around for photos. 1-5yrs with parent. panormarecreation.ca

19 Thursday V Youth Life Skills Cooking: Holiday Baking

10:30am at Juan de Fuca Branch Library Ho, Ho, Ho! Enjoy a festive storytime, a craft and a tasty holiday treat in anticipation of Christmas Day. For young children and their families; chil-

V

6pm at Gordon Head Recreation Centre 4100 Lambrick Way Cover safe knife skills and meal planning and gain

IslandParent.ca

hands-on experience cooking with fresh, local ingredients creating mealtime favourites. $10. saanich.ca

20 Friday PJ Movie Night

P

6pm at Greenglade Teen Lounge Grab a blanket or sleeping bag and your favourite festive PJs and get ready for treats and festive fun. For grades 6-9. panormarecreation.ca

21 Saturday Maple Leaf Movie Nights: The Nutcracker

V

7pm at Maple Leaf School of Russian Ballet 310 Henry Street No outside food or drink; this is a fundraiser and concession will be available. Tickets available in advance and sold at the door $10/General admission; $8/Youth(under 12)/Senior. mapleleafballet.ca

Winter Birds of Witty’s

V

10:30am at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park While some birds fly south, many spend their winters enjoying southern Vancouver Island’s moderate climate. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to find out who’s who at the lagoon. Meet at Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. crd.bc.ca/parks

Winter Wonderland Family Carnival

P

11am at Panorama Recreation Enjoy hot chocolate, kids games, painting on the ice, a figure skating performance by Peninsula Figure Skating Club and a special visit from Santa. panormarecreation.ca

Holiday Swim

N

1:30pm at Ravensong Aquatic Centre Come for holiday cheer and to play reindeer games. Santa will be dropping by to say “Ho, Ho, Ho.” Regular admission. rdn.bc.ca/recreation

Dunk with Santa

N

3pm at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre Show Santa how good you are at swimming…or show him how naughty you can be by trying to dunk him in the dunk tank. Regular admission. recreation.nanaimo.ca

Winter Holiday Storytime

P

10:30am at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Join Virginia for stories, rhymes, and songs that celebrate the season. Stay and make a simple IslandParent.ca

E r i n Wa l l i s Photography www.erinwallis.com December 2019 29

winter-themed craft. Enjoy some festive treats. All ages welcome. Free.

AAfree free family familyliteracy literacyprogram program 24 Tuesday

Download Download learning learning modules modules in in Child Friendly Christingle V English, English, French, French, Simplified Simplified Chinese Chinese Carol Service 4pm at St. Luke Cedar Hill Anglican Church and and other other languages. languages.

Start Start learning learning together together at:at:

FamilyLiteracyFirst.ca FamilyLiteracyFirst.ca

Cedar Hill Cross Rd. at Cedar Hill Rd., A special Christmas Eve Service for children and people of all ages. A time to remember the birth of Jesus, sing carols of thanksgiving and be reminded to carry the light of Christ (Christingle) into the world. Everyone welcome. Free. stlukesvictoria.ca

Family Christmas Eve Service

Island Catholic Schools

V

7pm at St. Luke Cedar Hill Anglican Church 3821 Cedar Hill Cross Road This Family Communion Service will include candles, carols and a choir. Enjoy Christmas music and special Christmas decorations. Everyone welcome. Free. stlukesvictoria.ca

25 Wednesday

Keeps Christ in Christmas!

Family Christmas Service

V

10:30 am at St. Luke Cedar Hill Anglican Church Cedar Hill Cross Rd. at Cedar Hill Rd. A Family Christmas Service with carols, readings and communion. Enjoy Christmas music and special Christmas decorations. Free. stlukesvictoria.ca

31 Tuesday

Christ centered communities of learning… educating the “whole” child.

Registrations for 2020–21 being accepted.

St. John Paul II School, Port Alberni Queen of Angels School, Duncan St. Joseph’s School, Victoria St. Patrick’s School, Victoria St. Andrew’s Regional High School, Victoria

250-727-6893 30 Island Parent Magazine

www.cisdv.bc.ca

Early Shift: Reign in the New Year

V

6pm at Royal BC Museum 675 Belleville St This family-oriented jungle party will be a tropical frolic, with music, activities and games. $24/adult; $16/youth. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/visit/events/calendar/ event/109032/father-christmas-old-town

First Night New Year’s Eve Family Celebration

P

5pm at Panorama Recreation Family activities including swimming, skating, inflatable hamster balls, laser tag and more. Top the evening off with a spectacular fireworks display.

New Year’s Eve Family Celebration

N

5pm at Oceanside Place Arena Enjoy the last skate of the year on Winter Wonderland, join the family fun pond hockey, make a craft, listen to great entertainment, and join in the early countdown at 8pm. Tickets required. Free. rdn.bc.ca/recreation IslandParent.ca

Ongoing:

Family

DivorceCare

V

Tuesdays 6:30pm at Central Baptist Church 833 Pandora Ave. DivorceCare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Free. Cost for workbook. centralbaptistchurch.ca

Vic West Toy Library

V

9:30am at HighPoint Community Church 949 Fullerton Ave Every other Saturday. Borrow toys, games and play materials on a regular basis. Current stock for ages 6 mos-12 years.

250-383-6290 | dawn@pointful.ca

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Circles A safe, supportive place to meet others in a similar situation and to share information and resources.

250-384-8042 | parentsupportbc.ca

Parent Support Circles Parenting isn’t always easy. Sometimes it helps

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to talk things through with other parents. At the Parent Support Services Society of BC, they believe that every parent is the expert of her/his own family.

250-384-8042 | parentsupportbc.ca

Family Frolics

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Tuesdays 5:45pm at Frank Jameson Community Centre 810 6th Ave, Ladysmith Drop in after work to burn off some energy and get ready for bed. Play with balls and tunnels, run around and meet a new friend. 0-6 years.

250-210-0870

Horse & Carriage Tours

P

Noon in Downtown Sidney Seaport Place Victoria Carriage Tours will offer festive rides through downtown Sidney on Saturdays and Sundays, December 1-22, 12pm-4pm. Reservations highly recommended: 250-880-0456. Pick up close to Port Sidney Marina just outside the Surly Mermaid Restaurant. $40. facebook.com/events/2598447653554133

Carol Singers on the Avenue

P

1-4pm in Downtown Sidney to December 22 Every Saturday and Sunday until Christmas enjoy wandering holiday carollers as they spread holiday joy throughout the town.

SidneyBIA.ca

Toys ’n’ Teddies Exhibit

P

December 1-31 at the Sidney Museum With a focus on toys from the 1970s to 1990s the Exhibit should prove a “walk down memory lane’ for adults, and a visual time machine for children to enter their parents’ “world of toys’.

As a special treat for the kids among us and in us, there will be Teddy Bears at play throughout the Museum displays. sidneymuseum.ca

Winter Wonderland

P

11am-3pm at Panorama Recreation December 21 to January 1, the arena will be decorated with penguins, polar bears, lights, a Christmas tree and of course Santa Claus. Skate amongst the lights, or take a break and watch the excitement around you. Bring your family for an old-fashioned Christmas skate.

December 2019 31

dA d S Pe a K

Training Wheels

M

y kid is cautious.

Sure she’s adept at charging across the room and tackling me flat onto the couch, leaping onto my back without warning or hanging on to my leg for a free ride, years of practice has built her confidence with this sort of recklessness.

She’s also a miniature mountain goat, climbing onto rocks, playgrounds and my car with ease. She’s like a cat that way. I think she enjoys the perspective.

Being on a bicycle, though, just hasn’t been her thing.

The pedal-less runner bike we got on loan from a friend didn’t seem to click

She outgrew her very first bike before it could’ve been considered broken in.

Most of her cycling would be on camping trips or the odd I’ll-bike-with-you trip to school. Aside from that, though, she preferred other modes of transportation, be it her feet, her scoot, or the car.

Then came that fateful birthday.

A friend’s eighth birthday was planned at the brand new baby pump track at View Royal Park. Unfortunately, come party time, the track wasn’t yet finished, so the parents moved it to Greater Victoria BMX, the BIG HONKIN’ PUMP TRACK OF THE PROS behind The Q Centre.

the whole speed equals balance equation in her head. So, we went to a standard bike with training wheels, and it took (if you asked the internet) a bit longer than usual to take those off, but she got there.

From that point, though, the bike just didn’t seem to be her jam. She loved her little kick scooter, but it doesn’t quite provide the distance or flexibility of traditional cycling.

A pump track (if you didn’t know; I only learned this at the party) is a very hilly course, either dirt or paved, meant to be traveled predominantly using gravity and inertia. From a larger starting hill, the idea is that neither your pedals or brakes are employed as you move through the track. There’s a lot of standing on your pedals, off of your seat, and it’s a great core workout.

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Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

So, while the View Royal Park pump track is a sweet little paved number with the approximate footprint of a small school playground, Greater Victoria BMX is massive and intense. Well, to me.

Kids and grownups reach incredible speeds (and heights, off the jumps) on a combo dirt/gravel/paved course, and yeah, we were there for a go-have-fun birthday party, but people have gone to world championships after training there.

So off goes my little, walking her adorable pink bike, to start the half track with a bunch of her friends.

She’d been so rusty that, before the main event, she reacquainted herself with her wheels on a little strip of land beside a building, going over the tiniest little anthill-sized bump. But now it was go time on the real track.

As predicted, once she coasted down that first hill, she didn’t quite have the momentum to crest the second. So, she caught herself, walked her bike to the top, re-mounted, and tried again.

On hill after hill, she lost momentum, got off her bike, walked to the next summit, and tried again.

But she came off of that first ride—labourious as it may have been—with a smile. Then, she went back.

Again, gravity and physics would conspire against her, and she’d hoof it to the top to try again, but it happened less and less each round, until that first completion with no stopping.

At this point, she was sunk. She didn’t immediately come back to the picnic tables with everyone else for food, or cake, or presents and, by the time the party was over, I had to physically stand in front of her in an effort to stop her, but she deked left and took a shortcut back to the beginning to go again. Twice.

This is a fun story to tell, and I don’t know if it has a greater moral, but maybe it’s about reframing something difficult.

Or maybe it’s just a fun story to tell.

The big kids’ track clicked biking for her, hard, and we’ve since been back to the now-open itty-bitty pump track in View Royal multiple times. But she’s already decided where she’d like her next birthday.

Webmeister Bud Ridout is the resident geek at Victoria radio stations The Zone @ 91-3 and 100.3 The Q! He’s also an avid photographer, root beer connoisseur, voice actor and Papa.

IslandParent.ca

LEARN THE JOYS OF CREATION

AGES 5 & UP

Classes in Theatre, Film, Improv, and More!

Professional Teaching Artists Small Class Sizes

skam.ca 250-386-7526

The Magic of Christmas A family tradition December 1st - January 6th

Lights Skating Entertainment Hot Chocolate for Children’s Snowflakes

butchartgardens.com/christmas December 2019 33

K I dS ’ r e a DS

Just the Way We are

M

y oldest son started kindergarten this year. Leading up to his first day there was some excitement and some nerves on both of our parts. He was excited to learn and worried about how he would do, being away from me for so long. I was excited for him to go and have fun, but I was worried about whether or not he would be accepted.

I think my son is great. He’s lovely, considerate, funny, and fun to be around.

But I am also his mother, and I know my own mother would have said the same about me when I was in school, and I didn’t have the best experience there.

Kindergarten was good. It got rougher later on. And so, I worry about him.

I’m going to go out on a limb and say I’m probably not the only parent who worries about whether or not their child will be accepted. Or whether or not their child will be the one who accepts others. So, the books in this list will look at friends (and cultures) who are different from one another, and highlight how those differences are not something to be scared of or to mock, but something that can be the basis of a friendship.

to-day activities, such as braiding the trees and combing the grass, when a bald beast wanders into her garden.

At first, Alma tells the beast to go away, but she eventually realizes the beast isn’t too scary and decides to help the lost beast find her way home. This book is beautifully illustrated with detailed images that can transport you into Alma’s hairy world, while showing children that first impressions aren’t always right. For ages 4 to 8.

The second book is The Bug Girl

by Sophia Spencer (the Bug Girl) with Margaret McNamara and illustrated by Kerascoët (Schwartz & Wade, 2020).

This book is Sophia’s story about what it is like for her to be a young girl who likes bugs. When she was in kindergarten it was fine, but as she got older the other children started to tease her. It got to the point where she took a break from bugs.

And that might have been the end of the bug girl’s interest, except her mother decided to try and contact some entomologists, and soon she got notes and letters from scientists all over the world talking about their own love of bugs. For ages 4 to 8.

The first book is Alma and the Beast

by Esmé Shapiro (Tundra, 2019). In this delightful tale, Alma is enjoying her day34

Island Parent Magazine

The third book is The Assassination of Brangwain Spurge by M.T. Anderson and illustrated by Eugene

Yelchin (Candlewick, 2019). This book uses illustrations and text to tell the story. It can be a little odd in the beginning because there are no words in the first chapter. But, once you get into the mindset and look at the pictures, you will understand the story. And it is a fantastic story. It is about the elf Brangwain Spurge who is sent on a diplomatic mission to the goblins. When he arrives, he is entrusted to Werfel the Archivist’s care, until Ghohg the Protector can see him.

As you can imagine, this mission does not go smoothly, but Spurge and Werfel learn they are not as different as they first thought, and the pictures let the reader witness the changes in Spruge’s mind about the appearance of his companion.

For ages 10 to 14.

The fourth book is Broken Strings by Eric Walters and Kathy Kacer. This book isn’t easy to read, but it is beautiful. It covers themes such as accepting others and avoiding judgment, while set against the background of Manhattan five months after the towers fell on 9/11.

Broken Strings is about a Grade 8 girl, Shirli, who lands the part of Golde in the school’s play Fiddler on the Roof. Shirli, who is Jewish herself, heads to her grandIslandParent.ca

father’s house to find props, and she comes across a violin and a poster of her grandfather—who refused to ever have music in the house—holding the violin and standing with a group of musicians.

She brings the instrument to him and

begins to learn about the past her grandfather never speaks about.

Be prepared to deal with questions and difficult emotions. There were times I had to put the book down and walk away to reset or cry. But don’t let that scare you away from this story, because it is wonderfully written and expertly deals with these difficult topics. For ages 10 to 14.

The fifth book is Grandma Calls Me Beautiful by Barbara M. Joosse and illustrated by Barbara Lavallee (Chronicle Books, 2008). In this beautifully illustrated story, a young girl asks her grandma if she would still call her Beautiful, even though her hair isn’t as colourful as bird feathers, or if she grew too big to sit on her grandmother’s lap. Throughout it all, her grandmother reassures her that “Beautiful is who you are.” For ages 4 to 7.

instantly want to be a friend to, we can make our world a better, more inclusive place.

It is hard to watch our children struggle and feel like they belong outside of the group. But if we all work together to teach our children about different cultures and how to be kind to children who are different or not someone they’d

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December 2019

35

FamilyServicesDirectory The Family Services Directory features not for profit agencies and organizations serving children, youth and families 1Up, Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre (1-up.ca) provides support, education and resources for parents in the Greater Victoria area through free counselling, volunteer training, a mentoring program for single moms, and a support group for dads, as well as a variety of integrated life skills and parenting courses which are open to the whole community, with fees on a sliding scale. For single parent members, the Centre provides free toys and books, a clothing room and bread pantry. Donations of gently-used clothing, small household items, and toys are welcome. Hours: Mon., Tue., Thu., Fri.: 9–4, & Wednesdays: 12–7.

Location: 602 Gorge Road East. Phone: 250-385-1114.

Home Support, please call 250-658-6407. For other programs: 250-656-0134. beaconcs.ca.

Beacon Community Services is a community-based, non-profit agency dedicated to helping people and improving lives on southern Vancouver Island and the southern Gulf Islands. Beacon thrift shops fund important LOCAL community services and programs.

Beacon also offers: child, youth and family services (including the Peninsula Early Years Centre and child care); counselling; employment services and training for people of all ages; home support care; volunteer services and opportunities; affordable housing/care/ supports for seniors and people with disabilities. For

Boys & Girls Club Services offer after-school and evening social, educational and recreational programming for children and youth at 5 locations (Colwood, Langford, VicWest, Central Saanich and Esquimalt) and summer camps both in Esquimalt and at our Outdoor Centre in Metchosin. We also offer support to parents through our Parents Together program and parent workshops. For more information on all programs and services visit bgcvic.org or call 250-384-9133.

Beacon Community Services Employment Programs. Beacon Community Services offers a full menu of employment services on the Saanich Peninsula and Gulf Islands. We’ve been helping people find work since 1982! Our programs build on a person’s strengths and resolve barriers to finding and keeping employment. We also work with our employer network to support job seekers. Need help finding a job? Need employees? Contact us for FREE assistance!

9860 Third St. Sidney. 250-656-0134. beaconcs.ca.

FamilyServicesprofile

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) Dedicated to enriching the quality of life of individuals with autism and their families in BC. Canucks Autism Network (CAN) was founded in 2008 by Vancouver Canucks Co-owners, Paolo and Clara Aquilini, whose son has autism.

CAN is dedicated to providing programs to individuals with autism and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond. Our vision is for every individual with autism to be understood, accepted and supported in all community spaces.

In fulfilling our mission and pursuing our vision, we are guided by the following values: • Family. We value a sense of belonging where all families are welcome and appreciated and support one another through shared experience.

• Commitment to Excellence. We endeavor to exceed expectations in all that we do.

• Innovation. We believe in continuous improvement and are open to ideas that challenge the status quo and drive innovation.

• Collaboration. We believe that success is achieved through shared knowledge, strong partnerships and collective capacity.

• Leadership. We embrace our role as a leader and strive to inspire, teach, and motivate others to be inclusive and accepting.

• Accessibility. We are committed to a barrier-free and inclusive environment.

• “I CAN” Attitude. We believe in every individual’s ability and encourage the development of self-confidence, self-esteem and a sense of purpose in play, work and life.

36 Island Parent Magazine

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) provides year-round sports and recreation programs for children, youth, young adults, and families living with autism, while increasing awareness and providing training in communities across BC. Stay up-to-date on programs, registration dates and events in Nanaimo, Cowichan Valley, and Victoria by signing up for CAN’s Vancouver Island newsletter: canucksautism.ca/ newsletter. CAN also provides training and accessibility resources for many sectors, including sport, recreation, first responders, schools, and community spaces. Learn about customized training solutions: canucksautism.ca/training.

Dialogue and Resolution Services (DRS) helps people improve relationships through facilitating empathic communication in a safe, impartial and collaborative manner. We work with individuals, families, parents, co-workers, neighbours, community organizations, governments and those leaving incarceration. We continue to strive for equity and increased cultural competency, through life-long learning. DRS assists diverse clients to create lasting, effective solutions that support healthy connection and build community. For affordable, ethical, professional service, find us at 250-383-4412 or dialogueandresolutionservices.ca.

Family Services of Greater Victoria helps children, youth, and adults manage the challenges of separation, Family Services of Greater Victoria divorce, or transition to a new family structure. Our highly qualified staff, working with other community agencies, provide information and practical or emotional support so people facing these challenges can make the decisions that are best for everyone. FSGV believes all individuals can find ways to move forward in their lives when family relationships have changed or are changing. Call us at 250-386-4331 or visit fsgv.org. We can help.

Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) is a registered charity and nonprofit helping individuals and organizations to connect across cultures. Programs offered include immigrant and refugee services, parenting programs, employment services, interpretation and translation, diversity workshops and training, English language training, volunteer placements, youth programs and tutoring,

IslandParent.ca

seniors groups, and inter-cultural arts programming.

Located at 930 Balmoral Road, 250-388-4728, icavictoria.org.

KidCareCanada supports new parents and professionals with trustworthy information, videos and resources that explain the importance of early nurturing and show how to support social and emotional development in infants and toddlers. Babies don’t come with a manual. That’s why KidCareCanada has produced a collection of carefully-crafted resources that takes the science of Early Childhood Development and brings it to new parents in a visual format that is easy-to-understand and quick to watch. Access all resource for free at kidcarecanada.org.

give the gift of the salish sea Our Salish Sea store features: • Local artists • Organic clothing • Sweet & savoury treats • Sustainable toys and nurdle-free stuffies • Handmade pottery, jewelry and prints

LDABC The Learning Curve (previously The Learning Disabilities Assn.) supports, educates and advocates for children with learning and behavior challenges.

Individual and group support, education and consultation is available for children, youth, parents, caregivers and professionals. Please visit our website ldasvi. bc.ca or call us for more information 250-370-9513.

Lindsay Trowell R.T.C. Counsellor and Parenting Specialist—creating calm within chaos. 18+ years experience as a behaviour support professional for caregivers and parents of children and adults with special needs. I understand the struggle that families face just to get out the door in the morning. I am trained in working with individuals with FASD, attachment difficulties, anxiety, trauma, autism, and much more. Individual and family counselling. Relaxed, nonjudgmental support tailored for your individual needs.

I help strengthen families and empower individuals. lindsaytrowell.com. #102-3212 Jacklin Rd (located in Stillpoint Acupuncture Clinic). 250-217-4536.

Sooke Family Resource Society (SFRS) provides Family Resource Programs including: Prenatal Education and Outreach, Parent-Tot Drop-In Groups, Parent Discussion Groups, Family Support Groups and Outreach, a Toy and Book Lending Library and Kingfisher Preschool. Sooke-Westshore Child Care Resource and Referral services, as well as all-ages counselling services are also provided by SFRS. Services are provided from the Child, Youth and Family Centres in Sooke and Westshore. Call 250-642-5152 for more information or visit our website at sfrs.ca.

9811 Seaport Place, Sidney BC 250-665-7511

AQUARIUM AND SALISH SEA STORE OPEN DAILY AT 10AM

www.salishseacentre.org

Serving the Families of Vancouver Island for Over 24 Years The Kiddies Store

Come celebrate with us December 8th, 2019 Snacks, Sales & More!

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Finlayson St.

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Let them learn, explore and discover all year long with the gift of membership!

Douglas

Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS) supports immigrants and refugees living in Greater Victoria. Services are free and include oneon-one counselling, parent education workshops, youth life skills classes, a preschool program, art therapy, language classes and academic support, employment help, computer classes and fun community events like free yoga, tai chi, dance and cooking classes. Visit us online at vircs.bc.ca or phone 250-361-9433.

• And so much more!

Larch St.

Entrance off Larch St.

T.J.’S

December 2019 37

H a ppyFami lies H e a lthyFami lies

Navigating the Holidays

Healthy Families, Happy Families

Child, Youth & Family Public Health South Island Health Units Esquimalt Gulf Islands

250-519-5311 250-539-3099

(toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

Peninsula 250-544-2400 Saanich 250-519-5100 Saltspring Island 250-538-4880 Sooke 250-519-3487 Victoria 250-388-2200 West Shore 250-519-3490

Central Island Health Units Duncan Ladysmith Lake Cowichan Nanaimo Nanaimo Princess Royal Parksville/ Qualicum

250-709-3050 250-755-3342 250-749-6878 250-755-3342 250-739-5845

Port Alberni Tofino

250-731-1315 250-725-4020

250-947-8242

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

islandhealth.ca/our-locations/ health-unit-locations 38 Island Parent Magazine

P

eople often ask, “How important is it to maintain some kind of routine over the holiday season?”

Eating well, getting enough sleep and keeping active is always important but it becomes even more so during the holidays. Holiday parties, children’s activities and shopping make the holidays a busy time. It is easy to become tired, stressed out and run down. Maintaining a routine can help to prevent burnout and keep the holidays festive. Read on for strategies for navigating the holidays.

Navigating Food

While it may be tempting to skip lunch to “save calories for later,” it is not a good idea. Skipping meals can lead to overeating later in the day. Hunger can make you irritable, tired and moody and does not help you feel “festive.” It is important to maintain a steady energy supply by eating small nutritious meals and snacks every two to three hours. Meals and snacks that contain lean protein, healthy fats and whole grains will keep you feeling satisfied longer and can prevent binging on less nutritious options. Eating small regular meals is especially important for children with smaller tummies and greater energy needs. Maintaining a healthy diet can also help boost your immune system and fight off infection.

The holidays should be enjoyed and that means sometimes overindulging in treats. Don’t beat yourself up if you “slip up” and have a few too many mincemeat tarts for your own good. Healthy eating is about moderation, not deprivation. If you do indulge, enjoy it and move on.

Get up and get moving the next day and you will find it easier to return to your usual healthy routines.

Navigating Fun

The busyness of the holidays can make keeping active more challenging.

Children and adults alike will feel better and more energized with fresh air and fun play. Make some time for active and fun play every day. This might include going for an after-dinner walk to see the

lights, having a snowball fight, sledding, going for a hike or bike ride, spending an afternoon swimming or skating at the rec centre or getting the kids together to rake up then jump in leaves. Having fun while being active is a wonderful way to instill fitness into your family’s everyday living.

Navigating Sleep

Evening events, the excitement of the holidays and opportunities to sleep-in make keeping to your usual sleep/wake routine challenging. We all know the fall-out of a poor night’s sleep! Aim to keep your children’s bed and wake times within 30 minutes of their usual time.

This will keep you and your children well rested and make it easier to get back into your usual routine in January.

Navigating Spending

It is easy to get wrapped up (pun intended!) in holiday spending. The average Canadian spends approximately $800 on presents alone (not counting grocery bills, host gifts, wrapping paper, postage and parties). Stave off overspending by first figuring out what you can afford versus what you think you need to spend, consider making homemade gifts, give the gift of your time or talent, or organize a gettogether in lieu of store-bought gifts.

However you and yours celebrate the holidays…eating well, being active and getting enough sleep is a gift we can give ourselves.

For more information visit: healthcanada.ca/foodguide participaction.com keltymentalhealth.ca/sleep

Areli Hermanson, RD, is a mother of two busy, lovely boys. She looks forward to spending time with family and friends over the holidays and throwing several snowballs at her kids.

C hild Youth & Family P ublic H e alth Jane Barclay, RD, is a mother of two almost-adult children. She will be working on finding balance and routine with her own family over the holidays.

IslandParent.ca

Photo Contest Congratulations to Gypsy Siegner and Sophie Suzuki for their winning entries in Island Parent’s Special Event Photo Contest for two pairs of tickets to Cirque Du Soleil’s LUZIA at Concord Pacific Place in Vancouver! and thank you to all who entered!

Photo: gypsy Siegner

Photo: Sophie Suzuki

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December 2019

39

Preschool&ChildcareDirectory Central Saanich

Music, Art and Nature. Stop by and experience what it is like to be part of a community devoted to the development of the whole child. Open House: Thursdays 9-11 am. west-mont.ca.

North SAANICH • one of the few parent participation preschools on the Peninsula • learning through play philosophy • a large, beautiful indoor and outdoor space • offering flexible 4 hour programs 1–4 days a week • a great community to join • visit us at www.countrysidepreschool.org

CORDOVA BAY

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. Now offering Infant and Toddler Care.

OAK BAY

Cordova Bay Preschool......................250-658-3441 A bright and cheerful parent participation preschool with a philosophy of learning through play. 4 yr olds - M/W/F 9:151:15; 3 yr olds - T/Th 9:15-12:15. cordovabaypreschool.org.

ESQUIMALT Ciara Early Childhood Centre............. 250-386-7369 Education and Fun Hand in Hand! Exceptional care for ages 1-5yrs. Inclusive nature inspired kindergarten readiness program with Christian values. Facebook.com/ CiaraEarlyChildhoodCentre.

METCHOSIN Metchosin Cooperative Preschool............................

Play Explore Learn and Grow in beautiful rural Metchosin.

Morning programs available for 3 and 4 year olds. Contact our ECEs at metchosinpreschool@gmail.com.

West-Mont Montessori School........... 250-474-2626 Exceptional preschool Montessori instruction in a beautiful natural environment. Ages 30 months and up.

Providing a balanced approach to incorporating French,

Island Montessori House................250-592-4411 Inclusive, integrated and nurturing Preschool and Before/After School Care programs. Lovely rural setting with a focus on nature and outdoor environmental activities. islandmontessori.com.

Oak Bay Preschool.............................250-592-1922 Oak Bay Preschool is a co-op preschool, using a play-based curriculum with qualified ECE and ECEA. We use a balance of indoor and outdoor classrooms to enrich your child’s preschool experience. Learn more at oakbaypreschool.com.

Lambrick Park Preschool & Childcare...250-477-8131 Gordon Head’s parent-participation preschool and childcare center. Flexible hours M-F 9am-3pm & drop-ins offered. Play based learning and outdoor play. Allergy friendly. Celebrating 40 years. lambrickparkpreschool.ca.

Recreation Oak Bay........................... 250-370-7200 Fully licensed, ECE Daycare, Preschool and Nature Preschool. Play based, child led learning. Afterschool care available.

Oakcrest Preschool........................... 250-472-0668 A welcoming, nurturing environment with a large, bright facility. Learn through play with 2 caring ECEs. oakcrestpreschool.org.

SAANICH

Island Kids Academy Esquimalt..........250-381-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). Enriched Curriculum.

Includes Music Classes and Character Development using the Virtues Project. Wait list being taken. Islandkids.ca.

La Pré-Maternelle Appletree Preschool.............................250-479-0292 A French Immersion Preschool Program.

30 months to school age. Licensed Christian centre. prematernelleappletree.com.

• Licensed 3 hr and 4 hr programs, flexible part-time classes • Qualified ECEs offer play-based programs that stimulate curiosity and imagination and support optimum growth and development. Supported spaces available.

• Indoor and outdoor programming, community visitors and special activities provide opportunities for learning through play and exploration.

Fullobeans.ca 250-360-1148 saanichneighbourhoodplace.com

Pre-School Junior Kindergarten PacificChristian.ca 250-479-4532

• Half day and Full day Preschool Programs • Children’s learning is nurtured and supported through exploration, discovery, play and creative expression 3905 Haro Road, Victoria BC

250-477-3731 arbutusgrove.ca Camosun College Child Care Services.. 250-370-4880 Quality licensed facilities on both campuses providing children, newborn to 5 years, with rich early learning experiences in a learn through play environment. camosun.ca/childcare.

Carrot Seed Preschool........................250-658-2331 Where children can discover, imagine, construct and learn through play. Wondrous natural playground. carrotseedpreschool.com.

Educational Excellence to the Glory of God Ready Set Grow Preschool..................250-472-1530 Inside Hillcrest Elm. in Gordon Head, we help children transition to Kindergarten. Licensed Preschool with highly qualified, warm ECE. heoscmanager@gmail.com.

St. Joseph’s Early Learning Centre........ 250-479-1237 A Christian childcare centre offering daycare and preschool programs for 3-5 year olds. Children learn through play-based and emergent curriculum in a warm and nurturing environment.

St. Margaret’s School Jr. Kindergarten... 250-479-7171 Apply now for our Early Learning (JK and Kindergarten) Programs. Early learning at SMS is a curriculum-based program for 3 and 4 year olds. admissions@stmarg.ca.

Looking for child care? Need help with the Affordable Child Care Benefit?

Taking care of children? Need child care training?

Child Care

Resource & Referral Funded by the Province of BC

Your community’s best source of child care information and resources.

40 Island Parent Magazine

Call your local Child Care Resource & Referral for free referrals and resources.

Victoria & Gulf Islands: 250-382-7000 or 1-800-750-1868 Sooke: 250-642-5152 West Shore: 250-940-4882 Cowichan Valley: 250-746-4135 local 231 PacificCare (Ladysmith north): 250-756-2022 or 1-888-480-2273

vancouverislandccrr.ca ccrr.bc.ca

IslandParent.ca

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. sjdoutofschoolclub.com.

Wiseways Child Care Centre.......... 250-477-1312 established, quality, licensed, Christian centre for 3-5 year olds. experienced eCes, cheerful spacious facilities, large playground. Subsidized fees welcome.

Call for a tour. Wisewaysvictoria.com.

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

VICTorIa ❖ Comprehensive programs for Preschool through Grade 9 ❖ Delivering academic excellence through music, dance, drama and visual arts ❖ Outstanding educators, locations and facilities

Island Kids Academy View Royal ...... 250-727-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). enriched Curriculum.

Includes Music Classes and Character Development using the Virtues Project. Wait list being taken. Islandkids.ca.

Castleview Child Care.......................250-595-5355 Learning Through Play & Discovery. Licensed non-profit, eCe staff. Since 1958. Morning or full-time care. castleviewchildcarecentre.com.

Centennial Day Care ......................... 250-386-6832 exceptional childcare and education 35+ years. Nature inspired, play based program. NeW central, “green” building. centennialdaycare.ca.

Christ Church Cathedral Childcare .....250-383-5132 eCe and specialist teachers provide an outstanding all day licensed program for 2.5–5 year olds at our Fairfield and NeW Gordon Head (Fall 2019) locations. cathedralschool.ca.

Nightingale Preschool and Junior Kindergarten Ltd................250-595-7544 We offer education through creativity and play, providing rich learning experiences through a well sourced and stimulating indoor and outdoor environment. early years reading programme. nightingalepreschool.com.

Arts/Drama programme. kidsworks.ca.

The River Preschool

JLC Victoria Japanese Preschool The only Japanese Immersion Preschool on the Island opens at Craigflower Schoolhouse. Offering the best environment for preschoolers to learn Japanese language and culture as natural as possible. jlcvictoria.com.

Please visit our website at

theriverpreschool.stbarnabaschurch.ca or email us at riverpreschoolvic@gmail.com.

You are welcome to visit us at The River Drop-in Playgroup on Wednesdays 10–11:30am at St. Barnabas Church Hall.

St. Joseph’s Preschool ....................... 250-246-3191 An enriching preschool program allowing children to grow as individuals in a safe and nurturing Christian environment.

nanaIMo

ASPENGROVE SCHOOL

DunCan

Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 Learn more today!

250-390-2201 AspengroveSchool.ca

N A N A I M O ’ S J K -12 I N T E R N AT I O N A L B ACC A L AU R E AT E W O R L D S C H O O L

The first steps in your child’s education

QualICuM BEaCh Call for more information today: 250.746.3654

International Montessori Academy of Canada ........................................... 250-737-1119 elementary K–12. Offers an enriching environment for preschool children 2-4.9 years with potty training. Nurturing young minds, keeping the spirit free. intmontessori.ca.

Parkside Academy ............................... 250-746-1711 Providing high quality early learning and care from infancy to 12 years of age, in a stimulating, respectful, nurturing, nature based environment with fully educated and passionate early childhood educators. Visit parksideacademy.ca or find us on Facebook.

at St. Barnabas Church is accepting registrations for September 2019. We are a Waldorf inspired and faith based new preschool in Victoria.

Sunrise Waldorf School Preschool ....... 250-743-7253 In a warm environment, this nature and play-based program enlivens and nurtures the growing child. sunrisewaldorfschool.org.

ChEMaInuS

VIEW royal

www.ArtsCalibre.ca 250.382.3533

Queen of Angels Early Learning Centre 250-701-0433 Our Centre is a lively, happy place for 3-5 year olds where children are encouraged to be confident, independent learners in a nurturing and safe environment.

Queen Margaret’s School ....................250-746-4185 early Childhood education Program. Co-ed nurturing curriculum to develop the whole child. Healthy snacks and lunch provided. qms.bc.ca.

Children’s Discovery Centre.............. 250-752-4343 A nurturing, safe and creative learning environment.

Licensed preschool, group care and out of school care. early Childhood educators. childrensdiscovery centre.ca. childrensdiscoverycentre@hotmail.com.

Little Star Children’s Centre .............. 250-752-4554 Little Gems Infant and Toddler Care .. 250-228-5437 Mother, Daughter owned and operated. earth friendly preschool education inspired by nature. Infused with fun and creative daily yoga practices! Licensed group care. enthusiastic eCe instructors. littlestardaycare.ca

PorT alBErnI John Paul II Catholic School .............. 250-723-0637 “Where children grow and learn through play.” We provide a program that will inspire development physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively, creatively and spiritually.

Nestled on 4 acres of lush west Coast forest, our Award winning, Nature based program will not disappoint!

While firmly embracing the Reggio-Emila (Italy) Philosophy our dedicated team of educators use the environment as the third teacher as we encourage your child throughout their day.

Our purpose built facilities have been handmade using the trees from our forest. We have recently expanded to our new Spirit Bear Lodge located right next door!

Programs for Infants/Toddlers and Pre-Kindergarten children.

Photo: Cheryl Cameron, Atelierista

IslandParent.ca

Award of Excellence in Child Care

lexieslittlebears.ca 250-590-3603

December 2019

41

N atu r e N otes

The ‘Dead’ of Winter

T

he cold weather has arrived along with the need to grab an extra sweater in the morning, frost glistening on spider webs, and of course, crunchy leaves decorating the ground.

As a young child I never thought too hard about where the leaves end up after playtime was over. My family would rake them up, package them into a large bag then bring them to the compost center. But what about all of the leaves that were not destined to become garden mulch? No one (to the best of my knowledge) goes off into the forest to clean all the dead leaves, so, where do they go?

As busy humans, we seldom take the time to think about the role dead things play in the ecosystems around us. We like things to be neat and tidy not dead and decomposing! The leaves that have taken their leave (pun intended) from the plants from which they grew do not pile up year after year. Despite what we as humans sometimes think, nature does have a plan for all of its components, dead things included. Fallen leaves begin to decay with the help of our good friends bacteria.

Now bear with me for a moment, I know you are skeptical of my giving any positive connotation to bacteria. But it’s true!

Bacteria does not mean just the nasty kinds that give rise to all sorts of upsets in our bodies; it also includes essential bacteria that live in our digestive tracts to help us break down food. Bac-

teria is in fermented dairy products such as yogurts, although those are normally given the name probiotics which is a much less frightening term to many of us. Bacteria is even responsible for the delicious kombucha that has taken Victoria by storm.

Bacteria is essential not just for humans, but for all living creatures and processes.

Along with bacteria, fungus is another all-star saprotroph responsible for breaking down plant material. If you look closely at the dead leaves you may be lucky enough to see the characteristic hyphal tips, which frequently look like thin threads, extending to engulf the nutrient rich leaves. Saprotrophs, literally meaning the rotten (sapros) nourishment (trophe), live up

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Join other families with children ages 8-12 who want to be on a healthy weight and healthy lifestyle path.

Build skills to: • Support your family’s health and quality of life • Eat healthy and be more active • Promote positive mental and social health To find out more about this FREE 10 week program and how to attend a 2 hour introductory workshop:

Friday–Saturday 9am–10pm Nightly Bonfire Bring the family for Hot Chocolate!

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42 Island Parent Magazine

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to their name by externally digesting dead material with the use of enzymes then taking up some of the nutrients they released.

Once the fungus has begun the first steps of decomposition, we look towards the many legged and legless to continue the process; our humble detritivores.

Just a few of the many creatures we have to thank for so effectively decomposing include detritivores such as pill bugs, millipedes, beetles slugs, snails and worms. And these are just some of the creatures we can easily see. If we were to take some of the leaves and soil and station them under a microscope we would be rewarded with incredible creatures that are typically alien to us: springtails, booklice and mites—oh my! By consuming and digesting plant material, detritivores are converting the components of their meal into a form that living plants will be able to take up. Elements including carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus are released back into the soil; allowing for new growth. I had an astute student of mine observe that “The dead leaves feed the ‘wormies’ the wormies make soil for the trees and the trees make air for us,” before looking around in awe at the leaves she had been traipsing through a few minutes earlier. Much to my delight this same student now regularly collects dead leaves she deems impressive and proudly brings them to me before relinquishing them to the wormies.

The processes described do not happen overnight; it can take months or even years for plant matter to fully decompose. While the decomposers are gradually working on cycling nutrients back into the soil, the plant matter is still providing shelter for all sorts of creatures over winter. Solitary bees being a major one.

Although it is the charismatically social honey bee that tends to get our attention, solitary bees are frequently more efficient pollinators and are native to Vancouver Island. If their high level of efficient pollination doesn’t help you love solitary bees, the fact that they only ever rarely sting might help their case. As they do not have a nest to defend, they are very difficult to provoke into stinging. As with all stinging bees, it is also only the ladies that can sting you. Certain solitary bee species such as leaf cutter and mason bees will lay their eggs inside hollow plant stems holes in trees with a stash of pollen for the eventual larvae to eat.

Larvae of certain moths and butterflies are also not immune to the cold of winter. Many species in their larval form will curl themselves up in a dead leaf during the winter months and go dormant. It is easy for us to appreciate these pollinators in the spring and summer without realizing all of the components, both living and dead, that go into their life cycle. Instead of removing all of the dead plant matter in your yard and garden, try leaving a portion (or all) of it so that the organisms that rely on the plant matter for safety over winter have a chance of surviving. You garden will thank you two-fold, for the nutrients released during decomposition and for the pollinators emerging in the spring.

On your next walk, I implore you to take a moment and appreciate not just the stunning colours of autumn, but also the host of organisms benefiting from the seasonal change. Admire the slimy slugs, tip your hat to the armoured pill bugs and understand that they are all working towards a healthy environment for the benefit of all.

Kalene Lillico is the newest naturalist at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary and is over the moon to be teaching, working and playing in nature!

IslandParent.ca

WINTER HOLIDAY PROGRAMS December 16 to January 3, 2020 A wide range of full and half-day programs for all kids in Victoria ages 5-15, including:

Passion Sports Elite Winter Camp

Four days of intensive basketball competition and skill development

SISA Indoor Winter Soccer Camp Fine-tune your soccer skills for the New Year

Wild and Wacky Winter Adventures

Join us for some crazy adventures with Minions, pirates and bunnies

Nature at New Year’s Indoor and outdoor adventures to help ring in the new decade

Visit our website for information on these and other programs: www.smus.ca/winter, or call the Education Extension office at 250-370-6120

INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT

HOSTED BY MIKE DAWES The world’s premiere finger-style guitarists featuring Cenk Erdogan (Turkey), jazz virtuoso Olli Soikkeli (Finland) and Slack Key master Jim Kimo West (Hawaii). internationalguitarnight.com

SUN JAN 26 | 7:30 PM

KALABANTE AFRIQUE EN CIRQUE A stunning evening of extraordinary Guinean drumming and acrobats, suitable for all ages.

“Absolutely awesome!”

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“A real crowd pleaser!” kalabanteproductions.com

SAT APR 11 | 7:30 PM tickets.uvic.ca | 250-721-8480 December 2019 43

Dive rs A b i liti e s

Getting Help for Anxiety

M

y son Angus was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder last winter during his psychoeducational assessment. It wasn’t a surprise.

Angus has always been an anxious kid, with a long list of fears and worries. They shape our daily life: the predictability of our routines, our avoidance of overwhelm, time spent helping him reframe his fears, breathing techniques and bedtime mindfulness meditation.

I was an anxious kid, too. There were tests and ultrasounds when I was a child, the doctor searching for the cause of my unexplained stomach aches and, upon finding nothing, prescribing an antacid.

I had my first panic attack at 13, and— because I had just eaten—it was chalked up to food allergies. My mother gave me Benadryl. It wasn’t until a couple years (and a few more “allergic reactions”) later that I read about panic attacks in an issue of Seventeen. I didn’t deliver this new diagnosis to my family. Instead I

44 Island Parent Magazine

continued managing things just as I had: mapping bathrooms and exits, sitting only in aisle seats, taking copious mental health days from school in Grade 9, after my English teacher announced that no one would be permitted a bathroom break during his class.

Childhood anxiety is better understood now. That’s a very good thing, because according to the Canadian Mental Health Association, six per cent of children and youth will experience an anxiety disorder at some point.

When I mentioned Angus’s anxiety diagnosis to his special needs social worker, she wrote a referral to a psychiatrist. Because by the time you get to the front of the waitlist, you might want it, she said.

His appointment was two weeks ago, and we did want it. We needed it. This year Angus’s anxiety has swollen to touch most aspects of his life, both at school and at home. We left the appointment with the name of an Omega supplement

that doesn’t taste fishy and a prescription for an SSRI antidepressant that is still magnetted to the fridge. We may fill it— soon, or later. There are other things we want to try first.

Maybe you have a kid, or know a kid, whose anxiety is getting in the way of their life. If so, here are some ways to get help.

1. Anxiety Canada (anxietycanada. com). Anxiety Canada has information and resources including videos and a podcast. Most notably, they have developed MAPs (My Anxiety Plan). The MAP for children and teens is a 46 lesson (10 hour) course for parents/caregivers to work through with their child.

2. Kelty Mental Health (keltymental health.ca). Kelty Mental Health also has information and resource lists on their website. Additionally, they offer trained parent and peer support workers with lived experience in child and youth mental health called Parents in Residence

IslandParent.ca

(PiRs) and Youth in Residence (YiRs).

PiRs and YiRs are available to offer support Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Call 1-800-665-1822 or email keltycentre@cw.bc.ca. This resource is not anxiety-specific.

Maybe you have “a kid, or know a kid, whose anxiety is getting in the way of their life. If so, here are some ways to get help.

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3. BC Child and Youth Mental Health has intake clinics in Campbell River, Courtney, Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville, Port Alberni, Saanich, Sooke and Victoria. The web address is long, so Google: “BC Child and Youth Mental Health.” Once you arrive at the site click on “Mental Health Intake Clinics in BC” for clinic hours. Children can receive a same-day initial assessment by a trained professional, initial resources, and, if appropriate, further counselling (triagebased, with a waitlist). It is suggested that parents with young children come alone for the first meeting. Note that these clinics are busy, and the assessments are involved (I arrived 10 minutes early and was first in line. I left two hours later).

This program is not anxiety-specific.

4. Confident Parents: Thriving Kids Anxiety Program (cptka.inputhealth. com). Delivered through videos and supported by scheduled telephone coaching sessions for parents/ caregivers, the approach focuses on building skills and strategies that parents can use with their child and family at home and in community settings. The program incorporates key concepts from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Participation requires a referral from a family physician, a clinic doctor, a school teacher or counsellor, or an ECE. NOTE: Coming up with a new subject to write about each month amps up my own anxiety. Don’t forget: this column is for your stories too! If you have one, please email me at laurajtrunkey@gmail. com.

Laura Trunkey is the mother of the amazing Angus, and the author of the story collection Double Dutch (House of Anansi, 2016). Find her at lauratrunkey.com.

IslandParent.ca

Candy Cane Brownie

Enter Our “12 Days of Christmas facebook Giveaway” For giveaway dates and details visit our facebook page or seriouscoffee.com

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December 2019 45

CutitOut!

Different Kinds of Attention

N

egative attention can take many forms, but one of them is allowing your child to take you away from something that is important to you. While positive engagement is crucial to our children’s development, passive or negative engagement achieves the opposite. Children who seek constant attention are not content, as their sense of worthiness relies on it. When a child succeeds in getting a parent to respond to his or her every whim or negative attention-getting behaviour, it deprives the child of acquiring different ways of belonging. The parental attention becomes a barrier to other resources that can help a child become self-sufficient and independent.

There is a tremendous misconception that good parenting is being available 100 per cent of the time. This is not true, and the outcome will not result in a securely attached individual; it will create unhealthy dependence and low self-esteem in the child.

What to do:

• Spend time with your child and commit to being present and engaged. Let them take the lead at play or choosing outings. This positive, intentional time gives you a chance to lock in your child’s strengths and to experience the feeling of being appreciated rather than annoying.

• Help your child become independent and self-sufficient by

ignoring undue attention. You can respond politely once and then get back to your task.

• If your child is stuck in asking, “Why?” to take your attention away from what you are doing or who you are visiting, you can limit the number of times you will answer. Spot the difference between true curiosity and idle questions.

• Help your child find constructive strategies to occupy their time. Show faith and respect to your child by believing they can entertain themselves—short periods when they are young of course.

• Notice when your child is cooperating and engaging positively. Recognizing these times will help your child re-evaluate the various ways to engage beyond demanding undue attention.

Children need our attention, but we must be aware of the different kinds of attention. Notice that your child can handle many situations if you don’t interfere. Lovingly holding back contributes to the long term goal of nurturing resilience and the ability for your child to have a satisfying life—a life where they aren’t stuck on short-term goals but able to roll up their sleeves, do what it takes and succeed.

Allison Rees has two LIFE Seminars books available: Sidestepping the Power Struggle and The Parent Child Connection. See lifeseminars.com.

STAGES Performing Arts School

Day t

i me for t Pre -S ch he li ttle o o l Class ange ls... es

since 1980

Come Dance With Us

• Offering classes for Teens & Pre-Teens in Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Tap. Musical Theatre, Acrobatics & Hip Hop, in a non-competitive atmosphere.

• Not sure which class to take?

- Try a Drop-In: No hassle, No Obligation.

STAGES Performing Arts School #301 1551 Cedar Hill X Rd Call 250-384-3267 Email us at: stagesdance@shaw.ca Or visit our website: www.stagesdance.com 46 Island Parent Magazine

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Cowichan

Valley DPAC

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December 2019  47