Island Parent Family Summer Guide by Island Parent Group

2016

Family Summer Guide

V I C T O R I A & VA N C O U V E R I S L A N D

Experience the precision of customized vision

Now With Victoria Locations!

Protecting your child now will decrease the potential for serious eye problems later in life. To help reduce UV radiation damage to your child’s eyes, consider the following: Be conscious of the daily UV index and the many sources of UV radiation, including direct sunlight and reflections from snow, water, sand and pavement.

Dr. Joslin, Dr. Morin & Associates Doctors of Optometry

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Langford: #105–814 Goldstream Ave 250-474-4567 www.langfordoptometrists.com Sooke: #5–6726 West Coast Rd 250-642-4311 www.sookeoptometrists.com

New Patients Welcome

Have your child wear sun protection, such as sunglasses and a widebrimmed hat or baseball cap, when outdoors. Teach your children to never look directly into or stare at the sun. Keep children out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. Keep children younger than six months out of direct sunlight. Use a canopy or umbrella as a sun-shield when outdoors.

Parksville’s Premiere Event on the Beach! COMPETITION: July 15 - 17 GATES OPEN: July 15 at 2pm EXHIBITION: July 18 to August 21 Open 9am until 9pm

Quality Foods FOR MORE INFORMATION:

parksvillebeachfest.ca us on Facebook!

FIREWORKS DISPLAY Saturday August 13, 2016

July 15 August 21, 2016

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Summer 2016â&#x20AC;&#x192; 1

2016

Family Summer Guide

VICTORIA

VE & VA N C O U

R ISLAND

Please visit any of our valued partners to pick up your latest copy of Island Parent. GReAteR vIctoRIA Greater Victoria Public Libraries Vancouver Island Regional Libraries Greater Victoria Recreation Centres Thrifty Foods All 25 Serious Coffee locations Island-wide Victoria Gymnastics Country Grocer Chapters Vitamin Shop The Bay Centre (info booth) Scallywags Royal BC Museum Buddies Toys Crumsby’s Market on Yates Market on Millstream Victoria Conservatory JamTots Lifestyle Market Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre

DUncAn Duncan Mall (centre court) Indigo Red Balloon Cowichan Recreation Centre Cowichan Aquatics Centre Kinderbeez Duncan Tourist Information cHeMAInUS Chemainus Theatre SHAWnIGAn LAKe Community Centre LADySMItH Ladysmith Recreation Centre nAnAIMo Nanaimo Aquatic Centre Quality Foods Country Club Mall Regional Library – Boban Fairway Market Island Natural Health Foods Woodgrove Centre

For a complete list of where you can find a copy of Island Parent Magazine, go to

islandparent.ca 250-388-6905 2

Family Summer Guide

Contents Welcome ...........................................................................................3 Green on the Road ............................................................................4 Hit the Trails .....................................................................................6 Explore a Park .................................................................................12 Mammoth Madness ........................................................................14 Adventurous Family Attractions ......................................................16 Beachcombing for Sea Glass ............................................................20 Must-See Attractions .......................................................................22 Cycle Camping with Kids................................................................26 Fort Rodd Summer Fun ..................................................................28 From Disaster to Discover ...............................................................30 Summer Calendar of Events ............................................................32 10 Fun Things to Do in Nanaimo ...................................................48 Wildlife Webcams for Fun or Learning ............................................50 Under the Sea ..................................................................................53 Party Directory ................................................................................54 What I Miss About the West Coast..................................................56 Quench Your Thirst .........................................................................58 Captivating Critters .........................................................................60 Family Getaways .............................................................................62 Details, Details ................................................................................64

Family Summer Guide 2016 A special annual edition of Island Parent magazine. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. Published by Island Parent Group, 830-A Pembroke St, Victoria, BC V8T 1H9; Tel 250-388-6905; islandparent.ca Publisher/Owner: mark Warner Editor: Sue Fast Sales & Marketing: RaeLeigh Buchanan Publisher’s Assistant & Sales: Linda Frear Distribution: Ray Cutts, Ted Dawe (Mid-Island) Founders: Jim Holland & Selinde krayenhoff Production: Eacrett Graphic Design Printed at Black Press, Victoria Cover printed at Hillside Printing ISSN 0838-5505

Cover photos for this issue were provided by the winners of our annual summer photo contest: Serena Beck, (grand prize winner), Ruth Dantzer, Nadja Freund, Wendy Furlan-Morgan, Lena Gronier, Michelle Hohertz, Debra Setter. Thank you all for your submissions!

IslandParent.ca

Welcome to the

Family Summer Guide 2016

ying on a towel in the warm sand at the beach listening to the waves lap gently on the shore. Having seaweed fights. Building sand castles. Floating. Fruit trees and blackberry bushes spilling over a neighbour’s fence. Sprinklers. Squirt guns. Water fights. Bare feet. No school. No homework. No baths. Camping. Road trips. Visits from relatives and friends. Longer days. A neighbourhood game of Kick the Can. An evening round of Flashlight Tag. The sound of children’s laughter in the neighbourhood as the sun begins to set. Being allowed to stay up. Sleeping outside. The gigantic sky. Wishing on stars. Think of your happiest childhood memories.

Chances are they include the lazy days of summer when the most pressing matter was catching the ice cream truck before it drove by. Remember lying on the grass and watching the clouds drift across the sky, rounding up a friend or two to help run a lemonade stand, building a fort in the backyard? These pursuits, though simple and seemingly insignificant, are what memories are made of. And so many arise when there’s seemingly “nothing to do.” While it can be tempting to try to pack a week’s worth of summer to-do’s into one day, it’s worthwhile to slow down—even stop— and let the summer proceed at its own pace. This summer, with Vancouver Island as the backdrop, take time to enjoy the scenery and warm weather with your family. Climb a tree in one of the Island’s 130 provincial parks, float on an inner tube down an Island river, or jump through a sprinkler in your backyard.

No matter what you have planned this summer—or what just happens—we hope this year’s Family Summer Guide helps you have the best summer ever. Within these pages you’ll find information on everything from how to stay Green on the Road, Wildlife Webcams for Fun and Learning, Cycle Camping with Kids, Beachcombing for Sea Glass, books that lead readers From Disaster to Discovery, to numerous Vancouver Island activities and attractions, places to stay and explore, walking trails suited to families, places to visit animals, Mammoth Madness, how to best quench your summer thirst and much more. Check out Details, Details on the last page to find out specifics about parks, weather, ferry travel, road conditions, and tourist information. The Summer Calendar highlights what’s happening on the Island in July and August. Just remember to factor in enough time to relax and enjoy each other’s company and our beautiful surroundings. Happy Summer.

! T N E M O M E H T EMBRACE ! R E C R E B S U O V LAISSEZ-

Plan your adventure today. Planifiez votre aventure dès aujourd’hui.

1-888-773-8888

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Summer 2016 3

Bleiddyn Bellis, Artistic Director Fellow and Examiner CSC-CICB Enrico Cecchetti Final Diploma

Rachel Dunstan Muller

Green on the Road

chool’s out, the days are warm and long, and for many of us the road beckons. It’s tempting to leave behind some of our regular routines as we set out on vacation, but we don’t have to abandon our commitment to Earth-friendly living. Here are some ideas to help keep your family’s footprint light as you enjoy a great summer holiday.

Plan a local vacation.

USE PROMO CODE SUMMER16 FOR A 50% DISCOUNT ON ½ DAY SUMMER CAMPS!

The closer to home you stay, the smaller your transportation footprint will be—but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice new experiences or adventures. There are all kinds of exciting things to do and see on our beautiful Island. In fact, you may be surprised to

and unofficial trails in your area, try asking for suggestions on Facebook. If you want to venture a little further afield but still remain on the Island, you’ve got endless adventure possibilities to choose from. You can tube down the Cowichan River (cowichanriver. com), take a guided or self-guided tour of the

discover how much unexplored territory waits within a 10 km radius of your own backyard. My family committed ourselves to a two-week 10 km vacation challenge last summer, and we weren’t bored for a moment. We discovered new trails and beaches, a few out-of-the-way playgrounds, and some choice spots to launch our canoe. We visited some new eateries and checked out some free outdoor entertainment. Your local Tourist Information Centre will have some great staycation ideas, but for insider tips to the best parks, public beach accesses

Horne Lake Caves (hornelake.com), cycle gorgeous sections of the Galloping Goose Trail and/or the Cowichan Valley Trail, backpack in Strathcona Park, swim at the Sooke Potholes, take a chairlift to the summit of Mt. Washington, visit the ancient trees of the CarmanahWalbran or Cathedral Grove, or beachcomb on the windswept west coast. This issue of the Family Summer Guide is packed with even more local summer fun ideas. If your family likes to hit the trail, check out one or more of the many Vancouver Island hiking books

(250) 590-6752

716 Johnson Street, Second Floor www.victoriaacademyofballet.ca

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4 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

available through both library systems for new destinations in your region. For online familyadventure inspiration, you can’t go wrong with a visit to either getonthebeatenpath.blogspot. ca or Islandnature.ca. If you plan on exploring any of the Island’s backcountry this summer, consider investing in a copy of the Vancouver Island Backroad Mapbook. It’s available at many gas stations and other local stores.

Prepare your vehicle. No matter how far you plan to travel, you can increase your gas mileage and reduce unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions by making sure that your vehicle is ready for the road. Check your tire pressure before you leave home, and make sure that each tire is inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications. Under-inflated tires have more rolling resistance, and will cost you gas mileage. Pack only what you’re sure you need to reduce the weight in your vehicle—summer is a great time to experiment with minimalism. If your family has more than one vehicle and you’re going on a day trip where cargo space isn’t important, consider taking the smaller, more efficient car. How fast you drive and how you use your brakes can have a huge impact on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. For detailed green driving tips, visit ecodrive. org before you hit the road.

vegetation or causing unnecessary soil erosion. Observe any fire restrictions. If fires are permitted this summer, use existing fire circles or pits, and keep the flames to a manageable size. Have water ready nearby to thoroughly extinguish the fire when you’re finished. Don’t burn plastics or other food packaging, which may contain harmful substances. Take recyclables home if recycling bins aren’t available at your campground. Keep your hygiene routine as simple as possible, especially if you’re camping in the backcountry. Even “eco-friendly” soaps should be avoided when washing or bathing in natural bodies of water. Bring biodegradable soap for washing dishes after meals, and keep dishwater at least 30 metres from streams, lakes, or the ocean.

Practice good backcountry etiquette when camping in nature. Take only pictures, and leave only footprints. Stay on marked trails to avoid harming native IslandParent.ca

July 2016 Schedule 975 Fort Street,Victoria | 250-595-4905

We have lots of classes, activities and support groups for Moms, Dads, Babies and Toddlers. All classes are drop-in. Come on down and try them out!

Sunday

Prenatal Yoga 10:30am

Monday Sing-a-Roo (by registration)10am Yoga for Labour & Birth 5:15pm

Tuesday Mobile Baby Group (9-18mos) 11:00am Mommy & Baby Strength & Stretch 1:00pm Prenatal Strength & Stretch 5:15pm

Wednesday

Older Baby Group (4-9mo) 1:00pm Prenatal Yoga 5:15pm

Practice green camping. Camping is one of the best ways to experience the great outdoors. If you don’t already have all the gear you need, consider borrowing, buying used, or renting a tent or other equipment instead of purchasing it new. In Victoria you can rent camping gear from Sports Rent on Government Street (sportsrentbc.com). If you’re in the mid-Island area, backpacking gear is available for rent from Alberni Outpost in Nanaimo (albernioutpost.com). Recreational vehicles can also be rented, if RV camping is more your style. Renting a camper is a far greener and cheaper option than buying one that will sit parked in your driveway most of the year. I googled “RV rentals Vancouver Island,” and found a dozen companies strung out from Victoria up to Comox. For a fee, many companies will deliver your rented RV to the campsite of your choice. If you rent an RV close to your destination, you will also save a significant amount of transportation emissions.

Yoga, Support and Fun!

Say no to excess waste. Individually-packaged food items are especially tempting when your family is on the road, but you’ll save considerable waste and money if you plan to avoid them. It doesn’t take much extra time to purchase snacks in bulk, and transfer them into smaller reusable containers. Don’t forget your water bottles, refillable travel mugs, and reusable cutlery. A good supply of washable bags and cloth napkins is also good to have on hand. For a stress-reduced camping adventure, consider pre-making and freezing some of your meals at home, and bringing them in your cooler. To replenish your food supplies, keep an eye out for farm stands and farmers markets while on the road. Look for locally-owned, sit-down restaurants when eating out to support local food production and to avoid take-out waste. With a little pre-planning, you can have a fabulous green Island holiday this summer. Rachel Dunstan Muller is the mother of five, and a children’s author. Her previous articles can be found at islandparent.ca.

Thursday

Toddler Yoga 10:15am Mom & Baby Yoga 11:30am New Baby Group (0-4mos) 1:00pm Prenatal yoga 5:15pm

Friday Prenatal Yoga 10:15am Sign and Sing 12:00pm Pregnancy Happy Hour 5:00pm Find more information on all of our classes and groups, on our website at www.motheringtouch.ca - bookmark it on your phone for quick access!

Do you know a Big-Sister or Big-Brother-to-be? Bring them to our Siblings Class on Friday July 22. Baby-focussed fun for the whole family! (more info on our website)

Summer 2016 5

Hit the Trails

Hiking and cycling trails, paths, walkways— a few of Vancouver Island’s many offerings

Lace up your hiking boots, grab your walking stick, a snack and a bottle of water, and head on out to enjoy the sights. The following listing includes some of our local trails and walkways—to find more in your area, visit crd.bc.ca/parks or vancouverisland.com/trails.

Helping your family find the perfect place to call home. Melissa Collins Your Family REALTOR®

250-510-2729 RE/MAX Duncan www.cowichanvalleyrealtor.ca

Greater Victoria

Sidney

Beacon Hill Park. This 74-hectare park near downtown Victoria offers trails meandering through meadows, gardens and trees, along with a petting zoo, an 18-hole putting green (bring your own clubs and balls), splash park and playground. Walk up to the lookout for views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and Washington’s Olympic Mountains. Stroll past the duck ponds, over a bridge, through beautiful gardens, and find what was once the world’s tallest free-standing totem pole. The Cameron Bandshell features a variety of free concerts during the summer (victoria.ca/cityvibe). beaconhillpark.ca. Galloping Goose Regional Trail. This 60-km partly paved trail (formerly a railway line) winds from Victoria to Sooke with access points along the way. Walk, run or cycle. Start in the heart of the city or drive out to a rural access point for more of a country experience. gallopinggoosetrail.com The 29-km Lochside Regional Trail starts in Saanich and ends at the ferry terminal in Swartz Bay. In some places trail visitors must share paved or gravel public roads with motor vehicles and farm vehicles. Trail maps and suggested access points/day trips are available online from the CRD website: crd.bc.ca/parks, then select “Find a Park.”

Sidney Spit Marine Park is a great destination for a day trip. Take the foot-passenger ferry from Sidney to Sidney Island (25 minutes). Explore the sandy spit at the northeast end or hike around the whole island. You’ll see tidal flats, salt marshes, rolling meadows and sandy beaches, not to mention various wildlife. Walkin camping is also available for those who want to stay longer. The ferry leaves from Sidney Pier at the bottom of Beacon Avenue. From June 27-Sept 5, the ferry leaves Sidney Marina at 10am, 11:30am, 2pm, or 4pm (5:30pm Friday and Saturday only), and returns from Sidney Spit at 10:30am, 1pm, 3pm or 4:30pm (6pm Friday and Saturday only). Group reservations available. For more information, visit alpinegroup.ca or call 250-474-5145.

Saanich Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary consists of two distinct areas: marshy lowlands surrounding Swan Lake; and the rocky, oak-forested highlands of Christmas Hill. The 12,000-year-old lake is a rich habitat for a variety of birds and wildlife including muskrats, river otters and mink. Circle the lake along a 2.5-km trail featuring two wharves and a floating walkway, then stop in at the Nature House to see interpretive displays and more. For more of a hike, the summit of Christmas Hill is 109 metres above sea level and gives a spectacular view of the city. Call 250-479-0211 or visit swanlake.bc.ca for info, to download a trail map or to check out the various programs for kids and families. 6 Family Summer Guide

Metchosin/Sooke Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park in Metchosin. More than 5 kms of beautiful trails run through woodland, past lagoon and marsh. Watch for birds as you meander down to the sandy beach. The warm water means you can actually swim in the ocean (that’s rare around here). Add a low tide and this beach becomes a paradise for skim boarders, beachcombers and swimmers alike. The Nature House at the trailhead has some great hands-on displays. Approximately 40 minutes from downtown Victoria, on Metchosin Road. crd.bc.ca/parks. Roche Cove Regional Park in East Sooke. Picnic at the protected cove after an easy walk from the parking area. Wander the 7 kms of trails through cedar forest and along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail. Hike along a cool creek or climb a mossy slope for hilltop views of Roche Cove and the Sooke Basin. Roche Cove is also a good access point for the Galloping Goose Trail. Head out on Sooke Road, turn left on Gillespie Road (just past the 17 Mile Pub), which leads to the park entrance on the left. Approximately 45 minutes driving time from Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks. East Sooke Regional Park offers 50 kms of trails along the windswept rocky coast, over dry hilltops, through dark rainforest to sheltered IslandParent.ca

coves. Find pocket beaches, grassy knolls, rocky bays and tidepools for exploring. Aylard Farm is popular with picnickers and those looking for an easy excursion. A 5-minute walk through open fields leads to a sandy beach. Trails head inland to hilltop views, or along the rugged, more challenging Coast Trail. From Sooke Road, turn left on Gillespie Road. Go to the end and turn left on East Sooke Road, then right on Becher Bay Road to reach the park entrance. Approximately one hour driving time from Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks.

I BELONG HERE, LOVING SUMMER

Along Highway 1 Francis King Regional Park is 113 hectares of lush forest and wildflowers with 11 kms of gentle groomed trails. The Elsie King Trail is a forest loop of cedar boardwalk (wheelchair and stroller accessible) that includes interpretive signs and rest areas with benches and a shelter. Visit the staffed Nature House for some interesting displays. Located on Munn Road, off Prospect Lake Road, 13 kms out of downtown Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks. Thetis Lake. Go for a hike on the scenic trails hugging Upper and Lower Thetis lakes. For panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding hills, follow the more challenging trails up Seymour or Scafe hills. Help protect this sensitive habitat by staying on designated trails and keeping pets on the trail. The beach area of Thetis Lake is perfect for a family picnic or swim, although it tends to be crowded in the summer. If you have a canoe, try an early morning or evening paddle. From the Old Island Highway, turn right on Six Mile Road which leads to the park entrance. Pay parking: $2.25 for the day or $20 for the season. crd. bc.ca/parks. Goldstream Provincial Park. Take a trip into the old-growth temperate rainforest, just 17 kms from downtown Victoria. Douglas fir, giant maples and Western red cedars make this park a local favourite. Goldstream offers year-round activities with its riverside trails, salmon spawning, wildflowers, ferns and lush vegetation. Visit the Nature House or look for one of the old mine shafts from the late 1800s when miners panned for gold. 250-478-9414 or naturehouse.ca.

Cowichan Valley Cowichan River Footpath. The lower stretch of the footpath, from the Cowichan Fish and Game Association clubhouse to Skutz Falls, is a well-maintained trail, beautiful at any time of the year, with many excellent picnicking spots. To access the Duncan trailhead, drive north from Victoria on the Trans-Canada Highway (#1) to Duncan. Turn left at Miller IslandParent.ca

Summer is for Swimming ...

and Saanich Parks and Recreation has everything to help you beat the heat! Commonwealth Place Features: • Wave Pool with Pirate Ship • Giant Waterslide • Rope Swings • The "Wibit" floating water-playground • Tot Pool

Gordon Head Features:

• Rock climbing wall • The "H-Zillerator" - Floating adventure platform • Tot Pool

Beckwith Park

• Cool off at our FREE outdoor spray park! Cedar Hill Recreation Centre G. R. Pearkes Recreation Centre Gordon Head Recreation Centre Saanich Commonwealth Place

250-475-7121 250-475-5400 250-475-7100 250-475-7600

Details at saanich.ca/parkrec Summer 2016 7

Road and left again at Vaux Road. Follow Vaux (which changes its name to Robertson Road) for approx 6 kms to the Fish and Game Clubhouse parking lot. There is a 2.4-km circle route to Holt Creek and a 6.4-km circle route with good picnic spots. Maps for the footpath can be picked up at the Duncan Visitor Information Centre.

Cedar

Join us this summer for inspiring art classes and camps in the AGGV Art Studio! Connect with cool new ideas, techniques and experiment with the creative process. Classes are for a wide range of ages and inspired by Gallery exhibitions featuring; Trans-Pacific Transmissions: Video Art Across the Pacific.

REGISTER TODAY AT: aggv.ca/art-studio | 250.384.4171 or in person at 1040 Moss Street For more information about art classes and camps, contact: jvandepol@aggv.ca aggv.ca

Ho Tam (Canada) | Dos Cartas/Two Letters (1999) | video still | Courtesy of the artist.

AG860_Family Sunday_Focus_Ad.indd 1

2016-06-15 2:42 PM

Oak & Orca Bioregional School

Wilderness Skills in the City Day Camp July 11- July 22

Hands-On Home-Learning

High School At Home

Ungraded K-12 School

Pre-primary School

2738 Higgins Street (Cook & Hillside) 250-383-6609

OakandOrca.ca

8 Family Summer Guide

Hemer Provincial Park is located on Holden Lake southeast of Nanaimo. There is a network of shady forested trails, including a main trail running alongside the lake, and a bird viewing platform overlooking a marsh, approximately 1 km from the parking lot. You may see various types of ducks, Trumpeter swans, Bald eagles, turkey vultures and beavers. From Cedar Road follow the signs to the park entrance. Cable Bay Trail leads down through the cool forest to the ocean. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the mossy rocks, and watch for sea lions. The beach itself is sandstone and is under water when the tide is in. Two kms of well-maintained trail is fairly steep on the way back up, so make sure young hikers don’t use up all their energy at the shore. Off Holden Corso Road (which becomes Barnes Road); watch for the sign. This is a popular trail for dog walkers, but it doesn’t tend to be crowded.

Nanaimo Buttertubs Marsh Bird Sanctuary encompasses 49 acres of natural wetlands and grasslands. The 3.3-km loop of wide trail is level and perfect for strollers. You’ll make your way around a body of water buzzing with bird activity. Some ruins in the area, as well as the giant bleached remains of long-dead deciduous trees standing in the water give the marsh a wonderful ambience. No dogs allowed. 1780 Jingle Pot Road. Pipers Lagoon Park past Departure Bay off Hammond Bay Road is a great place to walk, beachcomb, fly a kite or have a picnic. An isthmus extends out to a rocky headland, and twisting trails lead to seaside lookouts. Spread your blanket on the sandy beach or play Frisbee or Bocce on the field. The lagoon is home to a variety of seabirds, including sandpipers, loons, kingfishers, oyster catchers, horned grebes and great blue herons. Neck Point Park is a short distance past Pipers Lagoon. This oceanside park includes forest, beaches, rocky cliffs and lookouts. Explore the various trails criss-crossing the park, watch the boats on the ocean, do some beachcombing, and just enjoy the sea breezes and sparkling water. Go along Hammond Bay IslandParent.ca

S T A G E S Su m mer Pro g ra ms 2016

Road, past the turn-off to Pipers Lagoon, then turn onto Morningside Drive to access the park.

Oceanside The Top Bridge Trail in Parksville links Rathtrevor Beach with Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park on the scenic Englishman River. The trail winds through public and private property, with a number of access points (a local favourite is at Industrial Way and Tuan Road). Enter from the Chattell Road trailhead and you’ll be at the suspension bridge over the river. The Information Centre at the south end of town will provide directions.

36th A n nual

Da nce I ntensive

Aug ust 22 nd - September2 nd

Part-day program for dancers 10 years old & up

in Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop & Acrobatics

Craig’s Crossing (Parksville) to Long Beach

IslandParent.ca

Plus

Week-long, part day

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

A nd

Week-long, morning

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

Little Dancers Classes are running through the summer for those 18 months to 3 years old

photos by D Haggart

Cathedral Grove-MacMillan Park is a dayuse park just past Cameron Lake on Highway 4. View some of the largest and oldest trees on Vancouver Island, including over-800-year-old giants and lush vegetation on the interpretive trail system that winds through the park. Cathedral Grove is approximately 20 minutes from Parksville. Stamp Falls Provincial Park near Port Alberni is over 327 hectares of forests, rivers and waterfalls. Explore the 2 kms of hiking trails along the river, past fish ladders and crashing waterfalls. Starting in late August, spawning Sockeye salmon begin making their way up the Stamp River. The park is a 20-minute drive from town on Beaver Creek Road. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The stretch of Pacific Rim National Park between Ucluelet and Tofino boasts magnificent beaches and dramatic seascapes (and many tourists!). Check in with the Tourist Information Centre at the Ucluelet-Tofino-Port Alberni Junction to find out about trails, beaches, eateries and activities. And to pay the national park fee ($19.60 per family). pc.gc.ca The Wild Pacific Trail in Pacific Rim Park. Follow the cliff-edges along the extreme outer coast, including the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse site. You’ll be able to view the ocean’s fury from the protection of the trail and from viewing platforms situated at the best headlands along the route. You’ll also be awed by the gigantic nurse-logs, raised root systems, mosses, fungi, lichens and ferns. The trail is presently divided into three sections: Lighthouse Loop, Big Beach and Brown’s Beach. Lighthouse Loop, 2.5 kms long, can be walked in a 30-45 minute loop using the adjoining He-Tin-Kis Park boardwalk. The trail includes frequent viewpoints and benches for watching whales, birds or catching the sunset. wildpacifictrail.com for maps and descriptions of the various sections.

Come Da nce With Us

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

Summer is almost here! REGISTER TODAY FOR: Leadership Programs Summer Sleepover Camps Summer Day Camps CampPringle.com • 250-743-2189 • registrar@camppringle.com Summer 2016 9

Hand Shaken

June 27 - Sept 4 Serious Coﬀee locations can be found throughout Vancouver Island and in Powell River �o �nd one near �ou go to� seriouscoﬀee�co�

Comox Valley Paradise Meadows Loop Trail at Mount Washington starts adjacent to the Raven Lodge, 800 metres past the old trailhead area. A 1 km trail connects into the old trail system after winding its way around meadows. The Loop Trail is an easy walk of about 4.2 kms in length (1.5 hours) through sub-alpine meadows, and is suitable for all ages. You may catch glimpses of deer, black bears, eagles and marmots. You can also take a chairlift ride to the summit where you’ll see breathtaking mountain and ocean views. Other summer activities on the mountain include biking, disc golf, bungee trampoline, guided hiking tours, mini golf and more. Lake Helen McKenzie Loop trail also begins at the Paradise Meadows trailhead in Strathcona Park. It is an easy 8-km (2-hour) walk on a boardwalk that takes you past Battleship Lake and sub-alpine meadows, and around beautiful Lake Helen McKenzie. The trail is well marked with some views of the mountain peaks through the alpine forest. If you’re eating a picnic lunch, make sure to protect your food from the gray jaybirds. discovermountwashington.com Lazo Marsh & Wildlife Park in the Courtenay area is a shallow wetland basin of cattail and yellow flag iris. Mallards, wigeons, wood ducks and Canada geese commonly nest here. Enjoy the forested trails through mixed woodlands and surrounding marsh. Parking and access from Lazo Road. On the north side is an easy stroller-friendly hike; the southside trails go deeper into the woods and marsh conservation area. Filberg Park includes many paths overlooking Comox Bay. Established in 1929, the old farmstead covers over 9 acres with over 100 different trees, perennials, annuals, herb gardens and rhododendrons.The site also offers a historic lodge, picnic areas and a petting zoo. Access from Comox Avenue.

Campbell River

COMPREHENSIVE FAMILY DENTISTRY family centered practice extended hours evenings and weekends the latest equipment and caring staff request an appointment online

saanichdentalgroup.com 119–1591 McKenzie Ave, Victoria

250 477 7321

Ripple Rock Trail is a good hike for families (although not recommended for small children), 15.5 kms north of Campbell River, just off the Island Highway (it’s well-signed). The trail is 8 kms long and includes two patches of old-growth Douglas-fir and Sitka spruce, a sandy beach and good viewpoints. Have a picnic lunch at the top of the bluff overlooking Seymour Narrows. Easy to moderate trail with a steep section.•

info@saanichdentalgroup.com

Victoria’s favourite dentists believe a healthy smile starts early. Free first visit for children under 5.

Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

LEARN. MOVE. ACHIEVE. and have

FUN!

AGES 3 – 18 Camps are available at many locations, including PISE.

SUMMER

CAMPS summercamps.piseworld.com

4371 Interurban Rd. IslandParent.ca

250.220.2510

summercamps@piseworld.com Summer 2016 11

Explore a Park No summer is complete without experiencing Canada’s natural spaces. Whether you have an afternoon or several days, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve has you covered with fun events for the whole family happening all summer!

Barnyard & trail rides Visit the Barnyard

Milk a goat, collect the eggs, count the chicks. Free pony ride with admission. Open Daily 10am–4pm

relax on a trail ride

Ride for 1/2 an hour or more through beautiful forests. Reservations recommended. Open Year round Dawn to Dusk.

Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney, B.C. Starting June 25, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve will be working with the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea (formerly the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre) to introduce families to the park and its ecosystems. Orca News, a long-time fan-favourite interpretive program on Saturna Island will be adapted for the Shaw Centre, perfect for orca lovers who want to learn more about the southern resident killer whales that swim in nearby waters. Gulf Islands National Park Reserve summer student interpreters will deliver two other interactive programs. The first is on the sand dune ecosystem found on Sidney Spit,

Located between Parksville & Coombs at

1692 Errington Rd Ph 250-248-2408

S’Mores and More at McDonald Campground in Sidney, B.C. Share the magic of a traditional Canadian campfire with your family. Drop by McDonald Campground on Saturdays at 7pm in July and August for songs, park stories, and of course, delicious campfire food. Bring a flashlight and a mug for hot chocolate. Ideal for families with children 12 and under. Note: we’ll gather around a propane fire if there’s a fire ban. Please park at the adjacent Blue Heron Park and follow the signs to the campground. Meet at the group campfire ring. Sunset Wildlife Watch at East Point, Saturna Island, B.C. Discover the wildlife of the Salish Sea and

www.tigerlilyfarm.ca

Performing Arts School since 1980

ch o o l S e r P r e S umm C l a s spe s & s p m a du Da n c e C onths an for ages

18 m

Even the littlest angel can dance For more information call 250-384-3267 or email us at stagesdance@shaw.ca or visit us at www.stagesdance.com 12

Family Summer Guide

which highlights conservation efforts and removal of invasive species like European beach grass and scotch broom. Kids will learn to spot the small and rare species that live here and how to keep the ecosystem healthy. The second is on a partnership between the park reserve and local First Nations to restore clam gardens—cultivated beaches that serve as a food pantry for the Coast Salish. Visitors will get to see and touch the model of clam gardens, and learn about the cultural importance of those beaches.

relax into the peacefulness of an East Point sunset. Dress warmly and bring blankets, chairs and flashlights. Enjoy the talents of island musicians and storytellers. Meet out at the Point (a five-minute walk), Fridays, July 8-August 26, 8-9pm. Orca News at East Point, Saturna Island If you’re eager to see an orca, East Point on Saturna Island is one of the best land-based destinations to do so. Drop by any Saturday in July and August from 2-2:30pm for a short engaging update on how the endangered southern resident killer whales are doing. Bring a blanket or a chair. IslandParent.ca

Drop-in Family Sundays in Winter Cove, Saturna Island, B.C. Dissect a real owl pellet. Make a nature craft. Bring along a camera or phone for a selfguided GPS Nature Photographer Adventure

(GPS devices supplied). There’s something for everyone, so drop-in anytime and don’t forget a picnic. Allow one hour to complete an adventure.

Make friends from around the world Build confidence and learn new skills Spend 14 amazing days on the lake

Ask about our special rate for BC residents! Sessions held at Dwight School Canada 2371 Shawnigan Lake Rd | dwightcanada.org

Can’t choose between all these activities? Do all three! Make it a family weekend getaway and check out Narvaez Bay Campground on Saturna Island. This peaceful backcountry camping oasis has easy walk-in access to waterfront campsites. Don’t forget an Xplorers booklet for kid-friendly park activities and cool facts. For more information on the park reserve and special events, visit pc.gc.ca/gulfislands IslandParent.ca

Summer Fun!

Night Illuminations Firework Saturdays Rose Carousel Boat Tours Family Discovery Walk

butchartgardens.com 250.652.5256

Summer 2016

Community Mammoth Madness! Board Making our Community a Better Place to Live

1Up Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre 1-up.ca Art Gallery of Greater Victoria aggv.ca Camp Pringle CampPringle.com

Step back in time at the Royal BC Museum’s summer feature exhibition, Mammoths: Giants of the Ice Age. Walk among life-sized models of mammoths, short-faced bears and sabre-toothed cats. Experience what our ancestors might have felt looking up (way up!) at these colossal creatures, some as tall as 14 feet and as heavy as eight tons. Discover ancient cave drawings and find out why our ancestors both hunted and honoured these majestic animals. Joust with mini-mammoth tusks, touch massive mastodon teeth, and enjoy immersive multi-media in this family-friendly exhibition presented in partnership with the Field Museum from Chicago. Discover how mammoths evolved and behaved, the ecosystem they lived in, the differences between mammoths and mastodons,

complete understanding to date of life in B.C. during the Ice Age. Register 7-11 year olds for Camp Mammoth, a full day camp that explores the feature exhibition and the collection areas. Kids can build mini-dioramas and dig for fossils. New this year are Mammoth Mornings camps and the Living Sustainably—Then and Now camp. Kids aged 5-6 can roam the museum at Mammoth Mornings. Living Sustainably— Then and Now Camp 2016 takes place both at the museum and at O.U.R. Ecovillage in Shawnigan Lake. The camp will be a fun and adventurous way to think of solutions to live a more sustainable life. Secure your spot early; last year’s summer camps sold out. Details and registration at royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/camps. If you could have prevented the extinction of

and the mystery of their extinction. Learn what we can do to save their cousins, elephants, from the same fate. Meet Lyuba, a baby woolly mammoth who is over 40,000 years old. This is the first time the world’s best preserved mammoth is on display in Canada. Discovered in the frozen soil of the Arctic by a Siberian reindeer herder in 2007, Lyuba has revealed new information about how these Ice Age creatures lived. When this continent was connected to Siberia by the Bering Land Bridge, mammoths just like Lyuba would have been found all over British Columbia. See the major update to the entrance of RBCM’s Natural History gallery, home of the iconic Woolly Mammoth. Hands-on, interactive displays showing the latest scientific and archeological discoveries reveal our most

mammoths, would you have done something? Here in B.C. there are many plants and animals that are at risk of becoming extinct unless we take action. RBCM’s summer travelling exhibition, Species at Risk, uses hands-on exhibits to tell the story of the diversity of life here in B.C. that needs protecting. Catch the exhibit around Victoria in June and help send it on its journey from in front of the Legislature on Canada Day (July 1) from 1-3pm. Species at Risk will visit regional museums and community hubs. See the schedule at royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/speciesatrisk

Child Care Resource & Referral childcarevictoria.ca Farm Fresh islandfarmfresh.com Kaleidoscope Theatre kaleidoscope.bc.ca Photo: Royal BC Museum

Phoenix Theatre phoenixtheatres.ca Royal BC Museum royalbcmuseum.bc.ca Silver Threads Service silverthreads.ca Victoria Children’s Choir victoriachildrenschoir.ca Victoria Conservatory of Music vcm.bc.ca Enquire about non-profit brochure or magazine distribution in Greater Victoria:

publisher@islandparent.ca 14 Family Summer Guide

Mammoths: Giants of the Ice Age is on at the Royal BC Museum until December 31. Tickets are available in advance, online or at the Royal BC Museum Box Office. For more information visit Learn more at royalbcmuseum. bc.ca/mammoths or call 1-888-447-7977. IslandParent.ca

& MINI GOLF www.citycentrepark.ca DISCOVER THE FUN AND COME CELEBRATE WITH US!

Cosmic Bo every wling Friday , Saturd a Sunda y and y afte 7pm! r

LANGFORD’S #1 PARTY DESTINATION

There is always something exciting happening at City Centre Park. Register online at kidsbowlfree.com for FREE Bowling at Langford Lanes all summer long. Splash Park is the place to beat the heat. It is FREE for Langford residents or just $3 per child for non residents. Play an exciting round of Mini Golf in a Gold Mine, Pirate’s Cove, and Jungle. Join us for Roller Blading on the Dry Floor. Last but not least, Playzone is the all in one fun zone for kids including; Arcade Games, Toddler Zone, and a huge Gold Mine Jungle Gym Structure. Plan your party with us! Check out citycentrepark.ca for options.

1089 LANGFORD PARKWAY 250.391.1738 | INFO@CITYCENTREPARK.CA * PLAYZONE * BOWLING * MINI GOLF * SKATING * INFLATABLES * SPLASH PARK * PARTY ROOMS *

• • • • • • • • Supported by

Ball Hockey Basketball Cheer Climbing Dance Girl Power Ice Hockey Mini Vikes (full & half day) • Multi-Sport • Racquet Sports

• • • • • • • • • •

Soccer Speed & Agility Swimming Squash Tennis Track & Field Vikes Summer Fun Vikes Adventurers Volleyball Youth Leadership Development

Summer 2016 15

Adventurous

Family

dventures, like families, come in all shapes, sizes and varieties.

Attractions

Whether you have toddlers, tots, tikes, ’tweens or teens, there’s lots to keep everyone busy and having fun this summer. From one end of Vancouver Island to the other—and every place in between—adventure and discovery await. Whatever your family’s favourite adventure, finding fun and excitement this summer is easy. For proof—and ideas—read on…

149 Saanich Fair th

$13 for Adults/$8 for Seniors and Youth FREE for kids 6 and under/Midway - Ride all day for $40 Gates 8am-9pm/NO Dogs, Drugs or Alcohol 1528 Stellys Cross Road, Saanichton, BC www.saanichfair.ca

, 2016 Presented by NORTH & SOUTH SAANICH AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY WESTERN CANADA’S OLDEST CONTINUOUS AGRICULTURAL FAIR

Mammoths: Titans of the Ice Age

IMAX® Victoria has installed state-of-the art technology for an experience so real you’ll forget you’re in a theatre. Home to one of the very few IMAX 4K laser projection systems in the world, IMAX Victoria delivers a visual experience that will take your breath away, immersed by a surround sound system so precise you can hear a pin drop from across the room—and know exactly where it fell. Stop in, and transport the family into space, looking back at planet Earth or into the dawn of time with creatures so immense only the IMAX screen could contain them, hike, bike and climb in beautiful parks or spend the evening immersed in a Hollywood feature film. Whatever you choose to see, you know it will be an adventure. Shows play hourly throughout the day with full-length feature films in the evening. Concession and National Geographic Gift Store on site. IMAX Victoria In the Royal BC Museum 675 Belleville Street imaxvictoria.com 250-480-4887

Living in the Age of Airplanes

Get into the waves and on to the Wibit! Victoria’s only wave pool with a 10m waterslide, diving boards, Wibit inflatable, rope swing and loads of fun! Enjoy 4 ozone treated pools, steamroom, sauna and swirlpool. Family changerooms and family rate of just $13. Birthday party packages, library, café and free parking. This world class facility is a ‘must-visit’ for out of town guests! 4636 Elk Lake Drive saanichrec.ca 24 hour info: 250-475-7620

The North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre provides a wildlife experience for the whole family! Learn about and see Vancouver Island wildlife such as bears, eagles, hawks, ravens and owls while strolling through the beautifully landscaped grounds. The North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre’s mission is “to care for ill, injured and orphaned wildlife and to educate the public on wildlife issues.” For the 2016 Season, open from 9am to 5pm daily from Spring Break to December 21st. Live Raptor Presentations Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 1:30pm (July and August). Present this ad (Original from Island Parent Magazine) for $1 off admission each member of the family. Expires Dec. 21, 2016.

Meet hawks, owls, falcons, vultures and eagles as they fly around and above you during an exciting flying demonstration! Learn all about birds of prey and their roles in our environment. Get up close and personal with these amazing birds with a hands-on encounter, offered daily! Demonstrations daily at 11:30, 1:30 and 3:30. 1877 Herd Road, Duncan the-raptors.com 250-746-0372

1240 Leffler Road, Errington 250-248-8534 www.niwra.org

North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre

ACTIVITY GUIDE

Serving the communities of

• JUAN DE FUCA ELECTORAL AREA COLWOOD • HIGHLANDS

• VIEW ROYAL • LANGFORD • METCHOSIN

MAY – AUGUST 2016

SUMMER CAMPS

Preschool Page 30 School Age Page 36 Teen Page 45

Welcome to the amazing world of insects and arachnids! Discover roughly 50 species of giant walking sticks, alien-eyed praying mantis, huge horned beetles, glow-in-the-dark scorpions, hairy tarantulas, and Canada’s largest captive leafcutter ant colony. Our animals are live and you get to hold them in a safe and fun environment! Open daily. Located in downtown Victoria, one block north of the Empress Hotel. 631 Courtney Street 250-384-BUGS (2847) victoriabugzoo.ca

REGISTRATION BEGIN th

April 7 at 6:00 AM n

Facebook/westshorerecreatio

Twitter @wsrecreation

www.westshorerecreation.ca

Welcome to West Shore Parks & Recreation, a perfect place to play. Campers of all ages will have a blast with awesome leaders in our daily and weekly summer camps. We also offer free playground programs for school-aged children, so be sure to check out Neighbourhood Nights and Story Walk Wednesdays in a West Shore park near you. We are open daily for drop-in swimming and Saturdays in July and August for public skating. Find us in Colwood – 1767 Island Highway 250-478-8384 westshorerecreation.ca

From alpacas to miniature goats, tropical birds and miniature pigs, we have all kinds of fuzzy, furry, feathered creatures, including a goat petting area and the famous goat stampedes. The farm is open seasonally. Please call us for dates and hours. Don’t forget your camera! Circle Drive, Beacon Hill Park 250-381-2532 beaconhillchildrensfarm.ca bhcfvictoria@gmail.com

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites March or run; spy or signal your position; climb or go underground at Fort Rodd Hill, a 100-year-old coast artillery fort. Then steer a ship; sound the fog horn; master the games inside Fisgard, the oldest lighthouse on the west coast. Participate in spectacular special events planned for the summer, pick-up an Xplorer activity book and stay overnight in one of our new oTENTik tents. These special places, only 15 minutes west of downtown Victoria, are so cool. $9.80/family; children under 5 are free. 250-478-5849 pc.gc.ca/fortroddhill Facebook.com/FortRoddFisgardNHS Twitter.com/FortRoddFisgard

Ride the Cave Slide!

Dirt Bike Rides at Westshore Motocross Park. Rentals, lessons and parties for all ages. No experience necessary. 2207 Millstream Road, Langford 250-590-8088 westshoremx.com Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park is a natural jewel and one of the coolest family adventures on Vancouver Island. This park offers outstanding natural experiences both above and below ground. Start with a video in Canada’s only Cave Theater and then hike the Fossil Trail to the cave entrances. Looking for more challenge? Explore the crystal-filled caverns with guided tours ranging from pretty mild to very wild. There are also two smaller caves you can explore on your own. Guided tours depart every half-hour from 9am–5pm in summer months but best to reserve ahead. Prefer your adventures above-ground? Play Spiderman on a rock rappelling session designed to teach beginners. Lakefront camping and canoe rentals are also available within walking distance. hornelake.com 1-888-877-2267

Serena Beck

Beachcombing

for

Sea Glass PIANO! Learn ! Piano! LEARN PIANO! !

FUN SEASONAL PRIZES!

EXIBLE

CHING

VIC

WITH MARY ROGERS! BMus (Piano Performance) UBC, ARCT and BCRMT FUN SEASONAL PRIZES!

WITH MARY ROGERS! BMus (Piano Performance) UBC, ARCT and BCRMT

LESSONS FOR

ALL, BEGINNER TO ADVANCED!

• ENTHUSIASTIC, FLEXIBLE

• Enthusiastic, 250-744-9049! mrogersmusicstudio@shaw.ca! Flexible Lessons EXCELLENCE! LESSONS!

MARY ROGERS PIANO STUDIO!

• 30+ YEARS OF TEACHING

• STUDIO NEAR UVIC • 30+ Years of Teaching Experience

• Studio Near UVic

MARY ROGERS PIANO STUDIO!

250-744-9049!

mrogersmusicstudio@shaw.ca!

20 Family Summer Guide

sparkly glint catches our eyes. My daughter picks up a mauve triangle piece of sea glass. This is our first piece of mauve for our collection. We are both excited and continue our beachcombing expedition. This might be the only piece of sea glass that we find today, which makes it even more special. While beachcombing, along with sea glass, we’ve found a rubber duck (an exciting find since I collect rubber ducks), marbles, toy cars, spoons and pieces of tile and pottery. During an expedition on Pender Island, I thought I was fishing out a piece of blue and white garbage from the ocean but it turned out to be a treasure—a piece of blue and white Japanese print ceramic and it was the only piece on the beach. You can find sea glass on almost any beach. However, the conditions and history of the beach can affect the amount of sea glass available. If there used to be a garbage dump nearby or glass was disposed of in the ocean, this could create a continuous supply of glass washing ashore. A rocky shore can act as a great polishing machine for sea glass. I find that it’s easier to see sea glass on a cloudy day and without wearing sunglasses. After a storm, I like to beachcomb at low tide and see what treasures have been churned up.

IslandParent.ca

3 Great Vancouver Island Sea Glass Beaches:

1 2 3

bottles as well as pieces of the neck of a bottle. We’ve also found pieces that contain a few letters to help solve the history mystery. Pure

• Glass Beach in Sidney: The main waterfront beach between Sidney Pier and the Pier Bistro restaurant. On the tiny beach below the scuba diver statue, we have found many pieces of green, white and brown sea glass and pottery. • On Dallas Road near Mile 0 (48°24'29.2"N 123°22'04.3"W): Follow the stairs down and then walk up the large rock on the left side of the beach. Here we’ve found large pieces of blue sea glass.

Serena Beck works full time as a technical writer and enjoys writing magazine articles. She also loves beachcombing with her husband and 3 children aged 5, 3 and 1.

• Saxe Point Park in Esquimalt (at the north end): Follow the path along the waterfront and then take the stairs down to a small beach. We’ve found many tiny pieces of blue and green sea glass. Digging below the surface can often yield tiny rare coloured pieces of sea glass. It is fun to imagine what bottle or bowl or plate each shard came from and how old it is. We have found circular bottoms of clear and green

IslandParent.ca

for deciphering the age of a piece of sea glass (based on its colour, words, or visible letters). LaMotte’s book also predicts the probability of the colours of sea glass you’ll find. The most common colours are white, brown, and green. The rarest colours are orange, red, yellow, turquoise, black, teal and grey. Pink and purple are also considered rare colours—which makes our traingular piece of mauve sea glass as much of a treasure as we first thought!

Resources:

Sea Glass: Discovering Nature’s Vanishing Gems by Richard LaMotte contains a history of glass bottles. This book also contains many clues

• Pure Sea Glass Discovering Nature’s Vanishing Gems by Richard LaMotte, • Secret Beaches of Greater Victoria View Royal to Sidney by Theo Dombrowski, Heritage House Publishing, 2010 • odysseyseaglass.com/sea-glass-canada. html

Summer 2016 21

Echo Ridge Stables

Summer Camps 2016

Must-See Attractions Maybe you want to play tourist in your own town or show your visiting relatives the sights. Maybe you want to learn something new or keep the kids occupied on a rainy day. There are lots of fun and family-friendly attractions on the Island.

Victoria

Offering Riding Camp & Farm Animal Fun Camp For more information and to register go to

echoridgestables.ca

250-857-6710

Victoria & Vancouver Island 1-866-518-7287 Nanaimo 250-756-9794 Or online at: www.welcomewagon.ca

22 Family Summer Guide

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is engaging, challenging and inspiring. Along with the regular exhibitions, don’t miss the 29th annual TD Art Gallery Paint-In (Saturday, July 16), one of Victoria’s most loved outdoor events. This celebration of art in all forms takes over Moss Street—from Fort Street all the way to Dallas Road. The outdoor venue takes on an atmosphere of street festival as more than 165 artists demonstrate their work to more than 35,000 visitors who stroll the 10 blocks. Food, music, hands-on art stations and friendly neighbours of the Art Gallery all come together in the gallery’s biggest single event of the year. Lots of opportunity to make art for families. And from 10am-6pm during the Paint-In, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is open by donation. aggv. bc.ca or 250-384-4171. Craigdarroch Castle. Use your floor map to take a tour and learn about the Dunsmuir family’s history. Climb the 87 stairs through the 4 1⁄2 stories as you discover the castle’s 39 rooms lavishly furnished in the style of the 1890s to 1900s period. Get to the tower to see panoramic views of Victoria, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. Step back in time and experience the life and times of the very rich and famous. Open daily June 15-Sept 6, 9am-7pm. thecastle.ca or 250-592-5323. IMAX Theatre in the Royal BC Museum offers an incredible immersive cinematic experience with a projected area of more than six stories high and 85' wide along with crystal-clear images and wraparound digital chair-shaking surround sound. Victoria IMAX transports you in a way no other film experience can and lets you feel like you’re really there. This summer, catch Mammoths: Titans of the Ice Age, A Beautiful Planet, and Jungle Book, among other movies. For more details, visit imaxvictoria.com or see the ad in Adventurous Family Attractions on pages 16-19 in this issue. Mattick’s Farm Mini Golf offers one spacious 18-hole miniature golf (putting) course located in a beautiful treed setting next to Cordova Bay Golf Course at Mattick’s Farm, 5325 Cordova Bay Road. The course is both tranquil and beautiful as it winds through the forest floor. Be wary of the resident dragon and mind the pixies who frequent the Hobbit House and hide behind the toadstools. Visit matticksfarm.com for more information.

Miniature World, located within the Empress Hotel, has been called The Greatest Little Show On Earth, with over 80 miniature scenes. See the world’s smallest operational sawmill, marvel at two of the world’s largest doll houses, experience one of the world’s largest model railroads, visit the wonderful world of the circus, take a spaceship to the stars, travel through the Enchanted Valley of Castles and more. 649 Humboldt Street. For more details, visit miniatureworld.com or phone 250-385-9731. It’s the summer of Mammoths: Giants of the Ice Age at the Royal BC Museum. See Lyuba, a 40,000 year-old baby woolly mammoth and walk through the ancient landscapes where mammoths and mastodons lived. This engaging and interactive look at these magnificent creatures will transport visitors to a time when giants walked among us and humans struggled to survive in a world they had yet to conquer. Also, Visit the museum’s three permanent galleries that showcase the human and natural history of B.C. Open 10am-5pm (Sunday to Thursday) and from 10am-10pm on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca or 250-356-7226.

Saanich Peninsula/Sidney The Dominion Astrophysical Observatory is hosting Saturday Summer Star Parties on July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30, and August 6, 13, and 20, from 7:30-11pm at the Observatory, 5071 West Saanich Road. Entry gates close at 10pm and attendance is limited to 200 visitors at any one time. During the summer stargazing nights, both the Centre and the Observatory will be open, with planetarium shows, lectures in the auditorium and displays. Admission is by ticket only. Tickets are free and will be available during the week preceding each Saturday evening from the EventBrite site at summerstarparties. eventbrite.ca. Saanich Historical Artifacts Society at 7321 Lochside Drive. Kids (and parents) can climb on the farming equipment, see the mini railroad, a sawmill, planer mill and other artifacts at this 12-hectare site with a small lake, forest trails and pond. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on-site. Summer hours are 9:30am-4pm, June 19-Sept 17. Trains run on various days from 12-3:30pm. Book a train ride by visiting vime.ca. From Victoria, head north on the Pat Bay Highway,

IslandParent.ca

NEW Bumbleride Speed Jogging Stroller The first running stroller to join the Bumbleride Family. With the ultimate balance of durability and lightweight performance, Speed stays true to our commitment to clean and purpose-built design. Equipped with Speed3 steering, it’s engineered to let you run at your own pace. This new wheel system allows for 360 degree swivel for everyday use, 30 degree swivel for light jogging or a locked wheel for long distance jogging.

Gliders & Furniture Features:

• 16" rear wheel and 12" front wheel • lightweight aluminum frame (total weight 24lbs) • Speed3 steering system • Adjustable handle • Large basket with pump storage (pump included) • UPF/SPF 45+ canopy with magnetic viewing window, pop out extension and removable back panel

Evolving With Your Family Needs

For All Your Your Baby Baby Needs… Needs… New, We Also Do&Rentals! For Used Rentals Serving the Infants • Toddlers • Youth • Parents & Grandparents of Victoria

The Kiddies Store

s St.

3045–C Douglas St. (Rear) 386-2229 www.tjskids.com

Finlayson St. Dougla

turn right at Island View Road, then first left onto Lochside Drive. shas.ca or 250-652-5522. Butchart Gardens. 55 acres of breathtaking floral displays, offering spectacular views as you stroll along meandering paths and expansive lawns. Explore the gardens by taking part in the self-guided Family Discovery Walk. A free worksheet guides you through the gardens and provides interesting historical details and points out features. Children can draw pictures along the way to answer questions—it’s a great way for kids to take a closer look at nature. The Saturday evening fireworks during July and August are popular with visitors of all ages (times vary slightly as the summer progresses and it gets dark earlier, from 10:15pm in early summer to 8:45pm on Sept 3). There is musical entertainment most evenings as well as the night illuminations. The Rose Carousel in the Children’s Pavilion includes 30 animals carved from basswood. Carousel rides are $2 over the cost of admission. butchart gardens.com or 250-652-5256. Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea (formerly Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre) in Sidney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the amazing ecosystem of the Salish Sea. Visit the touch pools to shake hands with a sea urchin, see the huge aquaria teeming with marine life, learn about essential life forms such as algae, plankton and amazing jellies. There are a variety of workshops and classes to choose from, guided tours, scavenger hunts, Tot Tuesdays, and Sea Shirt Sundays, along with other kids’ activities. The Centre, located on the waterfront off Beacon Avenue at 9811 Seaport Place, is open daily from 10am-5pm (Canada Day-Labour Day). oceandiscovery.ca or 250-665-7511.

Larch St.

T.J.’S

(Under Sleep Country in the REAR)

Westshore/Metchosin to Sooke Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site. Explore gun batteries and underground magazines built a century ago to defend Victoria and the Esquimalt Naval Base. Step inside the first lighthouse built on the West Coast and check out exhibits about ships wrecked and lives saved. Picnic on the grass or at the beach and watch the ships and wildlife while you eat. 10am-5:30pm daily. For more information visit pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill/index.aspx, call 250-478-5849 or see the ad in Adventurous Family Attractions on pages 16-19 in this issue. For something different and exhilarating, try soaring at up to 60 km/hr over the forest on a zipline. AdrenaLINE Zipline Adventure Tours in Sooke offers a multistage zipline course, consisting of eight distinct but linked rides, two suspension bridges, and an ATV ride. There’s also Night Zipping and Full-Moon Zipping. IslandParent.ca

Now Running ! Classes in Saanich

Summer 2016 23

JOIN A CHAMPION GORGE SOCCER ASSOCIATION Registration is currently open for the fall season • Youth soccer: 4 – 17 years old • Senior soccer: 17 – 70+ years old We are a community based soccer club providing all of its members with development, fun and a lifelong passion for the beautiful game. We pride ourselves on being the oldest full service soccer club in Victoria, offering winter league play, free academies, spring league, winter futsal, and more! We are innovative, player-centric, responsive to our members’ needs, community-minded, and accepting of all players. A player will never be turned away due to lack of fees (external and internal grants available). Online registration available at: www.gorgesoccer.ca In-person Registration: Hampton Park Clubhouse (240 Hampton Road) Saturdays 9am-11am Questions? info@gorgesoccer.ca

New Kids Dentist

Dr. Anita Gadzinska-Myers

is a Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry and has a Fellowship in Special Needs Dentistry for children • Accepting new patients now (infants to teenagers) • Referral not needed • Member of Cleft Lip and Palate Team

Cowichan Valley

Special Services:

short wait list • intravenous sedation • hospital dentistry • nitrous oxide

Victoria Pediatric Dental Centre 206–1830 Oak Bay Ave

www.victoriapediatricdentalcentre.ca

Trained guides emphasize safety and comfort, ensuring a ride full of thrills, awesome beauty and fond memories. You’ll also learn about the local ecology and wildlife while zipping through the 100 acres of coastal temperate forest. Minimum age is 5. adrenalinezip.com or 250-642-1933. City Centre Park in Langford is an exciting family playland with mini-golf, a play zone and a splash park for the kids. The play zone has three stories of mining-themed play equipment, where children can climb, slide, swing and crawl. Parents can relax with a coffee or snack in the parents’ section while children burn off energy under staff supervision. eagleridgecentre.com or 250-391-1738. West Shore Motocross, located at the back of Western Speedway in Langford (Western Speedway in Langford), offers a one hour Learn to Ride program where participants, four years and older, learn how to safely operate and control a dirt motorcycle. West Shore Motocross has a track in Victoria for MX racers, dirt bike riders and beginner riders. There are special events, races, beginner days, MX school and regular practice days throughout the year. For more details, visit wsmx.azurewebsites.net or see the ad in Adventurous Family Attractions on pages 16-19 in this issue.

250-383-2133

The Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre in Duncan is a great place to learn about Cowichan First Nations cultural traditions and legends. Enjoy interpretive tours where you’ll learn about the legends, teachings and stories of the Cowichan Tribes, traditional artwork, carving and knitting. There are also opportunities to make a dreamcatcher, see Native dancing and sample Native cuisine. khowutzun.com/qccc or 250-746-8119. The BC Forest Discovery Centre just north of Duncan is celebrating 50 Years, 100 Acres this year. Check out the indoor and outdoor exhibits and a bird sanctuary. Ride on the narrow gauge steam train, and tour an old logging camp. Bring a picnic lunch, watch a demonstration, or come for a special event (Canada Day July 1, B.C. Day Aug 3, Labour Day celerations Sept 5, 6 and 7). Summer season from June 2-Sept 5, open 7 days a week from 10am-4:30pm. Steam locomotive on weekends starting June 20. bcforestdiscoverycentre.com or 250-715-1113.

Nanaimo Nanaimo District Museum showcases Nanaimo’s early history as a coal mining town and port, explores the impact of forestry on the region, depicts daily life in a traditional First Nations longhouse, celebrates the town’s athletes and musicians, and includes more exhibits. Children’s programs are offered during the summer. Located 24 Family Summer Guide

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in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, 100 Museum Way. Open 10am-5pm daily until Sept 5. nanaimomuseum.ca or 250-753-1821.

Oceanside Riptide Lagoon Adventure Golf in Parksville is an easy walk from Rathtrevor Beach and nearby resorts. Try your hand at the Mountain or Lagoon course, or enjoy the Laser Tag Bumper Cars and the arcade. 1000 Resort Drive, adjacent to Rathtrevor Park. Open daily from 9:30am-8pm. riptidelagoon.com, 250-248-8290. The Coombs Country Market is along Highway 4A, on the way to Port Alberni from Parksville or Nanaimo, less than 5 minutes away from Butterfly World. Wander the market, unique shops, galleries and studios for gifts, groceries and great food. Enjoy a selection of home-cooked treats and meals, as well as international foods. There’s lots to see. Be sure to look up when you’re outside the market—the goats on the sod roof live there throughout the summer. oldcountrymarket.com. Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park offers a variety of caving tours, from gentle explorations to adrenaline-pumping adventures down a 7-storey waterfall. Cave tours vary in length, and you can choose from guided or self-guided—make sure you bring warm clothing that can be layered as it’s chillier in the caves than you might expect.

You can also enjoy rock climbing, canoe or kayak rentals, hiking, teepee camping and more. Allow 45 minutes from Parksville, north on Highway 19 or 19A. For more details, visit hornelake.com, phone 250-248-7829, or see the Adventurous Family Attractions on pages 16-19 in this issue.

Port Alberni The McLean Mill National Historic Site operates the only remaining commercial steamoperated sawmill in Canada. From a viewing platform, watch raw logs being trimmed and cut into lumber for sale. Costumed docents will be on hand to guide you around the site. There are children’s activities, a restaurant and a gift shop. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-5pm. Also check out the Maritime Discovery Centre and the Alberni Valley Museum while in the area. albernisteamtrain.com

Comox Valley Courtenay Museum. Hands-on discovery as you search for prehistoric fossils on the Puntledge River with experienced guides. Fossil tours by appointment. Summer hours until Labour Day: 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday; noon-4pm Sunday. Stop by and check out the Courtenay and District Museum and Paleontology Centre with its massive Elasmosaur exhibit. courtenaymuseum.ca or 250-334-0686.

Campbell River Campbell River Museum. Celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Museum at Campbell River’s Puppet Theatre. Heritage Interpreters will delight audiences young and old with tales of Campbell River’s past brought to life through the magic of puppet theatre. Shows cost $2 and after the show there is a craft. While you’re there, see the First Nations history and art, pioneer history, a native plant garden, and learn about floathouse living and the salmon industry. Bring your lunch to enjoy in the picnic area. Open daily during the summer from 10am-5pm. crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103.

Pacific Rim The Kwisitis Visitor Centre near Tofino acts as a museum, exhibition and information center for Pacific Rim National Park. The outside deck is the perfect year-round spot to view whales, storms and surfers alike. Inside the centre, you’ll find new exhibits about the land, sea, sky and people of the area. See the First Nations canoes, tools, various works of art, and interactive displays. There is also a small gift shop and a restaurant facing the beach. Trails lead to South Beach and Florencia Bay. pc.gc.ca/pacificrim •

Summer Camps 2016 July 4 to August 26, 2016 Join us this summer and learn stage acting, singing and dancing! We offer: 1 week camps (6 to 10 years old) 2 week camps (11 to 14 years old)

Visit our website for more details and or registration information. www.fsmtheatre.ca or call 250-478-0329 IslandParent.ca

Summer 2016 25

Emillie Parrish

Cycle Camping with Kids I

admit that the idea of cycle camping with children may seem daunting. Either of those activities on its own has the potential to be a lot of work. Combining them can seem more than just a bit adventurous. However, as an avid cycle camper with two young children, I hope to dispel your fears and encourage you to take on a little bit of adventure this summer! Whether you’re packing your kids into a car for a trip to Grandma’s or loading them into a bike trailer filled with camping gear, traveling with children is a lot of work. Cycle camping offers you the opportunity to truly take a break from your busy life. With cycle camping, the journey is part of the trip rather than just something to get you to your destination. It is a chance to experience a slower pace and enjoy all the scenery that normally passes us by. It is an inexpensive and environmentally-friendly way to explore all of the islands that we call home. My favourite reason to go cycle camping is the shared feeling of accomplishment that we have when we arrive somewhere new. Well, if you’ve gotten this far in the article then you’re probably wondering what you need to know in order to have an amazing trip. • Rent, buy or borrow good bikes with trailers or pannier racks. I do not recommend wearing heavy backpacks as it makes for a hot and miserable cycle. • Figure out how you are going to carry your children (if they are younger). If they are old enough to cycle on their own, plan for shorter rides with lots of breaks. Remember the journey is a big part of the experience. Stop at road side stands, pick blackberries, count sheep, and enjoy the outdoors. • Only carry the food you need. If possible, buy food on your way to replenish your supplies. It adds to the adventure and reduces your weight. Stopping for ice cream along the way is encouraged. • Carry only the gear you need. For our family of four we pack a tent, sleeping bags, a small first aid kit, very few clothes, very few books and only our special toys. For cooking I take one cooking pot, a camp stove and fuel, four bowls and spoons, a Swiss army knife, a thin plastic cutting mat, and several collapsible prep bowls. Even if you’re not backpacking, the weight quickly adds up, especially when kids are involved. They don’t need toys to camp on our beautiful islands. There is usually a beach nearby and the forests provide plenty of material for imaginative play. If you are worried that your children aren’t up to the journey, then take a few “practice” day trips. The goal is to have fun, so make sure you emphasize how exciting and fun it is. It’s not about pushing your capabilities, it’s about exploring new places, experiencing the outdoors, and having a few treats along the way. With younger children, try

Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

to time your cycling so that you get the bulk of it done during nap times. Children usually sleep well when lulled by the rhythmic motion of a bicycle. If your older children are going to be cycling on their own, make sure they are prepared for the distance involved by having them spend a few weeks regularly cycling to nearby destinations. Children often don’t know how to pace themselves. They tend to burn up all their energy in the beginning by going as fast as possible. It’s a good idea to practice climbing hills so that they learn how to save up some of their energy for getting to the top of any hills. Plan your routes ahead of time with a few ideas for stopping points along the way. Expect to walk up steep hills and focus on how fun it will be to ride back down the other side. It’s also important to make sure that you and your children are well fueled for the journey by providing plenty of high-energy snacks. Focus your food on complex carbohydrates and protein that will give you lasting energy. I find a “make your own” trail mix is usually very popular. With all that in mind, it’s just a question of where to go. We are lucky to live in a region that is filled with beautiful places to camp. Here are a few ideas: 1. Start by going to your local campgrounds. I think most of us probably live within a 30 km ride of a campground. If you live near the Galloping Goose or Lochside trails, then you are in luck. You are guaranteed to have a nice flat ride filled with interesting sights, and there are campgrounds at Goldstream, Thetis Lake, Island View and McDonald Park. 2. Many of our smaller Gulf Islands have campgrounds that are within cycling distance of the ferry terminal. If you aren’t up for a really long ride, then start your journey at a ferry terminal. The Gulf Islands tend to be quite hilly, but the distances are usually short enough that you can just walk up the hills as needed. 3. Take an international trip by taking a ferry to the San Juan Islands, Anacortes or Port Angeles. There are great opportunities for camping, and it does feel like a different country even though you’re only a short distance from home. Happy Cycle Camping! 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.

Giddy Up

for Kiowa Farm Summer Camps! Horse Riding and Adventure: Rock Climbing, Kayaking, Swimming and More!

www.kiowafarm.ca 250-858-5330 katerubintheatre.com

Celebrating 20 years of creativity and theatre

Summer 2016 27

WEST SHORE PARKS & RECREATION

MoNDAY-FRIDAY CAMPS

THAT RUN ALL SUMMER LONG Cottage Kids

5-6 Years – JDF Kids Cottage

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $28 a day

Summer Kinder Prep

Fort Rodd Summer Fun A

h, summer. Warmth, sunshine, freedom…and the kids asking what to do, where to go, and what to see. There’s swimming, hiking and picnicking. How about camping, staying up late, and taking in big celebrations? Visiting your favourite places, exploring new ones and making new family memories? The opportunities are end-

their experience in the free Xplorer booklet they picked up at the main entrance, a great keepsake of the day’s fun. Celebration days are easy to plan, too. Canada Day is celebrated in a big way at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites, with one of Canada’s biggest birthday cakes. The exhilarating and impressive gun salute is another crowd pleaser. And,

less, and best of all, a lot of these activities can be done in one place! Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites are buzzing with kidfriendly activities from May to September. Along with exploring the fort’s hidden tunnels, hiking the nature trail, and playing games at the lighthouse, there are plenty of summer programs and events that offer fun and adventure for kids and their parents. In the “Ready for Action” program, see and talk to Parks Canada staff in period uniform, get the kids to dress up in WWII uniforms, and then climb on-board the 1942 Willys Jeep for a photo opportunity. And yes, parents can jump in, too, for one of the best family selfies ever. Or, aim for the sky; sit on the Bofors gun, spin its controlling wheel to position the gun, or just continue spinning to see if you get dizzy. Don’t forget to have the kids capture

when the live music starts, no need to hold back, it’s time to show off your dance moves and embarrass yourself a little. There is nothing better than goofing around with the kids. In August, families can participate in Fab Forts—the biggest water gun battle in Victoria. Decked out in camouflage face paint, squirt guns or super soaker in hand, get ready, aim and fire at will. The kids won’t be holding back, will you? And remember, it isn’t summer without a camping trip. If you’ve never been camping before, or are looking to learn the latest camping tricks, try a no-hassle camping weekend—with no tent, sleep pads or cooking equipment required. Every summer Parks Canada organizes Learn to Camp events at their parks and sites. Camp overnight within the wall of a real fort, make new friends, and stuff yourselves silly with S’mores. And if tenting is not your

4-5 Years – JDF Playroom

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM $165 a week

Cool Capers Day Camp 6-8 Years – JDF Curling Rink

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $140 a week

Aqua Adventure Camp 7-11 Years – JDF Curling Rink

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $390/2 weeks

Fun Seekers Camp

6-9 Years – Centennial Centre 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM $37 a day

Sizzlers Day Camp

7-11 Years – JDF Galleon Room 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM $37 a day

Active Afternoons

7-11 Years – JDF Curling Rink

12:00 PM – 3:30 PM $90 a week

Aspiring Artists

6-8 Years and 9-12 Years Centennial Centre Craft Room

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $165 a week

Camp alternates age group each week.

Out & About Camp

8-12 Years – JDF Gllangcome Room 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $28 a day

LOts more camps online No camps on Monday, August 1

www.westshorerecreation.ca

250-478-8384

28 Family Summer Guide

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scene, upgrade to an overnight in an oTENTik tent-cabin, another hassle-free camping option available from May to the end of September. Whether you’re planning ahead, or on the spur of the moment, summer is a great time to get out and about with the kids. And what better place is there than Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites in Colwood where the opportunities are endless.

Sit back, relax and let the beach take over...

Treat yourself to a fun family getaway! Feel at home in a two bedroom cottage with full kitchen and fireplace Private oceanfront property on sandy Rathtrevor Beach Indoor pool and hot tub, tennis, basketball and a kids’ playground Special events planned at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites:

Be sure to check www.BeachAcresFamilyFun.com for specials Parksville BC

1-800-663-7309

twitter.com/BeachAcresResort facebook.com/BeachAcresResort

RESORT

• Canada Day Celebrations: Friday, July 1, 10am-4:30pm • Vintage Cadillac Car Show: Sunday, July 10, 10am-4:30pm • Learn to Camp*: Saturday and Sunday, July 23-24th, 1pm-11am • Fab Forts, Saturday, August 20, 11am4:30pm • Lantern Tour*: Saturday, September 24, 10 tours starting at 7pm and running until 9:30pm * Reservation required.

under an hour from Swartz Bay with direct daily ferries to Mayne Island

For more information on daily programs and special events at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites, visit parkscanada.gc.ca/fortroddhill or call 250478-5849.

Island hopping packages now available

IslandParent.ca

The way life was meant to be…

www.beachacresfamilyfun.com

9 housekeeping cottages perfect for family getaways

250-539-2463 • 1-877-535-2424 bluevista@bluevistaresort.com • www.bluevistaresort.com Summer 2016

Sara Cassidy

From Disaster to Discovery Island-hopping on the Salish Sea

“…he leapt ashore, startling a group of cormorants which flew out to sea with shrill cries. A squirrel scolded indignantly, and high in an alder tree a chickadee shouted at the intruders to go away…” from Mystery of Disaster Island by Ann Rivkin “We inspect the potatoes and dust-covered jars of tomatoes, cherries, huckleberries and sockeye salmon on shelves that line the dirt walls…” from Grandpa’s Girls by Nicola I. Campbell, illustrated by Kim LaFave

ummer in our part of the world is for getting scratched up, sunkissed and salt-sprayed while camping and visiting relatives. It’s for staring into the ferry’s churning wake or into the sparkspitting campfire. It’s for exploring. But no need to travel far. There is more than enough nature, history, and mystery nearby, and, luckily, many terrific books that revel in it. For the very young, North Vancouver writer Victoria Miles’s board books Sea Otter Pup, Cougar Kittens (both byOrca Book Publishers), Pup’s Supper (Monterey Acquarium Press), and the picture book Old Mother Bear (Chronicle Books) focus on the animals. Without a hint of the human, the books reveal a kind of parallel world where parents also care for children with hard work and love. The works are true to science but threaded with narrative—let’s call it zoological fiction. Lasqueti Island-based Bronwyn Preece’s Gulf Islands Alphabet (Simpy Read Books) is a musical, poetic and stylistically courageous abecedarium—the picture book unifies as continuous prose rather than gathers discrete entries. Alex Walton’s illustrations perfectly capture island nature and island-hopping as we know it. Here are the passages for Q and R: “Quadra Island is Quintessentially Quaint and Quirky, where people follow… Rambling Roads made Rugged with Ruts from Repeated Rain where a Ragtag bunch of Rascally Raccoons and Raucous Ravens Raise a Ruckus.” The identical size, with similar illustrations, and also an abecedarium, award-winning Vancouver writer Deboarah Hodge’s West Coast Wild (Groundwood Books) is nonetheless surprisingly different from Preece’s book. Hodge is more interested in science than poetry. Her clear, calm prose has enough fresh information to intrigue budding naturalists. Here is Hodge’s Q: “Q is for quillback rockfish that swim near rocky reefs and live up to a hundred years. These fish have sharp quills for stinging seals and other enemies.”

In Sheryl McFarlane’s West Coast classic, Jessie’s Island (Orca Book Publishers), published way back in 1992, a boy named Thomas writes to his cousin, “Dear Jessie, You must be awfully bored living on an island in the middle of nowhere.” Jessie replies :”Dear Thomas, If you come to my island, I will show you…the bald eagles that summer in our giant fir tree, and the curious harbour seals that pop their slippery, whiskered faces up when we swim to the raft that Dad built…or maybe we’ll see a lone minke whale breech-feeding.” McFarlane has continued to write picture books—Moonsnail Song, Waiting for the Whales—that capture our longing to connect with the wilderness. Her counting book, A Pod of Orcas, captures for very young children the best of an afternoon on a rocky beach. Set far further north, but a part of our zeitgeist, renowned Hazelton-based artist and carver Roy Henry Vickers and the Victoria writer Robert Budde have produced three beautiful picture book versions of northwest coast legends. The colourful, timeless Raven Brings the Light, Cloudwalker and Orca Chiefs (Harbour Publishing) captivate and enlighten. More contemporary, and moving in from the coast, Nicola I. Campbell’s Grandpa’s Girls (Groundwood Books) is a joyful, layered story about siblings visiting their grandfather’s farm in the summer. The young narrator knows that in the midst of the constants—the rope swing, the crabapple tree, grandpa’s weird cooking—is the surprising and the unspoken. “Grandpa is a veteran, a cowboy, a rancher and businessman,” the girl explains. Grandpa is also a widower, and the girls always ask about Yayah, the grandmother they don’t remember. As a story about an Indigenous family, Grandpa’s Girls can bridge a distance between B.C. kids. Nicola I. Campbell also wrote the moving, carefully and beautifully pitched picture book, Shin-chi’s Canoe. Shin-chi’s Canoe tells the truth, IslandParent.ca

the way children can hear it; it is about a sister and brother’s year at residential school, far from their parents and forbidden to communicate with each other. Campbell, who is Interior Salish and Metis, drew on interviews with her family and elders that survived the devastating governmentsponsored schools that are very much a part of the fabric of our province and lives. For many of us, summer was about ploughing through stacks of Archie comics. Kids still have Archie, but they also have graphic novels and comics-style picture books. Roberts Creek writer and illustrator team, Kim La Fave and Gary Kent, produced the fabulous comics style Fishing with Gubby (Harbour Publishing), about a West Coast salmon fisherman and his wife and cat Puss. The book is lively and stuffed with details, fun dialogue, accurate maps and adventure: rolling rapids, banks of fog, a trip through through Quatsino Sound. The only thing that I didn’t like was that it came to an end. Luckily, La Fave and Kent produced a follow up, the just-as-wonderful Gubby Builds a Boat. East Sooke comics artist Glen Lovett, with the assistance of his partner Kay Lovett, has quietly been producing a lively series of Tintinstyle comic books about the adventures of a Siberian Husky named Jasper and his “human companion” Ruby. In The Secrets of the Petroglygh (Lovett Pictures, Inc.), Jasper and Ruby’s canoe trip deep in the rainforests of Vancouver Island is upturned by a meteor strike and flash flood. Though set in the winter in the Interior, Lovett’s Lost in Skookum Valley, in which Jasper and Ruby brave the elements and pursue poachers, is also a terrific read. For older kids, if you can get your hands on the W.D. Valgardson’s Garbage Creek and Other Stories (Groundwood), published in 1997, or Ann Rivkin’s Mystery of Disaster Island (Scholastic), published in 1975(!), you are in for a treat. Other titles for older children that capture the shining salal leaves, bald eagle whistles, and jellyfish stings of the west coast: Jake Reynolds: Chicken or Eagle (Orca Book Publishers), by Sara Leach Tarragon Island, No Cafes in Narnia and Trouble on Tarrogon Island (all by Orca Book Publishers) by Nikki Tate Out of Season, Storm Tide (both by Orca Book Publishers), by Kari Jones Sara Cassidy’s six books for children and teens have all been included in Canadian Children’s Book Centre’s “Best Books for Children and Teens.” Sara lives in Victoria with her three kids, and at saracassidywriter. com. Book Nook is written with the invaluable assistance of GVPL librarian Lonestar Stone.

Pique Your Natural Curiosity

We offer outings and activities for nature lovers of all ages in every season, such as guided nature walks & hikes, drop-in events & canoeing.

Most are free. All are fun! There is a whole world of natural and cultural history to explore at our nature centres at Witty’s Lagoon, Francis/King and Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Parks.

See the full calendar at www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Capital Regional District | Regional Parks crdparks@crd.bc.ca 250.478.3344

Summer programs Special Drop-in Events July 13 July 27 August 10 August 24

Wild for Water Reptile Day

Swan Lake

Mighty Mammals Join the nature fun all summer long; special Birds of a Feather events, day camps, French immersion day camps, Day Camps evening programs and a Christmas Hill hike. Biology Buddies Some programs require pre-registration. 4 - 6 years 7 - l0 years Nature Explorers Please call or visit our website for more information. Big & little Parent & 3 - 5 3873 Swan Lake Road, Victoria, BC, V8X 3W1 250.479.0211 info@swanlake. www.swanlake.bc.ca www.facebook.com/SwanLakeChristmasHillNatureSanctuary

IslandParent.ca

Summer 2016 31

Generously Sponsored by

and

Summer Calendar of Events JULY FRI 1 CANADA DAY CELEBRATIoNS Victoria Celebrates Canada Day in the Inner Harbour. Performances, family-friendly activities, multicultural programs, an international food village, and stunning fireworks over the Inner Harbour. VictoriaCanadaDay.ca. Canada Day at Parksville Community Park. Shiner’s Pancake Breakfast at 7:30am, parade starts at 10am, family-focused entertainment and activities, and fabulous grand finale fireworks. Food trucks, concessions, artisan booths, fun rides for the kids. 250-248-3613. Gorge on Art at Gorge Waterway Park. Artists working in a wide range of media including painting, ceramics, jewellery and more. 9:30am-4pm. Gorge Canada Day Picnic at Gorge Waterway Park. Pancake breakfast, family parade, entertainment, classic cars, kids’ activities, canoe rides, buskers corner, street hockey, Strawberry Tea, Canada Day market and more. Free. 8:30am4pm. gorgecanadaday.ca. Saturna Lamb BBQ at Winter Cove, Saturna Island. Celebrate Canada Day with islanders at

Family Summer Guide

a country fair picnic centered on a traditionally prepared open fire barbecued lamb meal. Play games and win prizes at the Parks Canada booth. Learn traditional skills from a Coast Salish guest. Free. 10am-4:30pm. For more info, call 1-866944-1744 or saturnalambbarbeque.com.

FRI 1 – SUN 3 Cultural Arts Festival of India at Victoria Hindu Temple. Classical, folk and Bollywood dancing, music, crafts, costumes, and activities. Taste dishes from India such as samosas, pakoras or lunch. Free (some food and activities at a nominal cost). 11am-6pm. 1934 Cultra Ave. victoriahindutemple.com.

SAT 2 The Schoolhouse Market at Craigflower Schoolhouse. Indoor and outdoor vendors, music, food and prize giveaways. Kid friendly. 10:30am2:30pm. 2755 Admirals Rd. Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. Tours of the historic Plaskett Telescope, astronomical lectures and presentations, music in the dome, night sky viewing and constellation walks. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only. Tickets will

be available at summerstarparties.eventbrite.ca the week before.

moN 4 Moon Walk at Coles Bay Regional Park. When the moon is new and the tide is low, down to Coles Bay we’ll go. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to look for marine creatures like crabs, sea stars and the elusive moon snail. This program includes wading in the water, so be prepared to get your feet and clothes wet (wear shorts and sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Inverness Rd at 10:30am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Sunfest on Ice at Pearkes Recreation Centre. Enjoy a “cool” skate and an ice cream. Skate rentals are free. Please bring a non-perishable food item for the Saanich Neighbourhood Place food cupboard. 3:15-4:35pm. 250-475-5400. Play in the Park Launch Party at Pioneer Park in Saanich. Enjoy a BBQ dinner by donation to benefit the Arena Improvement Fund. 5:308:30pm. 250-656-7271.

TUES 5 Feeling Crabby at Island View Beach Regional Park. Red, green, purple, hairy and hermit crabs. This bustling marine habitat has them all. Drop by any time between 10am and 1pm to meet some of these crabs and their crusty cousins up close and personal. There will be an aquarium, a crab craft, and lots of opportunity to explore the beach with buckets and dip nets. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Look for the blue tent on the beach off Homathko Rd. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Sensational Circus at Oak Bay Branch Library. Step right up! Circus-inspired stories, activities and a craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info. Things That Go at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. All aboard. Enjoy stories that transport you from here to there, and create a fun paper craft.

IslandParent.ca

For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Travelling Puppet Show Performance at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Join Travelling Puppet Show puppeteers for a hilarious and entertaining puppet show. Parents and caregivers are welcome to attend. For ages 12 and under. 10:30-11:15am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Myth Adventures at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Don’t “myth” out on the fun. Explore mythical tales and create a craft. For ages 9-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. May the Force Be With You at Central and Central Saanich Branch Libraries. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 5-12. Central: 1:30-2:30pm; Central Saanich: 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-490-GVPL (4875) for more info.

May the Force Be With You at Esquimalt Branch Library. Join us in a galaxy not so far away for Star Wars-inspried stories, activities and crafts. For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-490-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission. Glow necklaces available for $2. 6:30-8pm. 250756-5200.

Metamorphosis: Dreaming of Wings at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. What if you could grow wings and fly? Join handlers from the Victoria Bug Zoo to meet some incredible bugs and learn about their extraordinary ability to change. Buggy activities included. For ages 7-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Sandy Shore Explore at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an intertidal exploration and discover the strange and wonderful creatures that appear between the tides. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet on the main beach off Metchosin Rd at 10:30am. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

WED 6 Beach Seine at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists on a beach seine and see what creatures live in the underwater forest. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet on the main beach off Metchosin Rd at 11am. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Make a Trippy Book at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. You’ve probably read hundreds of books, but have you ever made one? Accomplished book artist Tracy Leal will help you get creative and design one from scratch in this workshop. 1:30-2:30pm. 7+. Register by email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or call 250-656-0944.

Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre.

THURS 7

Around the World at Oak Bay Branch Library. Explore our amazing world through stories and activities and make an imaginative craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Water Works at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Explore a nature theme through activities, hikes, experiments, and more. 1-3pm. $12/ members; $18/non-members. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. May the Force Be With You at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-490-GVPL (4875) for more info. Trip on a Ship at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Imagine a trip on a ship. Adventures abound in this program filled with stories, activities and a craft. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

FRI 8 Totally Turtles at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. A fun and interactive program which includes hands-on discovery, an outside ramble, a story and a craft. 10-11:30am. Members: $12/ adult/child pair and $4/each additional child; non-members: $17/adult/child pair and $6/ additional child. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Things That Go at Langford Heritage Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Lego in the Library at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego. Bring your own Lego for a takehome project. For ages 7-10. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

Coffee-crusted Beef Tenderloin

Ben, Ed & Adrian PARTNER SINCE

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Summer 2016 33

Family Picnic and Play at Henry Morgan Community Park, Bowser. Kids, bring your adults and your dinner. Games and activities provided by the RDN Recreation and Parks leader. Propane BBQs are welcome. 5-8pm. 95 Henry Morgan Dr. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

FRI 8 – SUN 10 Nanaimo Dragonboat Festival at Maffeo Sutton Park. Pancake breakfast, farmer’s market, candle and carnation ceremonies, and more. Fun for the entire family. nanaimodragonboat.com.

SAT 9

ATTRACTIONS, ACTIVITIE

S & FAMILY FUN!

Pick up a copy of the

Christmas in July at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Come share the magic of Christmas Hill during a fabulous guided hike. Stretch your limbs and listen to the chorus of birds while checking out the great view from a spectacular vantage point. You may even discover the legends of Christmas Hill. Suitable for families with children over 7 years. Bring a water bottle. 10-11:30am. Free, but donations are greatly appreciated. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan

Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca. Community BBQ at Cook Street Village Activity Centre. Live entertainment, face painting, community organizations, fun activities for all ages, and delicious BBQ. Free. 11am-2pm. 380 Cook St. 250-384-6542. cookstreetvillage activitycentre.com.

Parks & Playgrounds Museums Pools & Recreation

20 16/ 20 17 rtainment Historical Sites • Ente & Much More

at Tourist Info Centres or your local recreation centre!

Family Summer Guide

SUN 10 Saanich Strawberry Festival at Beaver Lake Park. Enjoy an old-style family picnic at the beach, or take part in a wide range of family activities. Main stage entertainment, children’s section, face painting, workshops, inflatable and more. Strawberries and ice cream from 1-3pm (tickets can be purchased from 11am-2:30pm for $.50/ serving). 11am-3pm. Free. 250-475-5522. Learn to Fish at Colliery Dam Park, Nanaimo. Learn about fish identification, conservation handling, tackle, and rod rigging. Sponsored by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and presented by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. All equipment provided, and program runs rain or shine. For 5-15 year olds. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Free. 250-756-5200.

OPEN April-June Weekends & Statutory Holidays July & August Every Day September Weekends & Holidays

Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT 2 for details. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only. Tickets will be available at summerstarparties. eventbrite.ca the week before.

12 pm - 5 pm 11 am - 6 pm 12 pm - 5 pm

2207 Millstream Road, Victoria (250) 474-1961 allfun.bc.ca westernspeedway.net

moN 11 Baby Chat at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Stay after drop-in Baby Time to learn about baby

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care and other child development topics from Island Health practitioners. Babies 0-15 months and parent or caregiver. 11-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

TUES 12 Rascally Raccoons at Mill Hill Regional Park. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will lead you on a raccoon trail for a day in the life of these little rascals. Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Atkins Ave at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #53. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Purple Pirate Magic Show at Central and Juan de Fuca Branch Libraries. Ahoy, mateys! Swagger on down to a pirate-themed magic show with the Purple Pirate. For ages 5-12. Central: 10:3011:15am; Juan de Fuca: 2:30-3:15pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

WED 13 Sensational Circus at Central Branch Library. See MON 5 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Wild for Water at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Come soak up the wonders of water. Get your hands wet with the giant watershed model, learn how water works, who needs it, and how we can best protect it. There will be crafts, pond dipping and games. Come for a real splash. Admission by donation. Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Celebrate Harry Potter (Muggles Welcome) at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Enjoy Harry Potter games, crafts, trivia and a snack, and try out your best wizarding moves with the green screen. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Myth Adventures at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See WED 6 for details. For ages 9-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. “Book a Trip” to Outer Space at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Science Venture is coming to share the wonders of outer space through hands-on, minds-on extraterrestrial activities. This will be an out-of-this-world experience you won’t want to miss. Ages 5+. 1:30-2:30pm. Register by email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944.

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Summer 2016 35

THUR 14 Going Buggy at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional park. We love ’em, we hate ’em. They’re fascinating, finicky and fabulous. Drop by the tents at the main Beaver Beach between 11am and 2pm for a close up look at some of our buggy friends and foes. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-4783344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Sensational Circus at Esquimalt Branch Library. See MON 5 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

File: Bateman IslandParent 4,75x4,5 Ad 102 Trim Size: 4.75in x 4.5in Prepared by: Oculus Design + Marketing (250-812-2431 / mp@oculusdesign.ca)

Stellar Stewardship at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See THURS 7 for details. 1-3pm. $12/members; $18/non-members. Preregistration required by calling 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Are You Yeti For Some Fun? at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Explore the world’s most elusive creatures, from Sasquatches to unicorns. Enjoy stories, activities and a craft. For ages 6-9. 2:303:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. May the Force Be With You at Oak Bay Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-490-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Join in!

FRI 15 Wild Woodpeckers at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See FRI 8 for details. 1011:30am. Members: $12/adult/child pair and $4/each additional child; non-members: $17/ adult/child pair and $6/additional child. Preregistration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake. bc.ca.

Sign up for our summer Junior Nature Sketch Club and experience art in the great outdoors, guided by a naturalist and sketch artist! 6 Ages 5-12

Things That Go at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

6 Meets Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for three weeks from July 11th – 29th 6 Nine ecosystem outings included 6 Morning sketch club: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm ($150)

Lego in the Library at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See FRI 8 for details. For ages 7-10. 1:302:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

6 Afternoon advanced sketch club: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm ($150) 6 Sign up for full day club: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm ($270) Registration fee includes materials (sketch book & pencil) for the entire three weeks and a final exhibition at the Centre.

Trip on a Ship at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See THURS 7 for details. For ages 6-9. 2:303:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Are You Yeti For Some Fun? at Goudy Branch Library. See THURS 14 for details. For ages Bateman IslandParent 4,75x4,5 Ad 102.indd 1

36 Family Summer Guide

2016-06-14 1:13 PM

IslandParent.ca

6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Teen Summer Challenge: Create a Sharpie Mug at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Join other teens participating in this year’s Teen Summer Challenge to complete challenge #32. Design your own mug with a Sharpie. All supplies will be provided. Free, drop-in event for ages 12-18. 2-3pm. 250-656-0944.

FRI 15 – SUN 24 Victoria International Buskers Festival at Victoria Inner Harbour. Professional street performers from our region as well as from across Canada, Europe, Sweden, Australia, South America and the US are on mostly outdoor stages. Family oriented, free-to-attend festival. Tips to Buskers hats welcomed and appreciated. 250-590-8709. victoriabuskers.com.

FRI 15 – SUN AUG 21 Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition at Parksville Community Park. Public viewing of carving starts on Friday at 2pm. Judging Saturday from 3-5pm with winners announced at 5:30pm. Gated exhibition remains open to the public 9am-9pm daily. Bring your own buckets and shovels to create a little sandcastle magic of your own. Learn the tricks of the trade at the Coastal Community Sculpting zone by watching free sand sculpting demos on Saturday and Sunday, July 16 and 17. parksvillebeachfest.ca.

SAT 16 Morning Mist Canoe Adventure at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an early morning paddle on the lake searching for eagles, herons, turtles, and other lake life. Canoe equipment and instruction are provided, and no experience is necessary. $20 + GST (15 years +); $10 + GST (5-14 years). Pre-registration is required by July 14. Space is limited. 5+ years. 8-11am. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. TD Art Gallery Paint-In on Moss Street (from Fort Street to Dallas Rd). More than 165 artists demonstrate their work. Food, music, hands-on art stations. Lots of opportunity to make art for families. Open house at the Art Gallery from 10am-6pm. Free. 11am-4pm. 1040 Moss St. 250-384-4171. aggv.bc.ca. Family Scavenger Hunt at Mount Washington. Receive a list of items to find around the resort including items from nature and the alpine environment, as well as questions about the resort you will need to answer. Prizes for completing the

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scavenger hunt. Free with the purchase of a Mile High Scenic Chairlift Ride ticket. 11am-5pm. mountwashington.ca. Intertidal Safari at East Point, Saturna Island. What will the divers bring up from the deep? Drop in and join Parks Canada and the Saturna Island Marine Research and Education Society for fun marine activities. Enjoy free ice cream courtesy of Saturna Island Parks and Recreation. Tour the Fog Alarm Building with Saturna Island Heritage Committee volunteers. 1-4pm. 1-866-944-1744. Evening Campground Program at Island View Beach Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an evening of games and stories. Bring a beach chair and meet at the campfire ring at Island View Beach campground, off Homathko Rd at 7pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT 2 for details. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only. Tickets will be available at summerstarparties. eventbrite.ca the week before.

SUN 17 Busy Beavers at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Bring your young ones to the shores of Elk/Beaver Lake Retriever Ponds to see an active beaver lodge. Children will have a chance to learn more about this amazing mammal and its marvelous adaptations. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter in the Filter Beds parking lot at 10am. 10 and under. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Monsters vs. Aliens at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre. What’s better? Join us as we pit monsters against aliens to see who reigns supreme. 1-3pm. 250756-5200.

TUES 19 Seals! Seals! at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists to see Tower Point’s most avid sun worshipers and swimming enthusiasts—the harbour seals! Binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Meet at the Olympic View Drive parking lot at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/ parks. Around the World at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See THURS 7 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Metamorphosis: Dreaming of Wings at Central Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 7-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

WED 20 Meet the Raptors at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. The Raptor Centre will visit the library to talk about magnificent birds of prey. They will have live birds with them! All ages welcome. 10:30-11:30am. Register by email at sidney@virl. bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944. May the Force Be With You at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-490-GVPL (4875) for more info. Are You Yeti For Some Fun? at Emily Carr Branch Library. See THURS 14 for details. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Trip on a Ship at Central Branch Library. See THURS 7 for details. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre.

Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission. Glow necklaces available for $2. 6:30-8pm. 250756-5200.

THUR 21 Marine Day at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists for this celebration of our precious marine environment. Scuba divers will bring up creatures from the deep. See live displays, join in a beach seine, and more. Drop by any time between 10am and 1pm. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet on the main beach off Metchosin Rd at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Artful Adventures at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See THURS 7 for details. 1-3pm. $12/members; $18/non-members. Preregistration required by calling 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Lego in the Library at Central Branch Library. See FRI 8 for details. For ages 7-10. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

THURS 21 – SUN 24 Nanaimo Marine Festival and International Bathtub Race in Maffeo Sutton Park, Swy-a-Lana Lagoon and Nanaimo Harbour. Arts and Craft Fair, food vendors, entertainment stage and chilSummer 2016 37

dren’s craft tent. Saturday: Sail Past on Wheels Fun Parade, 10:30am on Selby through the Old City Quarter to the Bastion and along Front St and Cliff St; fireworks display in the Nanaimo Harbour, 10pm. Sunday: Bathtub Race, 11am. bathtubbing.com.

FRI 22 Busy Bees at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See FRI 8 for details. 10-11:30am. Members: $12/adult/child pair and $4/each additional child; non-members: $17/adult/child pair and $6/additional child. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Sensational Circus at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See MON 5 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. May the Force Be With You at Langford Heritage Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Are You Yeti For Some Fun? at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See THURS 14 for details. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Myth Adventures at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 6 for details. For ages 9-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Creatures of the Summer Night at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. Check out the nightlife of Swan Lake. Sharpen your senses to look for owls, bats and other nighttime creatures. Using a grab bag of tricks, we’ll discover how these animals are adapted to their nocturnal life. Suitable for families with children over 6. 8-9:30pm. $4/members; $6/non-members. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

SUN 24 Morning Mist Canoe Adventure at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an early morning paddle on the lake searching for eagles, herons, turtles, and other lake life. Canoe equipment and instruction are provided and no experience is necessary. 8-11am. $20 + GST (15 years +); $10 + GST (5-14 years). Pre-registration is required by July 21. Space is limited. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Learn to Fish at Colliery Dam Park, Nanaimo. See SUN 10 for details. For 5-15 year olds. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Free. 250-756-5200.

mon 25 Baby Chat at Central Branch Library. See MON 11 for details. Babies 0-15 months and parent or caregiver. 11-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

TUES 26 Bear Necessities at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. We can co-exist with these magnificent forest dwellers. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to learn about the natural history of the black bear. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Things That Go at Esquimalt Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Around the World at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See THURS 7 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

SAT 23

WED 27

Bejewelled Dragons on the Pond at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an up-close and personal look at the amazing world of dragonflies as they zig and zag in search of their prey across the wetlands. Nets and field guides will be available. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter in the Filter Beds parking lot at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Things That Go at Central Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission on a firstcome, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

38 Family Summer Guide

Around the World at Emily Carr Branch Library. See THURS 7 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission

is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Reptile Day at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Join the annual scaly celebration. Observe and interact with our fabulous reptile friends, play games, make crafts and get your face painted. Admission by donation. Noon3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Magic Workshop with Paul Kilshaw at Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Are you ready for some hocus-pocus? Join local magician Paul Kilshaw for an hour of fun adventure. See some jaw-dropping magic and learn some pretty nifty tricks yourself. Ages 7+. 1:30-2:30pm. Register by email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or call 250-656-0944.

THUR 28 Bike Ride Back in Time at Sooke Potholes Regional Park. Cycle back in time with CRD Regional Parks naturalists along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail from Sooke Potholes past Kapoor Regional Park (approx.. 12km round trip). Learn about the historic area near Leechtown and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of this wilderness area. There is no fee for this program, but you must preregister by July 26 as space is limited. 12+ years. 10am-2pm. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Baby Chat at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See MON 11 for details. Babies 0-15 months and parent or caregiver. Noon-12:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info. Remarkable Reptiles at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See THURS 7 for details. 1-3pm. $12/members; $18/non-members. Preregistration required by calling 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Little Lego in the Library at Bruce Hutchison and Central Branch Libraries. Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego. Bring your own Lego for a take-home project. For ages 4-6; parents are encouraged to attend. Bruce Hutchison: 1:30-2:30pm; Central: 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info. May the Force Be With You at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See TUES 5 for details. For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Trip on a Ship at Oak Bay Branch Library. See THURS 7 for details. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a

IslandParent.ca

first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

fri 29 Super Snakes at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See FRI 8 for details. 10-11:30am. Members: $12/adult/child pair and $4/each additional child; non-members: $17/adult/child pair and $6/additional child. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

BC DAY Long weekend FRI 29 – MON AUG 1 34th Annual Filberg Festival at the Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park. Juried artisans, food and entertainment. Kids Enchanted Forest with storytelling, face painting, sand boxes, painting, crafts and games. Fri-Sun: 10am-6pm; Mon: 10am-5pm. Advance: $13/adults; children 12 and under free. $15/at the door. filbergfestival. com.

SAT 30 Beat the Heat at Francis/King Regional Park. Enjoy the shade of the broadleaf maples on the universally accessible Elsie King Loop trail. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and check out the cedar lowlands, the lush salal understory, and the cool arbutus enclaves. Strollers and wheelchairs

welcome. Meet at the Francis/King parking lot off Munn Rd at 1pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Coast Salish Clam Garden Campfire at McDonald Campground, Sidney. Curious about what a Clam Garden is? Similar to caring for a vegetable garden in your backyard, Coast Salish Nations tend beaches to make clams grow better. Come to the campfire to learn more about clam gardens, the local restoration project, listen to Coast Salish traditional singing and taste clams. 7-8pm. 1-866-944-1744. Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT 2 for details. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only. Tickets will be available at summerstarparties. eventbrite.ca the week before.

SAT 30 – MON AUG 1 Comox Nautical Days at Comox Marina Park. Dancers, musicians, comics, clowns, and more. Pancake breakfast, kid’s pet parade, arts and craft booths, boat building events, BC Day Parade, and dragon boat races. comoxnauticaldays.ca.

SUN 31 Sensational Seaweeds at Island View Beach Regional Park. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help you discover how important marine

algae is for you and me and the creatures that call them home. Seaweed tasting is optional. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd at 10am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Victoria Symphony Splash in the Inner Harbour. Musical entertainment, food, souvenirs, and a live performance by the Victoria Symphony ending with a grand finale performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture—with fireworks of course. Family Zone on the lawns of the Empress from 1-4pm including face painting and an Instrument Petting Zoo. Main concert starts at 7:30pm. 1-10pm. 250-385-9771. victoriasymphony.ca.

AUGUST TUES 2 Are You Yeti For Some Fun? at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Explore the world’s most elusive creatures, from Sasquatches to unicorns. Enjoy stories, activities and a craft. For ages 6-9. 10:3011:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Myth Adventures at Esquimalt Branch Library. Don’t “myth” out on the fun. Explore mythical

Creating Paddlers for Life Our vision is that every young person can experience the benefits of a lifetime involvement in paddling. The Victoria Youth Paddling Club is a registered non-profit society dedicated to developing, promoting, and running programs leading to fun, fitness, skill development, and competition in kayaking and canoeing. We offer a safe, affordable and fun water sports club for youth ages 9 and up. On-water activities are led by qualified coaches and are held on the Gorge Waterway. We run a year round program with two sessions: Spring/Summer (April through September) and Fall/Winter (October through March) and summer camps too!

See

vypc.ca for details IslandParent.ca

Summer 2016 39

tales and create a craft. For ages 9-12. 2:303:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

WED 3

Sunset Market

Where the Wild Things Are Puppet Show at Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Sail away on an adventure this summer. Journey to a faraway land as the librarians entertain you with a puppet show based on Maurice Sendak’s Where the Wild Things Are. Stories, songs, and craft included. All ages welcome. 10:30-11:30am. Register by email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944. Around the World at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Explore our amazing world through stories and activities and make an imaginative craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Beer Gardens

Live

Music

Artisans Fo o d Tr u c k s

Workshops gourmet food

Reading Circle with Zuzana at Oak Bay Branch Library. Join retired elementary teacher Zuzana Macknight for a session with charts, big books and vocabulary resources to encourage a love of reading and learning. Come to one session or attend them all. For ages 5-7. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Trip on a Ship at Central Saanich Branch Library. Imagine a trip on a ship. Adventures abound in this program filled with stories, activities and a craft. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Oaklands Sunset Market

Celebrate Harry Potter (Muggles Welcome) at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Enjoy Harry Potter games, crafts, trivia and a snack, and try out your best wizarding moves with the green screen. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

@Oaklands Market

Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre.

AT OAKLANDS COMMUNITY CENTRE: #1-2827 BELMONT AVE

oaklands.sunset.market oaklandscommunitycentre.com/markets

Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission. Glow necklaces available for $2. 6:30-8pm. 250756-5200.

THURS 4 May the Force Be With You at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Join us in a galaxy not so far away for Star Wars-inspired stories, activities and crafts. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. 40 Family Summer Guide

Around the World at Goudy Branch Library. See WED Aug 3 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Insect Investigations at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Explore a nature theme through activities, hikes, experiments, and more. 1-3pm. $12/members; $18/non-members. Preregistration required by calling 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Trip on a Ship at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED Aug 3 for details. For ages 6-9. 2:303:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

FRI 5 Rascally Raccoons at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. A fun and interactive program which includes hands-on discovery, an outside ramble, a story and a craft. 10-11:30am. Members: $12/adult/child pair and $4/each additional child; non-members: $17/adult/child pair and $6/additional child. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Things That Go at Nellie McClung Branch Library. All aboard. Enjoy stories that transport you from here to there, and create a fun paper craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Down By the Bay at Esquimalt Branch Library. Have you ever seen a whale with a polka-dot tail? Come for fun ocean-themed storytime and craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more information. Myth Adventures at Central Branch Library. See TUES 2 for details. For ages 9-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Family Picnic and Play at Sandpiper/Boultbee Community Park, French Creek. Kids, bring your adults and your dinner to the park. Games and activities provided by RDN Recreation and Parks leader. Propane BBQ’s are welcome. 5-8pm. 1291 Ormonde Dr, French Creek. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

SAT 6 The Schoolhouse Market at Craigflower Schoolhouse. Indoor and outdoor vendors, music, food

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and prize giveaways. Kid friendly. 10:30am2:30pm. 2755 Admirals Rd. Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT JULY 2 for details. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only. Tickets will be available at summerstarparties.eventbrite.ca the week before.

SUN 7 Bruno’s Bullhead Fishing Derby at Brechin Ramp Docks. Prizes for longest, shortest, and ugliest bullhead. Prize draws for all registered youngsters. Registration starts at 9:30am with fishing starting at 10am. All kids must be accompanied by an adult and must wear a life vest at all times while on dock. Free hot dogs and drink for each registered entrant. Non-perishable donations to the food bank are welcome. Zorkin Rd, Nanaimo. Cadboro Bay Festival at Cadboro Gyro Park. Hands-on activities, bouncy castle, face painting, live performances, interactive games, kids treasure map, arts & craft stations, food, displays and more. World-class sand sculptors will create giant works of art from just sand, water and imagination. Fun for the whole family. 11am3pm. 250-475-5522. Gorge Swim Fest at Banfield Park and Esquimalt Gorge Park. Fun and games for the young and young-at-heart to raise awareness about the warmth, cleanliness and accessibility of this inland waterway. Noon-4pm. gorgeswimfest.ca.

Bountiful Berries at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist on a walk to explore for blackberries, Oregon grape berries, salal berries, and more. There will also be an opportunity to taste jams made from some of these natural delights. We will look at and taste berries, but will not be collecting them to take home. Meet at the Beaver lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot at 1pm. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Learn to Fish at Colliery Dam Park, Nanaimo. Learn about fish identification, conservation handling, tackle, and rod rigging. Sponsored by the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation, and presented by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. All equipment provided, and program runs rain or shine. For 5-15 year olds. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Free. 250-756-5200.

WED 10 Busy Beavers at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Bring your young ones to the shores of Beaver Lake Ponds to see an active beaver lodge. Children will have a chance to learn more about this amazing mammal and its marvellous adaptations. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter IslandParent.ca

in the Filter Beds parking lot at 10am. 10 and under. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Reading Circle with Zuzana at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 3 for details. For ages 5-7. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Down By the Bay at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See FRI 5 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more information. Mighty Mammals at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. I’m a mammal and so are you. Check out the marvelous variety and adaptations of our fellow mammals with pelts, skulls and help solve the latest mammal mystery at Swan Lake. Noon-3pm. Admission by donation. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Little Lego in the Library at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego. Bring your own Lego for a takehome project. For ages 4-6; parents are encouraged to attend. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Campfire Storytime at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Gather ’round the (fake) campfire for slightly spooky stories, campfire songs and campfire snacks. Don’t forget to bring your flashlight. All ages welcome. 6-7pm. Register by email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944.

THURS 11 Island View Edibles at Island View Beach Regional Park. Enjoy the bounty of this gem of a park with CRD Regional Parks naturalists and guest nature walkers and ethnobotanists, Earl Claxton Jr. and John-Bradley Williams. Sample herbal tea and native plant jellies and participate in a fun plant challenge. Guided plant walks offered at 11:15am and 1pm. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd. All ages. 11am2pm. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

ditional child; non-members: $17/adult/child pair and $6/additional child. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. Early Evening Bat Exploration at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. As the day draws to a close, it is a magical time to be out in the park. The daytime creatures are preparing for a night of rest and the nighttime creatures are starting to rouse. On this program, explore the weird and wonderful world of bats and hopefully get a chance to see them in action as they swoop through the air feeding on flying insects that are found at this time of year. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter in the Filter Beds parking lot at 7:30pm. 8+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

FRI 12 – SUN 14 22nd Annual Victoria Dragon Boat Festival in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Dragon boat races, entertainment, food, activities for kids and families. victoriadragonboat.com.

SAT 13 Morning Mist Canoe Adventure at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an early morning paddle on the lake searching for eagles, herons, turtles and other lake life. Canoe equipment and instruction are provided and no experience is necessary. 5+ years. $20 + GST (15 years +); $10 + GST (5-14 years). Pre-registration is required by August 11. Space is limited. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Heroes Inc.: Superheros at Your Library at Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Kapow! There are superheros at the library. Listen to stories, get your picture taken with a superhero, and have your superhero questions answered by one or more of your favourite superhero characters. Wear a costume if you want. All ages welcome. Drop in. 10:30-11:30am. 250-656-0944. Hawaiian Holidaze at Westwood Lake. Who needs a tropical getaway when we have our very own Westwood Lake. Enjoy a wide variety of tropical themed games and activities for the whole family. 1-3pm. 250-756-5200.

FRI 12

Evening Campground Program at Island View Beach Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an evening of games and stories. Bring a beach chair and meet at the campfire ring at Island View Beach campground, off Homathko Rd at 7pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Totally Turtles at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See FRI Aug 5 for details. 10-11:30am. Members: $12/adult/child pair and $4/each ad-

Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT JULY 2 for details. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission

Mind Your Mammals at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See THURS Aug 4 for details. 1-3pm. $12/members; $18/non-members. Preregistration required by calling 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

Summer 2016 41

42â&#x20AC;&#x192; Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

is by ticket only. Tickets will be available at summerstarparties.eventbrite.ca the week before.

SAT 13 – SUN 14 BioBlitz on Sidney Island. Help us find and identify as many different organisms as possible within 24 hours. Work side-by-side with experts and add to the park reserve’s official species list. Two ways to participate: join scientists for drop-in nature activities or become a citizen scientist for the weekend and camp overnight. Also join in to celebrate Coast Salish culture with traditional singing, dancing, and clam tasting. Saturday noon to Sunday noon. 1-866-944-1744.

WED 17 Reading Circle with Zuzana at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 3 for details. For ages 5-7. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre.

Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission. Glow necklaces available for $2. 6:30-8pm. 250756-5200.

THURS 18 Feeling Crabby at Island View Beach Regional Park. Red, green, purple, hairy and hermit crabs. This bustling marine habitat has them all. Drop by any time between 10am and 1pm to meet some of these crabs and their crusty cousins, up close and personal. There will be an aquarium, a crab craft and lots of opportunity to explore the beach with buckets and dip nets. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Look for the blue tent on the beach off Homathko Rd. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Adaptable Amphibians at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See THURS Aug 4 for details. 1-3pm. $12/members; $18/nonmembers. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

Purple Pirate Summer Reading Club Wrap-Up Party at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. You’re invited to the Summer Reading Club wrapup party. “Book a Trip” with the Purple Pirate to celebrate a fantastic summer full of reading. Prizes, cake and lots of fun for everyone. All ages welcome. 1:30-3pm. Register by email at sidney@ virl.bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944. Creatures of the Summer Night at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. Check out the nightlife of Swan Lake. Sharpen your senses to look for owls, bats and other nighttime creatures. Using a grab bag of tricks, we’ll discover how these animals are adapted to their nocturnal life. Suitable for families with children over 6. 8-9:30pm. $4/members; $6/non-members. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

SAT 20 Saanichton Family Festival in Saanichton. Games, prizes, inflatable obstacle course, Peninsula Country Market and more. 9am-2pm. 250-656-7271. Summer Reading Club Extravaganza at Central Branch Library. Celebrate the end of Summer Reading Club with a puppet show, an easy obstacle course and a cupcake. Dress up like your favourite book character to be entered into a draw for a bookstore gift certificate. Fun activities provided by Heros, Inc. and PISE. For ages 12 and under. 1-2pm: Travelling Puppet Show performance in the Community Room; 2-3:30pm: bring your favourite book, and carry it through an easy obstacle course in the Courtyard. 1-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

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Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT JULY 2 for details. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only. Tickets will be available at summerstarparties.eventbrite.ca the week before.

TUES 23

Celebrate Harry Potter (Muggles Welcome) at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See WED 3 for details. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Rascally Raccoons at Mill Hill Regional Park. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will lead you on a raccoon trail for a day in the life of these little rascals. Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Atkins Ave at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #53. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

FRI 19

WED 24

Beach Seine at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists on a beach seine and see what creatures live in the underwater forest. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet on the main beach off Metchosin Rd at 10am. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Reading Circle with Zuzana at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 3 for details. For ages 5-7. 10:30-11:30am. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

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Birds of a Feather at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Feathered wonders live all over Summer 2016 43

the world and come in so many different shapes, sizes and colours. Join in and try to figure out who’s who in the bird world. Hands-on exploration, bird watching, crafts, songs and games. Noon3pm. Admission by donation. 3873 Swan Lake. Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

THURS 25 Cougar Capers at East Sooke Regional Park. Investigate the life of a cougar on this informative walk and talk with a CRD Regional Parks naturalist. Meet at the kiosk in the Aylard Farm parking lot off Becher Bay Rd at 10am. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. Binoculars and Birding at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See THURS Aug 4 for details. 1-3pm. $12/members; $18/nonmembers. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

FRI 26 Family Picnic and Play at Maple Lane, San Pareil. Kids, bring your adults and your dinner to the park. Games and activities provided by RDN Recreation and Parks leader. Propane BBQ’s are welcome. 5-8pm. 1035 Maple Lane Dr, San Pareil. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

SAT 27 Coast Salish Clam Garden Campfire at McDonald Campground, Sidney. Curious about what a Clam Garden is? Similar to caring for a vegetable garden in your backyard, Coast Salish Nations tend beaches to make clams grow better. Come to the campfire to learn more about clam gardens, the local restoration project, listen to Coast Salish traditional singing and taste clams. 7-8pm. 1-866-944-1744.

SUN 28 Drop-In Paddlesports Family Race Day on the Gorge. Put all those new-found skills to the test. VI Paddlesports will bring out the Dragon Boats and some professional Dragon Boaters to help you with your speed. This program is geared for those that have participated in the drop-in Family Paddlesports course, but is open for first-time paddlers as well. Parent participation required. $10/person. 10am-3pm. vipaddling.com.

ONGOING BABIES, TODDLERS & PRESCHOOL Family Storytimes and Baby Times at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Parents and caregivers are welcome and encouraged to participate with their

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Cadboro Bay, Esquimalt, Downtown Victoria and Duncan Recreational, performance and competitive classes Dance, dance wherever you may be….

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children. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis. For a complete schedule of programs, visit gvpl.ca or call 250940-GVPL (4875) for more information.

CHILDREN Summer Reading Club 2016: Book a Trip at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Travel the universe page by page with the GVPL’s Summer Reading Club. Whether you’re reading at home or on holidays, you can track your daily reading on your reading record and enjoy weekly incentives along the way. Staying in town? GVPL offers free library programs at branches throughout Greater Victoria. Online registration is open. Beginning June 23, you are invited to drop by your local library to pick up a self-paced reading record. For info about the club, or to register for programs, check out gvpl.ca/src, or call 250-940GVPL (4875). Summer Reading Buddies at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Reading Buddies pairs children who need extra practice with reading with teen volunteers for fun literacy-based activities. Little Buddies and Big Buddies meet for an hour daily for one week. Week-long sessions are available between July 11 and August 19 at different branch libraries throughout the summer. Maximum two sessions per child during the summer. Space is limited. For children in Grades 2-4. Register online at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Volunteer Opportunities for Tweens at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Are you a tween looking for a volunteer opportunity? If you like working with children, enjoy stories, are a fluent English speaker and want to help young children with early literacy skills, the library needs you. GVPL’s Story Buddies program provides an opportunity to volunteer and work with kids. For ages 10-12. To find out more, visit gvpl.ca/about-us/workwith-us/tween-volunteers or call 250-940-GVPL (4875). Summer Reading Club: Book a Trip at Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Make books, learn magic tricks, meet live birds of prey from the Raptor Centre, have an out-of-this-world experience with Science Venture and so much more. There will be fun, free events happening at the library all summer long. Some programs require pre-registration. For more info, call 250656-0944, or email Sidney@virl.bc.ca. Summer Challenge 2016 at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Are your between the ages of 10 and 110 and looking for fun stuff to do this summer? We challenge you to have fun with books, music, magazines and more. Choose from 24 challenges and every time you complete one,

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you’ll earn an entry into a weekly prize draw. Enter online or in person at any Greater Victoria Public Library branch. Complete the challenges in any order, and feel free to repeat challenges. Runs June 30-August 25. For more information, visit gvpl.ca/summerchallenge or call 250-940GVPL (4875).

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Playground Programs in Nanaimo. Arts, crafts and sports. Drop in for free family fun. MondayWednesday, July 4-August 26, 10am-3pm at Carmanah Park, and Country Hills Park. Monday-Friday, July 4-August 26, 10am-3pm at Harewood, Centennial and Mansfield Park. Thursday and Friday, July 7-August 26, 10am3pm at Groveland Park and Deverill Square Park. For children 5 to 12 years old. 250-756-5200. Wacky Wednesdays at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre. Come and enjoy some weird, wacky fun. Wednesdays 1-2:30pm, July 6-August 24. 25-756-5200. Children’s Entertainment in the Park at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Wednesdays 11amnoon July 13-August 17.

YOUTH Reading Buddies: Teen Volunteers at the Greater Victoria Public Library. If you like working with children, enjoy reading, are a fluent English speaker, and want to help emerging readers, we need you. Reading Buddies teen volunteers mentor children in Grades 2-4 with reading practice and literacy-based activities. We provide training and, upon completion, a reference letter outlining your volunteer hours. First-time volunteers, please complete the Teen Volunteer Referral Form and register for a Reading Buddies Training Session. Big Buddies and Little Buddies meet for an hour daily for one week. Week-long sessions are available between July 11 and August 19 at different branch libraries throughout the summer. For ages 13-18. Register online at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. Book Review Club (All That and a Bag of Chips!) at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Pick up your free book and a bag of chips at any GVPL branch. Review the book online and return for free refills of books all summer. For ages 10-18. July 4-August 29. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more information. Teen Summer Challenge at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Express your creativity. 55 challenges dare you to get crafty, be wacky, and try new things. Complete tasks, earn points, do cool stuff and you could win an iPad Mini or a $50 Chapters gift card. Are you up for the challenge? Ages 12-18. 250-656-0944 or visit virl.bc.ca/ teens/challenge.

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Summer 2016 45

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250-383-5125 | office@cathedralschool.ca

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FAMILIES Bowen Park Kin Outdoor Pool in Nanaimo. Open daily 1-3pm for everyone welcome swims until September 2. kinpoolmanager@gmail.com or 250-753-8176. Munchkinland Drop-In at Family Place Munchkinland, Parksville. Bring your family and play and the exploration centre this summer. For children 6 and under and a caregiver. Mondays 9:30-11:30am until August 22. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. Afternoon Concerts in the Park Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Monday noon-1pm, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 1:30-3:20pm until July 31. Free. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Circles in Victoria. Every second Tuesday morning from 9:30-11:30am or every second Wednesday evening from 6:30-8:30pm. A safe supportive place to meet others in a similar situation and to share information and resources. Call 250-384-8042 for more information, or visit parentsupportbc.ca. Province-wide toll free information and support line at 1-855-474-9777 or email grgline@parentsupportbc.ca. Summer in the Square in Centennial Square. Lunchtime concerts Tuesday-Thursday July 5 to September 15. Noon-1pm. Free. Beat the Heat Everyone Welcome Skate at Oceanside Arena, Parksville. Beat the heat and go for a refreshing skate. Everyone welcome. Wednesday 6:45-8:15pm until August 10. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

SUMMER SOCCER CAMPS

Geocaching on Sidney, Pender, Saturna, and Vancouver Island. Try a geocaching program and embark on a self-guided adventure to experience the park reserve’s cultural and natural hotspots. Choose from two routes: a family-friendly treasure hunt or a more strenuous quest to see the top ten places in the park reserve. Free. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada. gc.ca/gulf. Concerts in the Park at Maffeo Sutton and Bowen Park Amphitheatre. Maffeo Sutton: Monday 12:30-1:30pm; Bowen Park: Wednesday, 6-7:30pm.

From Victoria to Port Hardy, we make learning fun!

www.worldcupsoccercamp.com 46 Family Summer Guide

S’mores n’ More at McDonald Campground, Sidney. Share the magic of a traditional Canadian campfire with your family. Join an interpreter and guest presenters for songs, park stories, s’mores and more. Bring a flashlight and a mug for hot chocolate. Ideal for families with children 12 and under. There will be a propane fire if there is a fire ban. Free. Please park at the adjacent Blue Heron Park and follow the signs to the campground. Meet at the group campfire ring. Saturdays 7-8pm

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Make this sum Make summer Make this this summer

in July and August. Call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf for more info.

COUNT COUNT COUNT COUNT COUNT COUNT COUNT COUNT COUNTCOUNT

Sunset Wildlife Watch at East Point, Saturna Island. Discover the wildlife of the Salish Sea and relax into the peacefulness of an East Point sunset. Dress warmly and bring blankets, chairs and flashlights. Enjoy the talents of island musicians and storytellers. Meet out at the point (5 min. walk). Fridays 8-9pm July 8-August 26. Free. For more info 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.

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Family Sundays at Winter Cove, Saturna Island. Dissect a real owl pellet. Make a nature craft. Pick up an Xplorers booklet. Bring along a camera or phone for a self-guided GPS Nature Photographer Adventure (GPS devices supplied). There’s something for everyone, so drop in any time and don’t forget a picnic. Allow one hour to complete an adventure. Sundays 10am-1pm in July and August. Free. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.•

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• Laser Tag • Foam Party • Video Game Theatre • Hamster Balls • Bumper Ball Soccer • Inflatables

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Alicia 250-661-2219 games2uvictoria@gmail.com www.g2u.com Games2u Victoria Summer 2016 47

Summer Programs July-August • Space: Drop-in Program Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30pm

• Toys: Drop-in Program Fridays, 1:30-3:30pm

• Nanaimo Cemetery Tours

Thursdays, July 7 & Aug 4 10-11:30am, Registration $10

Make a Discovery! NanaimoMuseum.ca • 250.753.1821 program@nanaimomuseum.ca

Ride the Wild Cave Slide!

10 Fun Things to Do in Nanaimo

Roam at Morning Star Bison Ranch

The ranch is open to the general public for rides with Buffalo Bob as the conductor and narrator on a ‘locomotive” driven tour buggy where you will ride into the fields to get a look at where the buffalo roam. The bison tour is akin to whale watching, except you will always be able to get up close to the bison, no risk of non-encounters. The 2000lbs of walking majesty will even pose for you while you take pictures. And you can feed the bison their favorite treat—Buffalo cookies. Located at 965 Spruston Road in Cassidy Highlands. Visit m-star.ca

Find a Waterfall

Ranked #1 Attraction Open Year Round

250-248-7829

hornelake.com 48 Family Summer Guide

Have a blast at the cannon firing, happening daily at noon until Labour Day. The cannons are located beside the Bastion on the Pioneer Waterfront Plaza. Afterwards, check out the Nanaimo Museum’s three floors of exhibits, costumes and photographs. The current exhibition—The Story Behind the Artifact—features a collection that has the most remarkable stories, ones that will evoke laughter, sadness, pride and a new appreciation for the powerful way an artifact can connect us with the past. Visit nanaimomuseum.ca.

There’s Millstone River Falls in Bowen Park, suitable for even the youngest hikers in your family (or if you’re carrying a baby in a backpack). Along with the Falls, you’ll find a fish ladder, a network of trails, interpretive signs and a duck pond. Also in the Nanaimo area is Ammonite Falls, spectacular year round although a more challenging hike (because of the ropes needed to climb down to the falls) compared to Millstone River Falls. There’s a waterfall on Mt. Benson, another at Colliery Dam, there’s Little Qualicum Falls close by, Englishman River Falls, and Rosewall Creek Falls near Fanny Bay. For a list of “17 Waterfall Creeks Along the Central East Coast of Vancouver Island,” visit the blog On the Beaten Path at getonthebeatenpath.blogspot.ca.

Go Crabbing at the Fishing Pier

- fossil hike - self-guided caving - cave tours – mild to wild

Behold the Bastion at Nanaimo Museum

Stock up at the Bastion Waterfront Farmer’s Market

Open for business every Friday from 10am-2pm, the Bastion Farmer’s Market is located on the top level of Pioneer Plaza on Front Street. Featuring everything from music, crafts, fresh baked goods, oneof-a-kind artisan crafted works, special event and, of course, local fruits and veggies. Visit bastionwaterfrontfarmersmarket.com.

Just a five-minute drive from downtown Nanaimo, Petroglyph Park is home to a high concentration of prehistoric rock carvings, some that date back to a time more than 1,000 years ago. Kids can make rubbings of concrete replica petroglyph castings to take home as a souvenir.

The fishing pier in front of Swya-Lana lagoon is a great place to try your luck at crabbing. You’ll need a licence, a crab trap, a measuring gauge, and bait—along with a bit of patience, sunscreen and a hat. Not just for crabbing and fishing, the pier is also a great place to stroll. Stop for a rest on one of the benches and watch the seaplanes and ferries buzz about. You might even see a seal or two, waiting for bits and pieces of discarded crab.

Explore Petroglyph Park

Get Wet at Water Parks

Pack the Super Soakers and water socks and cool off at a Nanaimo water park: there’s one at Departure Bay Centennial Park, another at Deverell Square Park on Irwin Street, one at Mansfield Park on St. Andrews Street and there’s Harewood Centennial Park on Howard Avenue. If you’re looking to go further afield, try the one at Parksville Beach Park, or the smaller one at Transfer Beach in Ladysmith. IslandParent.ca

Drop by Dinghy Dock Pub

A major attraction in Nanaimo since 1989, the Dinghy Dock Pub ,moored off Protection Island, is a favourite among adults and kids alike. The only registered floating pub in Canada, the pub features a family area with a patio that boasts a fishing hole where kids—and their parents—can try to make the big catch while enjoying the sights and sounds of sea planes, boats and nature. The ramp that connects the pub to the island allows visitors to walk the rock beaches, visit the parks or view the heron rookery, making it feel like you’re on vacation. For information, visit dinghydockpub.com.

Summer Magic Kool Toys & Teaching Tools

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Float On Over to Newcastle Island

Accessible by foot-passenger ferry or by boat, this marine provincial park boasts beaches, hiking/biking trails, camping at individual or group sites, and the Q’uluc’tun Bistro, featuring First Nations’ food. Departures from Maffeo Sutton Park on the hour from 9am-8pm. Departures from Newcastle Island on the half hour from 9:30am to the last one at 8:45pm. Adults $9 return, kids and seniors $6 return. Dogs ($2) and bikes ($4) are welcome, too. Visit newcastleisland.ca.

Follow the Nanaimo Bar Trail

Take a sweet self-guided tour through the streets of Nanaimo and surrounding areas. From Lantzville to Yellow Point, you can taste the many deliciously creative interpretations of the famous Nanaimo Bar. From the traditional Nanaimo Bar to the raw, organic, vegan and gluten free—yes, such a thing exists—the various interpretations include Maple Bacon and Dulce De Leche, Cranberry, Peanut Butter and Chilli, and even a Nanaimo Bar Spring Roll, a Nanaimo Bar pedicture, and a Nanaimo Bartini. Stop by the Visitor Centre or any of the participating locations and pick up a Nanaimo Bar Trail Brochure so you can map out your route along the 34 stops. Or download a trail map at tourismnanaimo.com.

Find us at our new location in Nanaimo's Country Club Mall Specializing in books for babies, toddlers, easy to read and kids to 12 years!

Check out our online shop:

www.childrenstreehouse.ca 250-714-0026

Playmobil, Brio & Thomas Trains, Folkmanis Puppets, Puzzles, Craft & Science Kits. Toys from Baby to Tween!

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For more things to do, places to stay, and an events calendar, check out the Tourism Nanaimo website at tourismnanaimo.com

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Summer 2016

Tina Kelly

Wildlife Webcams for fun or

Learning S ea lions, wolves and whales, oh my!

You can now watch these wild animals from the comfort of your home using a device or computer. The surge of live cams—hosted by a variety of organizations—offers an unobtrusive and up-close view of wildlife, permits access to remote areas and allows you to learn animal lifecycles and seasonal ecology. Check them all out and you may find yourself scheduling your calendar around eagles and herons hatching in spring, elephant seal pups being born in summer, and fish spawning and wolves hunting salmon in the fall. Now is the time to visit the Hancock Wildlife website (hancockwildlife. org) and click on the Delta eagle cam. You’ll be treated to a bird’s eye view of a bald eagle’s nest—egg-laying, egg(s) hatching, feedings and the young fledging. These may be the geographically closest eagle nests but scroll through the site for more cameras focused on bald eagle, owl, and peregrine falcon nests. In the fall, this same site features an underwater Chehalis River camera; this camera takes you eye-to-eye with spawning salmon.

Family Summer Guide

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Another local avian species you can keep your eyes on—courtesy of the City of Vancouver (vancouver.ca)—is the great blue heron. Like the eagle cams mentioned earlier, you may find yourselves addicted to watching the lifecycle of a heron. Herons return to this urban nesting colony—one of the world’s largest—in the spring and the camera is on through courtship, egg laying, egg hatching, baby feeding and young fledging in the late summer. Great blue herons, listed as a Species at Risk, often find it difficult to locate undisturbed nesting sites. The herons in the Stanley Park heronry have become accustomed to some human disturbance and continue with their natural behaviour.

Imagine watching animals living in the world’s largest intact temperate rainforest from your living room.You’ll go underwater as schools of Paciﬁc herring spawn… or peer over a sea lion haul-out as they are stalked by killer whales.

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Photo: Ian McAllister, Pacific Wild

Pacific Wild (pacificwild.org), as the name suggests, focuses on the wilderness of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest. Imagine watching animals living in the world’s largest intact temperate rainforest from your living room. You’ll go underwater as schools of Pacific herring spawn—a magnificent coastal event critical for the coastal food web—or peer over a sea lion haul-out as they are stalked by killer whales. Dive with harbour seals on the Seal Garden camera and in the fall, tune into the salmon spawning stream camera and you’ll witness wolves and bears foraging for a meal. When you sign up for Great Bear Live you’ll be notified directly when something exciting is happening on a live camera; viewers of this season’s Underwater Herring camera were notified of the humpback whale passing through the herring school. As with other sites, Pacific Wild archives and stores exciting wildlife camera moments on their website and social media sites just in case you missed it. Think you’ll never get to the deep sea? Think again—with live feeds from Ocean Networks Canada (oceannetworks.ca) you can visit Summer 2016

QUUT Beach Toys

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depths far below where scuba can take you. Permanently mounted deep sea cameras are lit at specific times during the day to allow you a glimpse at a deep sea environment. Unfortunately, a trawler damaged and decommissioned one of their cameras but plans are in the works for repairs and three new cameras. Keep an eye on their website for research expeditions heading out this summer and you’ll not only explore in real time with real scientists, you’ll learn about the process and technology used from ship deck to ocean floor. Learn by looking or learn by asking—some expeditions offer the opportunity to communicate with the scientists, educators or crew onboard via social media. Explore.org hosts cameras near and far, from Churchill’s polar bears and Saskatchewan’s bison, to grizzlies in Alaska and the wilds of Kenya. The site features cameras streamed from both wild locations and zoos and aquaria. For something wild and “local” try the Orcalab cameras. Orcalab hosts several sites aiming to spotlight coastal marine mammals found around Hanson and Parson Islands, situated off Northeastern Vancouver Island. Watching this camera one day last fall, my colleagues and I watched a trifecta of mammals—in the screen foreground swam two sea lions, mid-screen a pod of killer whales cruised through and at the very same moment, humpback whales surfaced in the background. Look southwest from Victoria’s Ogden Point and you’ll see a smattering of small islands that makes up Race Rocks Ecological Reserve. On a clear day, you may even be able to make out the black and white striped lighthouse. But for a close look at the Reserve’s wildlife—and the often blustery weather—visit racerocks.ca. A couple of cameras are yours to choose from and on top of that, the site gives you control of remote controlled cameras for two minute intervals. Commonly caught on camera are Northern elephant seals and in the past, some lucky viewers witnessed the birth of a pup live on camera. Note: Due to remote locations and rough weather some of these cameras are subjected to you will occasionally find them offline. Don’t give up; keep checking in for the action. Tina Kelly is the Director of Learning at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea. She and her colleagues have witnessed some exciting moments on live cams, one of which was a trio of killer whales hunting sea lions on Pacific Wild’s Outer Coast Camera.

koolandchild.com IslandParent.ca

Under the Sea Did you know…

ne oyster can filter 190 litres of water a day! If there is an oil spill or other toxin in the water, shellfish can help keep the water clean. Pacific geoduck clams can live up to 156 years! You can count the growth rings on the shell to estimate age, similar to counting the rings of a tree. Sunflower stars are the fastest sea stars in the world! Because they have up to 24 arms, they can move an inch per second.

Discover the Sailor in You at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club! Our award winning sailing school will get you on the water where the horizon is the limit! Sailing to WIN! Sailing for LIFE! All of the seaweed in the Salish Sea is edible! You have probably eaten a local species called Nori if you have ever eaten sushi. The giant Pacific octopus has three hearts! There is one heart for each gill and one for the body. This is to compensate for poor circulation. Mussels attach to rocks with strong, sticky threads called byssus threads! The can also use these threads to tie up predatory snails that get too close. If you were to put your thumb on a sea otter, there would be more hair under your thumb than you have on your whole body! Sea otters have 1 million hairs per square inch of their body. The hooded nudibranch smells like watermelon! Nudibranch translates to “naked gills”. They have finger-like projections on their back for breathing. These increase the surface area for gas exchange. A sea pen is a soft coral which can completely withdraw into the ocean bottom when disturbed. Sea pens can also glow in the dark! From Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea. For more information visit oceandiscovery.ca

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Just off Beach Drive! 3475 Ripon Rd ! (250) 592-6113 sailing@rvyc.ca ! www.rvyc.ca

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Summer 2016 53

Party Directory O

The place online where parents and grandparents get information about their community for their family:

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Read current and past issues of Island Parent Magazine. Visit our Marketplace to find businesses, programs and services that cater to the little person in your life. Looking for that special something you had when you were a kid? Check out our classified ads. Want to see what’s up today or this weekend? View our calendar of events. Whether it’s dance lessons, parenting workshops, fun days and festivals, what’s happening at your local rec centre or community events— Island Parent Online has it all!

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IslandParent.ca 54

Family Summer Guide

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Party Directory Book your Par-T-Pet Party! Adorable AND affordable.

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250-380-2442 Summer 2016 55

Carly Sutherland

What I Miss About the West Coast M

y phone dinged with the email request to write a column on the topic of what I miss about the West Coast, just as I was contemplating the dog urine/exhaust-stained snow banks that mark the beginning of spring in my beloved home province of Nova Scotia. In early April, we are a good month away from so much as a forsythia bloom, yet I was watching my friends Instagramming the cherry blossoms, their children in shorts, and even a dip in Lake Cowichan. I figured that even if I just wrote about the weather, I could hit my word count. But it’s too easy, and too obvious, frankly, to talk about the weather. Just like it’s too

What I miss about Vancouver Island is the bottle green water around my uncle’s little place in North Saanich. I miss the deep puddles of cherry blossoms on the sidewalks in front of our little rental on Moss Street. I miss the huevos rancheros at Rebar, the steak and frites at Brasserie L’Ecole, the mushroom pizza at Prima Strada, and the ackee and salt cod at The Reef. I miss the immense tactile satisfaction of rubbing the trunk of an arbutus tree. (Is that weird?) I miss spending hours with my kids at Willows Beach. What I miss most, though, are the friends I met. I moved to Vancouver in 2005 and then onto Victoria in 2009, when my husband

April in Halifax, Nova Scotia

easy to descend into stereotypes about the healthy/hippie lifestyle. (I became immune to it after a while, but I could always count on my mother’s commentary when she came from Nova Scotia for a visit. On homemade granola: “That comes in a box, you know.” On the abundance of runners along Dallas Road: “Where’s everyone goin’? There a tsumani or somethin’?”) 56 Family Summer Guide

began his naval training in Esquimalt. Our son was just over a year old, and as those of you who have read my column before know, he was a handful. I was lonely, bummed that I had ditched my career for my husband’s, and really feeling like I was sucking at motherhood. We had been in our little rental in Fairfield only a couple of weeks before I discovered

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some free drop-in parent and tot groups in the neighbourhood. I connected instantly with some of the other parents, and within the month we were seeing each other almost every day, taking advantage of Victoria’s climate to meet at playgrounds, parks, and beaches, or kindergyms and Strong Start programs on those days the rain was just a little too torrential. To this day, they are some of the dearest friends I ever had, and their kids will be forever special to me. Most of us were undergoing the profound transition that early motherhood

What I miss about Vancouver Island is the bottle green water around my uncle’s little place in North Saanich. I miss the deep puddles of cherry blossoms on the sidewalks in front of our little rental on Moss Street…I miss the immense tactile satisfaction of rubbing the trunk arbutus tree. (Is that weird?) I miss spending hours with my kids at Willows Beach. brings, and this combination of shared experience and vulnerability created powerful bonds between us. As a result, beyond the first two weeks, I remember that time in my life not as a time of chaos and upheaval, but rather an idyllic way to come into my own in my new identity as a parent, and to have this framed within the incredible backdrop of Vancouver Island is an experience for which I am eternally grateful. We moved back to Halifax in 2011. We have a great life here, surrounded by extended family, and living in a house which we didn’t have to trade a kidney to afford (had to go there!). But days come when I miss the Island and the community that embraced me so much that I tear up. Love your home, Island Parents. It’s one of the very best. And it hasn’t seen the last of me. Carly Sutherland still shamelessly makes homemade granola. She lives with her family in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

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Synchronized Swimming SUMMER CAMP Aug 22-26 9am-4pm

Girls & Boys Ages 8-12 $225 includes shirt & cap—Saanich Commonwealth

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Summer 2016 57

Fiona Devereaux & Kimberley Black

Healthy Families, Happy Families

Child, Youth & Family Public Health South Island Health Units Esquimalt 250-519-5311 Gulf Islands 250-539-3099

Quench Your Thirst

Try these delicious drink ideas to nourish your body! Fizzy Water Fruit Explosion Common Ingredients to add to fizzy water: • Sliced fruit (lemon, lime, orange, cucumber, melon) • Frozen or fresh berries • Lemon or lime concentrate • Fresh mint, basil or rosemary

Luscious Lemonade

(toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

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

Old Fashioned Lemonade: • Add ¼ cup of honey or sugar to 1 cup of hot water— stir until sugar is dissolved • Add 1 cup (6 lemons) of freshly squeezed lemon juice (or 6 Tbsp of lemon concentrate) • Cool and add 4-6 cups of cold water or some sparking water for fizz • Add 2 cups of ice • Try it with mint, lemons, limes or berries

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

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

www.viha.ca/prevention_services/

58 Family Summer Guide

Delicious Combinations: • Strawberry + Kiwi • Blueberries + Orange • Watermelon + Strawberry • Mango + Orange • Cucumber + Mint • Lemon + Mint • Grapefruit + Orange + Lemon

Fir Tip Lemonade: • Fir, spruce or hemlock tea infusions are delicious sun teas • Harvest 1–2 cup of tips, rinse and add to 6 cups water • Let steep in the sun for 4 hours and strain out fir tips • Squeeze in 1/4 cup lemon juice • Enjoy over ice • Add 1/2 cup of this mixture to bubbly water for some fizz

Soulful Iced Tea Traditional and Flavoured: • Steep 4 tea bags in 1L of hot water • Let steep until colour is dark (or tea has cooled) • Remove bags, stir well and add 1L of cold water, 2 cups ice and lemon or orange slices • Optional: 1–2 Tbsp. of sugar or honey Loose Leaf or dried plants: • Steep 4 Tbsp of dried tea in 1L of hot water until cooled • Strain, add 2 cups ice and 4L of water, garnish with mint plant! Delicious options are: Nettle and mint—Steep 3 Tbsp of nettle with 1 Tbsp of mint. Also try mixed berry, lemon, apple, blueberry, mint and more. IslandParent.ca

Smoothies Rather than a thirst quenching drink, smoothies can be viewed more as a meal or large snack. The fluids we drink are to hydrate us and the meals we eat are to nourish our bodies. Easy to Make Smoothie Ideas: Choose from the categories below—add to a blender and mix:

FLUID

FRUITS/VEGGIES

PROTEIN

FLAVOURING

(Unsweetened; Choose One)

(fresh, frozen or canned)

(choose one or optional)

(1 tsp – optional)

1 cup

1–2 cups

1/4–1/2 cup

Sprinkle to taste

• Water • Skim, 1% or 2% milk • Almond Milk • Rice Milk • Coconut milk • Soy Milk

• Berries (any variety!) • Banana • Plums • Oranges • Peaches • Kiwi • Mango • Pineapple

• Veggies • Spinach • Kale • Chard • Grated Beets • Carrots • Cucumbers

• Peanut or other nut butter • Skim milk powder • Tofu • Yogurt

• Cinnamon • Nutmeg • Vanilla • Ginger • Cocoa powder

Does your child have difficulty reading? • can’t read words just read earlier • letter reversal • symptoms of dyslexia • “sounds out” words but can not blend them correctly • confuses similar sounding words • avoids reading/poor speller I offer an effective program that works! Call for more information or to arrange your individualized one-on-one tutoring solution.

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Send Us Your Stories!

Some Combination Ideas • 1 banana, 1/2 cup of berries and 1 cup of water or milk. You can also add 1/2 tsp of cinnamon/vanilla, or a 1/2 cup of yogurt if desired. • 1 apple, 1 cup of spinach, 1 Tbsp of ginger and 1/2 cup of water. • 1 cup of berries, 1 cup of milk, 1 of tsp cocoa powder and 1/4 cup of peanut butter. • 1 cup of frozen berries, 1 cup of spinach, 1 cup of water. Smoothie Smarts: • Choose unsweetened fluids most of the time, and if choosing almond, rice, coconut or soy milk check the label to see that it is fortified with calcium and vitamin D. • If you don’t finish your smoothie, freeze to enjoy as a popsicle. • Store in a handy 2 cup (16 oz) mason jar for easy transport. Created by Fiona Devereaux, RD and Kimberley Black, RD (Dietitians with the Aboriginal Health Program of Island Health), in collaboration with Dietitians around B.C. IslandParent.ca

Island Parent is looking for articles for upcoming issues. Some of our best content comes from people just like you—Vancouver Island parents who are passionate about their families and are dealing with the day to day issues of raising children in our community. Share your experiences, your thoughts on a particular issue, your ideas on places to see or projects to do— anything related to parenting. Check our Writer’s Guidelines at islandparent.ca for specific information on submissions. We’d love to hear from you. Please email submissions to editor@islandparent.ca.

Summer 2016 59

Victoria Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is an inexpensive and fun way to spend an afternoon outdoors with the kids. The farm’s goats, sheep, bunnies, peacocks, potbellied pigs, miniature horses and other animals are perennial family favourites. Visit the goat petting area and take part in the renowned goat stampedes at 10:10am and 5:10pm. Open daily 10am-5pm, weather permitting. Admission by donation. Enter Beacon Hill Park from Douglas Street (turn left across from Simcoe Street). For more details, visit beaconhillchildrensfarm.ca or see the ad in Adventurous Family Attractions on pages 16-19 in this issue. Victoria Bug Zoo offers visitors a chance to view and experience multi-legged creatures from around the world in a safe, fun and friendly atmosphere. Get up close and personal with live giant walkingsticks, alien-eyed praying mantids, hairy tarantulas and glow-in-the-dark scorpions, to name a few. Discover over 40 fascinating species including Canada’s largest ant farm. No matter whether you just look or are adventurous enough to hold some of the residents, you can’t help but be fascinated by this array of arachnids and friends. 631 Courtney Street, one block north of the Empress Hotel. For more details, visit victoriabugzoo.ca, phone 250-384-BUGS(2847), or see the ad in Adventurous Family Attractions on pages 16-19 in this issue.

Saanich/Sidney

Captivating

Critters

ever mind the scientific studies that show how interacting with animals can elevate a person’s levels of serotonin and dopamine, which can act as a natural relaxant. Or that the companionship of an animal can offer comfort, help ease anxiety, and build self-confidence in children. Most of us already know—on an intuitive level, at least—that interacting with animals is somehow good for our health. Thankfully, Vancouver Island is loaded with options for introducing kids to furry, woolly, feathered, potbellied or even six- or eight-legged friends. Visit any or all of the following places to connect with some of the creatures that share the Island with us. 60 Family Summer Guide

Dan’s Farm and Country Market at 2030 Bear Hill Road in Saanich is not just a source for local produce, baked goods, and poultry raised using organic principles, but also boasts a petting farm for the kids. Visit the ducks, chickens, goats, pigs, rabbits and more, then stock up on berries, figs and tomatoes. Bring along a picnic lunch and for dessert, treat yourself to an ice-cream cone. Open daily 8:30am-5pm. dansfarm.ca. 250-652-9100. Although the Saanich Fair is not a farm, if your kids like to visit and pet farm animals, you’ll want to mark this event on your calendar. There are 4H displays and demos, and animals to ponder and pet such as horses, donkeys, llamas, alpacas, goats, pigs, cattle, rabbits and more. There’s also food, entertainment, a midway, exhibits such as quilts, needle arts, flowers, vegetables, photography, and more. Sept 3, 4 & 5 at the fairgrounds at 1528 Stelly’s Cross Road. Gates open 8am-9pm. For more details, visit saanichfair.ca or see the ad in Adventurous Family Attractions on pages 16-19 in this issue. The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea (formerly the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre) in Sidney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the ecosystem of the Salish Sea. Colourful aquarium habitats teem IslandParent.ca

with marine life for you to observe. Hundreds of fish, invertebrates and marine plants recreate the ocean and give you a seldom-seen underwater view. At the touch tanks, use the one finger rule to shake hands with an urchin and be tickled by a sea star. Spend some time with the Oceaneers as they introduce you to hands-on/hands-wet learning. 9811 Seaport Place. Open daily 10am-5pm. oceandiscovery.ca or 250-665-7511. Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Enjoy the beauty of hundreds of exotic butterflies flying free in their own tropical rainforest environment. Wander through the orchid exhibit or carnivorous plant section. You’ll also see colourful fish and tropical birds. The on-site naturalists are full of fascinating facts and will answer your questions. 1461 Benvenuto Avenue in Brentwood Bay. Open daily 10am-5pm. butterflygardens.com or 250-652-3822.

Duncan The Raptors, 10 minutes north of Duncan, invites you to meet some of the coolest birds in the world during one of the daily flying demonstrations (at 11:30am and 1:30pm). You can see a variety of raptors—eagles, falcons, owls, vultures and hawks—showcase their incredible flight and hunting skills free and out in the open. Many other up-close learning experiences are available. Open daily 10:30am-4pm. 1877 Herd Road. For more details, visit pnwraptors.com, phone 250-746-0372, or see the ad in Adventurous Family Attractions on pages 16-19 in this issue.

Parksville Little Qualicum Cheeseworks is just north of Parksville. Wander LQC’s Morningstar Farm, meet the small herd of Holstein, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, and Canadienne dairy cows and see how yummy, artisanal local cheeses are made. Visit the calf pens, the pigsty, the store, picnic area and more. Guided tours can be arranged for groups of 8 or more, or you can take your own self-guided tour around the 68 acres of beautiful working farm. Open daily 9am-5pm. Daily milking at 4pm. 403 Lowrys Road. morningstarfarm.ca or 250-954-3931.

Errington Tiger Lily Farm is located in Errington between Parksville and Coombs. At the Barn Yard you can visit lovable, huggable rabbits, portly pigs, daffy ducks, and even shy sheep. At feeding time you can help hold the bottle for the calf. Or learn how to milk a goat. Go for a trail ride and enjoy the old-time experience of horseback riding (phone ahead to book). Admission prices include a pony ride for the kids. Open daily 10am4pm. 1692 Errington Road. If you’re heading north from Nanaimo, turn left onto Errington IslandParent.ca

Road and follow the signs. tigerlilyfarm.ca or 250-248-2408.

Coombs The World Parrot Refuge is the largest freeflight parrot refuge in the world and is home to over 800 parrots. The refuge is an educational facility that provides a “home for life” to previously owned parrots. Bring your camera and video camera as these are colourful and talkative creatures. Located 2 minutes from the Coombs Country Market at 2116 Alberni Hwy. Open daily 10am-4pm. worldparrotrefuge.org North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA), off Highway 4A near Coombs, is a rehabilitation facility, especially for raptors and black bears. The goal is to care for these animals and eventually reintroduce them into their natural environment. See magnificent eagles through one-way glass in the largest flight cage of its kind in Canada. You can also view bears, owls, falcons, hawks, swans and ravens. NIWRA offers activities and educational programs for the whole family. 1240 Leffler Road. Open daily 9am-5pm. For more details, visit niwra.org, phone 250248-8534, or see the ad in Adventurous Family Attractions on pages 16-19 in this issue. Butterfly World & Gardens, just past Coombs on Highway 4A. Stroll among hundreds of free-flying exotic butterflies, tropical birds and hummingbirds in the indoor tropical jungle. You’ll also see hundreds of exotic living orchids landscaped in a beautiful indoor water garden, a turtle pond, the Big Bug Jungle and gift shop. Open daily 10am-4pm. nature-world.com or 250-248-7026.

Advertisers Directory Art Gallery...................................8 Pacific Rim College...................32 Artistic Statement........................4 Park Sands...............................IBC Atomique Productions.................1 Parks Canada..............................3 Beach Acres...............................29 Parksville Beach Festival..........IFC Beacon Hill

Patricia Lane.............................20

Children’s Farm....................19 PISE............................................11 Bear Mountain...........................45 Pumpkin Pie Kids.....................49 Blue Vista...................................29 Re/Max Duncan...........................6 Butchart Gardens......................13 Robert Bateman Centre............36 Camp Pringle...............................9 Robins Nest Recording..............57 Christ Church

Royal BC Museum.....................36

Cathedral School..................46 Royal Victoria Yacht Club..........53 Citizen Engagement..................IBC Saanich Commonwealth.............17 City Centre Park.......................15 Saanich Dental..........................10 CRD..................................... 31, 53 Saanich Fair...............................16 Dr. Joslin, Dr. Morin

Saanich Recreation......................7

& Associates.........................IFC Serious Coffee............................10 Dwight School............................13 Shakespeare Festival..................53 Echo Ridge Stables....................22 Shaw Centre for Fort Rodd Hill...........................19

the Salish Sea.......................17

Four Seasons..............................25 Stages.................................... 9, 12 Gabriola Theatre Festival..........46 Swan Lake Christmas Games2U....................................47

Hill Nature Sanctuary..........31

Glengarry Dance.......................23 Sylvan Learning.........................47 Gorge Soccer.............................24 The Children’s Treehouse...........49 Horne Lake Caves.............. 19, 48 The Raptors...............................18 IMAX...........................................17 Thrifty Foods.............................33 Kaleidoscope Theatre................56 Tiger Lily Farms........................12

Comox/Courtenay

Kate Rubin.................................27 TJ’s The Kiddie Store.................23

The Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park on nine acres of waterfront in Comox has gardens, a tearoom, and the Hands-On Farm which is open daily to the public, 10am-4pm until mid-August. Come talk, walk and squawk with the animals, including Tennessee fainting goats, chickens, ducks, sheep, rabbits and more. Admission of $5/family helps to offset the cost of housing the animals. The farm is closed due to the Filberg Festival from July 29-August 1. filberg.com, 250-339-3276. Seaview Game Farm in Black Creek (north of Courtenay) offers hour-long tours, running July and August, at 10:30am and 2pm, reservations required. Ride the tractor cart to visit the animals on an interactive tour of the mini farm. Feed and pet the chickens, llamas, peacocks, pigs, alpaca, Highland cattle, goats and sheep. A picnic and play area provide even more fun. Rent the Yurt, (or “dwelling place”), and stay over night just a few metres from the ocean and public beach access. seaviewgamefarm.com or 250-337-5182.•

Kiowa Farm...............................27 Tom Lee Music..........................34 Kool & Child....................... 49, 52 Total Learning Services.............59 Leap Forward Dance.................45 Uvic Farquar..............................35 Lifestyles....................................21 UVIC Vikes..................................19 Lizzy Lee & Me.........................35 Vancouver Island Baby Fair......62 Lucky Village.............................IBC Vancouver Island University......BC Mad Science.................................6 Victoria Academy of Ballet.........4 The Make House........................43 Victoria Bug Zoo.......................18 Mary Roger’s Music Studio........20 Victoria Kids Consignment........64 Momease...................................IFC Victoria Pediatric Dental...........24 Mothering Touch..........................5 Victoria Synchro........................57 Nanaimo Museum......................48 Victoria Youth Paddling.............39 NIDES.........................................42 VIHA...........................................58 North Island Wildlife

Welcome Wagon........................22

Recovery Centre...................18 West-Mont..................................24 Notaries on Douglas.................43 Western Speedway.....................34 O’Brien Irish Dance..................44 Westshore Motocross.................19 Oak & Orca.......................... 8, 21 Westshore Parks & Oaklands Market.......................40

Recreation...................... 18, 28

OCEAN 98.5...............................63 World Cup Soccer.....................46

Summer 2016 61

Family Getaways Feel like packing up and getting away from it all? Here are some ideas to help you with your family holiday. Enjoy seeing new sites or visiting old favourites as you leave the household chores behind.

Beach Acres Resort is a relaxing retreat for the whole family at Rathtrevor beach located in Parksville, BC. Our family-friendly, beachfront accommodations offer private cottages, spacious townhouses and majestic ocean views from every window. 25-1051 Resort Drive, Parksville. 1-800-663-7309. BeachAcresResort.com.

Bring your family to Blue Vista Resort and start a new tradition. Located steps from Bennett Bay and the Gulf Island National Reserve with its beaches and shoreline walks on Mayne Island, this Tourism BC Approved Accommodation has been catering to families for over three decades. With nine individualized housekeeping cottages to choose from and a quiet lawn with barbecues, picnic tables and a children’s play area, this

small family-run resort invites you to join a tradition many families have been enjoying for years. Cabins start at under $100/night. Visit bluevistaresort.com for rates and details. Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse NHS are no stodgy old museums! Let the kids explore this 100-year-old coast artillery fort and master the games inside Fisgard Lighthouse, the oldest one on Canada’s west coast. Surprise them with the idea of staying overnight. Soldiers’ families used to camp here in the early 1900’s. Nowadays you can camp here too; the oTENTik cabins are equipped with everything you’ll need for a worry-free getaway. pc.gc.ca/fortroddhill, 250-478-5849.

Check out the best in Canada! Visit Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park and give your family a trip to remember. There is something for everyone—learn about the crystals, fossils and mysterious marble caverns on a fun and adventurous guided tour. Or self-explore the smaller but more rugged caves with a map and rented helmet with headlamp. For those that prefer their adventure above ground, check Canada’s only Cave Theatre, Cave Museum and Interpretive Centre, or try a 2hr. outdoor rock rappel session. Nearby canoe rentals and lakefront camping make Horne Lake an outdoor-lover’s dream.

Park Sands Beach Resort is a family-oriented RV park and campground. It is located downtown on the sandy shores of Parksville Bay beside the Community Park, with its fabulous playground, water-spray park and BMX/skateboard park. Families have been coming here for generations to enjoy the wide expanse of sandy beach, the surrounding natural beauty, and numerous recreational opportunities including hiking, biking and golf. Our central location makes for easy day trips to other Island destinations. parksands.com.•

10 th annual

Celebrating the growing family september 24 & 25, 2016 pearkes rec centre - 3100 Tillicum rd PR Photo Creations

victoria PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

exhibitor registration on now! for info visit VancouverIslandBabyFair.com 62 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Details, Details To find out more about travelling on Vancouver Island, visit the following websites or contact or visit the organizations. Tourist Information Tourism Vancouver Island Website: vancouverisland.travel Request free Travel Guides, view them online, or sign up for the email newsletter. You’ll find maps and a distance chart, information about accommodations, camping, tours, attractions, festivals, events, entertainment, parks and outdoor activities in various communities. Tourism Victoria Visitor Info Centre Website: tourismvictoria.com 812 Wharf Street, Victoria 250-953-2033 Toll Free: 1-800-663-3883 Find maps, a calendar of events, a vacation guide, things to do and see, accommodation info and more.

Visitor Info Centres You’ll find visitor info centres in most communities, often located along main routes. During July and August, most centres are open 9am-5pm. Also, most have websites with great information and links. To do some pre-trip planning, look

64 Family Summer Guide

online to find the location of specific centres (hellobc.com). Or just wait to pick up brochures and ideas when you’re on the road.

BC Parks Discover Camping Reservation Service Website: discovercamping.ca Toll free: 1-800-689-9025 You can use the Discover Camping website to view campsite availability, reserve a site and manage your bookings. Most campsite reservations can be made up to 3 months in advance and no later than 2 days prior to your arrival date. You can also find out about service fees in the various parks and download a brochure for easy reference.

Parks Canada Gulf Islands National Park Reserve Website: reservation.pc.gc.ca/Home.aspx Toll free: 1-877-737-3783 (Reservations) 1-866-944-1744 (Information) View campsite availability, reserve a site, manage your bookings, and find out about park reserve programs and events.

Capital Regional District Parks & Trails Website: crd.bc.ca/parks Find out about 33 regional parks and trails on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands: maps, activities, rules regarding pets, feature hikes, nature programs.

Island Weather The Weather Network Website: weather.ca For weather forecasts, select “British Columbia” and click on a specific town or city, from Bamfield to Zeballos. Marine Weather Website: weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/marine Click on the appropriate region for marine conditions and forecasts.

Road Conditions Drive BC Website: drivebc.ca For highway cams, incidents and conditions. Toll free 1-800-550-4997

Ferry Information BC Ferries Information Website: bcferries.com Toll free: 1-888-BC-FERRY For routes, rates or schedules, to make a reservation or check traffic conditions.

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Summer

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