Family Summer Guide 2014 by Island Parent Group

2014

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

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Parksville’s Premiere Event on the Beach! SCULPTING: July 12 & 13 GATES OPEN: July 12 at 2pm EXHIBITION: July 14 to August 17 Open 9am until 9pm

Quality Foods FOR MORE INFORMATION:

parksvillebeachfest.ca us on Facebook!

FIREWORKS DISPLAY

Saturday August 9, 2014

July 12 August 17, 2014

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Contents

ENJOY A PICNIC ON THE BEACH Pre-packaged picnics available at Pacific Prime Restaurant & Lounge.

Welcome............................................................................................3 Super Wild, Vancouver Island ............................................................4 Hit the Trails......................................................................................6 Kid-Friendly Island Campgrounds ..................................................10 Dock Walking Wonders ..................................................................12 Nanaimo Attractions........................................................................14 Local Authors...................................................................................16 The Write Stuff.................................................................................17 Summer Vacations with(out) Technology.........................................18 Must-See Attractions........................................................................20 Vikings: Lives Beyond the Legends...................................................23 Explora Trail: Free Guided Trail Apps...............................................24 Ewww…That’s Weird!......................................................................25 Sidney Attractions............................................................................26 Summer Calendar of Events.............................................................28 Captivating Critters..........................................................................44 To Tan or Not to Tan: The Effects of Sun Exposure..........................46 Party Directory.................................................................................48 Hunters & Gatherers........................................................................50 To Market, to Market.......................................................................52 As Day Turns to Night.....................................................................53 Family Getaways..............................................................................54 Details, Details.................................................................................56

Family Summer Guide 2014 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, Suite A-10, 830 Pembroke St, Victoria, BC V8T 1H9; Tel 250-388-6905; Fax 250-388-6920; www.islandparent.ca, www.kidsinvictoria.com

1.888.760.2008 BeachClubBC.com 2 Family Summer Guide

Publisher/Owner: Mark Warner Editor: Sue Fast Sales & Marketing: RaeLeigh Buchanan Publisher’s Assistant: 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: Sylvia Michalew, (grand prize winner), Serena Beck, Elaine Francis, Robin Howe, Sarah Lynch, Gordon Rufh, Terrie Skinner, and Nadene Steinbach. Thank you all for your submissions!

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Welcome to the

Family Summer Guide 2014

Bathingsuits, towels,and watersocks. Okay that’s three

things, but it never hurts to be prepared for a swim. Imagine getting stuck in traffic with your kids on a hot summer’s day and instead of heading straight home, taking a detour and heading to the a beach instead. Think of how much better you’d feel once you get to where you need to go. Essential extras: sunscreen, a hat, and drinking water.

The Family Summer Guide. No matter what you

7 things to have on hand—or in mind—this summer

A spririt of adventure. Do something out of the ordinary. Challenge yourself and each other. See new places. Make new friends. As family therapist and author Michael Ungar says: “To grow, we need to experience challenges—whether we’re 4, 14, or 40.”

A sprinkler. Or water balloons. Or a port-a-pool. Or a squirt gun. Or a hose. What’s summer without a splash?

Curiosity. The more curious kids are, the more they learn. And the more fun they have. Allow your kids time to stop and wonder. Consider their questions. Ask some of your own. Look for answers together. Discover.

A sense of fun. Laugh lots. Stay up late. Sleep outside. Have breakfast in bed/sleeping bag. Throw a party. Paint the car (with washable paints) or decorate your bikes. Roll down a grassy hill. Picnic. Road trip. Play.

A camera. Box, digital, or pinhole…it doesn’t matter which kind of camera you choose, just remember to pack it with you wherever you go this summer. Even underwater—if yours is waterproof! Start an Instagram account and share your summer with family and friends.

have planned this summer—or what just happens—we hope this year’s Family Summer Guide will help you have the best summer ever. Within these pages you’ll find information on numerous Vancouver Island attractions, places to stay and explore, kid-friendly Island campgrounds, walking trails suited to families, places to see animals, good summer reads, what to look for on a “dock walk,” 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. There’s a more detailed version on our website, and we’ll update our online calendar as new listings come in (visit www.kidsinvictoria.com). Have fun and pack light. Happy Summer.

RE TAKE OUR TREASU ! HUNT CHALLENGE OTRE N E D I F É D E L Z E V RELE R! COURSE AU TRÉSO Go Geocaching! Géocachette!

1-888-773-8888

www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2014 3

Rachel Dunstan Muller

SUMMER Super Wild, CAMPS Vancouver Island Weekly Camps All camps run Monday-Friday

June 30th to August 29th

Kinder Camp 5 - 6 Years

JDF KIDS COTTAGE

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $135 a week*

Cool Capers Day Camp 6-8 Years

JDF CURLING RINK

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $135 a week*

Jr. Sports Action Camp 6-8 Years

JDF CURLING RINK – FOR SIGN IN

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $160 a week*

Fun Seekers Camp 6-10 Years

CENTENNIAL CENTRE YOUTH ROOM

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM $37 a day

Sizzlers Day Camp 7-10 Years

JDF GALLEON ROOM

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM $37 a day

Active Afternoons 7-11 Years

JDF KIDS COVE

12:00 PM – 3:30 PM $85 a week*

Sports Action 9-12 Years

JDF CURLING RINK – FOR SIGN IN

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $160 a week*

Aspiring Artists

6-8 Years and 8-12 Years

Camp alternates age groups each week.

CENTENNIAL CENTRE CRAFT ROOM

9:00 AM – 3:30 PM $160 a week*

www.westshorerecreation.ca

250-478-8384

4 Family Summer Guide

e live in truly spectacular surroundings on Vancouver Island. Summer is an excellent time to discover and explore the Island’s natural wonders with our children—and to pass on an appreciation for our unique wealth! Here are some wild facts to whet your appetite and inspire your next family adventure. Vancouver Island boasts some of the tallest and oldest trees in Canada—and indeed the world. Stroll through Cathedral Grove on the Alberni Highway, and you’ll see giant Douglas firs as large as nine meters in circumference, and up to 800 or more years old. If you and your children are up for a more rugged experience, take the logging roads west and south from Lake Cowichan to Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park to see spruce trees up to 95-plus meters high. If your family is really adventurous—and you have some backcountry experience—you might want to trek to the Cheewhat Cedar, in the same area. This giant is more than 18 meters around and is estimated to be upwards of 2,500 years old. It’s the largest known tree in Canada, and the second largest of its species in the world. Visit vancouverislandbigtrees.com for more information. But be forewarned: the trailhead is difficult to find, the trail itself is challenging, and the logging road has a reputation for eating tires. Canada’s tallest waterfall can also be found on Vancouver Island, and is a great destination for backpacking families. Della Falls has a vertical drop of 440 meters, and is located inside Strathcona Provincial Park. To reach the Della Falls trailhead, you’ll need to hire a water taxi to take you across Great Central Lake (northwest of Port Alberni). There’s a rough camping area at the dock, and more campsites along the 15 km trail to the base of the falls. Allow your family at least seven hours each way. Be prepared for wildlife—we shared the trail with a bear on our visit several years ago. If your family prefers tamer hiking experiences, Strathcona Park is also home to a number of easier trails. The popular Paradise Meadows area is a 45-minute drive from Courtenay via the Strathcona Parkway. Alpine wildflowers turn the meadow into a spectacular tapestry of red, blue and yellow through the summer. The 2 km long Centennial Loop Trail is both

stroller and wheelchair accessible. It’s one of many easy to moderate trails in the area. You don’t have to stay above ground to see awe-inspiring sights. Thanks to our wet climate and unique geology, Vancouver Island is home to more than a thousand known caves. In fact, we have more explored limestone caves here on the Island than all other Canadian provinces combined. For a safe introduction to caving, Horne Lake is definitely the place to

start. You can purchase a waterproof map and rent helmets at the Visitor Centre to explore a few of the smaller caves on your own. Or you can book a more extensive tour with the Horne Lake Outdoor Centre. The tours vary in length and challenge, depending on the age and abilities of participants. Children must be at least five years old to go on the 1.5 hour Family Cavern Tour. Speaking of adventures, has your family been on one of Courtenay Museum’s Fossil Tours yet? The three-hour tours start at the museum and end with a short walk to a local river bank—the site of an exposed 80-millionyear-old sea floor. Participants are supplied with hammers, chisels and goggles, and given the www.kidsinvictoria.com

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

S T A G E S Su m mer Pro g ra ms 2014 34th A n nual

Da nce I ntensive Aug ust 18 th - 29 th

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

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 16 months to 3 years old

photos by D Haggart

opportunity to hunt for their very own Late Cretaceous-era fossils. The tours are offered twice daily through the summer. They are very popular, and must be pre-booked. Did you know that our old-growth rainforests have more biomass than any other ecosystem on the planet? Compared to tropical rainforests, our most intact coastal forests have four times the mass of organisms per hectare. That’s a lot of life! The trails of Pacific Rim National Park near Tofino are wonderful places to experience this unique and important ecosystem. The Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet is also breathtakingly beautiful, and very easy to access. To see a different kind of biomass up close, you can’t beat a trip to Botanical Beach, on the southwest coast near Port Renfrew. Curious visitors can view all kinds of marine life in the rich tide pools: starfish and sea stars in multiple colours, sea urchins, sea anemones and sea cucumbers, periwinkles, chitons and mussels. Visitors are asked not to touch or disturb anything in the tide pools, or take anything from the park. Even putting a hand with sunscreen into a tide pool can effect the creatures in this sensitive ecosystem. For best viewing, be sure to time your visit with low tide. (Google Canadian tide tables, Port Renfrew.) Cougars, and bears and wolves—Oh my! A discussion of the Island’s wonders wouldn’t be complete without a mention of some of the large mammals that share our environment. Did you know that we have the highest concentration of cougars in the world? Fortunately for those of us who like to hike, cougars are mostly shy animals, and most active at dawn and dusk. Should you ever encounter one of these large predators, make yourself as big as you can and back away slowly. Don’t run, since this can trigger an attack. We also share the Island with black bears and wolves. Vancouver Island wolves are considered an endangered species, and are mostly found on the North Island and in Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds. For a safe and fascinating wildlife-viewing experience, consider taking your family to the North Island Wildlife Recovery Association, just outside of Parksville. The NIWRA specializes in rehabilitating bears and raptors (eagles, falcons, and other birds of prey), but they often have other animals as well. Of course, this short column only scratches the surface of the Island’s wild wonders. For more ideas, check out vancouverislandoutdoor. com. Happy adventuring!

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

Serving Great Food Since 1974

Vancouver Island’s Favourite Italian Restaurant Downtown Victoria East 1703 Blanshard St

250-383-2121

1581 Hillside Ave

250-595-0212

Langford

Broadmead

250-474-2121

250-744-1177

1945 Jacklin Rd

777 Royal Oak Dr

Duncan

180 Trans Cda Hwy

250-746-9944 Summer 2014 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 www.crd.bc.ca/parks or www.vancouverisland.com/trails.

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 the bridge, through beautiful gardens, and see what was once the world’s tallest free-standing totem pole. The Cameron Bandshell features a variety of free concerts during the summer (www.victoria.ca/ cityvibe). www.beaconhillpark.ca. Galloping Goose Regional Trail. This 55-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.

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. Walk-in camping is also available for those who want to stay longer. The ferry leaves from Beacon Pier at the bottom of Beacon Avenue. Head over on the 10am, 11:30am, 2pm, or 4pm run, and return at 10:30am, 1pm, 3pm or 4:30pm from June 30-Sept 1. Extra weekend sailings. For the full schedule and rates, visit www.alpinegroup.ca (and look under “Companies”) or call 250-474-5145.

Saanich 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: www.crd.bc.ca/ parks, then select “Find a Park.” 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. Keep your eyes open 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. www.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 the 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. www.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 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 1 hour driving time from Victoria. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

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. www.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 quite 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. www. 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 www.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 www.kidsinvictoria.com

Highway (#1) to Duncan. Turn left at Miller 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 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.

Curiosity • Diversity Exploration • Nature Play-Oriented Learning

Now Registering for September 2014

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 www.IslandParent.ca

3905 Haro Road, Victoria BC

250-477-3731 arbutusgrove.ca

Licenced group childcare for children 6 months to 5 years Open 6:30am – 5:30pm 2758 Peatt Road, Langford www.leapforwardlangford.com

250-818-9225 or 778-265-5955 info@leapforwardlangford.com Summer 2014

g n K i of ! l o Co

and sparkling water. Go along Hammond Bay 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.

Iced Mocha!

Craig’s Crossing (Parksville) to Long Beach

Based on the stories by

Robert Munsch Fun Family Getaway

Drawing from The Paper Bag Princess by Michael Martchenko

theatre, a nights stay in the Best Western Plus Chemainus Inn, dinner and breakfast

July 19 to August 16 KidzPlay

8 Family Summer Guide

1.800.565.7738

chemainustheatre.ca

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 3 kms northwest of 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 per day). 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, Phase I of the Wild Pacific Trail and 2.5 kms long, can be walked in a 30-45 minute loop using the adjoining He-Tin-Kis Park boardwalk. The trail is wide enough for 2-3 people to walk side by side. Includes frequent viewpoints and benches www.kidsinvictoria.com

for watching whales, birds or catching the sunset. www.wildpacifictrail.com for maps and descriptions of the various sections.

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. 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

www.IslandParent.ca

Bioregional Themes Wilderness Skills

Oak and Orca Summer Program

Multi-age Experiential Learning Twice-weekly Cycling Field Trips

(250) 383-6609 oakandorca.ca

A bioregional program encouraging children to connect with the natural spaces and cultural heritage of our home place.

July 2nd to Aug. 29th Located in Victoria at 2738 Higgins St. Oak and Orca School offers three certified options for children: Kindergarten to Grade 12 School Hands-On Home-Learning (K-9) Pre-primary School (ages 3-5)

oakandorca.ca (250) 383-6609 1-888-383-6619

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 4 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.•

Now Offering ! Classes in Langford

Summer 2014 9

Kid-Friendly Island Campgrounds School’s out. What to do with the kids that won’t bankrupt the family? Luckily, the glories of British Columbia’s diverse and beautiful landscapes and temperate summer weather offer a host of affordable camping adventures that can be tailored to almost any budget.

amping is an easy, safe way to get kids outdoors where they can learn something of the world around them and have an opportunity for the kind of free play that stimulates imaginations. Child psychologists have long advocated the value of unstructured play where kids can take risks without the requirement that they achieve some goal set by adults or the rules of organized sport. What better place than a beach, for example, where children can collect shells, dig holes, build sand castles, splash in shallow pools or construct forts from driftwood? Getting outdoors is more than an inexpensive relief valve for parents; it contributes to kids’ tool kits for understanding the world around them, creating their own context within it, finding leadership roles for themselves, reducing stress and spontaneously learning to solve problems cooperatively. Research shows that kids who feel confident outdoors are most likely to become competent adults with both healthy lifestyles and the ability to empathize with others. So here’s a small sampling of the many easily accessible kid-friendly Island campgrounds, within a half day’s drive. There are day use facilities at these campgrounds, too, so daytrips are equally feasible. The following list includes provincial parks only, although there are plenty of private facilities that are equally kid-friendly. You can survey the private facilities on offer at www. travel-british-columbia.com and if you want to adventure farther afield than Vancouver Island, you can look up parks and make reservations at www.gocampingbc.com for every region of the province.

French Beach The beach here is almost two kilometres long. Views are spectacular across Juan de Fuca Strait to the Olympic Mountains and seals, sea lions and whales visit the waters. If a sea is running, you can take a quick trip to Jordan River or walk in to Sombrio Beach and watch

10 Family Summer Guide

the surfers. There’s hiking on Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Tide pools at Botanical Beach offer endless exploring—just be prepared for rain.

Goldstream Trees that were already old when Christopher Columbus was born tower along this little river where it tumbles through a deep canyon to an estuary that’s still in its natural state and home to eagles, ospreys, ravens and other birds. There’s a nature centre in the park which features talks by everyone from guest astronomers to bug experts, fun and games nights for kids in the amphitheatre, a spectacular waterfall that that cascades almost 50 metres down a cliff face and the chance to spot rare amphibians like the red-legged frog.

Gordon Bay

Morden Colliery Historic Site, the cemetery where kids can learn about Nanaimo’s mine disasters from the old tombstones, the Bastion fur trade fort and the Nanaimo Sports Hall of Fame which is not far from the ferry landing.

Rathtrevor Beach This is a mid-Island paradise for kids of almost any age. At low tide, almost a kilometre of sandy beach is exposed leaving shallow pools in which flatfish dart, crabs scuttle, clams squirt and sand dollars are scattered everywhere. The tide rolls back in over sand flats that have been baking in the sun all day and the water warms up to temperatures that are ideal for paddling.

Miracle Beach Midway between Courtenay and Campbell River, this is another sandy paradise for kids that features a playground, hot showers and a big family picnic area by the shore. A bit farther north is the Oyster River with estuary trails that lead to another beach, this one wild and undomesticated, with sea grass, wild roses and bleached tangles of driftwood that sweep north behind what was once a UBC experimental dairy farm. At Courtenay, the museum features a prehistoric plesiosaur. At Campbell River there’s another kind of dinosaur—a steam-powered donkey engine at the district museum.

On Cowichan Lake, northwest of Duncan, this campground is ideal for kids. The sandy beach is great for lounging on a sunny afternoon and the water is almost always warm enough— the valley has the highest average temperature in Canada—for family swimming. There are walking and hiking trails through old growth forest and lots of birds to watch, including the raucous blue Stellar’s jay and plenty of waterfowl. For teens there’s windsurfing, kayaking and waterskiing. Fishing is good in the fall. And a short drive away in Duncan is the kid-friendly B.C. Forest Discovery Centre.

Englishman River Falls

Newcastle Island

World-famous Cathedral Grove, renowned for its stand of Douglas fir and western red cedar that date from the time of William Shakespeare, is nearby, so is a sandy swimming beach on Cameron Lake. Well-groomed trails permit safe viewing of an impressive waterfall and there’s pleasant hiking in the cool woods around the campground. A short drive west is the Alberni Valley where the last and only steam-powered sawmill is still in operation and there’s a pleasant quay with souvenir shops and inexpensive eateries.•

Miners once brought their families here for an outing away from the industrial grime when Nanaimo was a coal mining centre. Today you can catch a ferry for the 10-minute trip across the harbour. It’s an easy walk around the island with its sandstone beaches and sandy coves where kids can play. Lawns roll away to rustling shade trees and you can find an ice cream cone at the 1930’s dance pavilion. Campsites are limited here, though, so reserve early. Sidetrips include Petroglyph Park and its ancient stone carvings, an old coal mine at

The river in this park thunders through deep canyons and over two spectacular waterfalls. A perpetual mist waters fern gardens that nestle in the rock walls in primeval splendour. Downstream, the torrent suddenly spills into a clear, tranquil pool that invites a refreshing plunge on a hot summer day. Just up the road is Coombs with its knick-knack and souvenir shops and the world-famous sod roof with grazing goats. A little farther north, kids can visit the Horne Lake Caves for a guided spelunking adventure.

Little Qualicum Falls

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Safety Outdoors Make your camping trip a learning moment that kids can carry with them into adulthood. This is the time to teach them the practical outdoor safety basics and make them into a routine.

For Kids: 1. Get the kids to check the weather before you leave and to report and discuss what to expect. 2. Help the kids put together a personal checklist and to assemble their own small backpack with minimal survival gear. Include one day’s water, some energy bars, a warm outer garment (preferably waterproof ), a compact space blanket, a small LED flashlight and a whistle. A fully charged cell phone is good if there’s service. Insist that they always carry their own pack. 3. Impress upon the kids that nobody ever hikes alone. 4. Have a plan and have the kids review what they must do if they should get lost or separated—stop; stay put; stay dry; signal with their whistle every five minutes until located.

5. Make them responsible for sunscreen and bug juice. (But carry a spare supply!)

For Parents: 1. Make a plan and stick to it. Always check the weather before leaving. Don’t arrive at your campsite after dark. 2. Carry a map and a compass. Even wilderness experts get lost. A hand-held GPS is great but not so great if the batteries run down or you drop it in a creek. 3. Carry adequate clothing for sudden and surprising changes in the weather. Your outer shell should be rain proof. Avoid cotton garments—wool or synthetics will keep you warm even when wet. 4. Carry enough emergency rations for everyone in the group in the event of the unforeseen.

5. Carry a first aid kit. 6. On a hike, adults always take point and tail-end Charlie—kids in between. Never let them out of sight and on the trail keep distances between hikers to a maximum of 10-15 steps. 7. At the beach, kids never go near the water without a parent close by, too. Familiarize yourself with the threat of rogue waves—nobody goes on the rocks anywhere near the surf. Familiarize yourself with currents and tidal conditions before any playing, even at the water’s edge. 8. The chance of a dangerous encounter with wildlife is very small but bears, cougars, wolves and coyotes do share B.C., so be aware. You can review safety guidelines at the BC Parks wildlife safety website: www. env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/wild_gen. html 9. While hiking, a light tarp and parachute cord is a good idea for quick shelter in an emergency. 10. Make sure somebody knows where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Be realistic about your schedule—kids will want time to explore.

all s of izes p s am es & p ha

Join us for a Free ʻCelebrate Canadaʼ Event! Friday June 27, Noon‑2pm • Oak Bay Municipal Hall Lawn Free BBQ, Entertainment, Face Painting Sneak a Peek at Your Camp Leaders in Action! Jumping Castle, Crafts & Games! www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2014 11

Summer Dance Intensive July 7 to July 18, 2014

Train with the Principal Dancers of Ballet Victoria

Tina Kelly

Dock Walking Wonders Kick start your summer exploring with a dock walk. The term “walk” however is a bit of a misnomer. During a dock walk you spend more time laying still and horizontal than you do vertical, moving one foot in front of the other. Encouraging someone to go on a dock lay-down—while it may sound relaxing—just doesn’t seem to inspire the same sense of adventure.

loating docks and wharves can be home to a wide diversity and high number of animals. Organisms adapted to clinging to rocky shorelines also attach to these man-made structures. Unlike fixed piers or pilings, floating wharves rise and fall with the tide and offer an

nes, sea stars, sea urchins, crabs and shrimp. With limited dock real estate, these animals live side-by-side or even on top of each other. You’ll see a lot of species in one small area so take your time and consider taking a laminated field guide to help you learn just what you’re

Junior and Senior Programs

Registration is by application www.balletvictoria.ca

PIANO! Learn ! Piano! LEARN PIANO! !

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VIC

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12 Family Summer Guide

opportunity for marine exploration without consulting the tide tables. Have you ever heard of bryozoans, isopods, amphipods, sea squirts, nudibranchs or chitons? These lesser known invertebrates abound in this habitat but don’t fret, some of your favourites are found here as well—sea anemo-

looking at. Settlement of animals can vary with dock location. Explore docks and slips closest to shore as well as those farthest from shore. You may find different animals to identify. When taking your aspiring naturalist or biologist out to a dock, keep these safety tips in mind:

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Protect your knees and legs. Docks are constructed out of a variety of different materials—none of them comfortable. Whether you’re going to lay down or kneel on cement, wood or another material, consider wearing long pants. For extra comfort bring gardener’s knee pads, a blanket or a towel; the latter can do double duty as a hand dryer. Watch out for boat cleats. Cleats are just one example of marina tripping hazards so be careful where you’re walking.

Consider wearing a life jacket and lay prone, or flat on your belly, to minimize the chance of falling in. Rarely do boat slips have ladders; a quick exit from an accidental swim won’t be easy.

Visually assess the water quality. If you see any oil, gas or “sludge” on the surface, move to another location. The farther reaches of marinas can be cleaner due to increased water movement or flushing.

Leave animals where you found them. Don’t remove or pry animals off of the dock, they can not reattach on your demand. These animals are adapted to this habitat—removing them and dropping them into the water could place them in a situation where they can’t find food or protection from predators. Watch your hats, glasses, cameras, phones and other belongings. They usually sink instead of swim.

Leave pets at home. Dogs can scare away the wildlife you are hoping to find and like boat cleats, can be a tripping hazard.

Respect the privacy of marina residents and if in doubt ask permission before accessing docks and marinas. Consider safety of boat owners and don’t block access to their slips.

Don’t limit your focus to the docks alone. Look for drifting jellies, schooling fish, flying or hunting birds, and swimming or floating seals.

Don’t feed the wildlife. Feeding habituating birds, seals, or other wildlife can have negative impacts on their behaviour and health. Or a negative effect on your health if they choose to bite your fingers along with that chunk of fish. Enjoy your dock lay-down, or rather your dock walk! Note: Nighttime dock exploring can offer a completely different experience. Ramp up your attention to safety, equip yourself with flashlights and prepare to see other fish, worms and the wonder of bioluminescence. Wave your hand through the water and look for flashes of light; bioluminescence is light produced by a chemical reaction inside some marine organisms, some of them microscopic plankton drifting around marinas. Tina Kelly is the Visitor Experience Director at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre and accompanying their summer campers on the dock walk is one of the season’s highlights.

Summer learning camps… Reduce summer learning loss while having fun! July 21–25: Victoria and Westshore August 4–8: Victoria August 11–15: Victoria August 18–22: Victoria and Westshore Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Mon – Fri Cost: $180.00 per week

Campers will create a summer memory box and fill it with games, hands on activities and stories linked to learning language arts or mathematics. All READ teachers are BC certified. Register early as spaces are limited! Minimum enrollment required. Open to kids in Grades 1–4. Celebrating 38 years of delivering

www.readsociety.bc.ca remedial learning programs. Call 250-388-7225 for information about camp schedules and our remedial services www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2014 13

Visit Horne Lake FAMILY SUMMER FUN • Family Cavern Tours • 3 hr. Ice Age • 4 hr. High Adventure • Extreme Waterfall Rappels!

DON’T LIKE UNDERGROUND?

20 Fun things to do in nanaimo

hat’s not to love about a harbour city where you can go island hopping, eat at the Island’s top-rated restaurant, and zipline over a canyon? Here are 20 unique experiences in Nanaimo, an easy 90-minute drive north of Victoria. 1. Touch totems on Newcastle Island. Towering First Nations totems are a reminder of the Snuneymuxw villages that once existed here.

4. Scuba dive the world’s largest artificial upright reef. Three retired ships sit below the water’s surface within easy reach of the Nanaimo Harbour. 5. Snorkel with playful seals at Snake Island, just outside the harbour. 6. Pay tribute to a Grammy-winning jazz musician, Diana Krall. Visit Departure Bay, her hometown landmark and inspiration for a song

2. Dine at the island’s top-rated restaurant. Hilltop Bistro received BC Living Magazine’s 2013 People’s Choice Award for the best on Vancouver Island. 3. Soak in the view. Book a jacuzzi suite in a downtown high-rise hotel to take in spectacular harbour views. Eat fish and chips on the wharf pier and watch the busy harbour.

she composed. See the piano key stonework at her namesake plaza downtown. 7. Find sand dollars or go skim boarding during low tide at Blueback Beach. 8. Fish in the floor at Canada’s only registered floating pub and restaurant, The Dinghy Dock.

• Canada’s only Cave Theatre • New Surface Geology Trail • Rock Rappelling for beginners • nearby camping and canoes

hornelake.com 250-248-7829

Summer Programs • Junior Archaeologist Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30 pm • Dinosaurs Fridays, 1:30-3:30pm • Bastion Tours Thurs & Sat, 12:05-12:35pm • Pioneer Cemetery Tours 2nd & 4th Thurs, 1:30-2:15pm

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

Family Summer Guide

Photo: Jessica Sanchez

BCParks

Explore Nanaimo’s #1 Toy Store Kool Toys & Teaching Tools

102–2517 Bowen Road Nanaimo 250.585.1778 www.koolandchild.com www.kidsinvictoria.com

9. Explore a replica coal tunnel at the Nanaimo Museum. 10. Spot bald eagles in treetops at Neck Point Park. An easy loop trail takes you through lush forests and past quiet beaches with stunning views and occasional sightings of sea lions or seals. 11. Race down four waterslides and float in a lazy river at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre and Beban Park pool. 12. See sea lions in Dodds Narrows. Hike the 2 km Cable Bay Trail, a great dog off-leash area. 13. Rent a stand-up paddleboards or kayak in the Nanaimo Harbour. 14. Drop a crab trap at Maffeo Sutton Park’s fishing pier or head out on a salmon and crabbing charter. 15. Beat the heat in a swimming hole. Westwood Lake, Nanaimo River, and Long Lake are summertime favourites. Kids also love the four water parks. 16. Plan a weekend in the country. Stay at a farm guesthouse and make stops at 14 art studios, shops, galleries and farms along the Cedar Yellow Point Trail. 17. See spawning salmon. In autumn watch them run up the Nanaimo River beneath the Cedar Road bridge and up the Millstone River’s man-made spawning channel in Bowen Park. 18. Fly through the forest. Tackle a treetop ropes course and ride the ziplines over the river canyon at WildPlay Element Parks. 19. Buy locally made products: soap inspired by the Nanaimo Bar, unique leather handbags, mineral-rich clay for your skin, wheel-thrown pottery, and more. 20. Afternoon tea for two. Enjoy tea on the garden patio at the Grand Hotel, complete with scones and Devonshire cream or take the kids for “a wee tea for two” at the Bee’s Knees café where parents sip their lattes and kids have their own tea party.

Nanaimo Bar Trail While you’re in Nanaimo, don’t miss the chance to sample the triple layered, custard and chocolate square voted Canada’s Favourite Confection by National Post readers. For a classic rendition, hit nearly any bakery in the city of this namesake dessert. Follow the Nanaimo Bar Trail, where you can try the treat’s many incarnations, such as cheesecake, a milkshake, martini, or deep-fried. The Nanaimo Bar pedicure and other non-edible versions along the trail are just as indulgent. Check out www.TourismNanaimo.com/ NanaimoBarTrail. www.IslandParent.ca

Nanaimo's downtown destination for Children’s Toys and Books Books, balls, buckets and bubbles. Crayons, paints and stickers. Playmobil, trains, puppets and puzzles. For babies, kids and tweens Fully stocked with summertime fun. Something hot for everyone.

306 – 60 Commercial Street, Nanaimo 250-714-0026 childtreehouse@hotmail.com FREE PARKING, under the convention centre. Spots #80–91 for our customers.

Gentle Choices for Families Ethical, eco-friendly, family friendly.

A–3148 Barons Rd, Nanaimo Parking in the numbered stalls accessed by driving behind the building

250-585-5552

huckleberrybabyshop.com

Summer 2014

Paisley Aiken

local authors We are so lucky to live in a city with such a rich literary culture. Our local bookstores are strong, our writer’s festival has been resurrected, and many authors call Vancouver Island home. The next time you are looking for a great gift or book to read to your kids, try one written by a local author! Kids might recognize, among the pages, some of their favourite local spots. The following are just a few of the great children’s authors living in our community.

Sarah Cassidy Sarah Cassidy’s new teen novel, Skylark, (Orca Books, 2014), is about a teenage girl whose parents have fallen on hard times and are forced to move into a car. The girl, struggling with her unstable life, finds new confidence and understanding when she discovers slam poetry at the Spiral Café, an actual well-known hub in Esquimalt, one we frequented for story time when my kids were tots. Angie is good at slam poetry, and feels empowered when she does it. Through slam poetry she finds a positive way to think and navigate through her mixed-up world. The story builds empathy and understanding for how people might end up homeless or in an impoverished situation, despite their best intentions and hard work.

Kit Pearson Kit Pearson, the recent recipient of the British Columbia Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Literary Excellence, has a long list of highly acclaimed books. One of them, Awake and Dreaming, (Puffin Classics, 1996), finds the young female protagonist, Theo, walking along Dallas Road, biking through James Bay, and strolling through the Ross Bay Cemetery, among other local spots. Theo’s mom is struggling to make ends meet and to be a proper parent. As a result, Theo is shuffled off to live with her aunt. As Theo struggles to adapt, her life takes a magical twist and she finds herself living with the family of her dreams: two parents, siblings, noise and laughter. But slowly the illusion slips away and Theo can’t figure out what is real and what isn’t. Readers between ages 9 to 12 will enjoy this book and will love the local references!

Kari Jones So Much For Democracy (Orca Books, 2014) is Kari Jones’ latest book, but Storm Tide, (Orca Books, 2011), is set on our own coastline. The mystery and suspense created by the wild, stormy landscape will appeal to local kids. Simon and Ellen, two siblings forever at each other’s throats, live on a remote island and tend a lighthouse with their parents. Their parents have to make a trip to the mainland, leaving

the kids by themselves for the day. The kids’ initial optimism for a day of freedom disappears when they discover a strange man on the island and then a sudden storm prevents their parents from returning that day. The man is shrouded in secrecy and mystery and the two kids must work together to figure out what the intruder is doing on the island and whether or not he is dangerous. The novel is written with easy vocabulary and a fast-paced plot to hook reluctant or struggling readers.

Chris Tougas Chris Tougas’ books are vibrant, creative and all round great. Mechanicals (Orca Books, 2012) is a fantastically illustrated tale of a farmer who loses all his animals in a storm and finds, in their place, a heap of metal. He takes the metal heap and creates wild and fantastical new creatures. In Art’s Supplies all of Art’s art supplies come alive and cause mayhem. The book is bright, playful and witty. His September release, Dojo Daycare, (Owl Kids, 2014) features rollicking playful ninja kids who cause havoc in their daycare. Dojo Daycare will inspire many a boisterous kid to get up to do their own ninja kicks after reading it!

Robert Perry Robert Perry has several picture books. One of my favourites, Down at Seaweed Café (Harbour Publishing, 2002), I have bought many times as a gift. I love the imagery the poem evokes, and the idea of creating an imaginary world on our beaches. Every day, locals gather around the imaginary Seaweed Café to tell their tall tales of living by the sea. Kids will identify with many of the local references—the seaweed, the seals and whales, the ferry boats—and may be inspired to create their own imaginative world. Down at Seaweed Café is the perfect souvenir for visiting family and friends! Paisley Aiken reads extensively to her three energetic young boys. She is founder of The Story Studio Writing Society, a charity that grows kids’ relationship with literacy.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

The Write Stuff J

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

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

if they know of any children who might fit the bill) and help your child get started writing letters. This idea can be adapted to suit e-mail correspondence, too, though there’s something exciting about finding a letter in the mailbox. Summer Memory Book: For this one you’ll need a camera and a photo album with pages that children can write on. Let kids take their own photographs of their summer holidays. Then have them mount the photos in their album (using photo corners or glue sticks) and then write captions/memories for each one. Or sign-up for an internet photo book service such as blurb.ca or shutterfly.com and assemble a book online. Making Lists: Writing lists is one way to get children to put pen to paper—and it can be fun. Write grocery lists, lists of games to play at a birthday, lists of what to bring camping. Remember to help make writing fun for children: provide a good place to write (a desk, flat surface, good lighting); have the materials (plenty of paper, things to write with); allow time; respond to your child’s writing (focus on what is written, not how it is written); ignore minor errors; and offer observations (is the writing descriptive? Interesting? Imaginative?). Keep the writing times fun, informal and let your kids decide when to stop. And encourage kids to create some writing games of their own. •

Seek culture, creativity, community. Find it at the Farquhar Auditorium.

National Acrobats of the People’s Republic of China

Sunday, Sept 7 2pm & 7pm tickets.uvic.ca 250-721-8480 www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2014 17

Island Rhythmic Gymnastics Club

Camille McFarlane

Summer Vacation with(out) Technology W

Do you have a little girl who likes to dance, jump and juggle? Register her for a class at Island Rhythmics! Classes for girls 3 and up Contact us to register for

the Summer Camp (Aug 11 – 15) the Fall Session (Sept 8 – Dec 17)

www.islandrhythmics.com 250-514-6761

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. Located between Parksville & Coombs at

1692 Errington Rd Ph 250-248-2408

www.tigerlilyfarm.ca

18 Family Summer Guide

hen my siblings and I were kids, my parents would pack up the car and the five of us would go on a road trip. Sometimes we would just go for a week; other times we would drive across the entire country. I’d like to say those memories are all filled with joy and happiness, but if I did, my brothers would tell me I was looking through rose-coloured glasses. When we reminisce about these trips now, we all smile. We might first think of the three of us cramped into the back seat of a car and arguing over who had to sit in the middle seat, but then we remember playing games of 20 questions, sitting around the picnic table learning new card games, stopping to play catch in a park and visiting every province in Canada. I often wonder what our experiences would have been like if we had a DVD player in the car and our own tablets or phones. Would we have connected as much as a family? And would we have noticed the black bears in the Rocky Mountains, the fields of flax in Saskatchewan, or the red cliffs of Prince Edward Island? A road trip may not be in the cards for everyone this summer, but regardless, each of us must decide how we will make the most of our family time. Like my parents did, I will spend the next few years trying to figure this out, but I must do so with the added knowledge that technology is ever present in our lives. And so I look towards the summer holidays and a future filled with exploring the outdoors—with kids (and parents) who love their technology. Three ways to deal with technology during the summer holidays: 1. Eliminate it completely. 2. Limit its use. 3. Integrate technology into our summer plans. For some, it will be possible to eliminate technology completely, but for many such as myself, technology will continue to be a part of our daily existence. Thus, I’ve come up with a few ways to limit its use and also ways to integrate it into your summer vacation.

Tips on limiting its use: The best way to limit a child’s use of technology is by setting an example. When camping, put your phone and tablet away.

Leave the DVD players at home. Put away the headphones. Have an old-fashioned cards night or board game night. Talk. Tell stories. Make crafts. Set specific times for using technology. Whether camping or in a hotel, set aside an hour when everyone in the family can use their technological devices. Talk with the kids about alternating activities at night: one night a games night and the next night a family movie night. Leave the technology in the suitcase. See how long you can go without it. If on a trip, pack an age-appropriate activity container for each child filled with crafts and books. The activities may not last the whole trip but doing this lays the foundations for a vacation not dominated by technology.

Ways to integrate technology: Instead of fighting with our children over gaming, video watching or texting, offer alternative choices. Provide them with some interesting ways they could contribute to the family vacation by still allowing them to use a digital device. Depending on the age of your children, whether you stay at home, camp, or leave the Island—and your access to electricity and Wi-Fi—these activities may or may not be applicable. Create a Playlist. If your child loves music and always has their headphones on, ask them to make a playlist or CD for the family road trip. Have them use favourite CDs or give them an iTunes gift card to download a few songs per person. I remember driving across Canada with my family and listening to Les Misérables the entire way. Oh how I wish I had made a mix tape. A playlist will make music more of a family experience rather than an individual one. Assemble a photo book or slide show. Enlist your child’s help in taking photos. For me this takes a bit of letting go…let yourself be OK with photos that are cut off or blurry. They still help tell your vacation story. On your return, make a photo book, collage or slideshow. Shoot video. Have one or all of your kids be in charge of creating a video of the family trip. Talk with them about how the video could www.kidsinvictoria.com

feature interviews, activities, and sites visited. Depending on their interest level, this activity could also be continued at home where the video is edited and music added to be shown at a family video screening. Keep a journal. Journaling is an excellent activity to work on writing skills, as well as critical thinking and reflection. Depending on Wi-Fi access, kids could be responsible for writing a family blog. Blogs can be a useful way to communicate with family and friends, however be aware of digital safety. Make sure to set the blog to private and only invite family and close friends to visit the blog site (make sure kids aren’t advertising on Facebook or other open networking sites that your family is away and your house is unattended). There

For some, it will be possible to eliminate technology completely, but for many, such as myself, technology will continue to be a part of our daily existence.Thus, I’ve come up with a few ways to limit its use and also ways to integrate it into your summer vacation. are quite a few blogging sites out there but an easy one to use is Google Blogger (www. blogger.com). All users who view the private blog must have a Google account, but this is free to attain. Plan a photo Scavenger Hunt. Whether staying at home or going on a trip, you could create a photo/video scavenger hunt for your kids. Have the kids search for a Garry Oak Tree, a library, a blue slide…anything you think you might see. As I prepare for our summer vacation, I know that at times I’ll be thankful to have the DVD player in the van. But I hope that I’ll be able to put my phone away, let my kids be in charge of photography and enjoy playing in the sunshine with my family.

Fun for All Ages • Groups Welcome

 Birthday Parties  Family Reunions  Church Groups  Clubs/Teams

For more info see: matticksfarm.com 5325 Cordova Bay Road • 250-658-4053

Gliders & Furniture BABY VEST Evolving With Your Family Needs

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www.IslandParent.ca

Challenging 18 Hole Course

s Dougla

Camille McFarlane is a stay-at-home mom of two who recently completed a Masters degree in Educational Technology from the University of British Columbia. She can be reached at camille.mcfarlane@gmail.com.

Mini-Golf Mattick’s Farm

Larch St.

T.J.’S

(Under Sleep Country in the REAR)

Summer 2014 19

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 reasons to check out the following attractions on the Island.

Victoria

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 Da n c e eCs 16 months and u for ag

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 20 Family Summer Guide

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is engaging, challenging and inspiring. Along with regular exhibitions and gift shop, don’t miss the 26th annual TD Art Gallery Paint-In (Sat, July 20), Victoria’s favourite outdoor studio along Moss Street from the gallery to the ocean. 100+ invited painters, printmakers, sculptors, potters and other artists from the region will demonstrate their artistic process. 11am-4:30pm. Gallery open 10am-6pm. Food & Beverage Garden 11am-9pm. Dancing to Kumbia 5-9pm. www.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 41⁄2 stories as you discover the castle’s 39 rooms lavishly furnished in the style of the 1890s to 1900s. 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. www.craigdarrochcastle. com or 250-592-5323. IMAX Theatre in the Royal BC Museum offers an awe-inspiring 2-D experience with a projected area of more than six stories high and 70-feet wide. You’ll feel like you’re part of the show. This summer, enjoy Vikings: Journey to New Worlds, Island of Lemurs: Madagascar, and Great White Shark, and look for exciting full-length feature films. www.imaxvictoria. com or 250-953-IMAX (4629). For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue. Maritime Museum in Bastion Square. The colourful story of B.C.’s marine history is told through exhibits that highlight Victoria’s harbour, early exploration, shipwrecks, piracy and more. Programs for kids include Salty Sundays on the second Sunday of each month, Pirate School, Build a Boat, and birthday parties. Open 10am-5pm daily. www.mmbc.bc.ca or 250-385-4222. 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! For more details, see ad on page 19 in this issue. www.matticksfarm.com Miniature World, located within the Empress Hotel, has been called The Greatest Little Show On Earth, with over 85 miniature dioramas and displays depicting historic events, the future frontiers of outer space, Fantasy Land, Victorian Dollhouses, Circus World, Great Castles of Europe, World of Dickens and more. Open 9am-9pm daily until Sept 15. www.miniatureworld.com or 250-385-9731. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue. The Royal BC Museum in downtown Victoria. Visit the museum’s three permanent galleries that showcase the human and natural history of B.C. along with Vikings: Lives Beyond the Legends, with over 500 artifacts, including exquisite filigree-work jewellery, rune-inscribed swords, silver embroidered silk fabric, and the oldest known crucifix in Sweden. Kids of all ages will love the exhibition interactives, including board games, building a Viking ship, or dressing a Viking. Open 10am-5pm Sunday to Thursday, 10am-10pm Friday and Saturday. www.royalbcmuseum. bc.ca or 250-356-7226.

Saanich Peninsula/Sidney The Centre of the Universe is planning the return of Saturday night stargazing—tentatively scheduled for July 5, 12 and 19, August 2, 9 and 16, and Sept. 6—at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory at 5071 West Saanich Road. During the summer stargazing nights, just the observatory will be open. Society members will have the telescopes setup for public gazing on the deck and there will be tours of the observatory. The Plaskett telescope will also be operational. For more information, phone 250-363-8262. Saanich Historical Artifacts Society at 7321 Lochside Drive. Kids (and parents) can climb all over 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 www.vime.ca. From Victoria, head north on the Pat Bay Highway, turn right at Island www.kidsinvictoria.com

View Road, then first left onto Lochside Drive. www.shas.ca or 250-652-5522. Mineral World in Sidney. A family geological experience, Mineral World and the Scratch Patch sees thousands of visitors annually who come to hunt for gemstones, pan for gold and dig for fossils. Visit the free interpretive centre with its range of hands-on displays which encourage you to look, interact and learn. It’s all about the Earth Sciences—geology, archaeology, paleontology—and much more. Open daily 10am-5pm. 9808 Seaport Place. mineralworld.ca or 250-655-4367. 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. The centre, located on the waterfront at 9811 Seaport Place, is open daily from June 29Sept 2 from 10am-5pm. www.oceandiscovery. ca or 250-665-7511.

Westshore/Metchosin 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. Extended hours, 10am-5:30pm daily until Oct 14. www.pc.gc.ca/eng/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill/visit/visit2.aspx or 250-478-5849. 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. www. eagleridgecentre.com or 250-391-1738.

Cowichan Valley The Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre in Duncan is a great place to learn about Cowichan First Nations cultural traditions and legends. Enjoy interpretive tours in which you’ll learn about the legends, teachings and stories of the Cowichan Tribes, traditional artwork, carving and knitting. There are also opportunities to see Native dancing and sample Native cuisine. www.quwutsun.ca or 250-746-8119. The BC Forest Discovery Centre just north of Duncan. Visit this tribute to the forest that includes 100 acres of indoor and www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2014 21

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 4, Trains, Labour Day celerations Sept 1). Summer season from June 1-Sept 1, open 7 days a week from 10am-4:30pm. Phone 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 in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. Open 10am-5pm daily until Sept 3. www.nanaimomuseum.ca or 250-753-1821.

Oceanside The Coombs Country Market is on Highway 4, on the way to Port Alberni from Parksville or Nanaimo, less than 5 minutes away from Butterfly World. Enjoy a selection of home-cooked treats and meals, as well as international foods. Wander the market, unique shops, galleries and studios for produce, snacks

and trinkets. 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. www.oldcountrymarket.com. Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park offers a variety of caving tours, from gentle to adrenalin-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. www.hornelake. com, 250-248-7829. For more details, see ad on page 14 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 Thursday-Sunday, 10:30am5:15pm. Also check out the Maritime Discovery Centre and the Alberni Valley Museum while in the area. www.alberniheritage.com.

K-9 Distributed Learning

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 Tuesday to Saturday; closed Sunday and Monday. Stop by and check out the Courtenay and District Museum and Paleontology Centre with its massive Elasmosaur exhibit. www.courtenaymuseum.ca or 250-334-0686.

Campbell River Campbell River Museum. 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. www.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. 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. www.pc.gc.ca/pacificrim.•

Hands-On Home-Learning for a Sustainable World - expense budget provided

The joy of learning - naturally.

http://oakandorca.ca http://oakandorca.ca 250 383 6619 888 383 6619) 250 383(1 6609

22 Family Summer Guide

- unique hands-on learning activities - support from a certiﬁed teacher - constructive feedback without grading - children can learn at their natural pace

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Vikings: Lives Beyond the Legends

discover what it takes to be a Viking at this summer’s week-long day camps held at the Royal BC Museum. Campers will explore the feature exhibition Vikings: Lives Beyond the Legends, as well as having lots of time outside to make their own discoveries. Along with Viking day camps, the Royal BC Museum has developed a whole host of other Vikings-themed learning programs and special activities for kids and families throughout the summer.

shown outside Scandinavia. Vikings provides insights on domestic life, death rituals, the significance of craft, the power of mythology and the symbolism of ships. The exhibit examines the period between 750 and 1100 CE in Scandinavia and nearby Europe, now known as the Viking Age. During this time, people in Scandinavia had two very different religious systems: the indigenous Old Norse religion; or Christianity, more recently introduced. The former involved worship of many gods and goddesses while the latter focused on one supreme god. The two belief systems were often merged, and the results are shown in many examples in this exhibition such as in fine jewellery that includes Christian crosses and fish as well as the symbolic tools or animals of the Old Norse gods. The names of many of these gods live on in our English names for the days of the week. For example, Thursday is derived from Thor’s day, named after Thor, the god of thunder. The artifacts in Vikings speak for themselves, but for a deeper understanding of Viking life, the exhibition also features many films, sounds and hands-on activities. Kids of all ages will love the exhibition interactives, including board games, building a Viking ship, or dressing a Viking. Young adventurers from ages 8 to 11 will

All family members will enjoy Saturday Night Alive, in which visitors can join Royal BC Museum animators to try their hand at a Viking craft on Saturday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., throughout the summer. One special summer highlight will certainly be Vikings Are Here, on August 9 and 10. Royal BC Museum visitors are invited to step back in time and interact with members of the Society for Creative Anachronism as they recreate a Viking market site. Families will learn the roles Vikings played as traders, seafarers and discoverers, and can decide for themselves if their fierce reputation is justified. By September, the summer sun may be fading, but Vikings family programs will continue to heat up. Wonder Sunday, the interactive, learning-based special event takes place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on the last Sunday of every month. On September 28, participants will wonder about Viking mythology and symbolism. The Royal BC Museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with extended summer hours 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays until September 27.

Photo courtesy of the Royal BC Museum

ikings: Lives Beyond the Legends, runs at the Royal BC Museum until November 11. The exhibition, produced by The Swedish History Museum in Sweden and MuseumsPartner in Austria, answers the question: What do we really know about those we call Vikings? The exhibition features more than 500 artifacts, including exquisite filigree-work jewellery, rune-inscribed swords, silver embroidered silk fabric, and the oldest known crucifix in Sweden. Many of the objects have never been

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Tickets for Vikings are available in advance, online or at the Royal BC Museum Box Office. For more information visit www.royalbcmuseum. bc.ca or call 1-888-447-7977. Summer 2014 23

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www.westsidestables.ca 24 Family Summer Guide

Explora Trail Free guided trail apps

ooking for an activity to entice your techsavvy kids outside? Gulf Islands National Park Reserve (GINPR) invites you to experience Explora, free guided trail apps. Before you head out into the park reserve, download the trail guides from the App Store or Google Play onto your cell phone. Once you’re out on the trail, GPS-activated waypoints alert you to cool things to explore. Each waypoint might include stories, photos, audio, video or quizzes. The trail guides are designed to make you lift your head up from the hand-held device and look around. They challenge you to use your senses and powers of observation. One point might ask you to rub your fingers gently on a wild mint plant to smell it, another makes you search for the hidden otter trail down to the beach. Here’s an example of a quiz waypoint: As Big As A Car! (with a photo of the nest) Find the Douglas fir tree with the burn marks on its bark and then look up. Can you see the nest? Who do you think lives here? A) Bald eagle, B) Great Blue Heron, C) Canada goose. You’ll have to use the trail app to find the answer. The trail guides aren’t all about nature. Some invite you to travel back in time. On Saturna Island, a 20-minute loop trail through Winter Cove introduces you to Dora Payne, a young girl who lived there in 1892. You’ll see photos of her family, discover some of her favourite places and even hear audio of her telling stories about her childhood when she was much older. Here an example of a history waypoint: Nearest Neighbours (with an historic photo of the old lighthouse) Look down the shore to the right. A lighthouse, built in 1888, used to stand at the end of the island. Dora would hike a horse trail to visit the lighthouse keepers. Settle on the bench and press audio to hear her story of a visit. The new trail apps will be uploaded to the App Store and Google Play as they are completed. Look for the first two trails on Sidney and Saturna Islands at the beginning of the summer. These will also be made available in French—a great opportunity to give French immersion kids some practice during the summer.

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site, a 20-minute drive from Victoria, also offers Explora fun with GSPy, a spy game. The use of a pre-loaded Explora GPS device is included in the price of your admission. Explore the fort and discover underground tunnels, hidden inscriptions and secret signals.

Photo: Parks Canada

allergy safe classroom

If your family can’t get enough of outdoor activities that include high-tech gadgets, then make sure to check out GINPR’s geocaching program. The Gulf Islands Survivor Challenge is a family-friendly, easy series of GPS treasure hunts that are spread throughout the park—at Prior Centennial Campground on Pender Island, McDonald Campground in Sidney, Winter Cove on Saturna Island and along the loop trail on Sidney Island. You can earn a collectable geocoin by completing a full route. Technology isn’t the only thing the park offers this summer. There are lots of programs with park interpreters. Sing around the campfire. Watch the sun set over a seal haul-out. Join a club of Junior Naturalists. There will also be special events and markets around town; look for the Parks Canada white tent with the green beaver logo. For more information on the park’s new offers this season and all other programs and events, go to parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands or call 1-866944-1744.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Renee Cenerini

Ewww...That’s Weird! H

ere at Swan Lake we do lots of nature education programs for kids—from pre-schoolers to middle schoolers. All of our programs have one common goal: to make nature relevant and interesting to all children. To a nature geek like me this seems obvious; of course nature is interesting! But I’ve come to discover that, sadly, not everyone feels the same way—at least not initially. Reactions, especially from pre-teens and teenagers, can range from fear to boredom to ewww!!!! The last reaction is the one that I like best as it can open the door to fascination. Fear, too, can be overcome with patience, rolemodeling, and a lot of emphasis on the weird and wonderful. Boredom can be tough, but usually getting the rest of the peers on board (pun intended) goes a long way to making nature a lot of fun. My latest incident of “Ewww…that’s weird” involved a pre-teen refusing to do a cheek swab of her own cells to observe under the microscope. When I asked what was so weird, she couldn’t really say. Funnily enough, when the

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rest of the class started ooohing and aaahing at their own cheek cells, she did decide that it was worth at least a quick peek in the microscope, if only to confirm for herself how gross it was. It seems funny to me that we live in a time where many of us have gotten used to a sanitized version of nature, including in our own bodies. Little kids are innately fascinated by the gross and disgusting; trust me, comments about poop and pee are always a hit! Death and decomposition are also a topic of fascination, partly, I think because it is just not something that is discussed in our society. But all these things do belong to nature, as do the beautiful, fragrant and adorable. Here are just a few of my favourite weird/ disgusting but amazing nature facts I enjoy sharing about the wonderful animals of Swan Lake: • Honeybees taste with their feet and the honey they produce, that we love to eat, is actually a mixture of flower nectar and bee spit • Garter snakes give live birth, unlike most snakes and other reptiles that lay eggs, and

those baby snakes shed their skin within one day of being born • Stickleback fish males are the ones that build a nest and care for the eggs, but have also been known to cannibalize their own young • Western painted turtles hibernate down in the muddy bottom of lakes and survive by getting enough oxygen through thin skin patches on their throat and near their anus • Toads use their eyeballs to help them swallow their food • Rough-skinned newts are poisonous to eat and have reportedly killed a human who foolishly decided to eat one (unfortunately the newt also perished) Back to the freaked out pre-teen; by the time we had progressed through the weirdness of onion skin cells to the really amazing microscopic creatures in a drop of Swan Lake water, I felt like we had made real progress. Whether or not this will translate into a lasting engagement with nature is not something I can predict but at least I feel like that nervous, grossed-out girl had a glimpse into the amazing biological world that surrounds us and makes up the essence of who we are. Renee Cenerini is the Program Manager at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary.

Summer 2014 25

Seeing the Sights in Sidney by the Sea idney offers the perfect getaway, for a day, a week, or longer. Come enjoy wonderful local food, great accommodation, family-friendly recreation, and a variety of shops and sights. As the Gateway to Vancouver Island, Sidney enjoys a thriving arts and culture community that celebrates local artists and crafts. From the seaside sculpture walk, to the majestic totems that welcome visitors at the Mary Winspear Centre, to the art in the galleries, community art centre and local cafés, there is something for everyone. Whether you enjoy kayaking, whale watching, bike riding, fishing, crabbing, boating or simply walking at the water’s edge, Sidney has it all. With the mild and generally dry weather, Sidney is an ideal year round destination. During the summer, Sidney has a water park for kids, right alongside basketball and tennis courts. Hop a ferry to Sidney Spit, a 25-minute scenic ride, and visit the salt marshes, tidal flats and beautiful beaches that make Sidney Spit a great place

26 Family Summer Guide

for beachcombing, hiking, camping, bird watching, and picnicking. Sidney has other attractions, too. Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre, a state of the art

aquarium, offers year round opportunities to enjoy the wonders of the Salish Sea, including Hermione, the escape-inclined resident octopus. The Centre offers many up-close-

matinee or evening performances and special kids’ shows on the weekends. Sidney’s five-pin bowling alley also offers plenty of fun for young and old.

Photos: Parks Canada

and-personal ways to view and interact with sea critters. Not far away, the Sidney Museum brings local history to life with interactive displays and a close-up look at Sidney’s unique past, including a display that depicts the trains that once served the Peninsula. The Air Museum is another local attraction that delights visitors year round. Star Cinema is another great place to go in Sidney. Offering first-run movies and the best popcorn on the Island, the cinema has

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Every Sunday during the summer, in the bandstand at water’s edge, Sidney offers free outdoor concerts with jazz, blues, pop, country and rock. What could be better than enjoying great music in the outdoors, with a view of Mount Baker and the San Juan Islands in the background, ice cream in hand? Sidney’s shops offer everything from the latest in fashions and books to baked goods and flowers and all that’s in between. Sidney brings new meaning to “shop local,” with stores that

PLAY

IN THE

PARK

Unplug, Unwind & Come Play!

Did you know that playing together is an essential trait of a healthy, happy family? This summer, make play a priority for your family and join us for Play in the Park! Every weekday evening from 5:30-8:30pm beginning June 30th, Panorama staff will facilitate fun for the whole family through interactive play, face painting, group games, and of course, inflatable fun on our giant 50’ obstacle course! The program will be offered at various parks throughout Sidney, North Saanich and Central Saanich. We can’t think of a better way for you to spend your summer evenings, so grab the whole family and unplug, unwind and come play! Did we mention that Play in the Park is offered to the community free of charge?! Play in the Park Launch Party!

Thursday, July 3rd , 5:30-8:30pm Enjoy a free BBQ dinner provided by White Spot, prizes and special presentations! We’ll also be offering everyone a 10% discount on summer camp registrations* done on-site at our Mobile Registration Station!

feature local and Canadian-made goods with just enough from around the world to add extra sparkle. Italian shoes, British clothes, Turkish jewelry, and exotic tea from around the world. Sidney also offers a variety of community events throughout the year. The Thursday Night Summer Market offers a wide selection of locally produced goods. Farmers from the surrounding area sell an array of fruits and vegetables and food items include everything from hotdogs to salmon and lamb burgers to cotton candy. Sidney’s annual holiday and Canada Day parades attract up to 10,000 people. Sidney is minutes away from Butchart Gardens and the Horticultural Centre of the Pacific, two spectacular gardens, each with its own unique character. Wineries and cideries are also only a short distance away. (And yes, there are local taxis, just in case you need one!) The Victoria International Airport, BC Ferries, and the Washington State Ferry Service make travel to and from Sidney an easy part of the holiday experience. And Sidney is dog-friendly, too. So much to see and do, in the little town of Sidney, where almost everything is just a block away from everything else, and parking is easy. With something for everyone, Sidney is the ideal vacation destination. Come see for yourself. Island life doesn’t get any better than this. For more information, visit www.sidney.ca or distinctlysidney.ca. www.IslandParent.ca

*Applies to camps offered in the month of August only. Does not apply to contracted summer camps.

June 30th & July (No session Jul 1)

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

250.656.7271

Pioneer Park

7130 West Saanich Road

August

(No session Aug 4)

Centennial Park

7400 Block of Wallace

Iroquois Park 2295 Ocean Ave

Rathdown Park 2170 Calvin Ave

Wain Park

871 Birch Road

Rodolph Park

6446 Loganberry Place

Greenglade Community Centre 2151 Lannon Way

www.panoramarecreation.ca

2306 Beacon Ave, Sidney BC V8L 1X2 250-656-2423 Summer 2014 27

Generously Sponsored by

and

summer calendar of events JulY

to the great outdoor lifeguard facilities for some great Canadian fun. 1-6pm. 250-746-7665.

TUES 1 CANADA DAY CELEBRATIoNS Victoria Celebrates Canada Day in the Inner Harbour. Music, international food village, the country’s largest Living Flag, family activities, all culminating in a grand fireworks display over the Inner Harbour. www.VictoriaCanadaDay.ca. Gorge Canada Day Picnic at Gorge Waterway Park and Kosapsom Park. Pancake breakfast, family parade, stage entertainment, classic cars, kids’ activities, canoe rides, buskers corner, street hockey, Strawberry Tea, Gorge on Art, Canada Day market and more. 8:30am-4pm. Free. www. gorgecanadaday.ca. Old-Time Penny Carnival at Helmcken House and St. Ann’s Schoolhouse. Celebrate Canada Day with the Royal BC Museum. Bring your pennies (you knew you were saving them for a good reason), and step right up to try your hand at an egg-and-spoon race, fishing pond and other surprises. Step inside the historic building for more activities. Free. Noon-3pm. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca. Canada Day Celebration at Fuller Lake and Crofton Pool. Come down and bring all your friends

Celebrate Canada Day at Transfer Beach, Ladysmith. Live music on stage, lifeguards on the beach, games and activities in the park… something for everyone. Saturna Lamb BBQ at Winter Cove, Saturna Island. Celebrate Canada with islanders at a country fair picnic. Play games and win prizes at the Parks Canada booth. Learn traditional skills from the Coast Salish guest. 10am-4:30pm. For more information, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands. Canada Day in Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo. Food fair, live music, entertainment, family events, and more. 11am-3:30pm.

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

WED 2 – FRI 4 Travelling Puppet Show for Preschoolers: Puppetry Camp at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Join

the Travelling Puppet Show for a 3-day minicamp. Explore stories and create your very own puppets. Family and friends are invited to attend for the last 15 minutes of the last day of the camp to enjoy a performance. For ages 4-6. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104. Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Puppetry Camp at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Join the Travelling Puppet Show for a 3-day minicamp featuring puppet-making, storytelling, and your wonderfully wild imagination. Make and take home your very own puppets. Family and friends are invited to attend for the last 15 minutes of the last day to enjoy a performance. For ages 7-9. 1-3pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104. Belly Laughs Science Show with Glenn Kachmar at the Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Kick off a summer of reading with Glenn Kachmar’s new show. Expect surprising science experiments, gross science facts and wild improv drama games. Be prepared to be amazed, act crazy and share a lot of laughs. All ages. Call 250-656-0944 to register.

FRI 4 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 Neighborhood Place food cupboard. 3:15-4:35pm. 250-475-5400. Fun Fair Friday at Cowichan Aquatic Centre. Nothing beats a fair. Fun experts transform the aquatic centre into a big top with carnival games, popcorn and all the excitement you would expect from a fair. 6-9pm. 250-746-7665.

SAT 5 Superheroes of Victoria at Esquimalt and Juan de Fuca Branch Libraries. Kapow! There’s a superhero at the library! Listen to stories, jokes and have your superhero questions answered by one or more of your favourite superhero characters. No registration required. For children and their

A blank canvas for

FRESH

BC MILK TM

MADE

RIGHT

RIGHT HERE

your creation.

Family Summer Guide

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families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Esquimalt: 10:30-11am, 250-4147198; Juan de Fuca: 2:30-3pm, 250-391-0653. Community Carnival in Rudd Park. Come for a fun music and game filled summer afternoon in the Burnside community! Kids can play carnival games for tickets and prize bags, play on inflatable toys, have their face painted, play tug-o-war, and join in the sack races. Don’t worry about food. There will be a by donation concession stand. For the adults there will be draws with prizes. Hosted by Lighthouse Church. www.lhchurch.ca.

SUN 6 Forest Fun at Francis/King Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist to play forest games and discover some of the largest and oldest Douglas fir trees on Vancouver Island. Adventure with your children beneath giants, past leafy ferns, and beside mossy fallen logs, then come to the nature centre to make a tree craft to take home. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. 8 years and older. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Saanich Strawberry Festival at Beaver Lake Park. Celebrate the agricultural roots of Saanich with a grand festival for all ages. Enjoy an old-style family picnic at the beach, or take part in a wide range of free family activities. Relax on the beach while you enjoy stage entertainment, or entertain the kids in the lower children’s section. Traditional serving of strawberries and ice cream will start at 1pm until 3pm. Tickets can be purchased for the strawberries and ice cream, other activities are free. 11am-3pm. Free. 250-475-5558. Westwood Lake Water Safety Day at Westwood Lake Park, Nanaimo. Participate in water safety activities and challenges to help you keep safe in and around the water this summer. 1-3pm. 250-756-5200. Superheroes of Victoria at Goudy Branch Library. See SAT 5 for details. For children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. 2:30-3pm. 250-391-5702.

mon 7 Travelling Puppet Show for ’Tweens: Puppetry Workshop at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Join the Travelling Puppet Show for a puppetry extravaganza. In this day-long camp, you’ll make your own puppets and create your own puppet show. Family and friends are invited to attend the last half hour of the day to enjoy a performance. A brown bag lunch will be provided, or please bring your own lunch. For ages 10-12. 10am-4:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030.

TUES 8 Terrific Turtles at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. A fun and interactive program with hands-on discovery, an outside ramble, a story and craft. 10-11:30am. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child; Nonmembers: $17/pair, $6 per additional child. To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Science Venture and the Science of Gross at Esquimalt Branch Library. Discover why the body can be stinky, scaly, smelly and oozy. Lab coats and goggles will be provided for this messy workshop. For ages 7-12. 10-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information. Shake Your Sillies Out! at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Hilarious stories, ridiculous rhymes, silly songs, and a crazy craft are guaranteed to wiggle your waggles away. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111. Story Theatre: Fables, Fools and Fantasy at Oak Bay Branch Library. What happens when you mix well-known fables and folktales with stories made up on the spot? Join Story Theatre for interactive storytelling fun. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489. Tales with a Twist at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Once upon a time, things went crazy at the library and all the fairytales that you know and love took an unexpected twist! For ages 5-12.

10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information. Travelling Puppet Show for Preschoolers: Performance at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Puppets! Stories! Fun! What more could you ask for in a puppet show? Parents and caregivers are welcome to attend. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 4-12. 10:30-11am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030. Travelling Puppet Show for Preschoolers: Workshop at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Puppets are the best friends, especially when you’ve made your very own! We provide the arts and crafts supplies, and you supply the creativity. Parents and caregivers are welcome to participate. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 4-6. 11:15-11:45am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 477-9030. Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Performance at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. This interactive puppet show will take you on an adventure filled with silly stories and hilarious characters. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 7-9. 1:30-2:15pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030.

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Summer 2014 29

Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Workshop at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Just like Geppetto! In this workshop, you’ll make your own puppet and learn techniques that will make it seem alive. Arts and crafts supplies are provided—you supply the creativity. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 7-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information. Music in the Park at Goward House. Music, face painting and crafts for your kids. Bring a picnic dinner, or purchase refreshments. 6-8pm. 250-475-5408.

WED 9 Tales with a Twist at Goudy Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:3011:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250391-5702 for more information. Animal Crackers at Oak Bay Branch Library. Listen to loopy stories and songs featuring wacky animal antics, then make a creative craft that is sure to crack you up. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Retold at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. If you love The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, you’ll love this classic retelling by local teacher and storyteller Agnes Bartle. For ages 7-12. 10-30:11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030. Reptile Day at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Scales, slithers, snakes and snails. Come for the annual reptile celebration and learn about all those who are scaly. Observe our fabulous reptile friends, play games, make crafts and get your face painted. Admission by donation. Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Fossil Hunting on Vancouver Island at Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Dinosaur bones? Giant palm leaves? Ammonites? Learn about the

rich variety of ancient fossil animals and plants that can be found on Vancouver Island (maybe in your own backyard). Thanks to members of the Victoria Paleontology Society. 2-3pm. Ages 7+. Please call 250-656-0944 to register. Spy Academy at Central Saanich Branch Library. Report to library headquarters for your latest assignment involving mysteries, disguises and missions that aren’t impossible, just fun. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

WED 9 – FRI 11 Travelling Puppet Show for Preschoolers: Puppetry Camp at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See WED 2 for details. For ages 4-6. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111. Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Puppetry Camp at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See WED 2 for details. For ages 7-9. 1:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

THUR 10 The Beach Rocks at Island View Beach Regional Park. The tide is out. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist and get a glimpse of the creatures that live beneath the rocks. 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. 10am-noon. All ages. 250-4783344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Animal Crackers at Central Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information. Delightful Detestables! at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Explore weird, wacky (and sometimes gross) slugs, snakes, spiders and more with the staff from Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. For ages 5-10. 1:30-2:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104.

Story Theatre: Fables, Fools and Fantasy at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www. gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for info. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Retold at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 7-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www. gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489. Superheroes of Victoria at Oak Bay Branch Library. See SAT 5 for details For children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. 6:30-7pm. 250-592-2489. Travelling Puppet Show for Adults: Workshop at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Join us for this adults-only puppet workshop to learn the secrets behind fabulous puppet shows. Make a simple puppet to take home. A letter of completion will be provided upon request at the end of the workshop. 6:30-8:30pm. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

FRI 11 Feeling Crabby at Island View Beach Regional Park. Red crabs, green crabs, smooth crabs, hairy crabs. This beach has them all. Drop in anytime between 10am and 1pm and meet the crabs of Island View Beach, as well as some of their crusty cousins. Explore under rocks, make a craft and more. 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. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Spy Academy at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-652-2013. Art with Andrea: Through the Looking Glass at Central Branch Library. Using Through the Looking Glass as your inspiration, create your own mixed media illustrations, painting and collage with Andrea Soos from the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601.

Send Us Your Stories! 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 www.islandparent.ca for specific information on submissions. We’d love to hear from you. Please email submissions to editor@islandparent.ca. 30 Family Summer Guide

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Festival Mexicano in Centennial Square. Professional Mariachis Band, and dance performances, traditional Mexican food, craft vendors, dance lessons, games and pinãtas. Noon-5pm. Free. www.victoria.ca.

SAT 12 What’s That? Ask a Nat! at Island View Beach Regional Park. Come with your curiosity to explore low tide and all the marine critters it reveals. Explore the shoreline and ask CRD Regional Parks’ naturalists to identify your treasures. 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. 10am-1pm. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Superheroes of Victoria at Nellie McClung, Saanich Centennial and Central Saanich Branch Libraries. See SAT 5 for details. For children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Nellie McClung: 10:30-11am, 250477-7111; Saanich Centennial: 11:30-noon, 250-477-9030; Central Saanich: 2:30-3pm, 250-652-2013. Lego Day at the Tanner’s Books. Calling all Master Builders. Drop in for a super day of Lego play. Build, explore, and create. Prizes, games and fun, fun, fun. 11am-3pm drop-in. Supplies limited on some giveaways. 2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney. 250-656-2345. www.tannersbooks.com. Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery. Drop-in art making program. All materials provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation. 250-287-2261. Webmaker Hackjam: Digital Storytelling with Mozilla Popcorn at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Come learn a new way of creating online stories so they’re different every time with the free Mozilla Popcorn video mashup tool. Make your own web native film and explore larger concepts of online mashups. For ages 13-18. 1-4pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for info.

SAT 12 – SUN AUG 17 Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition at Parksville Community Park. Master Sand Sculptors from around the world participate in this remarkable competition. Exhibit open to the public 9am-9pm until August 17. www.parksvillebeachfest.ca. www.IslandParent.ca

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Children/Teen Sewing Camps Summer ¤‚⁄› Classes

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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!

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32 Family Summer Guide

Life on the Rocks at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. When the tide goes out, an exciting world comes into view. A CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist will help you discover the creatures that make Witty’s Lagoon their special home. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the Tower Point parking lot off Olympic View Drive. 5+ years. 10-11:30am. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Early bird Register pricing until April 30th Now!

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 you feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet on the main beach. Park in the main parking lot off Metchosin Rd and follow the 20-minute forest trail to the beach. Witty Beach Rd access closed. 5+ years. 10amnoon. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Shadow Play Story Time at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. This is something extra special! Bring your littlest ones to experience a beautiful shadow puppet play and stay to make a simple craft. For children 0-5 years (but all ages welcome). 10:30-11:15am. Call 250-656-0944 to register. Crash, Bang, Boom, ROAR! at Esquimalt Branch Library. Can a dinosaur roar in the library? Find out with noisy stories, songs and an imaginative craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198.

TUES 15 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, play marine bingo, join in a beach seine, and more. Drop by anytime between 10am and 2pm. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet on the main beach. Park in the main parking lot off Metchosin Rd and follow the 20-minute forest trails to the beach. Witty Beach access closed. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Busy Beavers at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES 8 for details. 10-11:30am. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child. To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Science Venture and the Science of Gross at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For

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ages 7-12. 10-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

drawing tips and techniques. Ages 7+. 2-3:30pm. Please call 250-656-0944 to register.

Art with Sandi: Fun with Shapes at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Use basic shapes, bright colours and a variety of materials to create your own abstract artwork with Art Gallery of Greater Victoria instructor Sandi Henrich. For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

Shake Your Sillies Out! at Central Saanich Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 3-5. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

Spy Academy at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 6-9. 1:30-2:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489. Music in the Park at Majestic Park. See TUES 8 for details. 6-8pm. 250-475-5408.

TUES 16 & WED 17 Dr. Seuss Party: Teen Volunteers at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Earn volunteer hours in this 2-part program: help set up on the first day, then come back and help run games and crafts for kids at the Dr. Seuss Party! For ages 13-18. 10:15-11:45am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030.

WED 16 Dr. Seuss Party at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Even if you do not like green eggs and ham, you’ll love these games and crafts presented by our teen volunteers. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for info. Animal Crackers at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250391-0653 for more information. Spy Academy at Central Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601. Rappin’ Rhymes and Musical Stories at Oak Bay Branch Library. Give your favourite tale a rhythmic twist, or make a witty rap with Nejama Ferstman. For ages 6-9. 10:30am-noon. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for info. Animal Adventures at Francis/King Regional Park. Join a Regional Parks’ naturalist on a family adventure, as you learn animal skills. Creep like a deer, jump like a cougar, and feel like a raccoon as we wind our way through the Francis/King forest. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. 10 years and under. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Funny Pages Workshop at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. What do you get when you cross a duck, a cookie, and an ironing board? Find out at this cartooning workshop with artist Jenny Jaeckel. Get ready for an afternoon of fun www.IslandParent.ca

Sno Cone Swim at Ravensong Aquatic Centre, Parksville. Come for fun in the pool and a tasty sno cone treat. Every welcome. 6:30-8pm. 250752-5014. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation. Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre. Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Glow necklaces $2. Regular admission. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200. Christmas in July at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Come share the magic of Christmas Hill during a fabulous guided evening hike. Enjoy the cool breezes and listen to the chorus of birds while watching the sun set from a spectacular vantage point. Sit under the boughs of Garry Oak trees and learn the legends of Christmas Hill. Suitable for families and children over 7 years. Bring a water bottle. Free, but donations are greatly appreciated. Pre-registration required. 7-9pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-4790211. www.swanlake.bc.ca.

THUR 17 Story Theatre: Fables, Fools and Fantasy at Central Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more info. Delightful Detestables! at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See THURS 10 for details. For ages 5-10. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104.

THURs 17 & FRI 18 Dr. Seuss Party: Teen Volunteers at Central Branch Library. See TUES 15 for details. For ages 13-18. 10:45am-12:15pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more info.

FRI 18 Illustrator Jonathon Dalton: See You in the Funny Pages at Bruce Hutchison and Oak Bay Branch Libraries. Create, develop and draw characters all the way to the punch line in your own funny comic with award-winning BC comic creator Jonathon Dalton. For ages 7-12. Bruce Hutchison: 1011:30am, 250-727-0104; Oak Bay: 2-3:30pm, 250-592-2489. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call the hosting branch for more information. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe Retold at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 7-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653.

Crash, Bang, Boom, ROAR! at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See MON 14 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for info. Dr. Seuss Party at Central Branch Library. See WED 16 for details. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. 11am-noon. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more info. Shake Your Sillies Out! at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 3-5. 1:30-2:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104. Friday Night Water Fight at Cowichan Aquatic Centre. On your mark, get set, get wet. There will be a high energy full-facility water fight, so bring all your water guns and water spraying toys for an ultimate water fight. There will be water and super soakers all over the place. 6-9pm. 250-746-7655.

FRI 18 – SUN 27 Victoria International Busker’s Festival in Victoria. Professional street performers from around the world present more than 600 shows at outdoor venues along the waterfront and downtown. Magicians, acrobats, fire throwers, comedians, jugglers, uni-cyclists, clowns and more. Familyfriendly. Noon-10pm daily and various venues. 250-661-5350. www.victoriabuskers.com.

SAT 19 Superheroes of Victoria at Central, Bruce Hutchison and Emily Carr Branch Libraries. See SAT 5 for details For children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Central: 10:30-11am, 250-392-7241, ext. 601; Bruce Hutchison: 11-11:30am, 250-727-1040; Emily Carr: 2:30-3pm, 250-475-6100. Frozen Day at the Tanner’s Books. Enter the world of Anna and Elsa and experience the magic of ‘Frozen’ with games, puzzles, prizes and snowmen. 11am-3pm. Supplies are limited on some giveaways. 2436 Beacon Ave. 250-656-2345. www.tannersbooks.com. TD Art Gallery Paint-In on Moss Street. More than 175 invited professional and emerging artists from Greater Victoria take their studios to the street (from Fort Street to Dallas Rd) to display and produce their work. Includes an open house at the Art Gallery from 10am-6pm. Free. 11am-4pm. 1040 Moss St. 250-384-4171. www.aggv.bc.ca. Under the Sea at East Point, Saturna Island. Fish with horns, eel-like creatures and maybe even a giant pacific octopus. Come see what the divers will bring up from the deep. Drop-in and join

Summer 2014 33

Parks Canada and the Saturna Island Marine Research and Education Society for free and 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. 1-3pm. For more information, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands.

SUN 20 Playfair Fun in the Park at Playfair Park. Entertainment and activities for kids of all ages, including face painting, sack races and a variety of educational displays. Refreshments and hot dogs by donation. Bring a lawn chair and/or blanket and an umbrella if it rains. Noon-3pm. Free. 250-384-5190.

mon 21 Spy Academy at Esquimalt Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more info.

The place online where parents and grandparents get information about their community for their family: 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—Kids In Victoria has it all! Maybe you are looking for something to engage your mind or perhaps need a little bit of advice. Well we have that too on our community forum. Receive Island Parent & Kids In Victoria e-newsletter for updates and exclusive contests. You can also enter our monthly and photo contests.

TUES 22 Butterflies and Moths at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES 8 for details. 10-11:30am. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child. To register, call 250-4790211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Science Venture and the Science of Gross at Central Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 7-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more info. Art with Sandi: Colourful Landscapes at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Use pastels, water colour and a variety of other materials to create your own unique piece of art inspired by Canadian landscapes with Art Gallery of Greater Victoria instructor Sandi Henrich. For ages 10-12. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information. Drumming Up Stories at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Calling all drummers! Try your hand at the African Djembe with Canadian percussionist Matthew Hodgins from Drumming Solutions. For ages 7-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www. gvpl.ca or call 477-7111 for more info. Spy Academy at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information. Music in the Park at Brydon Park. See TUES 8 for details. 6-8pm. 250-475-5408.

Come be part of our community at

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34 Family Summer Guide

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TUES 22 – THURS 24 Travelling Puppet Show for Preschoolers: Puppetry Camp at Oak Bay Branch Library. See Wed 2 for details. For ages 4-6. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more info. Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Puppetry Camp at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 2 for details. For ages 7-9. 1:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more info.

WED 23 Drumming Up Stories at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Calling all drummers! See TUES 22. For ages 7-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www. gvpl.ca or call 250-250-727-0104 for more info. Shake Your Sillies Out! at Central Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information. The Amazing Race at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Challenge yourself on this ‘skill-testing’ and fun jaunt through the forest. Drop by anytime between 11am and 2pm and get the scoop from a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist. Meet at the Nature Centre off the main Beaver Lake parking lot. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-4783344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Wild about Wetlands at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. What makes a wetland such a great place to enjoy and protect? Find out with hands-on exploration, pond dipping for live wetland creatures, crafts, songs and games. Admission by donation. Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Meet a Police Dog at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. What is it like to be a police dog? Find out when Constable Sutton brings his four-legged crime fighting colleague to the library. Ages 5+. 2-3pm. Please call 250-656-0944 to register. Tales with a Twist at Central Saanich Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information. Impossible Characters: Creative Story Writing for Kids at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Plunk a robot-wizard in the refrigerator, a bumblebee-dog in space, or any character into an unlikely setting and see what story unfolds. Led by writer Korina Miller from Story Studio Writing Society. For ages 7-10. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

THUR 24 The Beach Rocks at Island View Beach Regional Park. The tide is out. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist and get a glimpse of the creatures that www.IslandParent.ca

live beneath the rocks. 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. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

fri 25 Moon Walk at Coles Bay Regional Park. When the moon is full and the tide is low, down to Coles Bay we’ll go. Join a CRD Regional parks’ naturalist to look for marine creatures like crabs, sea stars and the elusive moon snail. 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, off Ardmore Dr at 10am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Tales with a Twist at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information. Crash, Bang, Boom, ROAR! at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See MON 14 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information. Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Performance at Oak Bay Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 7-9. 1:30-2:15pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more info. Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Workshop at Oak Bay Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 7-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more info. Evening Campfire at the Beach at Island View Beach Regional Park. Meet a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist for an evening beach walk followed by campfire stories at the Island View Beach campground. Learn more about the animals that call the park their home. Bring a beach chair. Meet at the campfire ring at the Island View Beach campground, off Homathko Rd. All ages. 6-8pm. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Creatures of the Summer Night at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. 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, discover how these animals are adapted to their nocturnal life. Suitable for families with children under 6 years. 8-9:30pm. $4/members; $6/non-members.

Pre-registration required. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. www.swanlake.bc.ca.

FRI 25 – SUN 27 Nanaimo Marine Festival in Nanaimo Harbour. SAT: Bathtub Parade on Wheels, 10:30am; Fireworks with music, 10pm. SUN: World Championship Bathtub Race, 11am. 250-7537223. www.bathtubbing.com.

SAT 26 Sandy Shore Explore at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. See MON 14 for details. Meet on the main beach. Park in the main parking lot off Metchosin Rd and follow the 20-minute forest trail to the beach. Witty Beach Rd access closed. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks. 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 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. All ages. 10:30am-noon. 250-478-3344. www.crd. bc.ca/parks. Fancy Nancy Day at the Tanner’s Books. You are invited to a soirée (the fancy French word for party) to celebrate everyone’s favourite fancy girl. Feel free to dress fancy! Tiaras welcome. 11am3pm drop-in. 2436 Beacon Ave. 250-656-2345. www.tannersbooks.com. Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery. See SAT 12 for details. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation. 250-287-2261. Mask Madness at Central Branch Library. Make a funny mask and then improvise silly scenes using drama, music, and clowning with the Kerploding Theatre team. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more info.

TUES 29 Wild Woodpeckers at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES 8 for details. 1011:30am. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/ additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child. To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Victoria Symphony Storytime at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Meet two Victoria Symphony musicians and their puppet friend, Kathy Cadence, and hear stories told through music. Sing along and try some child-sized instruments. For ages 5-8. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information. Summer 2014 35

Science Venture and the Science of Gross at Oak Bay Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 7-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more info. Shake Your Sillies Out! at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information. Crash, Bang, Boom, ROAR! at Goudy Branch Library. See MON 14 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-391-5702 for more information. Music in the Park at Beckwith Park. See TUES 8 for details. 6-8pm. 250-475-5408. Author/Illustrator Jeremy Tankard: Summer Reading Club Artist at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Meet this year’s Summer Reading Club artist and learn how Jeremy Tankard creates his quirky and hilarious characters. For ages 5-12. 6:30-7:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more info.

WED 30 Victoria Symphony Storytime at Esquimalt Branch Library. See TUES 29 for details. For ages 5-8. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information. Little Lego at the Library at Oak Bay Branch Library. Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego. Bring your own Lego for a takehome project. Parents are encouraged to attend. For ages 4-6. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www. gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more info. Tales with a Twist at Central Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information. Crash, Bang, Boom, ROAR! at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See MON 14 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information. Rappin’ Rhymes and Musical Stories at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See WED 16 for details. For ages 6-9. 10:30am-noon. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more info. Shake Your Sillies Out! at Emily Carr Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 3-5. 11am-noon. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-475-6100 for more information. Author/Illustrator Jeremy Tankard: Summer Reading Club Artist at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See TUES 29 for details. For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

36 Family Summer Guide

Delightful Detestables at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Explore the weird, wacky and sometimes gross adaptations of some of our local animals: slugs, snakes, spiders and more. Thanks to Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Ages 5+. 2-3pm. Please call 250-6560944 to register. Science Venture and the Science of Gross at Central Saanich Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 7-12. 2-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

THUR 31 Shake Your Sillies Out! at Esquimalt Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information. Victoria Symphony Storytime at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See TUES 29 for details. For ages 5-8. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more info. Going Buggy at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. We love ‘em, we hate ‘em. They’re fascinating, finicky and fabulous. Drop by any time between 11am and 2pm for a close up look at some of our buggy friends and foes. Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Tales with a Twist at Oak Bay Branch Library. See TUES 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more info. Spy Academy at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See WED 9 for details. For ages 6-9. 1:30-2:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more info. Delightful Detestables! at Central Branch Library. See THURS 10 for details. For ages 5-10. 2:303:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information. Travelling Puppet Show for Adults: Workshop at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See THURS 10 for details. 6:30-8:30pm. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-477-7111 for more info.

AUGUST BC DAY Long weekend FRI 1 Animal Crackers at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Listen to loopy stories and songs featuring wacky animal antics, then make a creative craft that is sure to crack you up. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Art with Andrea: Wonderland Creations at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Using Alice in Wonderland as your inspiration, create your own mixed media collage using paint and a variety of techniques with Andrea Soos from the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. For ages 6-9. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

SAT 2 Bejewelled Dragons of the Pond at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Did you know dragonflies live a dual life? Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist for an up-close look at the amazing world of dragonflies as they zig and zag across wetlands in search of their prey. Meet at the Retriever Ponds area off Beaver Lake Rd at 1pm. All ages. 1-2:30pm. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-4783344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SUN 3 25th Annual Victoria Symphony Splash in the Inner Harbour. Music, festivities and fireworks. Be there when Tania Miller, the Victoria Symphony and a host of special guests put on a show like no other. Kids’ activities start at 1pm, music on the main stage begins at 4pm, and the Victoria Symphony takes the stage at 7:30pm. www. victoriasymphony.ca/splash.

TUES 5 Super Snakes at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES JULY 8 for details. 1011:30am. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/ additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child. To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Spy Academy at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Report to library headquarters for your latest assignment involving mysteries, disguises and missions that aren’t impossible, just fun. For ages 6-9. 1:30-2:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information. Tales with a Twist at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Once upon a time, things went crazy at the library and all the fairytales that you know and love took an unexpected twist. For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

WED 6 Paws and Tales at Oak Bay Branch Library. Read to a friendly dog, learn about dogs who assist people, and how to be a great dog owner with volunteers and their furry companions from the Pacific Animal Therapy Society Paws and Tales program. For ages 5-8. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more info.

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Viking Journeys at Central Branch Library. Peek inside a Viking bag filled with Viking artifacts. Learn about Viking lives, crafts and games from a Royal BC Museum expert. Fun activity included. For ages 7-12. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more info.

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Animal Crackers at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See FRI 1 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information. Makerspace Clicking Bugs at Central Saanich Branch Library. Assemble your very own electronic clicking bug. Decorate it, then let the sumo match or fashion show begin. Inspired by Makerspace Victoria. For ages 10-12. 1:302:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

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Boo Hoo Bird and Friends Puppet Play at Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Get ready to giggle with the Summer Reading Club puppet show. Join librarians for some ‘funny business’, a puppet show full of songs, jokes and entertainment for the whole family. All ages. 2-2:45pm. Please call 250-656-0944 to register. Impossible Characters: Creative Story Writing for Kids at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Plunk a robot-wizard in the refrigerator, a bumblebee-dog in space, or any character into an unlikely setting and see what story unfolds. Led by writer Korina Miller from Story Studio Writing Society. For ages 7-10. 2:30-3:30pm Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information. Acting Out, Funny Business at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Explore comedy skits and fractured fairytales “Acting Out” style. Use improv, theatrical silliness, puppets, costumes and music in this fun program with Jennifer Callioux (Theatre B.A.) For ages 8-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more info. Mammals Madness at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. I’m a mammal and so are you. Come and meet some of the other amazing mammals that make Swan Lake home. Handson explorations, games and lots of furry fun. Admission by donation. Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre. Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Glow necklaces $2. Regular admission. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200.

THUR 7 Tales with a Twist at Esquimalt Branch Library. See TUES Aug 5 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

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Paws and Tales at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED 6 for details. For ages 5-8. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information. Snake Day at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. CRD Regional Parks has teamed up with Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary for this slithery event. Watch snake shows, hold a snake, play a snake game and more. Drop by the tents at the main Beaver Beach any time between 11am and 2pm. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Makerspace Clicking Bugs at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED 6 for details. For ages 10-12. 1:30-2:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information. Acting Out, Funny Business at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See WED 6 for details. For ages 8-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

FRI 8 Duck Days of Summer at Crofton Pool. Nothing is more fun than rubber ducky. Come see hundreds of rubber ducky in the pool. Games and activities will be ongoing. 6-9pm. 250-746-7665.

FRI 8 – SUN 10 Victoria Indian MeLa in Centennial Square. Indian classical and modern/fusion music, fashion shows, Gidda/Bhangra, Garba/Dhandia and Bollywood dances, and many other multicultural presentations. The event includes booths with arts and crafts, henna, palm reading, face painting and fashion. Let Indian delicacies and aromas tantalize your senses. Fri: 1-6pm; Sat: 11am-8pm; Sun: 11am-6pm. www.iccavictoria.com.

SAT 9 Moon Walk at Coles Bay Regional Park. When the moon is full and the tide is low, down to Coles Bay we’ll go. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist to look for marine creatures like crabs, sea stars and the elusive moon snail. 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 9:30am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Sing-Along Music with Professor Trainboat at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Sing, dance and laugh with professor Trainboat’s energetic, interactive educational music show. For ages 2-5. 10:3011:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information. Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery. Drop-in art making program. All materials provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied

38 Family Summer Guide

by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation. 250-287-2261. Mask Madness at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Make a funny mask and then improvise silly scenes using drama, music, and clowning with the Kerploding Theatre team. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

SAT 9 & SUN 10 20th Annual Arts & Music in the Gardens at The Gardens at HCP. Meet over 60 Island artists and listen to a variety of music by some of Victoria’ musicians. View classic cars participating in the Auto Art Show, unique Land Art displays, and visit the Bonsai Garden. $12/adults; $10/students and seniors; children under 16 free. 11am-5pm. 505 Quayle Rd. 250-479-6162. 250-479-6162. www.hcp.ca.

SUN 10 Whelks to Whales at East Sooke Regional Park. Pristine ocean wilderness offers much to be explored. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist to discover more about ocean dwellers near and deep. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk in the Aylard Farm parking lot off Becher Bay Rd at 10am. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd. bc.ca/parks. Cadboro Bay Festival at Gyro Park. Enjoy building your own sand sculpture at the beach, or take part in a variety of hands-on activities including bouncy castles, face painting, pirate school, the Saanich game board, kids treasure map, hand drum workshops, information displays, and arts & craft stations. Local entertainment on stage throughout the day. Bring your own reusable water bottle to be filled at the CRD Water Cart. Free. 11am-3pm. 250-475-5558.

MON 11 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. Park in the main parking lot off Metchosin Rd and follow the 20-minute forest trail to the beach. Witty Beach access closed. 5+ years. 10am-noon. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www. crd.bc.ca/parks. Baby Signs with Layla: a Baby Sign Language Program at Oak Bay Branch Library. Learn the basics of using nonverbal signs with babies and toddlers. Benefits may include improved communication, fewer tantrums and cognitive and

language development. For parents, educators and children ages 0-24 months. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-5922489 for more information.

TUES 12 Radical Raccoons at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES JULY 8 for details. 10-11:30am. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child. To register, call 250-4790211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Feeling Crabby at Island View Beach Regional Park. Red crabs, green crabs, smooth crabs, hairy crabs. This beach has them all. Drop in any time between 11am and 2pm and meet the crabs of Island View Beach as well as some of their crusty cousins. Explore under rocks, make a craft and more. 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. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Music in the Park at Rutledge Park. Arts and crafts, face painting and children’s activities. Please bring a lawn chair or blanket. Donation gratefully accepted. 6-8pm. 250-477-3673.

WED 13 Paws and Tales at Nellie McClung, Saanich Centennial and Central Saanich Branch Libraries. See WED 6 for details. For ages 5-8. Nellie McClung: 10:30-11:30am, 250-477-7111; Saanich Centennial: 10:30-11:30am, 250-477-9030; Central Saanich: 2:30-3:30pm, 250-652-2013. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call the hosting branch for more information. Making Masks with Eliska Liska at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Artist Eliska Liska returns to the library to lead us in an afternoon of mask making fun. Just bring your imagination. Ages 6+. 2-3pm. Please call 250-656-0944 to register. Sno Cone Swim at Ravensong Aquatic Centre, Parksville. Come for fun in the pool and a tasty sno cone treat. Every welcome. 6:30-8pm. 250752-5014. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

WED 13 & THURS 14 Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Puppetry Camp at Esquimalt Branch Library. Join the Travelling Puppet Show for a 2-day mini-camp featuring puppet-making, storytelling, and your wonderfully wild imagination. Make and take home your very own puppets. Family and friends are invited to attend for the last 15 minutes of the last day of camp to enjoy a performance. For ages 7-9. 1:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

THUR 14 Masked Bandit at Devonian 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 William Head Rd at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

THURS 14 & FRI 15 Crafts for ’Tween & Teens with Angel: Modern Macramé at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Learn basic macramé techniques and create your own simple macramé bracelet with Angel in this fun two-part workshop that won’t leave you tied up in knots. For ages 10-18. 1:30-3pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more info.

FRI 15 Evening Campfire at the Beach at Island View Regional Park. Meet a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist for an evening beach walk followed by campfire stories at the Island View Beach campground. Learn more about the animals that call Island View Beach their home. Bring a beach chair. Meet at the campfire ring at the Island View Beach campground, off Homathko Rd. 6-8pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Creatures of the Summer Night at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. 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, discover how these animals are adapted to their nocturnal life. Suitable for families with children under 6 years. 8-9:30pm. $4/members; $6/non-members. Pre-registration required. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. www.swanlake.bc.ca.

SAT 16 Go with the Flow (Line) at Charters Interpretive Centre, Sooke. Join the Sooke Region Museum and a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist for a short, steep hike through the woods to see a historical bake oven built 100 years ago by workers constructing the 27 mile-long flowline to carry water to Victoria. 5+ years. 10am-noon. There is no fee for this program, but you must pre-register as space is limited. To reserve a spot, call 250478-3344 by August 15. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Pete the Cat Day at the Tanner’s Books. Come for a rockin’ day in celebration of one cool cat. Come in and sing Pete’s song, play Pete games, and make a Pete puppet. Plus see Pete’s new book: Pete the Cat and the New Guy. 11am-3pm drop-in. 2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney. 250-656-2345. www. tannersbooks.com. Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at Francis/King Regional Park. Wear your craziest hat and join a CRD www.IslandParent.ca

Regional Parks’ naturalist for a fun family tea party. Take a short walk to learn a few fabulous local plants and celebrate the day with a tea party featuring native plants. 5+ years. $7 + GST. Pre-registration required by August 15. Space is limited. 1-2:30pm. 250-478-3344. www.crd. bc.ca/parks.

SUN 17 ’Bear’ Necessities at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. We can co-exist with these magnificent forest dwellers. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist to learn about the natural history of the black bear. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

mon 18 Travelling Puppet Show for Preschoolers: Performance at Central Branch Library. Puppets! Stories! Fun! What more could you ask for in a puppet show? Parents and caregivers are welcome to attend. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 4-12. 10:30-11am. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more info. Travelling Puppet Show for Preschoolers: Workshop at Central Branch Library. Puppets are the best friends, especially when you’ve made your very own! We provide the arts and crafts supplies, and you supply the creativity. Parents and caregivers are welcome to participate. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 4-6. 11:1511:45am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

Fall 2014 Registration OPEN NOW Come play with us! Our preschool programs offer your little ones opportunities to learn and play together. Qualified early childhood educators and assistants provide indoor and outdoor play experiences, art activities, stories and music. We enjoy library visits, trips to the nearby parks and community visitors too. Located in Pearkes Recreation Centre, Full o’ Beans Preschool is operated by Saanich Neighbourhood Place. Thinking about a “nature kindergarten” experience for your child? Consider joining us for our new “I Spy” Forest Discovery Days, offered Monday and Friday in our 4 hour program. For more information about Full o’ Beans Preschool, visit Saanich Neighbourhood Place Reception, contact Corinne at Corinne@snplace.org or call 250-360-1148 ext 101

Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Performance at Central Branch Library. This interactive puppet show will take you on an adventure filled with silly stories and hilarious characters. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 7-9. 1:30-2:15pm. Register at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more info. Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Workshop at Central Branch Library. Just like Geppetto! In this workshop, you’ll make your own puppet and learn techniques that will make it seem alive. We provide the arts and crafts supplies, and you supply the creativity. Please note: Puppetry workshop and puppet performance require separate registration. Space is limited; register early to avoid disappointment. For ages 7-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

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

Summer 2014 39

TUES 19 Outstanding Owls at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES JULY 8 for details. 10-11:30am. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child. To register, call 250-4790211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Animal Adventures at Francis/King Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist on a family adventure as you learn some cool animal skills. Creep like a deer, jump like a cougar, and feel like a raccoon as we wind our way through the Francis/King forest. Meet at the Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. 10 years and under. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Music in the Park at Braefoot and Hyacinth Parks. See TUES 12 for details. 6-8pm. Admission by donation. 250-477-3673.

TUES 19 – THURS 21 Travelling Puppet Show for Preschoolers: Puppetry Camp at Central Branch Library. Join the Travelling Puppet Show for a 3-day mini-camp. Explore stories and create your very own puppets. Family and friends are invited to attend for the last 15 minutes of the last day of the camp to enjoy a performance. For ages 4-6. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information. Travelling Puppet Show for School-Aged Kids: Puppetry Camp at Central Branch Library. For ages 7-9. See above for details. 1:30-3:30pm. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more info.

WED 20 Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre. Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Glow necklaces $2. Regular admission. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200.

THUR 21 Blood and Guts at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. They’ve got pointy teeth and sharp claws, and they don’t eat tofu! Learn more about animals that make their living by eating meat. Cougars and owls and bears—oh my. See live raptor demonstrations. Drop in at the tents at the main Beaver Beach any time between 11am and 2pm. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Animal Grossology at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Are you oozing to learn about the disgusting science of animal grossology? Find out about slug slime, owl barf and even the scoop on poop. Check out worms, slugs, spiders and scum as you learn about the secret world of the revolting. Activities and crafts that will gross

40 Family Summer Guide

you out! Admission by donation. Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. www. swanlake.bc.ca Homeschooling: Will it Work for My Child? For Me? at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Are you exploring homeschooling as an educational alternative? Do you want to know how to go about it? What are the legalities? Marty Layne, author and pioneering homeschooling mom, will address these issues and answer some of your questions about home-based education in BC. You’ll come away with a better understanding of what’s involved and learn ways to support your children’s learning. For parents and educators. 7-8:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-7111 for more information.

SAT 23 Bountiful Berries at East Sooke Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional parks’ naturalist on a walk to explore for blackberries, Oregon grape berries, salal berries and more. There will also be an opportunity to taste jams made from some of these natural delights. We will look at and taste berries, but will not be collecting them to take them home. Meet at the kiosk in the Aylard Farm parking lot off Becher Bay Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery. See SAT 9 for details. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation. 250-287-2261. Summer Reading Club Wrap-Up Party: The Great Smartini at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Let’s celebrate a summer full of reading and fun. Join the Great Smartini for a magic show featuring Jo Jo Coconut, Canada’s only talking chimp. Summer Reading prize winners will be announced, and there will be cake for everyone. All ages. 2:30-3:30pm. Please call 250-656-0944 to register.

SUN 24 Bejewelled Dragons of the Pond at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. See SAT 2 for details. Meet at the Retriever Ponds area off Beaver Lake Rd at 11am. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

TUES 26 Busy Bees at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES JULY 8 for details. 1011:30am. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/ additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child. To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. www.swanlake.bc.ca. Music in the Park at Rudd Park. See TUES 12 for details. Donation gratefully accepted. 6-8pm. 250-477-3673.

WED 27 Bountiful Berries at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. See SAT AUG 23 for details. Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot at 1pm. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

THURS 28 Going Squirrelly at Francis/King Regional Park. What does it take to survive as a squirrel? With a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist, discover what keeps these furry creatures busy at this time of year. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SAT 30 Captain Underpants Day at the Tanner’s Books. Explore the wacky world of Captain Underpants. Take home your very own Flip-O-Rama Book of Fun and official Captain Underpants Collector’s cards in your very own Captain Underpants bag. 11am-3pm drop-in. 2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney. 250-656-2345. www.tannersbooks.com.

ONGOING BABIES, TODDLERS & PRESCHOOL Drop-in Family Storytimes at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Storytimes are free and drop-in. Please come early to find a space. Caregivers are welcome and encouraged to participate. For a complete list of drop-in programs, call your local library, or visit www.gvpl.ca. Read to Me Club at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Bring your littlest ones to the library on Thursday mornings for stories, songs, rhymes and movement. Stay for a snack and some socializing afterwards. 0-5 years. 10:15-10:45am. 250-656-0944.

KIDS Summer Reading Club 2014: Funny Business at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Whether you’re reading at home or on holidays, you can keep track of your reading and enjoy some incentives along the way. Staying in town? You’re invited to come for a selection of amazing library programs at branches throughout Greater Victoria. Online registration for special programs begins June 16. Beginning June 26, you are invited to drop by your local library to pick up a self-paced reading record. For kids 12 and under. For more information about the club, or to register for programs, check out gvpl.ca. Summer Reading Buddies at the Central Branch Library. Reading Buddies pairs children who need extra practice with reading with teen volunteers

www.kidsinvictoria.com

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 14 and August 22 at different branch libraries throughout the summer. For children in Grades 2 to 4. Space is limited. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call the library for more information. Reading Buddies, Summer Edition at the Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Practice your reading with a Big Buddy. Children in grades 2-4 are paired up with teen volunteers to read books, play games and have fun. If your child would like to participate in the program, please fill out an application in the library. Application deadline July 14th. Program runs daily July 2125, 10:30-11:30am. For more information, call 250-656-0944. GVPL Summer Challenge at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Choose from 40 fabulous libraryrelated activities that you can do whenever you like throughout the summer. Every challenge completed will earn you an entry into our prize draws. Everyone welcome. Visit www.gvpl.ca/ summerchallenge, or call the library for more information. Summer Programs at Miracle Beach Provincial Park, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park and Goldstream Provincial Park. Programs include Jerry’s Rangers programs for kids 5-12 and evening amphitheatre presentations for all ages. For more information, visit www.naturehouse.ca.

Guided Nature Walks & Hikes, Drop-In Events, Canoeing Most are free, all are fun!

Nature Outings & Events That Pique Your Natural Curiosity For Nature Lovers of All Ages, For Every Season

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.

Summer Swims at Bowen Park Kin Outdoor Pool, Nanaimo. Come swim in the heated pool. 1-3pm every day until August 29. $3. 250-753-8176.

Calendar of activities at crd.bc.ca/parks

Waterparks in Nanaimo. Open to the public 9am-8pm June to Sept. Departure Bay Kiwanis Water Park Kiwanis Park; Deverill Square Park, Harewood Water Park; Mansfield Park. All children should use parks under adult supervision. Hours subject to change. Free.

Capital Regional District | Regional Parks crdparks@crd.bc.ca 250.478.3344

Playground Program in Nanaimo. Drop in to one of the neighbourhood playgrounds this summer and join for free family fun. Activities could include games, arts & crafts, and sports. Monday to Friday, 10am-3:30pm, July 2-August 22. For children 5-12. Parents must be on premises. 250-756-5200. Children’s Concerts in the Park at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Wednesday July 16, and 30, August 13 and 27. 11-11:45am. www. victoria.ca/cityvibe.

Accepting Enrollment for Sept. 2014

• preschool to grade 2

Book now for a tour!

• small class sizes

www.IslandParent.ca

school care

• supportive and

caring staff

• excellent academic

foundation

YOUTH Teen Volunteers Needed at the Greater Victoria Public Library. If you like working with children, enjoy reading, and want to help struggling readers, we need you. Volunteer for one or two hours per

• before and after

• Kodaly music

5575 West Saanich Rd (across from Red Barn Market) 250 592 4411 imhs@telus.net www.islandmontessori.com

program

• lovely rural location

connecting children to nature Summer 2014 41

ALL FUN KARTS • CAGES • CLUBS • CAMPING at Western Speedway

at Western Speedway

o much fun!! There’s no such thing as to Open: July & August Every Day 11am-6pm Open: September on Weekends & Holidays from 12-5pm (all above, weather permitting)

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miles of safe sandy beaches warm and safe swimming may–oct. explore the reef and tidepools comfy seaside cottages

For an experience you’ll never forget!

afternoon for one or more weeks this summer. Week-long sessions are available between July 14 and August 22 at different branch libraries throughout the summer. For ages 13-18. For more information, email teens@gvpl.ca. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or in person at all branches. Tech Buddies: Teen Volunteers at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Volunteer using your skills with computers and other new technologies, and connect with someone in your community. Teens earn volunteer hours and help adults with their questions about computers and gadgets. For ages 13-18. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or email teens@gvpl.ca for more information. Teen Council: Summer Edition at Greater Victoria Public Library. Interested in developing content for social media? Earn volunteer hours by joining this short-term project-based version of GVPL’s Teen Council. For ages 13-18. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or in person at all branches.

FAMILIES Multi-Island Geocaching Challenge. Embark on a self-guided adventure to experience the park’s cultural and natural hotsports. Choose from two routes: a family-friendly treasure hunt or a more strenuous route. Each visitor to complete a route receives a limited edition geocoin. Until September. For more information, call 1-866944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands. Summer in the Square Lunchtime Concerts in Centennial Square. Enjoy your lunch breaks listening to live music. July 2-September 11, noon-1pm. www.victoria.ca.

KYE BAY GUEST LODGE & COTTAGES Comox, BC, Vancouver Island www.kyebay.com 1-866-658-6131

Special Swim Rate Tuesdays at Ravensong Aquatic Centre, Parksville. All summer long. Tuesdays July 8-August 12. 1:30-5pm. 250-752-5014. www. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. Concerts in the Park at Bowen Amphitheatre, Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo. Tuesdays July 15-August 26, 12:30-1:30pm; Wednesdays July 9 to August 27, 6-7:30pm. Beat the Heat Skate at Oceanside Arena, Parksville. Beat the heat this summer and go for a refreshing skate. Wednesdays, July 9-August 20 (No session July 23). Everyone welcome. 6:45-8:15pm. 250752-5014. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation. Junior Naturalists at McDonald campground, Sidney. Bring your curiosity and join the club. Collect a new sticker each week and get a prize for collecting all four. For children 6-12 with an adult. No registration required. Attend one program or several. Please park at the adjacent Blue Heron park and follow the signs to the group campfire ring. Thursdays 7-8pm in July and August. For more information, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands.

Family Summer Guide

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Campfire Magic at McDonald Campground, Sidney. Share the magic of a traditional Canadian campfire with your family at this free program. Bring a flashlight and a mug for hot chocolate. Fridays 7-8pm, June-August. For families with children 12 and under. No registration required. Please park at the adjacent Blue Heron Park and follow the signs to the group campfire ring. 1-866944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands. 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 minute walk). Fridays 8-9pm in July and August. For more information, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands. Concerts in the Park at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Dance, theatre and musical performances as well as community events. Bring a blanket, or your personal lawn chair and enjoy and afternoon or evening of free entertainment. 1:30-3:20pm, Friday, Saturday and Sundays until September 12. Orca News 2014 at East Point, Saturna Island. Join a park interpreter for a free and engaging update on the endangered southern resident killer whales. East Point is a prime spot for land-based whale watching. Bring a blanket or a chair. No registration required. Meet out at the point (5 minute walk). Saturdays 2-2:30pm in July & August. For more information, call 1-866-9441744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands. GPS Family Adventures at Winter Cove, Saturna Island. Drop-in anytime for this free program, but allow one hour to complete an adventure. Set out equipped with a clue book and a GPS (provided by the interpreter). Choose from three adventures: Wildlife Trackers, Smelly-StickyPrickly or Nature Photographers (bring your camera for this one). No registration required. Sundays in July and August, 11am-1pm. For more information, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands. Moss St. Market at Sir James Douglas School. Local organic produce, delicious food, hand-crafted products and live music. Children’s activity tent. Saturdays 10am-2pm until Oct. The Bloedel Fire at BC Forest Discovery Centre. Travel along a scenic trail marked with interpretive panels, passing by the Lookout Tower and arriving at the Ranger station building, where the exhibit will be displayed. Open to the public during the centre’s hours throughout the spring and summer seasons. www.bcforestdiscoverycentre.com.•

www.IslandParent.ca

Summer 2014 43

Photo: Michelle Loewen • www.figandclover.ca

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. 44 Family Summer Guide

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). beaconhillchildrensfarm.ca Victoria Bug Zoo offers visitors an opportunity to view and experience multi-legged creatures from around the world in a safe, fun and friendly atmosphere. Get up close www.kidsinvictoria.com

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. www.victoriabugzoo.ca or 250-384-BUGS(2847).

Saanich/Sidney 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. Stop by to stock up on berries, figs and tomatoes and visit the ducks, chickens, goats, pigs, rabbits and more. Bring along a picnic lunch and for dessert, treat yourself to an ice-cream cone or a freshly baked cinnamon bun. Open daily 8:30am-5pm. www.dansfarm.ca. 250-652-9100. Galey Farms Corn Maze, Market and Railway in the Blenkinsop Valley is fun for all ages. Work your way through the corn maze (open mid-July) and find the Old West Town, take a hayride around the farm, learn about the history of farming, visit the petting farm filled with fuzzy friends, have fun at the playground and visit the market. 4150 Blenkinsop Road. Open daily 10am-5:30pm. www.galeyfarms. net or 250-477-5713. 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 all kinds of 4H displays and demos, and animals to ponder and pet such as horses, donkeys, 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. August 31-Sept 1 at the fairgrounds at 1528 Stellys Cross Road. Gates open 10am-10pm Sat and Sun, 10amam-6pm Mon. www. saanichfair.ca. The 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. Colourful aquarium habitats teem with marine life for you to observe. Hundreds of fish, invertebrates and marine plants recreate the ocean and give you an underwater view that most people never see. At the touch tanks, use the one finger rule to shake hands with an urchin and be tickled by a sea star. Enjoy views of the Gulf Islands, the Salish Sea and Mt. Baker as the backdrop

www.IslandParent.ca

while you spend some time with the Oceaneers as they introduce you to hands-on/hands-wet learning. Open daily 10am-5pm. www.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 brightly coloured 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-7pm. www.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 1:30pm and 3:30pm). 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 11am4:30pm. 1877 Herd Road, www.pnwraptors. com or 250-746-0372.

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, milking parlour (milking at 4pm), 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. 403 Lowrys Road. www.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 10am-4pm. 1692 Errington Road. If you’re heading north from Nanaimo, turn left onto Errington Road and follow the signs. www.tigerlilyfarm.ca or 250-248-2408.

Coombs The World Parrot Refuge is the largest free-flight 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. Open daily 10am-4pm. www.worldparrotrefuge.org or 250-248-5194. 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. Open daily 9am-5pm. www.niwra.org or 250-248-8534. 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-5pm. www.natureworld.com or 250-248-7026.

Comox/Courtenay 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 during the summer months. 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 August 1-4. www.filberg.com, 250-339-2715. Seaview Game Farm in Black Creek (north of Courtenay) runs hour-long tours daily June 21-Sept 1, at 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm and 3pm. You will be taken by 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. Walk through the greenhouses and gardens and see what’s sprouting. Visit the onsite market and coffee shop. A picnic and play area provide even more fun. If you’re not in a rush, rent the Yurt, (or “dwelling place”), and stay over night just a few metres from the ocean and public beach access. www.seaviewgamefarm.com or 250-337-5182.• Summer 2014 45

Kristen Rosenbeck

To Tan or Not to Tan Healthy Families, Happy Families

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

250-519-5311 250-539-3099

(toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

Peninsula Saanich Saltspring Island Sooke Victoria West Shore

250-544-2400 250-519-5100 250-538-4880 250-642-5464 250-388-2200 250-519-3490

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

North Island Health Units Campbell River Courtenay Kyuquot Health Ctr ‘Namgis Health Ctr Port Hardy

250-850-2110 250-331-8520 250-332-5289 250-974-5522 250-902-6071

www.viha.ca/prevention_services/

46 Family Summer Guide

The effects of sun exposure

e all need a little sun exposure; it’s our primary source of vitamin D which helps our bodies absorb calcium for stronger, healthier bones. But too much exposure to the sun can be damaging. In order to effectively protect yourself and your children, it’s important to understand sun exposure and how it works. The sun produces light and part of that light is UV radiation. The sun produces two types of UV rays—UVA and UVB—that can cause severe damage. Until recently, UVA rays were not believed to cause damage, and so many sunscreens only protect against UVB rays. Tanned skin is the result of unprotected UV exposure—a tan doesn’t protect you from further skin damage. Melanin, a chemical in the skin, determines a person’s skin color. Darker skin has a higher concentration of melanin. It’s the body’s first line of defence against the sun because it absorbs UV rays before they do damage. A tan develops when melanin increases in response to sun exposure. The risk of damage increases with the duration and intensity of the exposure. Skin burns when melanin reaches its maximum UV absorption; both fair and dark skin should be protected from the sun because both tanning and burning causes skin damage. Children are at a higher risk of sun damage if they have moles (or parents with moles); very fair skin and hair; and/or a family history of skin cancer (especially melanoma). Unprotected UV exposure can lead to health issues of the skin, eyes and immune system. It can cause changes to skin cells resulting in skin aging, wrinkling and cancers. Long-term UV exposure to your eyes can lead to cataracts, clouding of the lens of the eye. Long-term UV exposure can also suppress the immune system leaving you more susceptible to infections. Infants and children are more susceptible to environmental influences because their immune system is not fully developed. Unprotected sun contact can even interfere with normal development. UV rays reflect and intensify off snow, water, sand and concrete, increasing the risk of damage. Extra protection is needed when performing activities in these conditions. Some

medications can make your skin more vulnerable to damage. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if your prescription, especially antibiotics or acne medications, and/or over-the-counter medications increase skin’s sensitivity. The best way to protect children from the sun is to cover up and shield their skin from exposure. To check if their clothes will protect them from UV rays, place your hand inside the clothing, if you can see your hand, the clothing doesn’t offer enough protection.

Babies have thinner skin and undeveloped melanin which puts them at higher risk of skin damage. Sunscreen should not be applied to babies younger than six months; protect them from the sun with clothing and by staying in the shade. Clothes should be light and loose fitting, but cover the entire body and include a wide brimmed hat to shade the face. Shade can be from a tree, structure, created by an umbrella, or a tent. When using a tent, make sure there’s enough air circulation to avoid over-heating. For children over six months of age, protect them from sun damage by using sunscreen consistently. There are many different sunscreens available for kids including formulas www.kidsinvictoria.com

for sensitive skin, with fun scents and colors, long-lasting waterproof and/or sweat-proof and in spray bottle for easy application. Select a sunscreen with a sun protective factor (SPF) of 30 or higher to prevent both tanning and burning. Look for one that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, known as broadspectrum. If your child has sensitive skin, look for a product that lists titanium dioxide as an active ingredient. For effective protection, make sure you apply sunscreen whenever your child is exposed to the sun and apply it at least 15 to 30 minutes before exposure. Apply it generously to all areas exposed, especially the face, neck, shoulders and ears. Use a waterproof sunscreen if your children are around water or swimming and reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if your child’s been sweating or swimming. Sun exposure can damage your eyes as well as your skin. Even one day in the sun can burn the cornea, the outer most membrane of the eye. It’s important to purchase sunglasses that provide 100 per cent UV protection. Not all children like to wear sunglasses, so to encourage them, let them choose their own pair and wear yours regularly, as children want to act like grown-ups. Sunburns can sneak up on kids, especially after a long day of exposure. Your child may seem fine during the day but an after-burn could develop in the evening. Symptoms that worsen with time are pain, the sensation of heat and in some cases, chills can occur. The skin becomes itchy and tight because the sun dries out the skin. Sunburned skin may peel, but encourage your child not to scratch or peel it because the skin underneath is susceptible to infection. If the sunburn is severe and blisters develop call your doctor and encourage your child not to pop, squeeze or scratch the blisters. There are a few things to help relieve the symptoms of sunburn. Run a cool, not cold, bath or apply cool, wet, clean towels to help cool the skin. Apply pure aloe vera gel, found at most pharmacies, to the affected areas. Acetaminophen and/or an antihistamine can be given to lessen pain, inflammation and itching. Apply a topical moisturizer to rehydrate the skin. Avoid any petroleum-based products (they don’t allow heat or sweat to escape) and first-aid ointments with benzocaine (they could irritate the skin). Most importantly, avoid reexposure while the sunburn heals. Kristen Rosenbeck is a fourth year nursing student, completing her final practicum at Margaret Moss Health Unit in Duncan. She is a single mom with two young children and is excited to re-enter the workforce as a Registered Nurse. www.IslandParent.ca

P M A CAKLANDS

1 day/ $40 5 days/$170 7:30a-5:30p

JULY 2- 4 JULY 7-11 JULY 14-18 JULY 21-25 JULY 28 - 1 AUG 5- 8 AUG 11-15 AUG 18-22 AUG 25-27

Seahawks (5-7 years)

Firebirds (8-12 years)

A Bug’s Life Where the Wild Things Are Art-a-palooza Oh the Places You’ll Go Let’s Get Wet Country Hoedown Shiver Me Timbers Music Makers & Shakers Pay it Forward

Amazing Race Jurassic Park Waterworld Camping in our Big Backyard Rockband Culinary Crusaders Movie Making Madness Beach Daze Green Thumbs

LIMIT ED SPACE !

Oaklands Community Centre 1-2827 Belmont Ave. | www.oaklandscommunitycentre.com | 250-370-9101

Emmanuel Preschool

2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road (by entrance to UVic)

Openings forHill 2013–2014 2121 Cedar Cross RoadClasses! (by entrance to UVic)

Openings Children learn throughfor play in2014–2015 our all inclusive, Classes! non-denominational Christian play preschool. Children learn through in our all inclusive, nonGreat facility; outdoor play area and a gym for rainy day play! denominational Christian preschool. Greatteachers facility;to Two teachers with ECE certification plus assistant playneeds area and a gym for rainy day play. Two helpoutdoor with special children. A competent teaching team! teachers and withcaring ECE certification plus an assistant teacher to help with special needs children. Opportunities: A competent and caring teaching team! Mon / Wed / Fri morning class Opportunities: Tues / Thurs morning class Mon/Wed/Fri morning class 5 mornings a week

Tues/Thurs morning class Phone 250-598-0573 5 mornings a week preschool@emmanuelvictoria.ca Phone 250-598-0573 preschool@emmanuelvictoria.ca www.emmanuelpreschool.ca

www.emmanuelpreschool.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

Special Services:

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

Victoria Pediatric Dental Centre g We’re Movin

New Location: 205–1830 Oak Bay Ave

www.victoriapediatricdentalcentre.ca

250-383-2133 Summer 2014 47

Party Directory Funtime Inflatables

Hassle Free Parties

#1 choice for party inflatables

250-474-0597

www.funtimeinflatables.ca

You’ll Flip Over Our Birthday Parties

We will match any competitor’s price; we will beat any competitors service!

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

New items arriving soon!!!

www.lionspridegymnastics.com Located in Langford

Trust your next party or special event to the experts, Funtime Inflatables—the original bouncy castle company. Serving Vancouver Island since 1990.

250-383-FLIP

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

250 472 3546 www.puppetbooth.homestead.com

Fired UP! FALCON G

Dirt Bike Birthday Parties We supply everything: Bike • Gear • Riding Lesson for ages 6yrs to adults over 30 bikes to choose from

Westshore Motocross Park No experience necessary 2207 Millstream Rd, Langford

250 590 8088 westshoremx.com

Book your party with us today! We now offer online booking.

All parties are held in a private party room with a dedicated staff member. Birthday child gets a very special keepsake and all guests paint their own ceramic item.

See website for details: www.firedupceramics.ca

2207 Millstream Road Victoria, BC V9B 0J7 Tel: 250.590.8088 Cel: 250.893.9547

Learn to Ride with Us! brought to you by SG POWER We offer a complete line of entry level dirt bikes, 50cc, 70cc, 90cc non clutch bikes and 80cc,110cc, 125cc 4 strokes with clutches. All safety gear is supplied, from boots to helmets and everything in between. This 1.5 hour Learn to Ride with Us course includes the basics of a motorcycle orientation including safety gear and safe riding habits, stop-n-go circle riding, escorted ﬁrst laps on motocross track, and supervised solo riding sessions.

YPaint your own ceramics

S T

1801 Fort Street @ Richmond

Now Offering Full-week and one day camps! Ages 6 and up. Birthday See website forParties! details! www.firedupceramics.ca

GYMNASTICS Now Offering

Full-week and one day camps!Parties Birthday Ages 6 and up. N Celebrate your birthday with us! N See website for details! Our great instructors will treat you Awww.firedupceramics.ca A 40thsary to an action packed two hours of r

Fired UP! Paint your own ceramics

Annive 2013 1973–

fun and fitness in our great facility!

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

Book Early: 250-479-6424

#208 – 721 Vanalman Ave

(Broadmead & Royal Oak Area)

www.falcongymnastics.com

S T I C S

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

Call 250-370-7200

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

Call 250-595-SWIM (7946)

www.recreation.oakbay.ca

48 Family Summer Guide

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Party Directory

ctoria Gymnastics

Birthday Parties Come Fly With Us!

7 Day Rentals from $149 250-881-2680 AffordableHotTubs.ca

Party sizes up to 18 kids We supply table top cover, napkins, hats, streamers and balloons Optional character

Two certified instructors and a host Optional character

Gymnastics games and music Free t-shirt

Optional character

Foam landing pit and 40' long trampoline

Optional character Optional character

Optional character

Available Sat & Sun Afternoons Corner of Store & Pembroke

Action-Packed Birthday Parties

Optional character

Supervised • 2–8 Yrs

www.victoriagymnastics.com

It’s about skills, not scores.

Call Island Parent

250 388 6905 www.IslandParent.ca

Par-T-Perfect

(250) 386-JUMP (5867) www.par-t-perfect.com • Indoor facility options for all your bouncy castle and inflatable requirements • School fairs/festivals and picnics • At home/indoor theme parties, i.e. Teddy Bear stuffing, craft parties • Free gift for birthday child when you mention this ad • Costumed facepainters and balloon twisters, i.e. princesses, pirates, ragdoll style clowns • Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

BC SPCA Birthday Parties

250-380-2442

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

Advertise YOUR Party Services Here!

Party participants can win a FREE month

Celebrate your birthday and your love of animals at the BC SPCA. Play animal-themed games, take a tour of the shelter and meet some of our resident critters. Locations: Victoria & Cowichan Ages: 7-12* *(all guests including siblings)

For more information or to book a party email bmcdonald@spca.bc.ca

Summer 2014 49

Kathy Humphrey

Kate Rubin Theatre & Drama Studio specializes

dramatic

training

CHILDREN, YOUTH, and ADULTS. Within a professional, for

experienced, learning

and

supportive

environment,

students

flourish with improved acting skills,

confidence, CREATIVE THINKING, public speaking

stronger

skills, spontaneity, and versatility in physical & vocal expression.

Now Registering Classes • Workshops • Private Coaching for Summer 2014 Fall, Winter, Spring & Summer Terms Theatre Camps!

Kate Rubin

Theatre & Drama Studio

250.386.8593 • KateRubin@telus.net www.KateRubinTheatre.com facebook.com/KateRubinTheatre

Find your wingS!

Summer Flight Camp at the

ViCtoria Flying Club * 5 Hours of Actual Flight Training With A Certified Flight Instructor * 1 Hour of Simulator Time in our Full Motion Red Bird Simulator * An Introduction to Ground School * Tours of the Victoria International Airport * And Much More! Ages 9-12 August 11-15th For more information: 250-656-2833 50 Family Summer Guide

Hunters & Gatherers

he world is a very rich place, replete with sights and sounds and smells and tastes. The natural world, defined by the underlying flora and fauna that shape the settlements springing up around them, tirelessly provides the raw materials for this richness, in the form of plant life and animal life that nourishes each other. We, the people of the world, tend to drift and wander here and there over the earth’s surface, taking what we need, and occasionally remembering that good guests leave things tidier than they find them. The West Coast, particularly Vancouver Island, is a jackpot for anyone looking to make a meal, or supplement one, with gleanings from the land. Oceans yield fish, oysters and mussels, as well as nutrient-rich seaweed and sea asparagus; beaches yield clams buried deep in the sand. Further inland, you’ll spot lush Salal, dotted with berries later in the season, as well as shiny (and prickly) Oregon grape. Camus lilies have edible bulbs, if you care to do some digging and roasting. In the fall, mushrooms spring up in the deep and dark parts of the woods, waiting for anyone with the stamina for tangled forests to find them. Mushrooms give a natural segue into the cautionary part of gathering from nature—there are no labels on anything. If you don’t know, for sure, that what you are picking is safe, then leave it, because it would really ruin an evening to have chosen the poisonous look-alike by accident. There are books, there are guides, and for the timechallenged, there are also markets everywhere. Local markets can give access to produce that is only available to the most determined gatherers, and you can be relatively sure that it’s not going to kill you and your guests. It’s also fun to spend a morning at a summer market with your family, looking at the stalls and being out in your community. I have no idea how to prepare Camus bulbs, and frankly, they don’t appeal. I do love berries, and fish, and working gleanings from nature and the garden—dandelion leaves in the salad, anyone?—into meals. It’s summertime, and it’s our time to be outside, together, meeting

our communities and getting to know the world around us.

Oyster Burgers 1⁄2

cup cornmeal cup breadcrumbs Pinch cayenne pepper 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 large eggs, beaten and mixed with 1⁄4 cup milk 12 medium shucked oysters Vegetable oil 1⁄2

Combine the cornmeal, breadcrumbs, pinch of cayenne pepper, salt and black pepper in a wide, shallow dish (a pie plate). Place the flour in another dish, and egg mixture in a third dish. Drain the oysters well. Coat them first in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next dip oysters in the egg mixture, making sure they are evenly coated. Set in the cornmeal mixture, gently pressing onto the oysters. Heat 1⁄8 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the oysters for two minutes per side, until crispy, golden and just cooked through. If you are cooking in batches, keep the cooked oysters warm in a 200˚F oven. Serve on heated buns, three per burger, with lettuce and a bit of tartar sauce, or mayonnaise, if desired.

Strawberry Ice Cream 4 cups ripe strawberries, rinsed and stemmed 1⁄3 cup granulated sugar 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 cup whipping cream 1 cup table cream 2 eggs 3⁄4 cup granulated sugar Slice strawberries: sprinkle with 1⁄3 cup granulated sugar and lemon juice. Stir; let sit for 1 hour. Beat eggs until pale yellow; beat www.kidsinvictoria.com

in 3⁄4 cup sugar. Combine both creams in saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir until cream is steaming (nearly at a boil). Pour cream into egg mixture, transfer back to the saucepan, and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and allow to cool. If desired, the custard can be transferred to a bowl and set in a sink full of cold water to hurry this along. Mash strawberries well, and add to custard mixture when it has fully cooled. Transfer to an ice cream maker and freeze according to manufacturer’s directions, OR proceed as follows. Place mixture into your freezer, and freeze for about 3 hours. Remove once every hour, and beat well, either with an electric mixer or in a food processor. This keeps the ice cream smooth and creamy. Allow it to freeze firmly after the second beating. Serve when ready!

Blackberry Skillet Cake 11⁄3 cups flour 3⁄4 tsp each baking powder 3⁄4 tsp baking soda 1⁄4 tsp salt 3⁄4 cup butter (softened to room temperature) 3⁄4 cups brown sugar 1 egg, plus 1 egg yolk (save the white and freeze it for a meringue, or to use in waffles) 1 tsp vanilla extract 3⁄4 cup butter milk (or milk, with splash of vinegar added, let sit for 5 minutes) 11⁄3 cup blackberries (raspberries or loganberries are a good substitute) Preheat oven to 375˚F. Whisk together dry ingredients in a large bowl. In separate bowl, mix butter with sugar until fluffy (2–3 minutes). Beat in egg and egg yolk, allow to be fully beaten in, then add vanilla. Beat in half flour mixture, then all the buttermilk, then the remaining flour, until mixed. Turn batter into oiled cast iron skillet: spread to edges. Scatter berries evenly over: press gently into batter. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until edges are deep golden and centre is cooked through. When our kitchen had been gutted, and I was left wandering aimlessly through the rest of the house for several long and stressful weeks, I made this cake and baked it in the barbeque. I turned both burners on to allow it to come to temperature, and then turned one off, and placed the skillet on the other side to bake the cake. It turned out just right! Kathy Humphrey lives in Victoria with her husband and two children. She tries to see cooking for a family not as a chore but as a creative outlet. www.IslandParent.ca

2Ways to Register:

Online at www.saanichrec.ca Or by calling any one of our 4 Rec Centres

Commonwealth Place 250-475-7600 Cedar Hill 250-475-7121 Gordon Head 250-475-7100 Pearkes 250-475-5400 Summer 2014

Advertisers Directory All Fun................................... 42 Oaklands Community Andrea’s Sew Easy................. 31

Centre................................ 47

Arbutus Grove......................... 7 OCEAN 98.5............................. 1 Art Gallery........................ Insert Panorama Recreation............ 27 Ballet Victoria........................ 12 Park Sands........................... IBC BC Forest Discovery Centre.. 31 Parks Canada.......................... 3 Beacon Hill

Parksville Beach Fest............IFC

Children’s Farm............ Insert Pizzeria Prima Strada........... 17 Blue Vista............................... 55 READ Society......................... 13 Camp Narnia......................... 53 Recreation Oak Bay.............. 11 Chemainus Theatre.................. 8 Restart Computers................. 43 Conseil Scolaire...................... 21 Richmond Tourism................. 43 CRD Parks.............................. 41 Romeo’s.................................... 5 Cridge..................................... 54 Royal BC Museum............ Insert Emmanuel Baptist................. 53 Royal Victoria Yacht Club...... 32 Emmanuel Preschool............. 47 Saanich Commonwealth.... Insert Full ’o Beans......................... 39 Saanich Recreation................ 51 Glengarry Dance..................... 9 Scallywags..............................IFC Hip Baby............................... IBC Serious Coffee.......................... 8 Horne Lake Caves................. 14 Shaw Ocean Discovery.......... 26 Huckleberry Baby.................. 15 Smitty’s.................................. 27 IMAX.................................. Insert St. Joseph’s............................. 53 International Nannies............ 32 Stages.................................5, 20 Intrepid Theatre............... Insert The Beach Club Resort........... 2 Island Farms.......................... 28 The Children’s Treehouse....... 15 Island Montessori.................. 41 The Raptors...................... Insert Island Rhythmic

Thrifty Foods......................... 29

Gymnastics........................ 18 Tiger Lily Farms.................... 18 Kate Rubin............................. 50 Tigh Na Mara........................ 54 KIV.......................................... 34 TJs The Kiddies Store............ 19 Kool & Child.......................... 14 Tom Lee Music...................... 42 Kye Bay Resort...................... 42 UVic Farquar.......................... 17 Langford Lanes...................... BC UVic Vikes............................... 55 Leap Forward.......................... 7 Vancouver Island Lifestyle Markets.................... 22

Baby Fair.......................... 56

Mad Science........................... 20 Victoria Bug Zoo.............. Insert Malahat Farms....................... 37 Victoria Flying Club............... 50 Mattick’s Farm....................... 19 Victoria Kids Consignment.... 25 Miniature World................ Insert Victoria Pediatric Dental....... 47 Momease................................IFC Victoria Recreation............... IBC Mothering Touch.................... 23 VIHA....................................... 46 Nanaimo Museum.................. 14 Vitamin Shop......................... 13 North Island Wildlife Recovery Welcome Wagon.................... 39 Centre........................... Insert West-Mont School.................. 32 Oak & Orca.......................9, 22 Westshore Parks...................... 4 Oak Bay Preschool................ 24 Westshore Zumba.................. 37 Westside Stables.................... 24

52 Family Summer Guide

To Market, to Market Sleepy summer mornings and outdoor markets go together like a yawn and a stretch. Great for families with children of all ages, outdoor markets let parents peruse the produce and handicrafts while kids play and ponder amidst the festivities. Here’s a list of some of the Island’s outdoor summer markets.

Victoria Bastion Square Festival of the Arts. A colourful and eclectic European-style artisans’ showcase and marketplace. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 11am-5:30pm until the end of Sept. There’s also the Sunday Market from 11am-4pm. Both are free and wheelchair accessible. bastionsquare.ca James Bay Community Market. Homemade. Handmade. Homegrown. Two blocks from the Inner Harbour at the corner of Menzies and Superior Streets, this market features arts and crafts, live music, baked goods, fresh flowers, locally grown vegetables, fruit and free-range eggs. Saturdays 9am-3pm. jamesbaymarket.com Moss Street Market. Celebrating its 23rd year, this market features Victoria’s largest selection of local and organic produce along with handmade crafts, cards, clothing, jewelry, toys, glass works, pottery, honey, and more. There’s also a kids’ activity tent and live music. Saturdays from 10am-2pm. Corner of Moss and Fairfield Roads. mossstreetmarket.com Oaklands Sunset Market. Drop by the market Wednesdays from 4:30-8:30pm and buy dinner at one of the food trucks or stock up on veggies, breads, granola, teas, canned and baked goods. The market includes a kids’ bouncy castle, face-painting and information on food security. At Oaklands Community Centre, 2827 Belmont Ave. oaklands communitycentre.com/market Ship Point Night Market. Sample an eclectic mix of wares and entertainment at Ship Point on weekends from 7-10:30pm in Victoria’s Inner Harbour where close to 75 vendors will be selling their crafts on the pier, only a few steps from the streets of downtown. Enjoy original art, handcrafted jewelry, live music and more. victoria.ca Victoria Downtown Summer Farmers’ Market. Hosted by the Victoria Public Market at the Hudson, 1701 Douglas Street, the Summer Farmers’ Market runs Wednesdays from 11am-3pm—indoors and outdoors (on back carriageway)— until mid-October. victoriapublicmarket.com

Memorial Park, Langford—this community market is a destination for families wanting to shop for locally-produced products in a place where they can gather with friends, embrace a slower pace, picnic, and enjoy the small-town atmosphere of a farmers’ market in the park. goldstreamstationmarket.ca Metchosin Farmers’ Market. At the Metchosin Municipal Grounds, 4450 Happy Valley Rd (behind the firehall). This Farmers’ Market runs on Sundays from 11am-2pm. Browse through the market, check out the Pioneer Museum, then head to a local beach or hiking trail with a picnic of your farm fresh goodies. 250-478-4503.

Sooke Sooke Country Market. This busy, familyoriented market features organic produce, seasonal fruits, jams and preserves, fresh home baking, herbs, plants and more. Entertainment and kids’ activities too. Saturdays from 10am-2pm at 2047 Otter Point Rd. sookecountrymarket.com Sooke Night Market. This market, at the Sooke Region Museum and Visitor Centre, 2070 Phillips Road, features products that are made, baked, grown, raised, caught or wild harvested. There’s food, crafts and entertainment on the museum grounds on Thursdays 5-8:30pm. sookeregionmuseum.com

Saanich North Saanich Farm Market. Great music, organic coffee, treats from the St. John’s bake table, and more veggies, plants, bakery items and crafts than you can imagine. Saturdays 9:30am-12:30pm at located at Saint John’s United Church, 10990 West Saanich Road. northsaanichfarmmarket.ca

Sidney Sidney Street Market. Beacon Avenue is closed to traffic for this summer’s eve market on Thursdays from 5:30-8:30pm. Stroll the street and see arts, crafts, farm-fresh produce and the wares of over 150 vendors. Lively international entertainment. sidneystreetmarket.com

West Shore

Duncan

Goldstream Market in the Park (formerly Goldstream Station Market). With a new name and a new location—Veterans’

Downtown Duncan Farmers’ Market. This farmers’ market offers fresh local produce, baked goods, preserves, honey, nursery stock www.kidsinvictoria.com

and bedding plants, juried crafts, pet treats and more. Entertainment and kids’ activities. Saturdays from 9am-2pm in City Square and along Ingram Street. duncanfarmersmarket.ca

St. Joseph’s Catholic School Daycare/Preschool to Grade Seven

Errington

Come Grow With Us: Register Now!

Errington Farmers’ Market. Taste a famous market sticky bun, pick up some local produce, take part in kids’ activities or just enjoy the shaded, woodsy atmosphere at this Saturday market running from 10am-1pm at Errington Community Park, 1390 Errington Road. erringtonfarmersmarket.ca

We are accepting applications now for the 2014/2015 School Year A Catholic, respectful learning environment where children learn to love and love to learn! Outstanding academic preparation.

Port Alberni Port Alberni Farmers’ Market. This market runs year round. Plenty of goodies here, including produce, smoked sausages, baked goods, fresh honey, farm-fresh eggs, emu products (sausages, oil, soap), crafts, plants and live entertainment. Saturday from 9am-1pm. Located at the First Baptist Church gymnasium, 6211 Cherry Creek Rd. met.bcfarmersmarket.org

For additional information please contact:

St. Joseph’s School 757 W. Burnside Road 250-479-1232 Registration forms are available at www.stjosephschool.ca

Emmanuel Baptist Church Summer Programs 2014 Register: 2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road

Qualicum Beach Qualicum Beach Farmers’ Market. Farm products including fresh vegetables and fruits, preserves, baking, herbs, dried and fresh flowers, seafood, wool, sheepskins and emu goods. Saturdays from 8:30am-noon. qbfarmersmarket.com

Courtenay & Comox Comox Valley Farmers’ Market. Saturdays 9am-noon on the Exhibition Grounds north of Courtenay at Headquarters Rd. In July and August, the market also runs on Weds from 9am-noon in downtown Courtenay on England Avenue between 5th and 6th Streets from 9am-noon. comoxvalleyfarmersmarket.com

at the Cedar Hill Cross Road & Henderson entrance to UVic

Ph 250-592-2418 Fax 250-592-4646 office@emmanuelvictoria.ca emmanuelvictoria.ca

Date

Camp

Hours & Fees

July 7–11 July 14–18 July 21–25 July 28 – Aug 1 Aug 5–8 4 days Aug 11–15 Aug 18–22

Amazing Animals Adventure Preschool Camp Ages 3–5 Booster Camp Gr. 1–3 Reading & Recreation African Safari Age 4* – Gr. 1 Science & Soccer Camp Gr. 2–5 Creative Creatures Camp Kind. – Gr. 3 Sonrise National Park Age 4* – Gr. 5 Vacation Bible School Breaking Free Sports Camp Gr. 2–5 Basketball & Soccer

9am–Noon, $50 9am–3pm, $95 9am–Noon, $50 9am–3pm, $95 9am–Noon, $45 9am–Noon, $15 per child 9am–3pm, $95

Please register according to your child’s grade this Fall. *Children must be 4 yrs old by Dec 31, 2014 to attend these camps.

Campbell River Pier Street Market. Here you’ll find a selection of fresh farm products along with an local artisans’ works, entertainment and more. Sundays from 10am-2:30pm in front of the Maritime Heritage Centre. pierstreet. com/id1.html

Saltspring Island Saltspring Island Market in the Park. This grow-it, make-it, bake-it market features products made by Salt Spring Islanders. Featuring organic produce, baked goods, arts, crafts and pottery, non-profit tables, and children vendors (toe painting, crafts, baking, “gumboot planters”). Rain or shine. Saturdays 8am-4pm in Centennial Park, Ganges. saltspringmarket.com.• www.IslandParent.ca

Parksville BC

An independent, non-denominational camp

Where adventure and imagination thrive! • Forest Adventure • Outdoor Cooking • Narnian Dramas • Mask Making

• Archery • Swimming • Unique Programming • And so much more…

Summer registration on now! Girls & Boys, Ages 6–15 • Aug 3–9, 10–16 & 17–23

www.campnarnia.com Join us this summer for an amazing experience! Summer 2014 53

RIDE • LEAD A TEAM • VOLUNTEER • GIVE

Family Getaways Feel like packing up and getting away from it all? Here are some ideas to help you with your family holiday.

Join us for first annual Victoria Ride for Refuge! This fantastically fun, familyfriendly bicycling fundraiser supports more than 175 charities serving the displaced, vulnerable and exploited. Captain a team or join one of ours, choose a charity to support, pick your route (10, 25 and 50 km options exist) and get ready to have some fun! rideforrefuge.org/locations/victoria

Proudly hosted in Victoria by:

phone (250) 995-6419 email swhissell@cridge.org facebook /thecridgecentre twitter @thecridgecentre

Reconnect... with nature, family, friends, colleagues, yourself

Enjoy the most extensive resort Recreational Programs on Vancouver Island!

Family Fun Package July 1 – August 31, 2014

Rediscover the natural choice for your family getaway!

call for details

1155 Resort Drive, Parksville, BC

1-800-663-7373 or 250-248-2072

TIGH-NA-MARA.COM 54 Family Summer Guide

Enjoy a family picnic on the beach! Pre-packaged picnic lunches are available from Prime Pacific Restaurant & Lounge at the Beach Club Resort, located right on Parksville Beach. If you’re guests of the Beach Club, take advantage of Kidz Kamps, offered many afternoons and evenings, while you enjoy a romantic dinner or walk on the beach. Call for current schedule and information 1-888-760-2008.

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 catered 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 www.bluevistaresort.com for rates and details.

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 2 hr. outdoor rock rappel session. Nearby canoe rentals and lakefront camping make Horne Lake an outdoor-lover’s dream. Kye Bay Guest Lodge & Cottages, Comox, B.C. A popular family-oriented beach vacation spot since 1932. This location offers miles of sandy beaches with

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warm safe swimming. The tidal pools are filled with small fish and fascinating sea life. The lawn offers places to curl up to read, sunbathe or play lawn games. The accommodations provide a comfy “home base.” Join us on the seaside terrace for Sunday pancake breakfast and Fridays High Tea. For a week you’ll never forget… toll free 1-866-658-6131. www. kyebay.com.

Away from the hustle and bustle, yet only one hour from downtown Victoria, Malahat Farm Heritage Retreat is in a serene corner of Vancouver Island’s coastal forest. Enjoy the tranquil farm setting in our fully equipped three-bedroom cottage, participate in our gardening adventures, or simply enjoy fresh seasonal produce and eggs. First settled in 1895, Malahat Farm offers easy access to the South Island’s world-famous hiking and mountain biking trails, kayaking, surfing, whale watching, fishing and beach combing. Muir Creek beach on the Strait of Juan de Fuca is a few minutes walk from the farm. We have an art space, fields and open lawn for games. Our three-bedroom, fullyequipped heritage cottage (1918) has Wi-Fi, washer/dryer, dishwasher, TV and music. Enoy a safe, relaxing vacation in our beautiful coastal forest. www.malahatfarm.com.

Park Sands Beach Resort is a family-oriented RV park and campground, 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, numerous recreational opportunities like hiking, biking and golf, and our central location, which makes for easy day trips to other Island destinations. www.parksands.com

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort in Parksville offers the most extensive resort Recreational Programs on Vancouver Island. Enjoy Kids & Family programs including: swimming & tennis lessons; flow yoga; cosmic bowling; Foodie Tour; Teen Club; Sand Sculpture Contest; Build Your Own Bear; Kids Club Drop In and so much more - we have something to suit everyone’s interests! Rediscover the natural choice for your next family getaway. www.tigh-na-mara. com. 1-800-663-7373• www.IslandParent.ca

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

Open Year-Round 9 housekeeping cottages perfect for family getaways

250-539-2463 • 1-877-535-2424 bluevista@bluevistaresort.com • www.bluevistaresort.com Summer 2014 55

Capital Regional District Parks

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o find out more about travelling on Vancouver Island, visit the following websites, or contact or visit the organizations.

Tourist Information Tourism Vancouver Island www.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 Vancouver Island is on Facebook. Sign up to log in and stay updated. Tourism Victoria Visitor Info Centre 812 Wharf Street, Victoria 250-953-2033 toll free: 1-800-663-3883 www.tourismvictoria.com Find maps, a Calendar of Events, a Vacation Guide, Things To Do and See, accommodation info and more.

www.crd.bc.ca/parks or 250-478-3344 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.

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

BC Parks Discover Camping Reservation Service www.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.

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

Road Conditions Drive BC www.drivebc.ca for highway cams, incidents and conditions. toll free 1-800-550-4997

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

8 th annual Jody Wiger photography

Celebrating the growing family september 27 & 28, 2014 pearkes rec centre - 3100 Tillicum rd victoria PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

exhibitor registration on now! for info visit VancouverIslandBabyFair.com 56 Family Summer Guide

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If you have kids… and you like camping… try Park Sands Beach Resort this summer!

RV Park & Campground

A quiet, family place – on the beach – in Parksville.

www.parksands.com 1.877.873.1600

Summer Camps at Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre

Hang out with us this summer! View our summer programs at victoria.ca/Active-Living-Guide To register: 250.361.0732.

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