February 2019 Island Parent

Island Parent Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 31 Years

February 2019

e t a l o c o h C d s n Beyo ng Valentine’

Education Issue

Maki eaningful Day M Kids for

CLASSIC & CONTEMPORARY Rediscover the timeless beauty of Macrame

Curiosity • Diversity Exploration • Nature Play-Oriented Learning

Now Registering for September 2019 TOYS • BOOKS • CLOTHING • SHOES • STROLLERS • CAR SEATS SLEEP AIDS • FURNITURE • SKINCARE • DIAPER BAGS

3905 Haro Road, Victoria BC

250-477-3731 arbutusgrove.ca

1581 Hillside Ave, Victoria 778•265•5651 Across the street from Hillside Centre

SHOP ONLINE AT MOMEASE.CA!

MARCH 9 & 10 Meet LEGO Certified Professional builder, Robin Sather, and watch him build a giant scene using LEGO bricks!

Waldorf education is imbued with life and joy. Call and book a tour of our beautiful seven acre campus today.

Now accepting applications for September 2019 Grades 1–8 | Kindergarten | Preschool

Waldorf education is imbued with life and joy.

Offering a full enhanced program with French, Call and book a Ptour Strings, Woodwork, Handwork, .E. and Eurythmy of our beautiful seven acre campus today. www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org 250-243-7253

Now accepting applications for September 2018

Register online starting February 4th at tillicumkids.com to be entered into the Tillicum LEGO Mania competition.

As a contestant, you’ll have the opportunity to bring in your LEGO masterpiece featuring this year’s theme – Around the World. Visit us online for more details.

www.tillicumkids.com LEGO® is a trademark of the LEGO® Group of companies which does not directly sponsor, authorize or endorse this event.

EARLY CHILDHOOD FULL YEAR PROGRAMS Sept 2019 to June 2020 for preschoolers aged 3–5 years.

Register your preschooler starting Saturday February 9 from 8am ACTIVITY TIME FOR PRESCHOOLERS G.R. PEARKES RECREATION CENTRE Sports and Gym Time M Tu Gymnastics and Tumbling W Skating and Ice Play Th Science, Tech, F

Engineering and Math Movement and Music

All classes 12:15 to 2:15pm

ECO PROGRAM (EDUCATING CHILDREN OUTSIDE)

SWAN LAKE NATURE SANCTUARY OR

ELK/BEAVER LAKE REGIONAL PARK Open House Jan 26, 10:30am to Noon 3yrs 4yrs

Tu/Th M,W,F

9am to 12pm 9am to 12pm

G. R. Pearkes Recreation Centre Gordon Head Recreation Centre Saanich Commonwealth Place

KIDDIE CAPERS Open House Feb 2, 10:30am to Noon SAANICH COMMONWEALTH PLACE Choose a combination of any day and any time.

Kiddie Capers in the Forest

M Tu W Th F

9 to 11am 9 to 11am 9 to 11am 9 to 11am 9 to 11am

Kiddie Capers in the Classroom

M Tu W Th F

11:15am to 1:15pm 11:15am to 1:15pm 11:15am to 1:15pm 11:15am to 1:15pm 11:15am to 1:15pm

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

FRENCH-EARLY EDUCATION GORDON HEAD RECREATION CENTRE M 9:30 to 11:30am W 9:30 to 11:30am EXPLORING OUR WORLD Licensed Preschool

Open House

Jan 26, 10:30am to Noon

GORDON HEAD RECREATION CENTRE 9am to 12pm M/W Tu/Th 9am to 12pm Gym and Swim

F

9am to 11:30am

Registration Starts Sat, Feb 9

SAANICH.CA/RECREATION IslandParent.ca

February 2019 3

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

Features 14

22

Schools & Educational Services

From the ‘Toddler Trenches’ to Teens

Vancouver Island Parent Conference—Change: It’s Here to Stay.

From preschool to post-secondary.

AMBER TUREK

22 26

38

Let’s Do Lunch

Making and packing nutritious snacks and lunches for our kids.

Making Space for You

The importance of self-care.

KATE BORSATO

SONJA YLI-KAHILA

36

Singing to Your Valentine

26

Serenade your sweetie with these songs.

JERRI CARSON

38

In Every Issue 42

Family Services Directory

44

6

52

Maternity & Beyond

A long, drawn-out goodbye.

LAURA TRUNKEY

Book Nook

54

The importance of friendships.

CHRISTINA VAN STARKENBURG

5

20

Editor’s Note

Cooking With Kids

The balancing act of family dinners.

Warm up with Soup Season.

SUE FAST

EMILLIE PARRISH

6

25

Need to Know

Party Directory

10

28

Is There an App for This?

Ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day that make it more than just another candy feast.

KELLY MCQUILLAN

On the Cover

Island Parent Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 31 Years

February 2019

Sofie M (5) Photo by Ashley Marston Photography

late Choco Beyondg Valentine’s

Education Issue

Makin aningful Day Me Kids for

ashleymarstonbirthphotography.com

4 Island Parent Magazine

Family Calendar

40

Dadspeak

46

Healthy Families, Happy Families

Cut It Out!

Being clear with expectations and boundaries.

ALLISON REES

What parents need to know about the HPV vaccine.

NINA KNOCK

48

Preschool & Child Care Directory

50

Nature Notes

The thrill of choosing your own adventure.

How to recognize the barred owl bird call.

DAVID LEACH

LAUREN SHERWOOD

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

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

IslandParent.ca

Food Guides & Goldfish

“E

at meals with others.”

Most of us already know the value of eating together but if there was ever any doubt, Canada’s new Food Guide will lay it to rest.

Among the new recommendations—eat more fruit and vegetables, cut back on animal products, drink water, avoid processed foods—the Guide now outlines healthy eating patterns.

“Be mindful of your eating habits”… “cook more often”…“enjoy your food” and “eat meals with others.”

Sounds good in theory, right? But when you have kids, that’s often easier said than done.

Ever try telling a hangry toddler to wait until everyone’s home for dinner before caving in to his Early Bird schedule and serving Goldfish crackers from a plate on the floor?

Or tried to stop—or at least slow—your teen from consuming the entire contents of the kitchen cupboards and fridge in the name of an after-school snack/pre-dinner appetite suppressant?

To Daniels’ surprise, her kids loved the questions.

“They argued whose turn it was to pull And what if you do manage to wrangle all a question, even though two of the three of your kids to the table at the same time? can’t really read,” she wrote. “The amount Have you seen what can happen if you try of time my kids sat at the table moved from to serve, say, a healthy wild rice casserole single to double digits!” or homemade veggie lasagna?

Let’s just say that the results can make the new Food Guide tougher to follow until “cook more, enjoy your food, and eat meals together” can become almost impossible.

Editor’s Note “Dinner time with young children can be anything but relaxing,” blogs Natasha Daniels at Parenting Survival. “Sit down!

Eat your food! Stop licking the table!…The For some, that’d be a bonus; for others, concept of family dinner is a good one, but a nightmare—depending on the day. the reality isn’t as pretty.”

So if you can, sit down for meals together.

In a desperate attempt to get her three But be easy on yourself if things don’t go children to the table every night and to as planned and the veggie lasagna ends up encourage them to talk at dinner, Daniels untouched or on the floor. After all, it’s the made a conversation jar and loaded it with company we keep and the time we spend questions she found from around the web: together that nourishes us just as much as What are three words you would uses to the food we eat. describe yourself? If you went to another As Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde planet, what would you bring with you? said, “Everything in moderation, including Which is better, being invisible or being moderation.” So every now and then, even able to fly? If your pets could talk, what Goldfish crackers served from a plate on would they say? What scares you the most? the floor will do.

Sue Fast

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

Westshore Dental Centre

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

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

February 2019 5

Family Day Play Date at Royal BC Museum Spend Family Day at the Royal BC Museum and take part in a Learning Centre Design Playdate on February 18 from 1-3pm. RBCM is in the process of developing an inclusive learning centre, a hub for learning and sharing for museum visitors of all ages. Drop in to playfully test out ideas for programming and contribute your thoughts and ideas on how to create a centre that feels relevant and exciting for your family. For information visit royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

LEGO Extravaganza in Sidney

The creative force continues at the Sidney Museum with their newest presentation of the ever-popular LEGO Exhibition celebrating over 60-years of LEGO imagination until March 31. Special Family Day activities run over the weekend from Friday, Feb 15–Monday, Feb 18 and include: a 6-foot LEGO Build, the VicLug LEGO Display, and the LEGO Scavenger Hunt. 10am-4pm daily.

Admission is by donation. For more information visit sidneymuseum.ca.

NEEDTOKNOW

Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown T his year, Be a Tourist in Your Own Hometown runs for two weekends of fun: February 22 to February 24 and March 1 to 3. Take advantage of the 50 offers from Greater Victoria’s best attractions, activities, food and drink tastings, tours, outdoor adventure, and more. There are amazing things to do and see and taste for free or at a fraction of the cost that an actual tourist would pay. For a complete list of offers visit BeATourist.ca.

Buy your Be A Tourist VIP Card for only $15 at Save on Foods, The Bay Centre, Destination Greater Victoria Information Centre. Take part in the ultimate staycation. Get your Be A Tourist VIP Card today. Visit BeATourist.ca.

Parent Support Circles

Sometimes you just need a little space to talk with other parents. Parent Support Services operates on the belief that every parent is the expert of her/his own family.

Sometimes it just takes a bit of space to hear yourself and the voices of other parents to find your way through. To that end, Parent Support Services hosts meetings throughout Greater Victoria, Ladysmith, Parksville, Nanaimo and North Nanaimo (including a Nanaimo Parents of Children with Autism Support Circle), Port Alberni, and Comox Valley. For more information and to register, email parent@telus.net or visit parentsupportbc.ca.

6 Island Parent Magazine

National Sweater Day

On February 7, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) wants you to lower your heat and put on your favourite sweater to take action against climate change and work towards a sustainable future. Join Canadians across the country conserving energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Heating accounts for 80 per cent of residential energy use in Canada, and is a significant source of emissions. If every Canadian lowered the heat by just 2º C this winter, greenhouse gas emissions would be reduced by 4 megatons—equivalent to shutting down a 600 mega watt coal-fired power station or taking nearly 700,000 cars off the road. Visit wwf.ca/events/sweater_day.

IslandParent.ca

®All Rights Reserved. Health Canada

Canada’s New Food Guide

Here’s the meat and potatoes—er, more like fruit and vegetables—of Health Canada’s new Food Guide: • The four food groups have shrunk to three: fruits and vegetables; whole grains; and proteins—a new sub-group that combines both dairy and meat, plus plant-based proteins such as chickpeas and tofu.

• Eat a diet made up of about half fruits and vegetables, and half of the other two categories.

• Focus less on portions and more on proportions, sticking to the half-fruitsand-veggies rule.

• Drink water. The reasoning is twofold: to stay hydrated and to avoid sugary drinks.

• Limit processed foods—specifically those that are high in sodium, free sugars and saturated fats. If you choose these foods, eat them less often and in small amounts.

• Choose healthier menu options when eating out.

• Make it a habit to eat a variety of healthy foods each day.

• Use food labels. Choose foods with healthy fats instead of saturated fat.

• Be mindful of your eating habits.

Cook more often. Enjoy your food. Eat meals with others.

For more information and for a copy of Canada’s Food Guide, visit food-guide.canada.ca.

IslandParent.ca

February 2019 7

Pregnancy Happy Hour You don’t have to be showing to show up at Mothering Touch’s Pregnancy Happy Hour, Friday afternoons from 5-6:30pm. Chat with other pregnant people in a friendly and comfortable setting. The discussion will be facilitated by an experienced childbirth educator and is a chance to discuss the joys and woes of pregnancy. This group is for pregnant people only.

Pregnancy Happy Hour helps moms-to-be connect with others in diverse and comfortable groups to share their experiences. The drop-in fee for each meeting is $2.

For more information, visit motheringtouch.ca.

VANCOUVER ISLAND PARENT CONFERENCE Change: It’s Here to Stay That’s the theme at this year’s Vancouver Island Parent Conference on March 2 at Belmont Secondary School. Spend a day connecting with other parents over important, of-the-moment issues. Learn useful tools and hear fresh perspectives from leading experts. Keynote speakers are best-selling authors Alyson Schafer (Breaking the Good Mom Myth) and Ann Douglas (Happy Parents, Happy Kids). Topics include: Resilience; Education; the Brain; Relationships; Sexuality; Technology; and Anxiety.

Victoria Women In Need Community Cooperative (WIN) is relocating its Donation Centre on March 1. The new donation centre will be located off of Douglas between Mayfair Mall and Uptown at 555 Ardersier Road offering donors a more convenient location, ample parking and a one-stop drop for their donations of gently used housewares, clothing and furniture. By donating gently used items, shopping, volunteering or sharing about WIN, community members play a vital role in WIN being able to deliver its programs.

For more information, visit womeninneed.ca or phone 250-480-4006 or visit the new Donation Centre on or after March 1 at 555 Ardersier Road.

8 Island Parent Magazine

Registration: $100 Registration deadline: February 17 Early bird rate: $75 (by February 3)

Visit vipc.ca or email info@vipc.ca

IslandParent.ca

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IslandParent.ca

February 2019 9

Beyond Chocolate

Making Valentine’s Day Meaningful for Kids

W

e’ve come to a point in our society where we don’t even need calendars anymore— just look at the displays in the stores and you can guess which month it is. As I write this, we’ve not even recovered from Christmas and they are already ushering in Valentine’s Day with a sea of red and pink decor, and chocolate hearts aplenty.

It’s easy to get swept up in the commerciallyamplified excitement leading up to special days, and even easier to lose track of what or why we are celebrating.

10 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

In the case of Valentine’s Day, the history is a little muddled—some historians trace its origins back to the days of the Lupercalia, a fertility festival of ancient Rome, whereas Catholic lore contends that it evolved from the martyrdom of one of several saintly priests, all named Valentine. Whatever the rationale, modern consensus is that we celebrate love on Valentine’s Day, and that is definitely something worth celebrating.

Nurturing young minds. Keeping the spirit free.

International Montessori Academies of Canada Preschool Kindergarten/elementary Strong Montessori academics/small classes French immersion/art and science

IMAC Montessori Academy

Kelly McQuillan

2375 Koksilah Road, Duncan 250-737-1119 www.intmontessori.ca

Is There an App for This?

The world needs as much love as it can get right now!

But the concept of romantic love is not exactly on my three-year-old’s radar yet. So, what’s a mamma to do? How do I inject some age-appropriate meaning into what can easily become just another candy feast?

In a word: kindness—the expression of universal love.

What started as a quandary has now turned into a learning opportunity.

Throughout the two weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day we are going to focus on and celebrate kindness, making sure we exercise all the “Super Powers” that go along with that:

The Power of Small Kindnesses

Even small actions, done from a place of kindness, can make a positive difference in someone’s day. Actions like: • smiling at people • holding doors • letting someone go ahead in line • plugging parking meters • buying a coffee for the person behind us in the drive-thru • donating books or toys • picking up litter from the beach • putting out food for the birds

The Power of Compliments

In the Hindu Atharva Veda it is written that, “A compliment is verbal sunshine.”

And so it is. Much like a plant stretches tall to reach the sun, the same thing happens when you give a genuine compliment to someone. Their shoulders move back, their IslandParent.ca

February 2019 11

back straightens, and their face lights up.

Thinking of compliments to give others attunes us to their many qualities that we might otherwise overlook.

The Power of Validation

Letting people know that you see them, really see them, and appreciate them for their inner light is a tremendous gift. Everyone needs to feel validated, and sometimes the people closest to us receive the smallest amount of validation—we take for granted that they know how we feel. This February we will make sure to tell the people in our lives how much we appreciate them, what we admire about them, and how much their presence means to us.

• Write “love notes” to family and friends, saying why we love/admire them.

• Make acrostic poems of their names, with a different quality for each letter.

• Think of a positive word we associate with a person and paint it on a rock that we give them.

The Power of Gratitude or gifts are embraced with gratitude, it • Sprinkle validation in the community When we routinely express gratitude for makes them feel good. by leaving sticky notes in public places what we have, it will start to feel like more • Remember to say thank you. with messages like “You are special,” or things come into our lives to be grateful • Spend some time each day (maybe at “You are loved.” for. Also, when people know their actions dinner) reflecting on what we are grateful

12 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

for from the day, acknowledging people who have shown us kindness, etc.

• Make a gratitude jar. Whenever we feel grateful for something, write it down and put it in the jar. Read the contents of the jar on Valentine’s Day.

Now accepting applications for 2019/2020

school care

• small class sizes • supportive and

caring staff

• excellent academic

The Power of Empathy

The ability to see things from someone else’s perspective and feel what they feel is an invaluable skill, but it is often one that takes some guidance and reinforcement to develop.

• Discuss the emotions of characters in books and movies. How do you think they feel? What tells you that? Can you think of a time that you felt that way? Can you imagine how it would feel if…?

• Play the Empathy Game—watch people out in public. Try to guess how they are feeling and think of reasons they might feel that way.

• before and after

foundation

• Kodaly music

A local non-profit for all children (Since 1973) 5575 West Saanich Rd info@islandmontessori.com 250 592 4411 www.islandmontessori.com

program

• lovely rural location

connecting children to nature

The Power of Generosity

Giving makes both the giver and the receiver feel good. But instead of loading up on store-bought treats and dust-collecting plastic knick knacks, we’ll think of some gifts we can make ourselves.

• Cookies • Homemade chocolates • Handmade cards • Start seeds in a little pot—the receiver can look forward to watching them grow!

The Power of Literature

There are so many wonderful children’s books expressing the theme of kindness.

Any local bookstore or library will be able to recommend more, but these are a few of my favourites: • Somebody Loves You Mr. Hatch by Eileen Spinelli • Ordinary Mary’s Extraordinary Deed

by Emily Pearson • The Turtle Saver by Laurie Parker • Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett Obviously, we aren’t going to fit all of these activities into two weeks, nor should exercising our Kindness Super Powers be limited to February and Valentine’s Day. But the upcoming holiday is an excellent reason to focus extra hard on the concept.

Hopefully we’ll kickstart some life-long habits (aside from chocolate addiction).

Kelly McQuillan is a writer, musician, teacher, and fledgling mother living in Comox, BC. kellymcquillanwriter.weebly.com.

IslandParent.ca

February 2019 13

Schools & Educational Services

F

rom preschools, arts academies and recreational programs to Montessori, bioregional and independent schools, this month’s Education guide features an array of learning possibilities. For more information about the following programs, please refer to the advertising in this issue.

Preschools

Cadboro Bay-UVIC area. arbutusgrove.ca or 250-477-3731.

Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre (formerly known as Goosey Gander Kindergarten) has a long history of providing outstanding Early Learning programs to the Victoria community. Our centre is a bright and engaging purpose-built preschool with a large, natural playground surrounded by forest. We offer half and full C Murban Y K day for 3 and 4 year olds and a 68 35 programs 2 2 small after school program for kindergarten 8 95 55 16 children attending Frank Hobbs School.

Children’s curiosity, sense of wonder and innate desire to learn is nurtured and supported through exploration, play, discovery and creative expression. Located in the

ArtsCalibre Academy. There’s a reason why the first years of a child’s life are considered “formative”—they truly form the person, and profoundly influence the path and quality of the rest of their life.

We believe that Fine Arts are the perfect vehicle for this formative process. Through our structured but fun program of music, dance, theatre and visual arts, children not only absorb these and all academic subjects with enthusiasm and ease, but they also develop the creativity, confidence and social skills to successfully apply them throughout their future. It’s this philosophy and comprehensive program that sets us apart

from every other preschool. It’s the Art of Preschool. ArtsCalibre.ca. 250-382-3533.

Saanich Recreation Full Year Preschool Programs. We offer a variety of 10 month Preschool Programs (Sept 2019 - June 2020) in different settings. Choose from outside in nature or the fun of a classroom! Our programs provide an opportunity for your child to learn through play, while preparing them socially and emotionally for kindergarten.

Various locations: Saanich Commonwealth Place , Gordon Head Recreation Centre , GR Pearkes , Swan Lake and Elk /Beaver lake. Visit Saanichrec.ca/alg for more information.

Victoria Montessori. Twenty-first century children are growing up in a crazy-paced world, with the stresses of busy home life and over-stimulating media and toys. At

Transforming disability into ability.

At Discovery School, learning disabilities are transformed into valuable skills and abilities. Students work at their own pace in small classes, with focused, individualized instruction.

• Experienced, highly-qualified teachers • Ongoing assessment, evaluation & feedback • Improves organizational & study skills • Boost confidence, independence & responsibility • Nurturing environment based on Christian values • For students aged 7 – 18 in grades 1 – 12 • Individual Education Plans • Low student/teacher ratio

Enrolment is limited. For more information or to arrange a tour, visit www.discoveryschool.ca, call Sherri Ko at 250-595-7765 or email principal@discoveryschool.ca 14 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Victoria Montessori, we create harmony and the right balance. We try to cultivate self-awareness, confidence, and clam amid the “moving sea of chaos.” At Victoria Montessori, we build a strong foundation and strong values. The directoresses model respect for the environment, respect for others, and respect for oneself. These values build confidence, self-esteem and self-expression, vital for emotional and mental health. 250-380-0534. victoriamontessori@shaw.ca. victoriamontessori.com.

Watch for the Island Parent

Tweens & Teens Edition in February

West Shore Parks and Recreation’s Licensed preschool offers a variety of programs including Kinderprep, Nature Preschool, and multi-age classes with both small and larger class sizes. With flexible registration options and a play-based curriculum, our program is designed to help little ones grow and learn in a fun and safe environment. Visit westshorerecreation. ca or call 250-478-8384 for information.

Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/ westshorerecreation.

Schools

Arc Academy. Introducing Victoria’s newest independent interdisciplinary middle school where our cornerstone inquiry methodology fosters learner engagement and inspiration. Based on current cognitive science, we understand that adolescence is a prime opportunity for learner-driven exploration and problem-solving, which fuels innovative thinking and intrinsic motivation. Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” At Arc, it is by asking good questions that we make sense of life and find personal fulfillment. To find out about Parent Information Sessions, check out our website, ArcAcademy.ca.

All Girls JK- Grade 12

ArtsCalibre Academy. Imagine a school… where music, dance, theatre and visual arts are infused into all aspects of an outstanding curriculum. The result is a learning process IslandParent.ca

Canada’s First Girls’ STEM School

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE: February 15, 2019

Boarding Grades 7-12

Experiential Learning Beyond the Classroom

Breathtaking 22-acre Campus

Registration for Junior Kindergarten and Kindergarten now open

VANCOUVER ISLAND’S ONLY ALL-GIRLS, INDEPENDENT DAY AND BOARDING SCHOOL • VICTORIA, BC, CANADA

February 2019 15

Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch

by Axis Theatre Company

Saturday, April 13 at 1pm VIU’s Malaspina Theatre

Tickets: $12 or 2 for $20

theatreone.org Mid Island

Bleiddyn del Villar Bellis Artistic Director Fellow & Examiner CSC-CICB Enrico Cecchetti Final Diploma

VAB offers a FREE weekly dance class for boys 7-11.

Now in it’s 3rd year, BOYS CAN DANCE is a positive way for boys to get interested in dance!

Photo credit: David Cooper

FREE Class: Boys Can Dance!

Now - June 2019 Still accepting registration!

250-590-6752 admin@victoriaacademyofballet.ca victoriaacademyofballet.ca

16 Island Parent Magazine

in which students experience, explore, exercise, and express themselves in order to truly understand and remember. Our structured but dynamic program consistently exceeds the B.C. Ministry of Education’s Curricula for Kindergarten to Grade 9. Dedicated, highly qualified educators, excellent facilities and safe Gordon Head location, which is also home to our Junior Kindergarten. We also offer Preschool for 3 and 4 year olds within the Cedar Hill Recreation Centre’s beautiful Fine Arts wing. ArtsCalibre.ca.

250-382-3533.

Christ Church Cathedral School’s motto is “Let Your Light Shine.” Each student is encouraged and supported to reach his or her highest potential in every area. Foundational learning and skill development in the presence of a small and welcoming community with outstanding teachers results in confident students, ready to make positive contributions to the world, when they enter the next stage of learning and life following Middle School. Book your personal educational consultation: 250-383-5125. cathedralschool.ca.

Discovery School. Is your child struggling to read, write, or do math? Would your child succeed if given more classroom support, individualized learning assistance, and a personalized learning plan? How does a classroom of 10 students, with a 1:3 staff to student school ratio sound? Look no further! For four decades Discovery School has provided a nurturing Christian atmosphere that encourages academic development, perseverance, responsibility, and organizational skills for students with diagnosed learning needs. The school is Ministry inspected, follows B.C. curriculum, and provides individual educational programs from the early grades to graduation. For more information go to discoveryschool. ca or call 250-595-7765.

schools in Canada authorized to offer three IB programs, GNS is proud of its unique ‘IB Advantage’: a 21st-Century approach which educates the whole child and creates global thinkers. GNS offers 5- and 7-day Family Boarding options for students who are not residents of Victoria, and provides an extensive age-appropriate co-curricular program. mygns.ca.

It is the time of year that parents begin to consider what school they want their child(ren) to attend next year. Consider a Catholic school! Island Catholic Schools (ICS) offers an excellent academic education within a faith-based environment. As BC certified schools, curriculum established by the Ministry of Education is taught and all other Ministry requirements are met.

Catholic schools bring the Gospel message of Jesus Christ to all within their walls. ICS has elementary schools located in Port Alberni, Duncan and Victoria and a Catholic high school located in Victoria. ICS also offer pre-school, daycare and out of school care programs. Families not of the Catholic faith who support the Catholic mission and philosophy of our schools are accepted.

Students of all ability levels accepted. Check cisdv.bc.ca for more information.

Island Montessori. Full and half day preschool. Island Montessori is a non-profit daycare/preschool that has been serving Victoria children for over 40 years. We offer enriched, inclusive preschool programs based on Montessori principles and practices that meet the needs of the individual child, no matter their developmental level.

Our flexible full time and morning only preschool programs, and an Out of School Care program are designed to offer convenience to families. From our classroom we can see swans gliding in the wetlands across the road. Deer wander in and out of our front yard and a large fenced nature playground offer many opportunities to connect to nature. Our staff provide a warm, nurturing and supportive atmosphere and each child is Each child holds our attention at Glenlyon seen as an individual with their own unique Norfolk School, a Junior kindergarten to learning style and needs. Our rural location Grade 12 co-ed independent day-school is at 5575 West Saanich Road and you can that is firmly rooted in the values of the reach us at info@islandmontessori.com or International Baccalaureate (IB) and the 250-595-4411.

Round Square. As one of only seventeen IslandParent.ca

Oak and Orca Bioregional School and Oak and Orca PrePrimary School offer BC-certified PrePrimary and K-12 education in a child-directed environment. This ungraded program provides students with structure, opportunities, and choice, allowing them to learn at their own pace and in their own way. As part of a community of learners students are able to practice effective communication, think and act creatively, and develop into responsible ecological citizens. Regular field trips encourage connections with the natural and cultural heritage of the larger community. Blended learning opportunities are available (space-permitting) to students in the Hands-On Home-Learning (DL) program. oakandorca.ca, info@oakandorca. ca, 250-383-6609.

Pacific Christian School: Educational Excellence to the Glory of God. PCS nurtures students in Christlike living, critical thinking and joyful service to be faithful citizens in God’s

world. PCS is committed to a Christian program of instruction helping children gain a true Biblical perspective of who they are, and prepares them for a life of dedication and service to God. By developing a sense of goal-directedness, coupled with skills of self-discipline and self-evaluation, children will be equipped to develop their talents and gifts to their fullest God-given potential.

Quality academics, athletics and more. Accepting registrations for pre-school to grade 12. PacificChristian.ca. 250-479-4532.

At St. Margaret’s School, we seek to empower each girl to set her own course and shape her own dreams. Tucked away on 22-acres in the Blenkinsop Valley in Victoria, SMS is an all-girls school where your daughter can be herself, build confidence, and experience being a leader. SMS teachers and our unique environment offer rich resources and challenges to support each girl’s development as a student, an individual and a global-minded citizen. Our

rigorous academic program emphasizes STEM learning and leadership at all levels from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12, and is supported by experiential programs designed to engage students in learning beyond the classroom. Enjoy the benefits of a small school from high participation in athletics, to extensive extracurricular opportunities, to our tight-knit community where each girl is known and driven to achieve. stmarg.ca or 250-479-7171.

St. Michaels University School. A break from school does not have to mean a break from learning. When students want to tackle something new and exciting, our Spring Break programs offer plenty of ways young people can stay entertained. From sports to animation, holiday programs are diverse and engaging. The Passion Sports team also returns with more sell-out elite basketball camps. The Spring Break Programs at St. Michaels University School are open to all children in Victoria ages 5 to 15 and appeal to a wide range of interests. For information on any of these exciting programs, visit our website at smus.ca/spring or call (250) 370-6120.

S T A G E S Performing Art School since1980

Come Dance With Us

ses Clas l o ho .. e -S c angels. r P e e l t im itt • Offering classes for Teens and Pre-Teens in Jazz, Day or the l f

Ballet, Lyrical, Tap. Musical Theatre, Acrobatics & Hip Hop, in a non-competitive atmosphere.

• Not sure which class to take?

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

Even the littlest angel can dance IslandParent.ca

Call 250-384-3267 Email us at: stagesdance@shaw.ca Or visit our website: www.stagesdance.com February 2019 17

Westmont Montessori School is a local community-minded independent school committed to academic excellence in a caring, learning environment. Offering Montessori programs from preschool to Grade 10, all our classes are purposely designed to engage a student’s natural curiosity within a brand new facility that is specifically prepared to maximize learning opportunities. For details about our programs visit west-mont.ca, or visit our campus in Metchosin for a tour every Thursday from 9-11am. Westmont Montessori School, 4075 Metchosin Rd, Victoria BC. 250-474-2626.

Distributed Learning Under the new BC curriculum, inquiry and personalization are key to 21st century learning. Hands-On HomeLearning (DL) at Oak

and Orca (K-12) offers an experiencebased, individualized, and child-led approach. Families are supported in providing engaging opportunities so each student can follow their own learning path and build on their strengths and interests.

All learning experiences are acknowledged and tied to BC learning standards or high school courses by a certified teacher.

Original, multi-age, hands-on learning activities are provided to inspire inquiry.

Blended learning opportunities are available (space-permitting) at Oak and Orca Bioregional School and Forest School.

Special Education inquiries are welcome. oakandorca.ca, info@oakandorca.ca, 250383-6619. 1-888-383-6619.

campus, teaching the world-renowned International Baccalaureate curriculum.

With 310 students, Aspengrove is offering an entrance scholarship program that is available to students entering grades 6-10; additionally, a significant new twoyear scholarship for outstanding students entering grade 11 for the IB Diploma, a two-year program of university-level studies, has been established. Students interested in applying for one of the new scholarships can learn more on the Aspengrove website. All applicants are invited to visit the school on February 20 for the inaugural scholarship day.

Mid-Island Schools/ Education Services

Duncan Christian School partners with families to provide a welcoming educational environment. Here, students experience the support and guidance of caring Christian teachers, dedicated to preparing them for life beyond the school doors.

Our classes start at preschool-grade 12.

Excellent academic, athletic and fine arts programs. Serving a diverse student body.

We offer trades programs and hands-on

Aspengrove School is a JrK-Grade 12 Independent School in Lantzville, BC at the Northern edge of Nanaimo on a beautiful 40-acre wooded

GLENLYON NORFOLK SCHOOL PRESENTS

SPRING BREAK CAMPS WEEK 1: MARCH 18–22, 2019 Chipmunks All Destinations Camp (K to Grade 2) Otters Move & Groove Camp (Grades 3 to 5) WEEK 2: MARCH 25–29, 2019 Chipmunks Ecoartists Camp (K to Grade 2) Witches & Wizards Camp (Grades 5 to 7) 3-day Surf Camp in Tofino, BC (Grades 10 to 12) 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. « EXTENDED CARE AVAILABLE To register visit: WWW.MYGNS.CA/SPRING-BREAK 18 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

apprenticeships,project based learning, international program, Grade 7 Leadership Retreat, Grade 11 West Coast Trail Hike, Grade 12 Missions trip, extensive student support program. We welcome the opportunity to take you on a tour of our school, please contact: duncanchristianschool.ca office@duncanchristian.com. 495 Beech Avenue Duncan BC V9L 3J8. 250-746-3654.

International Christian Montessori Academy (ICMA). Inayat Unissa Bergum was born in Nice, France. After obtaining comprehensive Montessori training in Paris, she started the first Montessori school in 1962 in Southern California named the Sophia Montessori of Santa Monica.

In 1964, she opened the first Montessori school in Costa Mesa, California known as the Montessori Centre School. Through the years she has trained numerous teachers using Montessori methodologies and opened many Montessori schools throughout California. In 1989, she launched the International Montessori Academy (ICMA) of Canada in Duncan for the expressed purpose of having children learn to appreciate and understand the importance of tolerance of different religions with an attitude of love, harmony and beauty.

Recently, she founded the International Christian Montessori Academy in Duncan, BC, whose primary function is to include pre-school and elementary academic and French immersion programs.

and Book on-line any time. Available in the Victoria area, Duncan, Nanaimo and Comox-Courtenay. Call 1-888-954-6237 for information.

Sunrise Waldorf School (SWS). Where children learn and grow on our beautiful rural seven acre campus. SWS offers students an education that is imbued with life and joy.

Through movement, connection to nature, the practical arts, and an inspired curriculum, Waldorf students develop a strong sense of imagination, creative and critical thinking skills. Enhanced by Handwork, Woodwork, Music, Strings, Movement, French, Plays, Gardening and Seasonal Festivals. SWS is located south of Duncan in the Cowichan Valley and attracts families from all over the globe, who have relocated to enroll their children at our Waldorf school.

Founded in 1980, SWS offers programs from early childhood through class eight.

SWS is the only full member school of the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA) on Vancouver Island.

250-743-7253, sunrisewaldorfschool.org.

Educational Services & Programs

Kumon is an after-school math and reading enrichment program that unlocks the potential of children so they can achieve more on their own. Founded in Japan in 1958, the learning method uses an individuKool & Child is your alized approach that helps children develop complete resource a solid command of math and reading store for educational skills. Through daily practice and mastery toys and games. The of materials, students increase confidence, 6,400-square-foot shop improve concentration and develop better offers more than 16,000 study skills. Kumon has 26,000 centres in different items. We car50 countries and more than four millions ry a wide assortment of educational games, students studying worldwide. Visit kumon. homework helper workbooks, brain teas- ca to learn more or follow us on Facebook ers, science kits, jewelry, and much more! at facebook.com/Kumon.

We also carry dolls, dress-up, construction, baby toys, puppets, Schleich, Playmobil, Mad Science® Vancouver Island offers preschool, and more. Teachers love our exciting science programs for schools, Kool School House full of everything they communities and individuals. Our afterneed to outfit their classroom in style, school program this year, Spy Academy, including an amazing selection of stickers. explores the science in the work of detecFor homeschooling families, we carry grade tives and spies. In a series of six weekly appropriate resources for the elementary lessons we immerse children in a handslevel. Preview some of our products online on environment of exploration, fun and at koolandchild.com or come in and explore learning. Children experiment, question, our store for a much greater selection. We and build a take-home toy to share what are always happy to answer questions, they learned with others. Our programs please call us at 1-888-390-1775. include Birthday Parties and Camps.

Check madscience.org/vancouverisland IslandParent.ca

Oak and Orca Bioregional Forest School is an outdoor, nature-based program at PKOLS and Mount Douglas Park.

The program fosters an inclusive, caring community in which students learn by doing.

Through an emergent curriculum, we offer students the opportunity to connect with plants and animals in the temperate rainforest and on the beach. Outdoor experiences include stories and drama, wood carving and sculptures, beach art, shelterbuilding, learning about wild edibles, hiking, and active games. This unique program is available to all students, including those in our Hands-On Home-Learning (DL) program. Tours are available by request. oakandorca.ca, info@oakandorca.ca, 250383-6619. 1-888-383-6619.

Pacific Opera Victoria is offering a March Break Camp for kids 8 to 13. Participants will create and stage their own opera with guidance from singer Eve-Lyn de la Haye and composer Christine Donkin.This creative and fun filled week finishes with a performance of their very own opera!

Spaces are limited, register now! March 18-22, 2019; 9 am to 3:30 pm; $225.00 per child; The Baumann Centre, 925 Balmoral Rd. Contact Rebecca Hass at rhass@pov. bc.ca. In Pacific Opera Victoria’s vision, everyone will have the opportunity to make opera a part of their lives.

Sylvan Learning’s personal and engaging approach to learning has helped millions of children see success in school over the past 40 years. Our tutoring programs are individualized and tailored specifically to the needs of each child. The use of technology, and our specific approach to motivation helps keep students focused and makes learning fun. When your child just isn’t getting enough out of the classroom you need someone knowledgeable whom you can trust to help guide and engage your child. Someone with insight and experience. You can count on Sylvan. With four locations on Vancouver Island. Call us at 1-800-Educate.•

February 2019 19

Mmm, Mmm …

Soup Season

C

reamy soups are perfect for rainy days. Warm and comforting, they can be as simple as a cup of soup for snack or a dinner served with bread and a salad. Best of all cream soups are so easy to make that it is a great dish to get kids cooking.

Here are two basic cream soup recipes that can be switched up for all sorts of different types of soup. The first is a traditional potato and cream soup. The second version is a hearty bean and almond soup that is a complete meal all on its own. There are also a few different recipes for flavouring the basic soups into everything from a cozy baked potato soup to a tangy lemon and asparagus soup. Why not let your little chefs pick their favourite vegetables for their own delicious soup recipe?

Classic Creamy Potato Soup

This soup is so simple that even young children can help. If you have an immersion blender, then the vegetables only need to be roughly chopped. If you don’t have an immersion blender, then you can either purée the soup in a regular blender, or dice everything finely and leave the soup chunky.

1 onion 2 cloves garlic 4 large potatoes 2 Tbsps butter 6 cups of broth (chicken is best) salt to taste (about 1 tsp) 1 ⁄ 2 tsp ground black pepper 1⁄2 cup of heavy cream 1. Peel the potato for a very creamy soup, otherwise, you can leave the skin on.

2. Roughly chop the onion and the potato. Peel the garlic.

3. Put the butter and all of the vegetables in a soup pot and saute for 5 minutes.

4. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Simmer until the potatoes are soft, about 20 minutes.

5. Purée until smooth.

6. Stir in the cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This soup will work well with all sorts of different vegetables. Just replace half of the potatoes with 2 cups of your favourite vegetables or try one of the suggested recipes at the end of the article.

20 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Here are two simple variations of a creamy potato soup.

Baked Potato Soup: Top each bowl of soup with a spoonful of sour cream, crumbled bacon, finely chopped chives and grated cheddar cheese.

Emillie Parrish Cooking With Kids Vichyssoise: Replace the onion and garlic with 6 medium leeks. Wash the leeks carefully, then chopping and saute with the potatoes.

Hearty Bean and Almond Soup

This soup is a delicious vegan version of a cream soup. The added white beans and ground almond provides creaminess as well as protein for a filling meal. If dairy isn’t a problem for you, then feel free to finish the soup with a ½ cup of cream for added richness.

IslandParent.ca

Irish Vegetable Soup: Finely dice the onion, garlic, 2 carrots and 2 potatoes. Shred 4 cups of cabbage. Follow the recipe, sauteing all the vegetables before adding the broth.

Leave the vegetables chunky and serve with buttered brown bread.

Cream of Broccoli Soup: Add 2 cups of chopped broccoli in with the vegetables.

Remove a few whole florets before puréeing the vegetables, then stir the florets back in.

1. Roughly chop the onion and peel the Top with grated Parmesan cheese. garlic.

Cream of Mushroom Soup: Slice 3 cups 2. Put the olive oil and the onion and of mushrooms. Saute until they release their garlic in a soup pot and sauté for 5 minutes. juices, then add in the onion and garlic and 3. Drain and rinse the beans. Using a fry for 5 more minutes. Sprinkle 2 Tbsps of bit of broth, purée the beans until smooth. flour over the vegetables and stir to combine, 4. Pour the puréed beans and the remain- then whisk in the broth and finish the soup ing broth over the onions and bring to a according to the recipe. simmer. Simmer about 20 minutes.

Cream of Asparagus Soup: Trim and chop 5. After 20 minutes, remove from heat 1 bunch of asparagus. Add it to the soup and purée until smooth. when you add the broth. Finish the soup 6. Stir in the ground almond. Season with with the zest and juice from 1 lemon. Then salt and pepper to taste. top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese.

2 Tbsps extra-virgin olive oil 1 onion, roughly chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 can of white beans or 11⁄2 cups of cooked butter beans 6 cups of broth salt, to taste (about 1 tsp) ground black pepper, to taste 1⁄2 cup of ground almonds

Favourite Cream Soup Recipes

Here are a few recipes that build on these creamy soups bases. They will work with either soup base.

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

February 2019 21

Wensley Family Realtors® Trusted from Generation to Generation

For a fresh approach to your Real Estate needs, contact me today!

Paula Wensley

Office: 250-388-5882 Cell: 778-678-7387 Pwensley@macrealty.com Paulawensley.com

From the ‘Toddler Trenches’ to Teens

M

y introduction to the Vancouver Island Parent Conference (VIPC) came at a time in my life when the longest I had spent away from my children was two hours. I was in the “toddler trenches” with one, and my older child was a daily reminder that I was not—and likely never would be—up to the task of parenthood. I was no longer the person I had been before kids, but I had not yet figured out who I’d become after having my kids. I still felt like part milk machine, part putty. I had few conversations with other adults most days, and when I did, they revolved around naps and snacks.

When I saw the poster for VIPC at my doctor’s office, I was both surprised and excited. A parenting conference? For me?

I looked at it almost like a vacation. And a bonus: they were offering lunch! Though it may sound odd, this was a huge part of what I was looking forward to on the day: a lunch that someone else would make and serve, that I could eat in peace with two hands at my leisure, and that would be cleaned up by someone else. Worth the ticket price right there, I decided. Win!

Humeira Studios • Counselling Services: Individual & Groups • Day Camps: Pro-D days • Life Skills Training • Open Art Studio • Blissful Relaxation Program

Professional referrals required 250-889-1863 humeirastudio@gmail.com www.humeirastudios.com 22 Island Parent Magazine

VIPC was born out of a desire to bring parents together over topics of shared issues and importance. For the past 12 years, the conference has featured internationallyrenowned bestselling authors such as Gabor Maté, Gordon Neufeld, and Barbara Coloroso, as well as local parenting educators including Island Parent columnist Allison Rees.

What I got out of the experience of the conference was so much more than a leisurely lunch. It was a dynamic and vibrant

day, full of tips and useful tools. It was an inspiring day, packed with insight and wisdom. It was an opportunity for connecting with like-minded people, and making friends—something that can be tough to do as an adult. And it opened a window into what might come next for me, as a parent and also professionally.

Amber Turek Because the conference was populated by parents with newborns, littles, middles, teens, adults, and grandkids, it brought perspective. And that was something I didn’t know I needed. I left feeling full of gratitude.

I was grateful to my family for giving me the time and space to refresh outside of the nest. I was grateful for the presenters, being able to make sense of some baffling topics, and in some cases, sharing some emotionally charged experiences with attendees. I felt gratitude toward my community—what a truly beautiful community of parents this is. And I was grateful to the committee for organizing such an important conference.

The theme of the 2019 Vancouver Island Parent Conference is “Change: It’s Here to Stay.” Change brings energy. It can also stir feelings of fear and trepidation, of sentimentality and reticence, of excitement and of course, inevitability. VIPC keynotes Alyson Schafer (author of Honey, I Wrecked the Kids) and Ann Douglas (author of Parenting Through the Storm) will be joined by local experts Jen Gibson (“The Sex Lady”), Reg Fleming (speaking about drugs), Jesse Miller (keeping us up to date on social media) and Gary Anaka (talking about the brain) to join with parents in navigating these changes.

There will also be exhibitors, swag bags, prizes and—did I mention?— lunch!

Amber Turek is a stay-at-home mother of two.

She loves living in Victoria and spends much of her time learning about learning. This is her first written piece.

IslandParent.ca

12THTH ANNUAL 2019

VANCOUVER ISLAND PARENT CONFERENCE

CHANGE: IT’S HERE TO STAY Saturday Saturday March March 2, 2, 2019 2019 8:30 am to 4:00 8:30 am to 4:00 pm pm

Belmont Belmont Secondary Secondary School School

3041 3041 Langford Langford Lake Lake Road Road in in Langford Langford

workshops workshops & & education education on on RESILIENCE • EDUCATION • THE BRAIN • RELATIONSHIPS RESILIENCE • EDUCATION • THE BRAIN • RELATIONSHIPS • • SEXUALITY SEXUALITY • • TECHNOLOGY TECHNOLOGY • • ANXIETY ANXIETY

FEATURED SPEAKERS ALYSON ALYSON SCHAFER SCHAFER

ANN ANN DOUGLAS DOUGLAS

Alyson is the international bestselling author of three parenting books: Alyson is the international bestselling author of three parenting books: Breaking the Good Mom Myth; Honey, I Wrecked the Kids; and her latest, Breaking the Good Mom Myth; Honey, I Wrecked the Kids; and her latest, Ain’t Misbehavin’. She has also been interviewed by publications such as Ain’t Misbehavin’. She has also been interviewed by publications such as Cosmopolitan, Real Simple, Parent Magazine, Reader’s Digest, Canadian Cosmopolitan, Real Simple, Parent Magazine, Reader’s Digest, Canadian Family, Oh Baby, Canadian Living, The Toronto Star, The Globe and Mail, Family, Oh Baby, Canadian Living, The Toronto Star, The Globe and Mail, and Metro News. She was also an “Ask an Expert” Columnist for Today’s and Metro News. She was also an “Ask an Expert” Columnist for Today’s Parent magazine.www.alysonschafer.com Parent magazine.www.alysonschafer.com

Ann Douglas sparks conversations that matter about parenting. She is the Ann Douglas sparks conversations that matter about parenting. She is the weekend parenting columnist for CBC Radio and the creator of Canada’s weekend parenting columnist for CBC Radio and the creator of Canada’s bestselling series of pregnancy and parenting books, The Mother of All book bestselling series of pregnancy and parenting books, The Mother of All book series. In 2019, she will be releasing a brand new book—Happy Parents series. In 2019, she will be releasing a brand new book—Happy Parents Happy Kids—and launching an online school for parents.

Happy Kids—and launching an online school for parents. www.anndouglas.ca www.anndouglas.ca

Registration: Registration: $100 $100 includes includes lunch lunch and and refreshments. refreshments.

Registration deadline is Feb 17.

Early bird rate: Registration deadline is Feb 17. Early bird rate: $75 $75 if if registered registered by

by Feb Feb 3.

3.

For For info info updates updates or or to to register register visit visit www.vipc.ca www.vipc.ca or or email: email: info@vipc.ca info@vipc.ca

PRESENTED BY DISTRICT PARENTS’ ADVISORY COUNCILS OF GREATER VICTORIA & SOOKE

PRESENTED PRESENTED BY

BY DISTRICT DISTRICT PARENTS’ PARENTS’ ADVISORY ADVISORY COUNCILS COUNCILS OF OF GREATER GREATER VICTORIA VICTORIA & & SOOKE SOOKE

IslandParent.ca

February 2019 23

Words have a huge impact…

What will yours be?

One word can change someone’s entire day.

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24 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

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Birthday Parties

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IslandParent.ca

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victoriagymnastics.com February 2019 25

Victoria Montessori Preschool and Childcare Building a foundation for the rest of their lives

The Best of Montessori and “Learn through Play” Combined

Let’s Do Lunch

S

chool is in full swing and with the winter break behind us, family life is back on a more regular schedule. Making and packing nutritious lunches for our kids—whether they are in school, preschool, or daycare— can be one of a parent’s biggest headaches.

How do you put together a lunch that will feed your child’s daily nutritional needs so they don’t have an energy crash or constantly feel hungry? And one they’ll actually eat?

A key principle to consider when assembling lunches and snacks is to ensure that each meal that your kids eat contains some fat, some protein, and some fibre. Why? What’s the magic with this combination?

fibre and protein is so essential. Together these provide lasting energy and balanced nutrients.

You’ll find fibre in vegetables, fresh fruit, whole grains, for example, oats, wheat, quinoa, brown rice, lentils, chickpeas, beans, nuts and seeds.

Good sources of protein are beans, eggs, fish, unprocessed meats (so not deli meats), pulses (chickpeas, lentils), and whole-fat dairy, as it sustains energy longer.

Good fat sources include nuts, nut and seed butters, flax seed oil, olive oil, avocado, dairy fat, and coconut (oil, milk, or shredded).

Each of these elements helps to slow digestion so that they’ll feel full for longer and, in turn, to help stabilize blood sugar levels and ensure they have the energy they need to play and learn.

If lunches and snacks are made up mostly of easily digested carbohydrates—crackers, dried fruit, granola bars, cookies, croissants, pastries, for example—this can result in a spike in blood sugar levels, requiring the body to release insulin to bring levels back down. This can be hard on our bodies and cause fluctuating energy levels, which can lead to emotional reactions, grumpiness, and challenging behaviour. Since these types of foods digest quickly, our energy levels tend to drop soon after eating and hunger can set in. This can make it hard to learn and concentrate—or even be a good friend. The brain and muscles need a steady supply of energy to work at their best; if they don’t get it, the result can be brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.

This is why ensuring snacks contain fat,

Some tips for assembling snacks:

• beautiful, bright classroom • open between 8am–5pm • open year round • licensed for children 21⁄2–5

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Have a great time with science!

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AFTER-SCHOOL WORKSHOPS PARTIES SHOWS CAMPS Book on-line

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26 Island Parent Magazine

1. Read the ingredients on granola and snack bars, and look for ones that contain some form of protein; nuts and seeds are ideal. Avoid bars made only of oats, sugars, in any form, and dried fruit or chocolate. I usually try and avoid soy protein isolate because the processing phase usually involves a hexane solution. Hexane has been listed as a neurotoxin, and it is unclear whether it is safe to consume in any amount.

2. If giving fruit as a snack, add protein and fat. For example: nuts, seeds, nut and seed butter, yogurt or cheese.

3. Hard boiled eggs are a great source of protein to add to a meal or snack.

4. Try to limit products made with white flour (crackers, bread, muffins, fish crackers, pretzels) because they are devoid of energysustaining fibre, and are missing essential nutrients that kids need to learn, grow and play. Instead choose wholegrain products and pair these with a healthy fat and protein.

IslandParent.ca

01/04/19 5. Coconut oil and butter are better forms of fat for baked goods because they are less processed and not as prone to rancidity as commercial vegetable oils.

Snack/lunch ideas:

1. Hummus with wholegrain crackers and veggies such as carrots, cucumber, pepper, and celery.

2. Avocado and tuna with wholegrain bread or crackers.

Sonja Yli-Kahila

Something worth smiling about.

In the months of Jan & Feb, $10 will be donated to the BC SPCA for every new patient we see!

Give us a call at 778-265-6033 to book your appointment.

Alphie, our rescue puppy

130 – 31 Helmcken Rd. Victoria BC ecvillagedental.com

Aspengrove School 3. Black beans mixed with cheese, avocado, and mild salsa; these can be eaten alone or with crackers or pita.

4. Berries and cottage cheese with a drizzle of maple syrup and flax seed oil.

5. Chia seed pudding with sliced banana or berries (1⁄4 cup chia seeds, 1⁄2 cup full-fat coconut milk or non-dairy milk mixed with 1 tsp almond butter, maple syrup or stevia to taste, 1 Tbsp shredded coconut, 1⁄2 banana, 1⁄4 cup berries).

6. Lentils cooked with carrots and mixed witha pinch of salt, avocado and sour cream (optional).

7. Protein Smoothie: 1 cup berries, 1⁄2 banana, 1⁄2 cup kale or other greens, 1 cup liquid (milk or non-dairy milk or coconut milk), protein powder or 1 Tbsp nut butter, 2 tsp hemp seeds, dash of stevia, honey or maple syrup to taste, and 1-2 tsp coconut oil.

8. Quick pasta mix: 1⁄2 cup cooked wholegrain pasta of choice, 2 Tbsp basil pesto, 2 oz fresh mozzarella cheese.

9. Quinoa tabbouleh (1⁄2 cup cooked quinoa, 1⁄2 tomato-diced, 2 Tbsp diced bell pepper, 3 slices cucumber, diced, 1 Tbsp olive oil, 1⁄2 Tbsp lemon juice, 1-2 Tbsp feta cheese and mint, salt and pepper to taste).

10. 1⁄ 2 cup squash or sweet potato, mashed with 1 Tbsp butter or nut butter, pinch salt, 1Tbsp ground flax seed, 1-2 tsp sunflower seeds.

Bon Lunch Box Appetit!

Sonja Yli-Kahila is a mom of two young girls, and a Certified Health Coach and Nutritionist at Rejuvenize Health Coaching and Nutrition who helps individuals achieve their ideal bodies, fitness and health. Sonja can be contacted at Sonja@Rejuvenizehealthcoaching.com.

IslandParent.ca

FILE NAME: OPD_18-0352_Alphie-Print-IP-Ad DATE: 01/04/19 CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK PROFILE:

Careers in business and leadership start here.

CJ started a t-shirt design business as part of his Grade 10 personal project, a core part of the International Baccalaurete program. Other students wrote novels, did medical research, crafted an electric guitar and more.

But CJ’s passion is business.

From design to outsourcing production, he directs all aspects of the operation.

The school project is long since complete, but he continues to develop and market his growing clothing company.

Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 Learn more today!

250-390-2201 AspengroveSchool.ca

NANAIMO ’ S JK-12 INTERNATIONAL BACC AL AURE ATE WORLD SCHOOL February 2019 27

FAMILY Calendar

For calendar updates throughout the month visit IslandParent.ca

F E B R UA RY Our Generous Sponsors

FRIDAY

1

ST

TUESDAY

5

TH

THURSDAY

7

TH

Victoria & CRD

Victoria & CRD

Victoria & CRD

Fantastic Fridays at St. Lukes Cedar Hill 4:30pm at St. Luke’s Hall Cedar Hill Cross Rd at Cedar Hill Rd Featuring Messy Church. Fun, games, food, crafts, music, and stories. Dinner provided. Come when you can, come as you are. Family friendly. For info, call 250-477-6741 or e-mail st.lukes@shaw.ca. Free.

Emergency Preparedness Workshop 1pm at Cook St. Village Activity Centre 380 Cook St Are you and your family prepared for an emergency such as a power outage, winter storm, earthquake or tsunami? Learn about the hazards that can affect Victoria, what to include in your emergency kits, what you can do to protect your home from an earthquake, and how to reunite with your loved ones after a disaster. Free. VictoriaReady.ca. 250920-3373. emvic@victoria.ca.

Childhood Stress & Anxiety: Building Resilience Presentation 6pm at Oaklands Elementary School For parents and educators supporting children ages 5-11 (K-Grade 5) who are experiencing stress and anxiety. Free. ericfoundation.com. 250-888-5735. karenpalmer@shaw.ca.

Cowichan Valley

Movie Night 7pm at Cowichan Aquatic Centre Nanaimo & Area 2653 James St Come relax at the pool with a movie on the big screen. Slides and diving boards will be open too. Glow in the Dark Skate 6:30pm at Frank Crane Arena Regular admission. 250-746-7665.

Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission. recreation.

SATURDAY ND nanaimo.ca. 250-756-5200.

Victoria & CRD Dad’s Night Out Skate 6:45pm at Oceanside Place Arena Stop, Look, Listen Dads, bring the kids and enjoy a free skate together.

10:30am at Coles Bay Regional Park Use your senses to appreciate the wonders of the Sponsored by Building Learning Together. Free. rdn. forest. Find what’s hidden on the trail, meet a tree, bc.ca/recreation. 250-248-3252. and more. A great way for kids and adults to share nature together. No fee for this program, but you must pre-register as space is limited. 5 years and under. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks. 250-478-3344.

2

In our play-based preschools, children have fun, build relationships and explore the world in which they live. Activities include arts & crafts, storytelling, music, cooking, indoor and outdoor play.

Our Licensed programs are led by certified Early Childhood Educators who are also trained in (NCCP) 'Fundamental Movement Skills' and incorporate basic components of physical literacy into our preschool programs.

FRIDAY

8

TH

Nanaimo & Area Dive-in Cinema 6:30pm at Ladysmith Parks & Recreation 810 6th Ave Come enjoy a movie on the water. $5. 250-245-6424.

SATURDAY

9

TH

Victoria & CRD Red Cross Babysitter’s Training 10am at Gordon Head Middle School 1671 Kenmore Road Learn the basics of babysitting and become a qualified babysitter. A Red Cross Babysitter Certificate will be issued upon successful completion of the course. Cost includes manual. 2 classes for $65. saanich.ca. 250-475-7107. jen.pero@saanich.ca.

on Registrati ies il m fa w th for ne ary 6 ru b e F s begin at 6:00 AM

M��� �nf� 250-478-8384 | westshorerecreation.ca 28 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Victoria Tea Festival Revival 2019 Noon at Nootka Court 633 Courtney Enjoy teas from around the world, learn at the symposium on Farming Tea in Japan: A Conversation by a Japanese Tea Farmer, Sourcing Honeybush in the Mountains of South Africa, and more. Bring your own tea cup (BYOTc) for this farm-to-cup event. $5-$10. facebook.com/events/363624861120926. intlteaappreciationsociety@gmail.com.

culinary creation. Basic cooking skills and nutrition tips, plus exciting dishes you can easily recreate at home. All ingredients and supplies provided. $20. saanich.ca. 250-475-7107. jen.pero@saanich.ca.

THURSDAY

14

TH

Victoria & CRD

Cupid’s Cuties 9:30am at Greenglade Community Centre Tower Point Sea Watch for Winter Birds Happy Valentine’s Day. Bring your little ones for a 9am at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park morning of fun at Kindergym. Make a card for the Learn your ocean ducks, cormorants, grebes, loons special someone. Special treats. panoramarecreand seabirds with guest birder, Geoffrey Newell. ation.ca. 250-656-7271.

Excellent for beginners and advanced birders alike.

Meet at Tower Point parking lot off Olympic View Dr. FRIDAY TH SATURDAY 12+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. Free. crd.bc.ca/ parks. 250-478-3344.

Victoria & CRD Victoria & CRD

15

SUNDAY

10

TH

Victoria & CRD Love is in the Park 11am at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park Discover what animals are breeding in the park.

Participate in family-fun activities related to tree frogs singing, eagles cartwheeling, hummingbirds dancing, owls hooting, and more. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter in the Filter Beds parking lot off Beaver Lake Rd. All ages.

BC Transit #70, #72, or #75. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks.

250-478-3344.

WEDNESDAY

13

TH

16

Pro D Day Skate & Swim 1pm at Panorama Recreation Come for a fun-filled skate or swim. Skate: 1-2:20pm; swim: 1:30-3:30pm. $2. panoramarecreation.ca.

250-656-7271.

Pro-Fun Day 8:45am at Gordon Head Middle School 1671 Kenmore Road Despite the fact the camp takes place in a school, there will be no school-related business, no homework and no tests; simply games, arts and crafts, running and playing and a swim to cap it all off. $40. saanich.ca. 250-475-7107. jen.pero@saanich.ca.

Nanaimo & Area

Victoria & CRD Cooking for Fun—Thai-tastic 6pm at Gordon Head Middle School 1671 Kenmore Road Tap into your inner chef with an evening of hands-on

Coast Capital Skate 3:45pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre Skate and helmet rentals included. Free. recreation. nanaimo.ca. 250-756-5200.

TH

Victoria Seedy Saturday 10am at The Victoria Conference Centre 720 Douglas Street Victoria’s Premier Seed and Garden Show. $8.

Under 16 free. jamesbaymarket.com/victoria-seedysaturday-2019. info@jamesbaymarket.com.

Family Fun Hike 1pm at East Sooke Regional Park Enjoy a walk in the park with your family to celebrate Family Day weekend. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and discover the beauty of this wooded parkland. Bring a snack and water, and wear sturdy footwear. Meet at the kiosk in the Aylard Farm parking lot off Beecher Bay Rd. 8+ years. Free. crd.bc.ca/ parks. 250-478-3344.

Winter Olympics at Teen Lounge 6pm at Greenglade Community Centre Have some winter Olympics-inspired fun. Cross country skiing, skeleton, curling, and more. Form a team and let the games begin. For grades 6-9. panoramarecreation.ca. 250-656-7271.

Take it easy!

Try our Thrifty Kitchens ready-to-eat snacks and oven-ready meals.

thriftyfoods.com IslandParent.ca

1.800.667.8280

Connect with us February 2019 29

Nanaimo & Area Splish Splash Swim 10am at Ravensong Aquatic Centre A water adventure you don’t want to miss. The lifeguards are going to bring out the pool toys for you to enjoy. From the rope swing to the snake to the dino ribs, there will be water play for everyone. Regular admission. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. 250-752-5014.

MONDAY

18

TH

Victoria & CRD Free Family Day Admission At Panorama Recreation Celebrate Family Day with free admission to swimming, skating, weightroom, and fitness classes.

Sponsored by Peninsula Co-op. Skate: 2-2:20pm; swim: 1:30-3pm. Free. panoramarecreation.ca.

250-656-7271.

Stories at Fern: 30th Anniversary Year 7:15pm at Quaker Meeting House 1831 Fern St Share stories, legends, urban myths, folktales and more. Refreshments served. $5/adult; $3/students & seniors. scownden@telus.net.

Nanaimo & Area BC Provincial Family Day Swim & Skate 10am at Ravensong Aquatic Centre & Oceanside Place Arena Celebrate BC Provincial Family Day courtesy of CUPE 401, Canadian Union of Public Employees. Swim: 10am-2pm; skate: 1-4pm. Free. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

250-752-5014 or 250-248-3252.

SYNCHRONIZED SWIMMING Spring Break CAMP March 20-22 ages 8-12 9am-4pm $155 water & land cap included

Saanich Commonwealth Place

victoriasynchro.com jennifervicsynchro@gmail.com 30 Island Parent Magazine

Family Day Swim Noon at Frank Jameson Community Centre 810 6th Ave Enjoy a swim with the family. ladysmith.ca. 250245-6424.

TUESDAY

19

TH

Victoria & CRD Emergency Preparedness Workshop 7pm at Fernwood Community Centre 1240 Gladstone Ave See TUES 5 for details. Free. VictoriaReady.ca. 250920-3373. emvic@victoria.ca.

Nanaimo & Area School’s Out Skate or Swim 1pm at Ravensong Aquatic Centre & Oceanside Place Arena IslandParent.ca

Stay active with a skate or swim. Swim: 1-2:30pm; skate: 1:45-3:15pm. Reduced rate admission. rdn. bc.ca/recreation. 250-752-5014 or 250-248-3252.

THURSDAY

21

ST

Victoria & CRD Who’s Hooting 10am at Mill Hill Regional Park The owls are hooting. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to learn some owl calls, find out about these excellent night hunters, and get to know our BC owls. Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Atkins Ave. 5+ years. BC Transit #53. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks. 250-478-3344.

Nanaimo & Area

Childhood Stress & Anxiety: Building Resilience Presentation 6pm at Brechin Elementary For parents and educators supporting children ages 5-11 (K-Grade 5) who are experiencing stress and anxiety. Free. ericfoundation.com. 250-888-5735. karenpalmer@shaw.ca.

SATURDAY

23

RD

Victoria & CRD Home Alone Program 9am at Gordon Head Recreation Centre 4100 Lambrick Way The before and after school times or occasional outings for parents are easily dealt with when your child is H/A.P.P.y—a Home Alone Program prepared youth. Program focuses on home and personal safety and emergency procedures. Booklet and Parent/Guardian handout included. $35. saanich. ca. 250-475-7111. jen.pero@saanich.ca.

Canvas Art for Kids 4pm at Oceanside Art Studio Jenny Hughes will guide you through how to paint a fantastic yet surprisingly simple acrylic painting.

No experience necessary. All supplies provided. Nanaimo & Area Ages 7-10. $20/person. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. 250248-3252.

Disco Light Skate 7:30pm at Oceanside Place Arena Catch dance fever under the disco lights. The flash-

ing lights and pumping music will take you back in time. Regular admission. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

250-248-3252.

Starlight Skate 7pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre An opportunity to come out and enjoy our soft light “stars” and passive LED glow lights. This is a great time for families after dinner, or that “night out” with friends. Regular admission. recreation.nanaimo.ca.

250-756-5200.

Red Cross AED/CPR C 9am at Qualicum Commons Required for lifeguards and health care professions.

Topics covered are CPR and blocked airways for adults, children and infants, and an introduction to automated external defibrillators (AED). $73/person. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. 250-248-3252.

Red Cross Emergency First Aid with AED/CPR 9am at Qualicum Commons Be prepared and get trained in CPR skills. Includes home hazards, accident prevention, safety education, CPR, first aid skills for common emergencies, and automated external defibrillators (AED). Retraining recommended every three years. $86/person. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. 250-248-3252.

Here at Sutubra Naturals & Organics, we bring you nothing but the best quality products for every day use.

We carry many external remedies that can help calm restlessness and soothe common skin irritations. We also have many products for all ages including water based nail polish for little ones and relaxing natural bath and spa products for mom and dad. Come into our store today and grab your favourite brands for the whole family!

Located at Hillside Shopping Centre (N. Dairy Rd. Entrance)

www.sutubrabeauty.com | 250-999-8038 | naturalbeautyvic@gmail.com IslandParent.ca

February 2019 31

SATURDAY

23

RD AND SUNDAY

24

Nanaimo & Area Red Cross Standard First Aid with AED/CPR 9am at Qualicum Commons Two-day course in first aid and cardiopulmonary (CPR C) skills. Training includes home hazards, accident prevention, safety education, CPR level C, first aid skills for common emergencies, and automated external defibrillators (AED). Retraining recommended every three years. $159/person. rdn. bc.ca/recreation. 250-248-3252.

SUNDAY

24

TH

Victoria & CRD Family Drumming Discovery 11am at Gordon Head Recreation Centre 4100 Lambrick Way Explore rhythm and drumming together. This interactive session combines listening, hands-on bucket drumming and a relay course incorporation varied instruments. Try a range of percussion instruments and beats. $10. saanich.ca. 250-475-7107. jen. pero@saanich.ca.

28

Delightful Ducks

THURSDAY

3873 Swan Lake Rd Some dabble on the surface, some dive for their food. Explore the amazing adaptations ducks have for living on the lake and discover who’s who in the duck world. $5/person suggested donation. swanlake.bc.ca. 250-479-0211.

Victoria & CRD

TH Noon at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary

Cowichan Valley Beer and Burger: A Fundraiser 5pm at Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre Music, stories, silent auction, special Heron guest.

Tickets available at the Nature Centre, Volume One Bookstore, or on Eventbrite. $25. cowichanestuary. ca. 250-597-2288.

MONDAY

25

TH

Nanaimo & Area Pro D Day Toonie Swim 1pm at Frank Jameson Community Centre 810 6th Ave Bring your friends and come for a swim. $2. ladysmith.ca. 250-245-6424.

TH

Youth Life Skills Cooking—Mac and Cheese 6pm at Gordon Head Recreation Centre 4100 Lambrick Way Safe knife skills and meal planning as youth gain hands-on experience cooking with fresh, local ingredients, creating mealtime favourites. $10. saanich.ca.

250-475-7111. loryn.anderson@saanich.ca.

Youth Employment Readiness Workshop 6:30pm at Gordon Head Recreation Centre 4100 Lambrick Way Prepare for the wild world of employment as a young person today. Review resume writing and interview skills, and learn all the tips and tricks you need to be one step ahead of the rest. Free drop-in session. saanich.ca. 250-475-7109. deanna.roch@ saanich.ca.

Comox Valley & North Island Childhood Stress & Anxiety: Building Resilience Presentation 6pm at Courtenay Elementary For parents and educators supporting children ages 5-11 (K-Grade 5) who are experiencing stress and

Professional, effective, inclusive and affordable mediation, training and communication strategies

When Relationships Matter UPCOMING WORKSHOPS:

Communicating through Conflict 9 part series: begins Feb 19, 2019 9:30–Noon Peaceful Co-Parenting 4 part series: ongoing registration

@ 250-383-4412 32 Island Parent Magazine

Rethink. Relearn. Resolve.

Photo: Emilee Player, Facebook

Reconciliation – The Journey of Our Generation Friday, Feb 22, 2019 Register through eventbrite.ca/ e/reconciliation-the-journey -of-our-generation-­tickets­49099076660

IslandParent.ca

anxiety. Free. ericfoundation.com. 250-888-5735. karenpalmer@shaw.ca.

ONGOING

Preschool to Grade 9…and beyond.

PRESCHOOL Victoria & CRD Family Storytime At Greater Victoria Public Libraries Fun-filled stories, songs, rhymes and puppets. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Drop-in. Visit gvpl.ca for locations and times.

Stay and Play At Greater Victoria Public Libraries Enjoy social time and free play following Family Storytime. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult.

Drop-in. Visit gvpl.ca for locations and times.

Baby Time At Greater Victoria Public Libraries Learn songs, rhymes and fingerplays to use with your baby every day. For babies 0-15 months and parent or caregiver. Drop-in. Visit gvpl.ca for locations and times.

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

Imagine a School…where music, dance, theatre and visual arts are infused into all aspects of an outstanding curriculum. v Junior K and Half/Full-day Kindergarten options also available v Comprehensive K–9 program consistently exceeds BC Curriculum receiving morefacilities, than anconvenient education v Excellent Cedar Hill and Gordon Head locations v Highly qualified, dedicated staff and low student/teacher ratios

receiving more than an education Visit our website, come to one of our Open Houses, or call us! www.ArtsCalibre.ca info@ArtsCalibre.ca 250.382.3533

receiving more than an education

Preschool – Grade 12

community family

Christ centred, community focused education.

Uncovering God-given talents in everyone.

Integrating new educational technologies.

Giving back through service learning projects.

Good Morning Storytime Thursdays 10:30am until March 7 at Sidney All Care 2269 Mills Rd Bring your littlest ones to this library program for stories, songs, rhymes, and lots of movement. Ages 0-5. Drop-in program. 250-656-0944.

Young Parent Weekly Drop-in Thursdays 10am-noon at Kiwanis Family Centre.

Come and enjoy a hot meal, socialize with other young parents, enjoy a kids’ craft, let your little one explore the fully equipped playroom, or have a look in the ‘free’ store for gently used children’s items and household supplies. Staff available to help with information about relevant local resources, advocacy and counselling support, help with paperwork, and parenting support. 250-382-1004.

faith

Serving a diverse student body with extensive support programs, academics, athletic teams, trades and hands on apprenticeships for those near graduation.

DREAMS LOADING....

sportsart art sports academics music music academics Get Connected!

sports art academics music Get Connected!

Learn more and stay informed Learn more and

These are just a few of the reasons you may want to join the DCS family

Preparing youth for life beyond the school doors . . .

CALL FOR A TOUR TODAY! 250.746.3654 495 Beech Avenue l Duncan, BC, V9L 3J8 office@duncanchristian.com

www.duncanchristianschool.ca

stay informed

IslandParent.ca

Get Connected!

February 2019 33

Cowichan Valley

2423 Beacon Ave Dozens of Star Wars themed Lego models, plus Sea Squirts hundreds of other Lego models including Hogwarts 11am-noon at Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre Castle, and a Lego model of the Bugatti Chiron.

A drop-in nature program where parents and their Learn about the history of many models on display, preschool children and infants can come together guess how many bricks comprise the giant Lego to connect with each other, learn about nature in fun Pyramid, and view a special film on the origin and and engaging ways, and support the development development of the Lego building system. February of early literacy skills. 250-597-2288.

1-March 31. 250-655-6355.

Nanaimo & Area

Museum Tots Saturdays 11am at Maritime Museum A weekly program introducing children 2-5 to the fun world of museum learning. New theme each week, allowing children to learn through crafts, play, games, song, and dance. $5/child. 250-385-4222.

LaFF Mornings Mondays 9:30am-noon at Aggie Hall, Ladysmith 1110 1st Ave Play-based learning stations to explore and enjoy, including a reading centre, craft area, Brio train table, snack table and more. Bring food to share, TEENS wash your hands, and make a healthy snack together while making new friends. Meet other parents, health Nanaimo & Area and social service providers. $2/family suggested donation for each activity. 250-210-0870.

Stop Worrying About Stress & Anxiety Tuesdays February 5-26 at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre CHILDREN Learn cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other stress coping strategies. Uses media to teach key Victoria & CRD concepts. Drop-in after school and check it out.

Please pre-register. 3:30-4:30pm. Free. recreation.

Lego Exhibition nanaimo.ca. 250-756-5200.

10am-4pm at Sidney Museum

FAMILY Victoria & CRD Garry Oak Meadow Marathon Sundays 1-3pm at Cattle Point Rip out those invasive aliens to help the 11 struggling rare plants on Cattle Point. Tools, instruction and refreshments provided. Meet at the Cattle Point kiosks in Uplands Park. 250-595-8084.

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

For information about groups near you, call 250384-8042. Province-wide toll free information and support line at 1-855-474-9777 or email grgline@ parentsupportbc.ca. parentsupportbc.ca.

Parent Support Circles Parenting isn’t always easy. Sometimes it helps to talk things through with other parents. At the Parent Support Services Society of BC, they believe that every parent is the expert of her/his own family. For more information about groups near you, call 250-3848042 or 1-877-345-9444 or visit parentsupportbc.ca.

Saturday S at ur day M a y 25, May 2 5 , 2019 2 01 9

T he E ssen c e o f Pl ay Oc ean Po inte Reso rt Victo ria, BC

2 50.893.6804 www w.. m a k i n g t o m o r r o w c o n f e r e n c e . c o m p resen t ed b y

34  Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Nanaimo & Area Drop-In Science Studio Tuesdays 3-4:30pm at NS3 Science Studio #101-4355 Jingle Pot Rd Build Lego creations, then program them to move using drag and drop software. Explore the many hands-on science exhibits and experiments including making boats for the water table, building KEVA block towers, designing marble wall tracks and pulleys, discovering the force of air in the air field, creating flying creations to test in the wind tunnels. $10/ child. Ages 6+. No pre-registration necessary. Check nanaimoscience.org for schedule. 778-971-6893.

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

250-210-0870.

Parksville Lions and Save-On-Foods Family Skate Sundays 12:15-1:45pm February 3-24 Oceanside Place Arena Pond hockey is not available during this session.

Children must be accompanied by an adult 19+. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. 250-248-3252.•

Island Parent Vancouver Island’s

Parenting Resource

HIGHLAND PACIFIC GOLF VICTORIA, BC

SportsCampsCanada.com | 1.844.464.5372

for 31 Years

February 2019

te ocola nd Ch ine’s Beyo ing Valent ful Mak Meaning Day r Kids fo

Education Issue

Please visit any of our valued partners to pick up your latest copy of Island Parent.

GREATER VICTORIA Thrifty Foods Fairway Market Real Canadian Superstore Save-On-Foods (except Westside) Lifestyle Market Country Grocer (Esquimalt & Royal Oak) Quality Foods Market on Yates & Millstream Western Foods Recreation Centres Public Libraries Serious Coffee Victoria Gymnastics

SOOKE Western Foods Village Foods Seaparc Recreation DUNCAN Thrifty Foods Save-On-Foods Real Canadian Superstore 49th Parallel Public Library CHEMAINUS 49th Parallel Public Library SHAWNIGAN LAKE Aitken & Fraser Grocery Community Centre Kerry Park Recreation LADYSMITH Save-On-Foods 49th Parallel Public Library NANAIMO Thrifty Foods Fairway Market Quality Foods Save-On-Foods PARKSVILLE Thrifty Foods Quality Foods Parksville Centre

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

saanichdentalgroup.com 119–1591 McKenzie Ave, Victoria 250 477 7321 info@saanichdentalgroup.com Victoria’s favourite dentists believe a healthy smile starts early. Free first visit for children under 5.

February 2019 35

Singing to Your Valentine

it.” The song teaches kids about showing their love for others through kisses, hugs, and words. If you’re looking for a good action song for your little one on Valentine’s Day, this is definitely it.

If you love me and you know it, clap your hands.

If you love me and you know it, clap your hands.

If you love me and you know it, then your face will surely show it.

If you love me and you know it, clap your hands.

C

elebrate Valentine’s Day this year with singing! There are many easy and fun songs for preschoolers to sing that celebrate love and friendship. Sing these songs together while baking cookies, making Valentine cards or decorating the house with paper hearts. Young children can sing these songs as a greeting to a friend or loved one. Here are some easy and fun songs to help you get started. The melodies are familiar and it is easy for young children to learn the words and sing along.

Additional Verses: Say, “I love you!”

Blow me a kiss Give me a hug

3. SKINNAMARINK

1. H-E-A-R-T

This song based on the traditional chilH-E-A-R-T dren’s song B-I-N-G-O. The lyrics of the H-E-A-R-T song encourage the message of love and Each heart says “I love you!” friendship while learning to spell HEART at the same time.

2. If You Love Me and You To show you like your special friends, Know It Just give them each a heart As the name suggests, the song is based on H-E-A-R-T the popular “If you’re happy and you know

Skinnamarink or the “I love you song” is a simple song with a steady beat. The title itself is a silly made-up word, which makes the song even more fun to sing.

The song appears on many children’s song collections including the Canadian musicians Sharon, Lois and Bram. There are many actions in this fun loving’ tune including “I love you” in sign language.

Great Kids WANTED! Learn more about financial assistance and scholarships.

See us in action at our OPEN HOUSE on February 22.

We invite you to visit our school to meet members of our community of lifelong learners during our OPEN HOUSE on February 22. This is your chance to witness out how GNS supports the greatness in each child by helping our students be the best they can be. Visit with staff, students and parents and ask them all your questions, and learn about our Financial Support options. Register today: http://www.mygns.ca/open-house

OPEN HOUSE | Friday, February 22 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 2 p.m.

Meet in Denford Hall at the Middle and Senior School Campus at 801 Bank Street with parking off Richmond or Maddison, or in the library at the Junior School Campus at 1701 Beach Drive.

Glenlyon Norfolk School 36 Island Parent Magazine

IB CONTINUUM CONTINUUM DE L’IB CONTINUO DEL IB

www.mygns.ca 250.370.6801 | Victoria, BC IslandParent.ca

Skinnamarink a dink a dink, Skinnamarink a doo, I love you.

I love you in the morning And in the afternoon, I love you in the evening And underneath the moon; Oh, Skinnamarink a dink a dink, Skinnamarink a doo, I love you!

Jerri Carson 4. Tony Chestnut

Tony Chestnut is a humorous song that invites active participation. Everyone will be moving and laughing as they try to keep up with the movements. Children point to their toes, knees, chest and nut (head) as they sing and as the tempo speeds up, it becomes even more fun.

Toe knee chestnut Nose eye love you Toe knee nose Toe knee nose Toe knee chestnut Nose eye love you That’s what Toe knee nose There are several Valentine picture books that are based on well-known children’s songs that are fun to read and sing with your child. The Ballad of Valentine by Alison Jackson is based on the old western folk song “My Darling, Clementine.” The story tells of a shy gentleman who sends love notes to his sweetheart, however his proclamations of love never arrive. He sings: Oh my darling, Oh my darling, Oh my darling Valentine, I have written 40 letters, But you’ve never read a line.

The rhyme and rhythm of this book make it fun to sing out loud and the colourful pictures and text are filled with humour.

The simplicity and repetition of these songs will inspire a love of singing for years to come. Sing and make magic this Valentine’s Day!

Jerri Carson is a retired music teacher. She now spends her time playing the piano and cello.

IslandParent.ca

The Freya-Sophia Waldorf Store

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Beautiful selection of books, organic wool clothing, wooden toys, silks, dolls, cards, prints, painting and handwork supplies.

STEINER BOOKSTORE: Extensive Selection of Inspiring Books and Resources for Children, Parents, Teachers, Carers and Homeschoolers 250-597-4763 Located in the Sol-Centre, 5380 Hwy 1, Duncan Hours: Monday – Saturday 10 – 3; Closed Sundays.

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Learn more at www.arcacademy.ca February 2019 37

be a logistical nightmare. Hot showers become a luke-warm family event. You can’t keep your eyes open long enough to read a page of your favourite book. “Nap when n February I’m admittedly hesitant to self-care, our conversations usually sound the baby naps” becomes the most annoying bring up New Years resolutions. For a little nostalgic, sarcastic, or just simply advice ever when you have other children to some of you, positive change may be well confused. Mothers and self-care? Pardon care for or a job outside the home. It’s almost underway but for others, those exciting goals might only hold a glimmer of hope or they’ve entirely vanished altogether.

And if you’re like me, you might not even tell people what you’re working on in fear that you’ll publicly abandon yet another ambitious self-care plan.

Self-care is such a buzz-word, isn’t it? One of those concepts that’s so effortlessly talked about, splattering the covers of magazines, and rolling out of every therapist’s mouth, yet surprisingly few people feel like they’ve got it figured out.

So what is self-care exactly?

I describe it as the ways we tend to our own multi-faceted needs that allow us to feel whole, cared-for, and alive. Self-care is less about manicures and soaker tubs than it is about listening and then responding to our me? These two things don’t usually go impossible to motivate yourself to exercise various needs, including physical, emotion- together, do they? At least not at first. when you’re exhausted and just want a al, intellectual, relational and spiritual ones.

Finding time to tend to your own needs break. You’d rather watch Netflix than exWhen I speak with other mothers about during those early days of motherhood can pend any more energy on your social life. Of course you know how to take care of yourself, but actually doing it is another story.

What I wish I knew in those moments of chaos and feeling completely overwhelmed was that this phase would shift. Breathing space would begin to reappear, moments of pause would return. A hot coffee. A somewhat coherent FaceTime call with a friend.

The odd jog or workout video. Waking up in the morning feeling rested (okay maybe that’s a stretch).

If you feel hopeless, alone, desperate, scared or You’ll notice that with time the possibility overwhelmed, take action and allow to turn even a slight bit of your finite energy Torchlight Counselling to walk with you in finding back toward yourself just might be possible. and achieving your own unique success story.

Maybe there is enough for you too? And here’s your chance to face the most important obstacle between you and caring for yourself: you’ll need to consciously decide to Book your free give that energy, time, attention and love to yourself instead of your children or partner. consultation today While that decision might just be the hardest part, it’s also the key to self-care.

For a busy parent, self-care is all about Torchlight Counselling finding ways within the reality of your life 321-1095 McKenzie Avenue, Victoria BC to send loving energy inward. It’s the hon250-889-9502 est and compassionate response to yourself www.torchlightcounselling.ca as a unique individual, which means that self-care will look uniquely different for everyone. One size most certainly doesn’t fit all, just as one person’s self-care regimen may be a total flop for the next.

Making Space for You

I

38 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

The first task is to develop the ability to listen to yourself, and check in on a regular basis so that you can establish a quick reading of where your stand. With something as simple as closing your eyes for a few breaths and silently asking yourself what you need most in this moment, you can strengthen your inner voice and tune in to your needs.

With practice, your inner voice will gain confidence to ask for what’s needed and remind you when you’ve neglected yourself for too long.

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 islandparent.ca for specific information on submissions. We’d love to hear from you. Please email submissions to editor@islandparent.ca.

Kate Borsato The next task is to consider how you might carve out a little more time for yourself. It’s often the case where we have bits of time but aren’t ready to benefit from them because we have no plan or we’re simply out of practice. Consider writing down self-care ideas that you could do in 10 minutes or less to nurture your mind, body, and spirit and when you have a moment, glance at the list and see if something stands out to you.

The final piece of self-care is about permission. Self-permission, that is. Do you truly allow yourself to prioritize you? How do you feel when you are doing something that’s just for your enjoyment or benefit?

Do you worry, feel guilty, confused, or uncomfortable? If you have these feelings, I encourage you to explore where they come from and what you want to do with them.

What could you say to yourself that helps you accept your own love? What messages do you need to hear?

You’re not alone in your struggle to prioritize yourself. And quite frankly, Mother Nature thanks you for caring so passionately for your little ones. While you witness your children transform right before your eyes, I encourage you to also witness yourself on this journey. Be curious about what’s shifting, changing, yearning within you and how you can re-acquaint yourself with you. Be brave to show yourself through your actions that you matter too.

Kate Borsato is a mental health counsellor on Vancouver Island. With her online counselling practice, she supports women during their transitions into motherhood and postpartum stages. Learn more at kateborsato.com IslandParent.ca

February 2019 39

Choosing Their Own

Adventures B

oth our kids are now in middle school, and when I was their age, I got hooked on Choose Your Own Adventure books—a fad right up there with Rubik’s cubes and Cabbage Patch Kids back in the ’80s. Hundreds of titles allowed young readers to pick and follow story paths that branched toward very different endings.

Sure, the tales could be hammy or even downright psychedelic: chasing down the Abominable Snowman, discovering strange undersea civilizations, hopscotching back and forth through time. But if you were a kid, CYOA books folded stories within stories in which “You”—as the series boldly promised—could act as the hero at the pivot point of all the action. You made life-and-death decisions. And if things ended badly, as they often did, you could always flip back and try another path.

Choose Your Own Adventure books have made a comeback. My kids have read a few of my old copies and the newer versions. Their enduring appeal makes sense. Middleschoolers are on the cusp of teenage-dom and can see, beyond that, the lure of adult freedom enticingly close. CYOA books offer a taste of that liberty to control your life’s path, to escape dull routines, to make choices that matter. Even if you got trapped in an avalanche or attacked by a sea monster.

For the first decade of their lives, we don’t give our kids many meaningful choices.

That’s why they don’t gobble candy for breakfast or go to bed at midnight…unless they’re staying with grandparents. They want more of a say, so they push at our restrictions with endless “Why?”-ning and the temporary veto power of a sulk or a tantrum. It’s all part of the learning process, for parents and children alike.

But eventually they mature enough to make their own choices and to reckon with the consequences. Who to invite to birthday parties? What sports to sign up for? What musical instruments to play or hobbies to pick up or drop? What ideas or partners for school projects? How to fill an iPad-less afternoon when your parents tell you to vacate the premises?

40 Island Parent Magazine

“Make good choices!” becomes our mantra as we nervously hand off responsibilities.

We resist the urge to tell them what to do.

Or at least we should. But it’s hard.

Their first choices usually have lower stakes, so they can learn from their mistakes and disappointments. Doors to alternate paths don’t slam permanently shut with their decisions. They aren’t yet confined or

David Leach Dadspeak defined by their choices. They can still get do-overs. It’s an exhilarating, often confusing time in their lives.

On the one hand, kids today seem primed to make their own choices. They grow up in an interactive world of video games and apps and hands-on museum exhibits and “edu-tainment”. They’re constantly asked by their virtual chaperones to choose one path or another.

On the other hand, they’re immersed in a digitally connected consumer culture that can paralyze with the Tyranny of Choice: the psychological phenomenon in which having too many options makes us less happy, not more.

Picking one out of 31 flavours of ice cream is hard enough. (Ask my son, who still regrets choosing a scoop of Bubblegum when he was five.) When kids are faced with more than 31 options for almost everything, just a click or a swipe away, the demand to “Make good choices!” can sound ominous.

How do you know which option is optimal if there are so many?

That’s what I still love about Choose Your Own Adventure books. The tales feel both urgent yet fun because you have only two or three choices, not 20, to decide between at every juncture.

Life isn’t so simple, alas. Still, we can help our kids understand which choices are mundane and which decisions truly matter.

Then they can cut through the surrounding distractions and chart paths that align with their own hopes and dreams, their visions and values. And that’s when their real adventure begins.

David Leach is the Chair of the Department of Writing at the University of Victoria and the author of his own CYOA website kibbutzgame.com.

IslandParent.ca

Where Students Choose To Be

Langford Info Session | January 31st

6:30 pm

Four Points by Sheraton Victoria Gateway, 829 McCallum Rd

The fact that students choose Brentwood is what makes this place so special. Because when a student truly wants to be here, and they’re surrounded by a family of like-minded friends and supporters, we believe they can choose to be . . . anything.

R.S.V.P. http://rsvp.brentwood.ca Unique Tripartite Program: Academics, Arts, Athletics. 100% University Acceptance Co-ed | Day | Boarding | Grades 8-12 | Mill Bay | BC | www.brentwood.ca

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February 2019  41

FAMILY SERVICES Directory The Family Services Directory features not for profit agencies and organizations serving children, youth and families.

1Up, Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre (1-up.ca) provides support, education and resources for parents in the Greater Victoria area through free counselling, volunteer training, a mentoring program for single moms, and a support group for dads, as well as a variety of integrated life skills and parenting courses which are open to the whole community, with fees on a sliding scale. For single parent members, the Centre provides free toys and books, a clothing room and bread pantry. Donations of gently-used clothing, small household items, and toys are welcome. Hours: Mon., Tue., Thu., Fri.: 9–4, & Wednesdays: 12–7. Location: 602 Gorge Road East. Phone: 250-385-1114.

Beacon Community Services is a communitybased, non-profit agency dedicated to helping people and improving lives on southern Vancouver Island and the southern Gulf Islands. Beacon thrift shops fund important LOCAL community services and programs. Beacon also offers: child, youth and family services (including the Peninsula Early Years Centre and child care); counselling; employment services and training for people of all ages; home support care; volunteer services and opportunities; affordable housing/care/supports for seniors and people with disabilities. For Home Support, please call 250-658-6407. For other programs: 250-6560134. beaconcs.ca.

Beacon Community Services Employment Programs. Beacon Community Services offers a full menu of employment services on the Saanich Peninsula and Gulf Islands. We’ve been helping people find work since 1982! Our programs build on a person’s strengths and resolve barriers to finding and keeping employment. We also work with our employer network to support job seekers. Need help finding a job? Need employees? Contact us for FREE assistance! 9860 Third St. Sidney. 250656-0134. beaconcs.ca.

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

42 Island Parent Magazine

children, youth and adults on a sliding fee scale. Call us at 250-386-4331 or visit fsgv.org. We can help.

HappyBaby Sleep Solutions helps families create healthy sleep habits in babies and children so everyone is well rested and happy. Sukkie Sandhu, M.Ed., has worked with hundreds of families locally in Victoria and worldwide. Sukkie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor so the cost of a sleep consultation may be covered under your extended medical plan. For more information visit happybabysleepsolutions.com or call 250-857-1408 for a FREE evaluation. Let’s get started!

Canucks Autism Network (CAN) provides yearround sports and recreation programs for children, youth, young adults and families living with autism.

Programs in Victoria, Nanaimo and Cowichan Valley include Intro to Physical Activity, Intro to Soccer & Basketball, Swim, Skate, Social Events (fall, winter and spring), Overnight Camp (summer), and Family Events (year-round). For more information, visit canucksautism.ca.

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

CHOICES Adoption & Counselling is a licensed, Located at 930 Balmoral Road, 250-388-4728 info@ professional, non-profit agency that provides icavictoria.org, icavictoria.org. services to adoptive parents, birth-parents, and adoptees. CHOICES arranges adoptions domesti- LDABC The Learning Curve (previously The cally and internationally. We are committed to pro- Learning Disabilities Assn.) supports, educates and viding a comprehensive, client-centered adoption advocates for children with learning disabilities and service which best meets the needs of everyone related challenges. Individual and group support, in the adoption constellation. Please contact us at education and consultation is available for children, choices@choicesadoption.ca, or call 250-479-9811 youth, parents, caregivers and professionals. Please for further information. visit our website @ ldasvi.bc.ca or call us for more information or to book an appointment: 250-370-9513.

Dialogue and Resolution Services (DRS) is the South Island’s only non-profit specializing in alter- Sooke-West Shore Early Years Centres provide native conflict resolution for both civil and family information to families about children and family matters. Offering quality, professional mediation, services, supports, child development and parentcoaching and parent coordination in a supportive ing. The Early Years Navigator will assist families environment for families, co-parents, co-workers with referral information for local early years proand neighbours, DRS works with clients to help gramming, child care, public health, special needs them create lasting, effective solutions. DRS also intervention services, and social supports. The offers its flagship “Communicating through Conflict” Sooke-West Shore Early Years Centres are hosted workshop series quarterly both days and evenings by Sooke Family Resource Society and located at throughout the year. Find us at 250-383-4412 or the Child, Youth, and Family Centres in both Sooke dialogueandresolutionservices.ca. and the West Shore and can be reached at 250217-9243. Additional information can be accessed at sfrs.ca/early-years-centre.

FAMILY SERVICES OF GREATER VICTORIA

Family Services of Greater Victoria (formerly BC Families in Transition) is a non profit agency that has been serving families since 1978. We provide a full range of services to the whole family in supporting their relationship and through separation and divorce. Counseling, mediation, legal information and a range of group programs are available for

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

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Come see how

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Enroll between 2/1/19 and 2/28/19 to waive the Enrollment Fee of up to $50. The Enrollment Fee includes services such as processing, student evaluation and lesson plan development. Enrollment Fee waiver only valid at participating Kumon Math & Reading Centres. Most Kumon Centres are independently owned and operated. Additional fees may apply. See centre for applicable terms and conditions. Š2019 Kumon Canada, Inc. All rights reserved.

IslandParent.ca

February 2019  43

The Importance of Friendship

F

ebruary is celebrated as the month of love. Pink and red hearts and roses are proudly displayed everywhere.

But romantic gestures are not the only thing celebrated this month. Just a few days before Valentine’s Day there is a lesser known, but, in my opinion, much more important special occasion: Make a Friend Day. Friendship is truly special and important.

Friends are there to comfort you when life is hard. They are there to share in your joy and happiness. Friends help you develop your social skill and learn about boundaries and compromise. They’ll give you a reality check if need be, but will also encourage you to follow your dreams. Studies show that having a few good friends helps you stay healthier, live longer, and have a higher sense of self-worth and confidence.

Even though we know friends are a gift, and absolutely wonderful to have, sometimes it can be scary to make new friends.

Especially if you’ve recently moved to a new place, or if your potential new friend looks, acts or sounds different than you.

It’s no coincidence that the theme of friendship appears in so many books and why I believe Make a Friend Day is a great day to acknowledge and celebrate.

tance of friendship. When Miss Marcella Mink created her own company—a cruise company for cat lovers and their furry companions—she became so busy that she no longer had time for herself or her friends. So she turned to her 67 feline companions for advice. From them she learned 20 tidbits to help her find herself again, become happier Woodson and illustrated by Rafael López and strengthen friendships. For ages 4 to 8. (Nancy Paulson Books, 2018), addresses children’s concerns about making new friends when they look and act different from each other. Woodson explains that it’s “not easy to take the first steps into a place where no one knows you yet,” and the illustrations of the different children in her book show just how nervous and worried the kids are when they aren’t as athletic or wealthy as the other kids. But the children try, and because they try, they open themselves up to a world of possibilities and friendships. For ages 5 to 8.

Sometimes the thing that makes you stick out is your name. In Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal (Candlewick Press, 2018), Alma learns why her father called her Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela—a name that she thinks is way too long.

So her father tells her the stories behind each of her names, and asks her if she still Sometimes the reason you need to make doesn’t think it fits. Then he tells her she can new friends is because you have moved to a add her own story to her name, and asks new place. If your children find themselves what story she wants that to be. Just like in this spot, they might like to read Megabat Alma’s father, author Martinez-Neal asks

by Anna Humphrey and illustrated by Kass readers “What is the story of your name?”

Reich (Tundra, 2018) to remind themselves that new friends can be found in the most unlikely places.

In this book, Daniel and his family have moved to a new city, and he is about to begin a new school without his two best friends.

As he is struggling to come to terms with this, he meets Megabat, the talking fruit bat who lives in his room far away from his jungle home. The two unlikely friends bond over food and Star Wars. For ages 7 to 10.

No matter why you are making new Life Lessons for a Cat Countess by Janet friends, it can be intimidating to talk to new Hill (Tundra, 2019) explores the impor- people. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline 44 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

and “What story would you like it to tell?” at the end of the book. If your children decide to follow Woodson’s advice and introduce themselves by telling their story, then maybe they can use these questions to help guide their words and conversation.

It doesn’t take much to get a friendship sparked. For ages 4 to 8.

Neurofeedback brain training is a natural, safe, and non-invasive technology that promotes improvements in performance, attention, sleep, emotional well-being, and more.

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Christina Van Starkenburg Book Nook Finally, when you have good friends problems can still come up. In Too Much!

Not Enough! by Gina Perry (Tundra Books, 2018) two monsters are constantly fighting over the amount of toys they have, noise they can make, food they can eat, and pictures they can paint. Moe is easily overwhelmed and thinks everything is too much. Peanut loves to live life loudly and with as much energy as possible. But if these best friends are going to be able to live together they have to learn to appreciate each other’s differences. This cute book will help friends learn that it’s okay to be different and like different types of things, because that doesn’t mean they can’t be friends anymore.

For ages 3 to 7.

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Christina Van Starkenburg is a freelance writer and mother of two young boys. You can read about their adventures at thebookandbaby. com.

IslandParent.ca

February 2019 45

HPV Vaccine Q&A What parents need to know Healthy Families, Happy Families

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

“H

elp! Tell me what I need to know about HPV…” This is a common question most Public Health Nurses have heard from parents making choices about vaccines for their children. As many people know, Public Health Nurses are well versed in vaccine knowledge. Connecting with a Public Health Nurse at your local health unit can help you navigate the immunization path and sort through all the research you’ve done on your own in order to make an informed choice for your child. Your home health unit can be located by visiting the Island Health Website.

In this information age, many parents like to look up information online. With so much out there, it is best to look at Canadian-based websites such as Immunize BC, BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) and the Canadian Cancer Society for more information about HPV. Some of the most common questions Health Nurses hear are:

250-519-5311 250-539-3099

(toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

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

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

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

Port Alberni Tofino

250-731-1315 250-725-4020

250-947-8242

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

viha.ca/prevention_services/ 46 Island Parent Magazine

What is HPV? HPV stands for human papilloma virus, and is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections.

How common is HPV? 75 per cent of Canadians will get HPV at some point in their lives.

Is HPV vaccine only for girls?

No, the vaccine can prevent HPV related cancers in both males and females.

Why is HPV vaccine offered in Grade 6?

• For best protection, the vaccine is given when it is unlikely that the child has been exposed to the virus. The immune system of a preteen responds better to the vaccine than older teens.

How many doses are needed?

Healthy children 9 – 14 years of age need 2 doses 6 months apart.

Healthy children 15 years and older need 3 doses given over a 6-month period.

Are HPV vaccines safe?

Yes, HPV vaccines are safe. Vaccines are

approved for use in Canada only if they meet very strict standards for safety and effectiveness. The benefits of protection from the vaccine outweigh the very small risks associated with vaccination.

Is HPV vaccine free?

The HPV9 vaccine has protection against nine strains of the HPV virus and is provided free to: • Girls and boys in grade 6 • Females born in 1994 or later who were not immunized at school or didn’t receive their entire a complete series of doses can also get the HPV9 vaccine • Individuals 9 – 26 years of age who meet any of the following criteria: HIV positive, transgender, males who have sex with males, or males who are street involved • Males 9 – 18 years who are in the care of Ministry of children and family Development, or in youth custody service centres • For a complete list visit HealthLinkBC File Number 101b at healthlinkbc.ca

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What protection does HPV vaccine offer?

The vaccine prevents almost a 100 per cent of cases of cervical cancers caused by the HPV types in the vaccine.

• 78 per cent of cases of anal cancers in men caused by the main two types of HPV are in the HPV9 vaccine

Nina Knock CH I LD YO UT H & FA MILY P U B L IC H E A LT H

Happy Families, Healthy Families

• 25 per cent – 35 per cent of mouth and throat cancers related to HPV • Over 90per cent of genital warts are prevented • 40 – 50 per cent of penile cancers are prevented What are the expected side effects?

Common reactions to the vaccine may include soreness, redness and swelling where the vaccine was given. Fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle or joint pain may also occur. Reactions usually resolve within 48 hours.

What happens if I get infected with HPV? Most people with HPV do not show signs or symptoms and can pass the virus on to others without knowing it. Some HPV infections will clear on their own; others can lead to cancers over time.

Where can I get the HPV vaccine?

For those that are eligible for publiclyfunded vaccine, HPV9 is available through your local health unit. For those who are not eligible for free vaccine it is available at most travel health clinics and pharmacies for purchase.

Who should not get the HPV vaccine?

Speak with your public health nurse if you or your child has had a life threatening reaction to a previous dose of HPV vaccine, or component of the vaccine including yeast.

Who should I talk to if I still have questions?

• Public Health Nurses at your local health unit can assist you if you have questions. To find your local health unit, visit the Island health website at islandhealth.ca.

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February 2019 47

PRESCHOOL & CHILD CARE Directory If you’d like to be listed in the Preschool & Child Care Directory, please email sales@islandparent.ca COLWOOD/LANGFORD

Licenced group childcare for children ages 12 months to 5 years old. Open 6:30am-5:30pm.

Leap Forward Dance School offers weekday and Saturday dance classes for children ages 2 and up.

2758 Peatt Road, Langford

Recreation Oak Bay.................................250-370-7200 Fully licensed, ECE Daycare, Preschool and Nature Preschool.

Play based, child led learning. Afterschool care available.

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

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

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We have recently expanded to our new Spirit bear Lodge located right next door!

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250-590-3603

www.leapforwardlangford.com

Coastline Montessori Childcare............... 250-881-6318 Experience an educational hands on learning environment for infants, toddlers and preschool age. Half-day program offered. Located in Langford off Latoria Rd. coastlinemontessori@shaw.ca.

METCHOSIN

CORDOVA BAY

West-Mont Montessori School.................250-474-2626 Exceptional preschool Montessori instruction in a beautiful natural environment. Ages 30 months and up. Providing a balanced approach to incorporating French, Music, Art and Nature. Stop by and experience what it is like to be part of a community devoted to the development of the whole child.

Open House: Thursdays 9-11 am. west-mont.ca.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Play Explore Learn and Grow in beautiful rural Metchosin.

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

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

OAK BAY Emmanuel Preschool.............................. 250-598-0573 Children learn through play in our non-denominational Christian preschool near UVic. Bright attractive setting. emmanuelpreschool.ca.

Gonzales Co-op Preschool....................... 250-727-1003 Children use imaginations in a Learning through Play classroom and natural playground. Reggio-Emilia inspired, focus is on art, nature and music. Nurturing, highly qualified ECE and ECE assistant. Parent participation options. Allergy aware. gonzalescooppreschool.com.

• Licensed 2.5 hr and 4 hr programs, flexible part-time classes • Qualified ECEs offer play-based programs that stimulate curiosity and imagination and support optimum growth and development. Supported spaces available.

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

Fullobeans.ca 250-360-1148 saanichneighbourhoodplace.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taking care of children? Need child care training?

Child Care

Resource & Referral Funded by the Province of BC

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

48 Island Parent Magazine

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

Victoria & Gulf Islands: 250-382-7000 or 1-800-750-1868 Sooke: 250-642-5152 West Shore: 250-391-4324 Cowichan Valley: 250-746-4135 local 231 PacificCare (Ladysmith north): 250-756-2022 or 1-888-480-2273

vancouverislandccrr.ca ccrr.bc.ca

IslandParent.ca

Pre-School Junior Kindergarten PacificChristian.ca 250-479-4532 Educational Excellence to the Glory of God Wiseways Preschool & Daycare........... 250-477-1312 Established, quality, licensed, Christian centre for 3-5 year olds. Experienced ECEs, cheerful spacious facilities, large playground. Subsidized fees welcome. Call for a tour. Wisewaysvictoria.com.

VICTORIA

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

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

View Royal Childcare...............................250-479-8067 Preschool structured, high quality childcare. Victoria Conservatory of Music classes. Part time spaces available. 2.5-5year olds. viewroyalpreschool@live.com.

View Royal Preschool..............................250-479-8067 Exciting inclusive program in a safe and exceptional care environment. 3-5 year olds. Outside play and themes enrich this program. Full/part-time spaces available. viewroyalpreschool.com.

DUNCAN

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

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

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

NANAIMO

ASPENGROVE SCHOOL

Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12

v Comprehensive programs for Preschool through Grade 8 v Delivering academic excellence through music, dance, drama and visual arts v Outstanding educators, locations and facilities

Learn more today!

250-390-2201 AspengroveSchool.ca

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

www.ArtsCalibre.ca 250.382.3533 Castleview Child Care............................. 250-595-5355 Learning Through Play & Discovery. Licensed non-profit, ECE staff. Since 1958. Morning or full-time care. castleviewchildcarecentre.com.

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

Christ Church Cathedral Childcare and Junior Kindergarten.......................... 250-383-5132 ECE and Specialist teachers provide an outstanding all-day, licensed program for 3–5 year olds. Spacious, renovated facility with a huge backyard in Fairfield. cathedralschool.ca.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Little Star Children’s Centre.....................250-752-4554 Mother, Daughter owned and operated. Earth friendly preschool education inspired by nature. Infused with fun and creative daily yoga practices! Licensed group care.

Enthusiastic ECE instructors. littlestardaycare.ca

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

Rainbow Express Daycare....................... 250-382-2314 A nurturing environment for children to learn through play and discovery in a natural setting. ECEs and specialist teachers. rainbowexpressdaycare.com. Close to city centre.

Ross Bay Preschool.................................250-383-7445 Our positive and supportive program motivates children to learn, discover and grow through play. Contact us for a tour of our little blue school!

The Sir James Douglas Playschool.......... 250-389-0500 Fun, creative and educational ECE program for 3-5 year olds to grow and develop life long skills. Come play and learn in our bright and modern centre in Fairfield.

Victoria Montessori................................ 250-380-0534 Unique, innovative learning environment combining the best of Montessori and Learning Through Play. Open yr. round.

30mths–K. victoriamontessori.com.

IslandParent.ca

February 2019 49

Community Board Making our Community a Better Place to Live Art Gallery of Greater Victoria aggv.ca Child Care Resource & Referral childcarevictoria.ca The Civic Orchestra of Victoria civicorchestraofvictoria.org

Who Hoots for You? I f you’re out for a walk in the woods and hear what sounds like someone asking “Who cooks for you?” chances are it’s not coming from a curious chef, it’s coming from a barred owl.

The barred owl call sounds like “Who cooks for you? Who cooks for youuu?” which is a strange question to hear while walking around the forest. I always feel like responding back “Well, who cooks for you?” but of course, not much cooking is involved with a meal for an owl!

Owls don’t have the luxury of a barbecue or oven. They don’t even have a fridge. Instead, they eat rodents, birds, fish, reptiles, amphibians, or invertebrates—a veritable smorgasbord. You may even find the left-

(maybe chatting about cooking tips?). Owls have one of the few birdcalls I can hear as I’m hard of hearing and can’t catch the high-pitched sounds of most birds. This is really a blessing, though, since I’m a night owl (sorry) and waking up to the chatter of birds in the morning would be noisy.

It’s no wonder we can refer to ourselves as night owls—most owls are nocturnal.

They roost on branches or in wildlife tree cavities during the day and hunt at night.

But how do owls hunt at night? It’s dark, it’s quiet, and any noise an owl might make would alert its prey to hide from danger.

Fortunately for owls, they have some stealthy adaptations to night hunting. The soft, comb-like edges of their wings dampen

overs scattered on the ground around a tree. As owls can’t digest fur, feathers, or bones, they cough those up in the form of a pellet. Pellets are a neat way to tell what the owl had for a meal.

I’ve been amazed by owls ever since I was young. As a child, I would hear the calls of two great horned owls outside my bedroom window and wonder what they were saying

the sound of the air flowing over their feathers, giving them silent flight. Other birds make a swish, swish, swish noise with their wings—or so I’ve been told—but owls glide on their silent wings.

Owls also have very large eyes. If our eyes were the same size, as far as the bodyto-eye ratio goes, they would be the size of baseballs! The bigger your eye, the more

Joe Music joemusic.ca Lori Frank Mediation & Consulting lorifrankmediation.com Phoenix Theatre phoenixtheatres.ca Royal BC Museum royalbcmuseum.bc.ca Victoria Children’s Choir VictoriaChildrensChoir.ca Victoria Conservatory of Music vcm.bc.ca Enquire about non-profit brochure or magazine distribution in Greater Victoria:

publisher@islandparent.ca 50 Island Parent Magazine

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light it can let in, which means better sight at night. Plus, owl eyes have densely-packed light-sensitive cells in their retina, while we only have these cells around the outside edges of our eyes.

Owls also have a mirror at the back of their eye, a tapetum lucidum, in technical terms. This mirror allows light to reflect back at the rods, giving the owl a second chance at catching light. If you’ve ever been walking at night with a flashlight and seen two eyes glowing at you from the bushes, it’s an animal with a tapetum lucidum. We don’t have them since the mirror would make our daytime vision blurry.

Lauren Sherwood Nature Notes Their large eyes are also the reason why owls can move their heads almost 270 degrees. If our eyes were the size of baseballs, they would be very difficult to hold in our skulls. Owls have boney rings to hold their eyes in, but this means they can’t move their eyeballs around like we do. For owls to see what’s around them, they have to turn their whole head.

This turning of the head also helps owls have amazing hearing. With their diskshaped face, sound is captured and channeled to their ears. Their ears are on either side of their head—like us—but they have one ear higher than the other. This helps owls to tell where their next meal is in an up-and-down direction. By bobbing their head, they’re triangulating where their prey is exactly.

Owls are truly master hunters of the night and it’s always a treat to see or hear them. If you hear a low “hoo hoo” in the forest, it’ll be the great horned owl, while that distinctive “who cooks for you?” belongs to the barred owl. Both are common to Vancouver Island and live here year-round. Next time you’re out in a regional park, listen closely and maybe you’ll answer the call.

If you’d like to learn more about owls join one of CRD’s guided nature outings suitable for both children and adults.

Lauren Sherwood is a Parks Naturalist with the Capital Regional District. Please visit the website for the calendar of events crd.bc.ca/ about/events IslandParent.ca

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March 25–29

For more information call 250-479-6424

Falcon Gymnastics presents:

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Christ Church Cathedral School VICTORIA’S ANGLICAN SCHOOL FOR JR. K – GRADE 8

cathedralschool.ca | 912 Vancouver Street | 250 - 383 - 5125 February 2019 51

Getting to Goodbyes W

hen I drop Angus off at school, I stay with him until carpet time—I sit at the edge of the circle and leave after the first song. He stands when I do and gives me a hug, then a kiss, then a “nosey,” our noses brushed quickly against each other. Then he says “I love you” and I repeat this. Sometimes this is all it takes. Other times he follows me to the classroom door, worried that a step was forgotten or that the sequencing was wrong. Did we do everything? Am I “infinity sure”? Maybe, to be safe, we should repeat it.

Returning to school after winter break was difficult for Angus. Two weeks of LEGO and books by the fire (and math; we never abandon math), and Angus was quite ready to adopt that routine for the long haul.

Math at the kitchen table in pyjamas is still math, but more appealing than math at a desk in a noisy classroom.

That first day back—and the second, and third, and etcetera—did not go smoothly. There were tears. There was screaming. There was the necessity of added steps: kisses tucked in all four pockets, then waves at the window of the main door. Waves while he was scream-

ing, bucking in the arms of his assistant, and I was walking down the front stairs, wondering what was worse: a long drawnout goodbye (which made the inevitable leaving potentially louder) or striding down the stairs with purpose, not looking back (impossible even if recommended).

Angus has a hard time with good-byes, in all their forms. When playdates at friends’ houses wind down, the departure is never smooth. A friend who knows the protocol, or is reminded of it by a parent, might walk with Angus to the car, stand there until he is buckled in and the door is shut, the window rolled down for a final, contained, good-bye.

But Angus’s friends are seven-year-olds, so this is not the norm. The norm is gleeful hiding, which escalates to more desperate escapes, then thrashing in my arms as I carry him to the car. Occasionally the tears can be interrupted by a reminder of some favourite activity at home—that I will play with him—or the promise of an impromptu trip to the library. Essentially, bribes.

When Super Granny leaves our house, Angus must stand at the door and wave.

If he walks away, seemingly skipping this step, I cannot celebrate this small success and think: “maybe he’s being flexible.”

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This is experience speaking. Experience of me calling Super Granny and making her drive back to our house so there could be waving instead of a continued meltdown.

When Mike or I drive away, we must blow kisses. Then we must catch the kisses blown back to us and put them in our pockets. We must wave, then “queen wave� with cupped hands, then wave with a single finger, then sign “I love you,� then give the thumbs up to signal that the whole routine is completed.

Laura Trunkey Maternity & Beyond I am certain it was Mike who introduced the finger wave and the signing—one day the routine ballooned and I was expected to know it. I was, let’s just say, “unimpressed.�

I was probably as unimpressed as Mike was when I made the mistake of tucking extra kisses in Angus’s suspenders during a particularly tear-filled goodbye. Of course this is now necessary if suspenders are part of the equation.

Sometimes I think I should work hard to extinguish Angus’s routines. I should stop doing them and deal with the meltdowns until he finally accepts less detailed procedures. Maybe smooth good-byes should be my top priority. Until a goodbye is a hug only or a wave from the car. But there are other things to work on that seem to nudge this one out. There are simply not enough hours in the day, or gas in the tank, to devote myself to everything that I want to, or feel I should.

A friend recently told me to remember that one day everything that is now looming in front of me will appear in the rearview.

Angus will not be 20 needing goodbye nose kisses in front of his university classroom.

He will likely not require this in middle school either (please!). But he does now, and it’s easier for both of us if it happens.

To Angus, who I’m sure will have swiped Island Parent from the pile at Thrifty’s and flipped immediately to this article: hug, kiss, nosey, “I love you.� And an extra kiss tucked in your pocket, just to be safe.

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

IslandParent.ca

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ADVERTISERS Directory Arbutus Grove.................................................... IFC Arc Academy of Inquiry..................................... 37 ArtsCalibre Academy.........................................33 Aspengrove School............................................27 Brentwood College.............................................41 Cathedral School..................................................51 Cinecenta..............................................................52 Dialogue & Resolution Services.....................32 Discovery School.................................................14 Duncan Christian School..................................33 Eagle Creek Village Dental..............................27 Falcon Gymnastics...............................................51 Freya Sofia Waldorf Store................................. 37 Glenlyon Norfolk School.............................18, 36 Highland Pacific...................................................35 Humeira Studios..................................................22 IMAX......................................................................IBC International Montessori..................................... 11 Island Catholic..................................................... BC Island Montessori.................................................13 Kaleidoscope......................................................IBC Kool & Child...........................................................51 Kumon Canada....................................................43 Lifestyles.................................................................12 MacDonald Realty...............................................22 Mad Science.........................................................26 Making Tomorrow Early Years Conference.......................................................34 Momease............................................................. IFC Mothering Touch....................................................7 NeurAlive Neurofeedback Centre................45

NIL TU,O................................................................... 11 Oak and Orca......................................... 12, 34, 52 Pacific Christian..................................................IBC Pacific Opera...........................................................7 Royal BC Museum.........................................13, 39 Saanich Dental.....................................................35 Saanich Recreation............................................... 3 Serious Coffee.....................................................53 St. Margarets..........................................................15 St. Michael’s University School.......................45 Stages................................................................17, 47 Sunrise Waldorf.................................................. IFC Sutubra....................................................................31 Swan Lake.............................................................24 Sylvan Learning..................................................... 9 Theatre One..........................................................16 Thrifty Foods.........................................................29 Tillicum Town Centre........................................ IFC TJ’s The Kiddie Store......................................... 47 Tom Lee..................................................................45 Torchlight Counselling.......................................38 Vancouver Island Parent Conference..........23 Victoria Academy of Ballet................................16 Victoria Bug Zoo..................................................30 Victoria Montessori.............................................26 Victoria Symphony...............................................21 Victoria Synchro..................................................30 VIHA........................................................................46 Westmont Montessori........................................30 Westshore Dental.................................................. 5 Westshore Parks and Recreation...................28

February 2019  53

Now, you may not expect this from a two-year-old, but as your child reaches four, it could be a reasonable expectation. Expectations expand as your child matures.

Point out the needs of others, “People parents often swing over to a more permis- like to relax and enjoy their meals when sive, chaotic position—of course all with they eat out. Yelling disturbs them.” the best of intentions. Now we have anxiety about being a mean parent and crushing our kid’s spirit. Having clear boundaries is not being mean and kids will have much better relationships with people now and in their future if we can figure this out.

Cut It Out! What to do? Think about the limits that matter in your home. Most of the important ones have to do with responsibility, respect for other beings and safety. As children Instead of feeling sorry for your child— mature, we expect more from them. We “Oh, you poor thing!”—show faith that state boundaries regarding our needs and your child can handle some frustration. values which teaches them kindness and “You felt excluded today with your friend. regard.

What ideas do you have to deal with this?”

Requests can be stated clearly with Show up with confidence and watch choices attached. “We need to leave the your child grow. house at 8 a.m. tomorrow. What could this look like?”

State your needs, “I’d like to finish my LIFE Seminars has two books available, Sideconversation with your dad, please wait stepping the Power Struggle and The Parent for two minutes.”

Child Connection. See lifeseminars.com.

Be the Authority A uthority over yourself is commonly referred to as authoritative parenting. This means that you can be clear with expectations and boundaries without sounding uncertain. Kids do not need to feel your self-doubt and if you put it out there, they will go along with you and doubt you, too.

Many parents have a pleading tone when they ask their children to do something.

Pleading doesn’t get the attention you want and when that happens your pleading will most certainly turn into annoyance and then anger. Oops, now your stuck in the cycle: getting angry, feeling guilty, trying to be nicer, doing more pleading and getting annoyed all over again. This is not good for your kids and not great for your confidence or self-regard.

What this doesn’t mean is being authoritarian and disrespecting kids. That old-school method of parenting doesn’t work today. In an attempt to change this,

Allison Rees

Cover Photo Contest Send us your most memorable photo of your kids or family enjoying summer on Vancouver Island. It may be featured on this years Family Summer Guide or Kids’ Guide.

Grand Prize: A Flying Squirrel Bounce Party for 10 ($335 value). Includes 2 hours of jumping, pizza, water and a reserved table for 10.

Honourable Mentions: 2 IMAX Tickets • Only digital submissions will be accepted.

• Send a maximum of three photos, medium or high resolution (preferably 2–3MB).

• Photos must be colour shots of children or families in Vancouver Island locations.

• Contest is open to Vancouver Island residents only.

• No professional photographers, please.

• Entry deadline is Monday, April 2, 2018.

• Winners will be notified by email by Wednesday, May 15.

• Winning photos become the property of Island Parent Magazine.

Send entries to photos@islandparent.ca 54 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Looking for something to do with the kids?

Opens Feb 15, 2019

Located inside the Royal BC Museum • 250-480-4887 • imaxvictoria.com IMAX® is a registered trademark of IMAX Corporation.

a whole world to explore PACIFIC CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 654 Agnes St, Victoria, BC 250-479-4532 www.PacificChristian.ca

Come and explore with us!

Island Catholic Schools Catholic Education on Vancouver Island is a system rich in tradition and history dating back to the mid-nineteenth century. Island Catholic Schools is a dynamic community of schools having a strong reputation for academic excellence, instilling Catholic values and building community. We are committed to educating the “whole” child in a Christ-centered community of learning.

St. Joseph’s

(Pre-K to Grade 7) 757 W Burnside Rd, Victoria 250-479-1232 www.stjosephschool.ca Open House: Monday, Feb 4, 1–3pm

St. Patrick’s School

(Pre-K to Grade 7) 2368 Trent St, Victoria 250-592-6713 www.stpatrickselem.ca Open House Classes in Session: Tuesday, Feb 5, 9am–2pm STEM Showcase: Tuesday, Feb 5, 5:30–7pm

St. Andrew’s Regional High School

(Grade 8–12) 880 McKenzie Ave, Victoria 250-479-1414 www.standrewshigh.ca Open House: Thursday, Feb 7, 6:30–8:30pm

Queen of Angels

(Pre-K to Grade 9) 2085 Maple Bay Rd, Duncan 250-746-5919 www.queenofangels.ca Open House: Tuesday, Feb 5, 1–4pm Kindergarten Information Session: Tuesday, Feb 5, 4–5pm

St. John Paul II

(Pre-K to Grade 8) 4006 8th Ave, Port Alberni 250-723-0637 www.jp2nd.ca Talent Show & Pot Luck Dinner: Friday, Feb 8, 6–8:30pm Ready Set Learn Event: Friday, Apr 5, 3:30–5pm

Call today for registration information K to 12, Pre-school, Day Care, Out of School Care for September 2019

250-727-6893 or visit cisdv.bc.ca