Join us for a family countdown, ball drop, and bubble dance party every hour 10 am - 4 pm!
Ring in the New Year early! Join us for a family countdown, ball drop, and bubble dance party every hour 10 am - 4 pm!
Jan. 17 – 20, 2025
Jan. 17 – 20, 2025
• Try your hand at “Ice Fishing”
• Try your hand at “Ice Fishing”
• Skate indoors in your socks
• Skate indoors in your socks
• Explore the magic of the Northern Lights in our Arctic light & shadow room
• Explore the magic of the Northern Lights in our Arctic light & shadow room
• Silkscreen a print or a one-ofa-kind keepsake on Jan. 18 & 19 (free and additional fee options available)
• Silkscreen a print or a one-ofa-kind keepsake on Jan. 18 & 19 (free and additional fee options available)
Learning from Our Kids
We tend to think of learning as a top-down process. It’s understandable because when our kids are born, they depend on us for absolutely everything. They are completely helpless beings who cannot survive without us feeding, clothing, cleaning and sheltering them.
As they get grow from babies to toddlers, we teach them to roll over, sit up, stand, walk, talk and eat… Every basic function must be passed down from us to them.
So, it’s no wonder we tend to think that learning only goes in one direction (from parent to child) even as they move into elementary, middle school and high school.
However, if we stop to think, it will become very clear that (more often than we care to admit) it is our children teaching us something new.
I can’t tell you the number of times I have had to ask my 10-year-old how to do something on my phone. My seven-yearold is already coding his own video games, while I still struggle to use Excel.
But it is not just technology, kids often know more about conservation and recycling, self-care and mental health, and compassion and empathy than we do.
Felix Townsin, a 14-year-old Victoria teen who has created the A Million Acts of Love initiative and raised thousands of dollars for medical research in honour of his late sister, is just one example of a youth we can all learn from.
Children can have fun without spending a ton of money, they know to forgive themselves and others if they make a mistake, and they have an innate sense of activism that motivates them to stand up for what they believe in.
So, the next time your child tries to teach you something, listen, take in the lesson and thank them for sharing because the flow of knowledge goes both ways, and we can all learn a little something from our kids.
– Stacie Gaetz
Bellamy, 1 year old Port Alberni
Nanaimo Art Gallery’s
Teen Drop In
Teens between the ages of 12 and 17 are invited to drop into the Nanaimo Art Gallery on Wednesday afternoons between 3:30 and 6:30pm to create in a fun, relaxed environment. Use the studio’s supplies for your own projects or follow along to create something with the gallery facilitator or guest artists. Get your low-cost punch card or annual pass or pay per visit. nanaimoartgallery.ca
The Gift of the Nutcracker
One of the most beloved performances, The Gift of the Nutcracker, is proudly performed by Ballet Victoria from December 28 to 30. The Royal Theatre is the perfect venue to hear Tchaikovsky’s score being performed by the Victoria Symphony while being enchanted by the timeless tale and beautiful scenes. rmts.bc.ca
Gingerbread Showcase
Until January 5, visit the Hotel Grand Pacific in downtown Victoria to view some amazing amateur and professional gingerbread creations. This yearly fundraiser benefits Habitat for Humanity and is a mustsee for all who love to view the wonderful gingerbread designs and vote for their favourite. habitatvictoria.com
Big Worries, Strong Spirit
Big Worries, Strong Spirit is a nocost telephone and computer-based support program for BC parents/ caregivers whose children (aged three to 12) are experiencing mild to moderate worries or anxiety. Most of the professional team are Indigenous and provide support using Indigenous perspectives along with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. welcome.cmhacptk.ca
Play Kits
Play Cowichan and Island Savings Credit Union are passionate about physical literacy—and have created Play Kits you can borrow from your local Cowichan-area recreation centre. Each kit provides a variety of equipment, information about physical literacy and a series of structured activities for your family to enjoy. Pick yours up today! cvrd.ca
Victoria Teen Leads Global Kindness Movement
Felix Townsin, a 14-year-old student at Royal Bay Secondary School in Victoria, is not your average teenager.
Townsin’s advocacy journey began when he was only five years old, writing a book called Don’t Floss Your Toes: Advice from a 5-Year-Old that raised more than $75,000 for medical research.
Inspired by his sister Lexi, who passed away five years ago from the rare disease Blau syndrome, Townsin wrote the book to raise awareness and funds for his sister’s condition.
“Lexi was just two years old at the time and in so much pain,” he says.
“I desperately wanted to help her but felt powerless. I used to pretend to be a doctor and make up cures, but as I got older, I realized that helping her would take more than pretend remedies. I saw my dad writing books and selling them and thought that maybe I could do that for a fundraiser and to raise awareness to find someone who could help my sister. Writing Don’t Floss Your Toes made me feel like I was doing something to help Lexi.”
Blau syndrome is an inflammatory disorder that primarily affects the skin, joints and eyes. Signs and symptoms begin in childhood, usually before age four. Lexi was diagnosed with the disease in 2013 and died in 2019.
Townsin has dedicated his young life to advocating on behalf of children like his sister. He travelled to Kansas City this fall, where he was a guest speaker at one of the world’s largest rare disease advocacy gatherings. Felix has also presented at
medical conferences across Europe and is preparing for another talk in Australia.
A Million Acts of Love
Townsin is expanding his efforts far beyond rare disease advocacy with the launch of his global kindness movement, A Million Acts of Love.
Townsin’s vision is to unite people globally to take meaningful action on causes they care about and inspire one million acts of kindness by December 16—what would have been Lexi’s 12th birthday.
A Million Acts of Love encourages people to focus on the causes that matter most to them while recognizing the collective power of community action to change the world.
“Lexi was the most loving and giving person I knew, and I can’t think of a better gift for her than a million acts of love for the world—that’s exactly the kind of selfless gift she would want. We’re uniting people to tackle the world’s challenges together,” says Townsin.
“Whether it’s feeding people in need, helping animals or simply bringing a smile to someone’s face, each act counts. This campaign isn’t just about words—it’s about taking action.”
One recent participant in the movement, a child even younger than Felix, demonstrated this spirit by handing out 50 sandwiches with their parent in downtown Victoria. In the same week, another participant in India bought meals for 50 children.
Photos:
Trish
Glab
Photography
“That’s 50 acts of love each,” Townsin says. “These stories show how anyone, anywhere, can make a difference.”
Concert Kick Off
The campaign was officially launched in Victoria on October 18 at a benefit concert featuring top musical artists, including Leeroy Stagger, Caleb Hart, Daniel Lapp, the BC Fiddle Orchestra and 13-year-old sensation Chase Varnes, all donating their time to help Felix reach his goal.
The event raised an impressive $15,000 to support A Million Acts of Love grants, providing resources for young changemakers.
“A Million Acts of Love grants support young changemakers to start their own social initiatives,” says Townsin.
“The grants are open to kids ages six to 18 who want to make a positive impact in their communities, whether it’s starting a neighbourhood kindness project or tackling a bigger global issue. They may even want to do a legacy project for a loved one, like I have done for Lexi. The grants help kids like me take their first steps in making the world a better place.”
The October 18 event also inspired 20,0000 acts of kindness.
“It’s about creating spaces where people of all ages feel connected, support one another and take responsibility for our shared future,” says Townsin.
“When we put our differences aside and come together, we create a place where everyone can thrive. When kids grow up in this kind of environment, see beyond themselves and are empowered to make a positive impact, they are more likely to flourish.”
To have your acts of love counted toward Felix’s goal or support the grants initiative, visit amillionactsoflove.com.
Stacie Gaetz is the managing editor of Island Parent Magazine and the proud mama of a delightful daughter and silly son who fill her days with love and chaos.
Reach her at editor@islandparent.ca.
Give Yourself Some Credit
How do you learn best? Much to my frustration, I learn best by making mistakes. So, so many mistakes. Parenting has been no different: promoting healthy eating? No luck. Encouraging socialization? Oops! Establishing healthy sleep habits? Wow, that really didn’t work!
I struggle with self-criticism. I see the good in others, but do not give myself credit for achievements or forgiveness for mistakes. Though I have learned a lot through this selfcritical approach, I have not thrived. And so, I am learning a new approach: self-compassion.
Research shows self-compassion is the most effective motivator. As a parent, I offer my children unconditional love, appropriate boundaries, guidance and forgiveness. I want them to grow up in a supportive and caring environment with freedom to make mistakes. So, I wonder, how would my life be different if I was my own supporter and biggest fan? I am excited to learn about self-compassion and start practicing it in my personal life, my professional life and my parenting.
I am hoping you might join me in this journey of selfcompassion, especially those of you who are new parents or have young children.
In my career, I have worked alongside many new parents. Parents with new babies can be self-critical and full of selfdoubt. It breaks my heart to see parents who are full of love for their young children being impossibly critical of themselves.
Let’s take a break. Let’s breathe in and breathe out.
Here is the secret: you’ve got this. Quite simply, all children need is a safe home, food and water, weather-appropriate clothing and love, all things you provide every day.
But what do you need? Maybe a little judgment-free compassion?
Here are my suggestions to help you let go of the selfdoubt and move forward in a healthy way: Notice and be compassionate.
First, notice what feels good.
During your day, what activities do you find nourishing? Do you feel calm and connected when you breast/chest feed your baby? Do you feel cozy and relaxed when you curl up with your toddler to read a story? Do you feel at peace when you sit down for a cup of tea while your preschooler is napping? Do you relish the silence of a quiet house when every -
one is finally asleep? Take a moment to notice these feelings and sensations without judgment. You could even write them down if that is helpful.
Second, notice what does not feel good.
During your day or night, what events are depleting? Are you uncomfortable or in pain when nursing your teething toddler? Are you angry, frustrated and upset when your older child hurts your younger child (or vice versa)? Notice these feelings, again without judgment. Your emotions are what they are. Write them down if you like.
Third, practice self-compassion.
At the end of the day, when you are feeling tired and spent, try this: Quickly review when you felt nourished and when you felt depleted. If you like, you can also share these with a partner, family member, friend, counsellor or other health professional. Then, think of five things you are happy about, feel good about or are proud of. This may take some practice, so start small. During the process, imagine you are talking to a close friend—be supportive and encouraging.
Here are some examples to start you off:
• Be pleased that you caringly fed your baby multiple times during the day, allowing them to develop and grow.
• Be proud that you helped your toddler through one (of many) challenging emotional moments.
• Be impressed that you showered today!
• Feel connected as you text a friend.
This is not about being happy all the time or being calm at every moment of your life. It is about learning to feel all your human emotions without judgment, learning to notice those emotions, and learning to give yourself credit for the many things you spend time on during the day.
Self-compassion, try it for a day. And if it works for you … try again another day!
Keely Kastrukoff, RN(C), IBCLC, is a registered nurse and internationally board-certified lactation consultant. She and her husband are proud parents of two amazing adolescents. Keely is the proprietor of Sunflower Lactation Consulting. She is passionate about supporting families to meet their infant feeding goals and to chart their own parenting journey.
Gaming Through the Ages
Ican thank my 16-year-old son for my tabletop gaming hobby (obsession?). Sure, I played board games growing up, including the usual classics like Monopoly, Battleship and Risk, as well as Dungeons & Dragons in my high school years, but then I lost track of them for a while in adulthood.
When my son started school, I met several other friendly dads at the schoolyard during drop off/pickup who were keen board gamers. They invited me to join their gaming sessions, and since then, tabletop gaming has become a big part of my life.
As our kids grew, our gaming interest rubbed off on them. At younger ages, they couldn’t play the more complex games their dads enjoyed, but we were able to find some interesting games that worked for all ages.
A board game café in downtown Victoria gave us a great option for PD Days or rainy Saturdays. We’d order grilled cheese sandwiches while the kids picked a game to try off the shelves, and the dads could sip Americanos as we whiled away the hours.
Tabletop board games are not only fun, but they can also be a great learning tool for kids, bolstering problem-solving strategies, exercising math muscles, developing negotiation skills and encouraging socializing. And in this digital age, it’s also a great way to keep kids off their devices.
Here are some suggestions for tabletop games to try at different ages.
Younger Ages (6–9)
Catan Junior. A good intro to the game that kicked off the modern board game craze; players vie to be the first to control seven pirate hideouts.
Stratego. An oldie but a goodie that I played when I was a kid; two players face off across a battlefield trying to capture your opponent’s flag before they find yours.
Sushi Go. A fun card game themed on sushi ingredients; this is a good intro to more advanced games that use the “draft and pass” card mechanism.
Tweens (9–13)
Many of these games can work for younger kids with some parental assistance.
Azul. Collect mosaic tiles to place them in patterns on your gameboard and score points.
Carcassonne. A family favourite that can be made more complex with expansions. Players create a map together, scoring points by building cities, roads and farms.
Cascadia. Designed in the Pacific Northwest, this beautiful game asks players to place different wildlife tokens and terrain tiles to build an ecological preserve.
Catan. Released in 1995, this modern classic still holds up today. Collect resources, and trade and negotiate with others
Joe Wiebe writes about arts and culture, sports, business, beer and travel. His book, Craft Beer Revolution: The Insider’s Guide to B.C. Breweries was named a BC bestseller. He is an avid cyclist and board gamer who lives in Victoria with his wife and son.
around the table to build settlements and cities on the island of Catan.
That’s Pretty Clever. A deceptively simple series of dice games where each coloured dice can be scored in a different way. These games are great for ferry rides or airport waits.
Codenames. Played by teams of two who communicate through one-word hints to determine which cards represent their own team of spies without revealing the assassin.
Flamme Rouge. Ideal for cyclists, this bicycle racing game recreates the Tour de France on your tabletop.
Saboteur. Ideal for a larger group, players are either dwarven miners or saboteurs who must hide their identity while they dig tunnels towards gold deposits.
Ticket to Ride. One of the best games to be played by folks of all ages and gamer levels, players build train routes across a map of North America or Europe, making it ideal for kids who are into geography.
Wingspan. This is one of the most beautifully designed games out there. Draw and place bird cards into three regions on your player board, scoring points based on the birds and in-game challenges.
Easy Holiday Sewing Projects for Kids
The holiday season is here! As parents, we know how valuable it is to spend quality time with our kids. This season, get your kids into the holiday spirit by helping them with these easy sewing projects. Being able to sew is an important skill and it’s easier than you might think!
Starting with small projects is fun and learning basic sewing skills enables kids to make items while adding their own design ideas. It’s easy to learn how to use a needle and thread and kids will be excited to create gifts for their family and friends.
You don’t need large pieces of fabric for these projects. Re-use scraps left over from other projects or fabrics you find in the house such as old pillowcases, out-grown clothing, old tablecloths and recycled fabrics or visit your local fabric store and look for offcuts and remnants, which are often affordable. The only tools you will need are kid-friendly large needles, pins, thread and scissors. Check out YouTube for short tutorials on how to do the running stitch.
Here are three easy holiday sewing projects to try with the kids this season:
December Bunting
Brighten up your house this holiday season with bunting (or banner)! Festive bunting is simple to assemble and can be made from scraps of green, red and white fabrics. Cut out fabric triangles with dimensions of 16cm for the top edge and 22cm for the sides. With a running stitch, stitch two edges of two triangles together. Turn inside out and finish stitching the third seam. Iron the triangles flat. Make as many triangles as you want. Sew your finished triangles onto a long red or green ribbon. Hang the bunting over the stairwell, across windows, on a wall for a party decoration or even over a bed.
Holiday Shopping Bag
Decorate a handy shopping bag with festive cutouts. Find a fabric shopping bag. If there is a logo or decoration on the bag, turn the bag inside out. Cut out large snowflakes from white fabric, holly leaves from green fabric or candy cane shapes from red fabric. Arrange the shapes onto the outside of the bag and pin in place. Then, stitch the shapes to the bag using
a running stitch. Decorate with sequins, beads, fancy buttons or glitter glue.
Snowman Sweater
Find a plain sweater or t-shirt, preferably red or green, that has no logo or design on the front. On white fabric or felt, trace two circles of different sizes. Trace around a tea cup saucer for the smaller circle, then a side plate for the larger circle. Cut out the two circles and stitch them on to the front of the sweater with a running stitch to form the snowman. Add a hat from black fabric, plastic googly eyes (or button eyes) and a nose and smile. Use your imagination for decorating the snowman.
There are many good sewing instruction books for kids at the library. My first Stitching and Sewing Book by Emma Hardy contains excellent easy projects and Stitch-by-Stitch: A Beginners Guide to Needlecraft by Jane Bull is full of useful information and projects. Happy sewing!
Jerri Carson is is a retired SD61 primary school teacher as well as teaching music and choir. She volunteers on the VOS Musical Theatre costume crew, sewing costumes and working back- stage during costume changes.
ForTeens, byTeens
Christmas Activities Your Youth Will Love
The holiday season is upon us! It is a joyful time of the year, filled with Christmas music, adorable sugar cookies, festive drinks and so much more.
However, this is also a season of jam-packed schedules, which can bring on a lot of stress. According to psychologist Sonja Lyubomirsky, connection with other people within our lives is one of the greatest strategies for feeling happier.
After all, the holiday season is not just about gifts, it is a fantastic opportunity to spend more time with family and boost bonds with your children. The challenge is to find an activity that both you and your teen or pre-teen will enjoy. As two teens, aged 16 and 14, we are sharing activities that are certain to bring you both enjoyment and connection this holiday season.
1. Support Local Head out to a holiday market!
Listen to carolling, enjoy hot cocoa, roasted chestnuts or other seasonal treats.
Take photos together with beautifully decorated Christmas trees, as well as pick up a gift or two for loved ones and feel good in supporting local vendors.
Chat with your child about current events in both your lives, and what you are looking forward to in the coming year. This is an enjoyable experience, as it allows both you and your teen an opportunity to catch up and make new memories.
2. Cook or Bake
Traditions are an important part of the holiday season. Recall a traditional holiday dish from your childhood or culture. Maybe it is a special dish passed down through generations, or a delicious sugar cookie recipe. Find the joy in creating a tasty treat together with your child and teach them this recipe. Then, enjoy the fruits of your labour (who doesn’t love good food?).
This time of year is about sharing. Pack up a small amount of your culinary delight and drop it off for your neighbours. Giving to others brings a small bit of happiness to the person who receives your delicious dish, as well as to you and your child. Seeing our actions bringing happiness grants us a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction.
3. Take Downtime
Unplug together with a game! Put your phones away and take some time to relax during this busy time of year. Enjoy a board game, card game or active game like tag. Check out our Gift Guide on page 28 for some more great game ideas.
4. Build a Care Kit
Since helping others boosts feelings of purpose and satisfaction, create a care kit. With a budget of $10 to $15 (or whatever you decide), head to a local grocery store and compile a small care kit of necessities. These can include toothpaste, a travel toothbrush, a bar of chocolate and chapstick. Bring one (or a few!) of these care kits to a shelter and feel good about supporting other people and building a charitable tradition with your child.
Mercedes and Anastasia Korngut are two teen co-founders of Small Bits of Happiness, a company on the mission to help people of all ages, especially teens, find more happiness daily, build happy habits and boost parentchild/teen connection. They are avid writers on the topic of happiness and have been published in media across Canada and the USA. Learn more at smallbitsofhappiness.com.
(re)Learning Our Innate Goodness
Ihave the great pleasure of working in an elementary school. I always say that children make the best colleagues because they give you hope for the future, unlike many adults. Kids are inherently good—they still believe that clean air and water trump money.
They believe in equal rights and have zero qualms accepting that their buddy has decided to change names or pronouns. They accept differences in a way that would put many of us to shame. Kids also seem to have an innate sense of activism because they speak up for what they believe in, from saving oldgrowth forests to picking up litter. Instinctively, they care.
The contrast between what I see in my school and the recent election results across the world is making me wonder how and why we seem to lose our altruism as we age. What happens between childhood and adulthood for people to lose their belief in the good of the world?
I think I know the answer. Just like fear, kids learn values from us. Babies and toddlers don’t actually know intrinsically what to fear in the world. They look to their adults to gauge
their reactions before they have their own. This is probably why my three kids have a massive fear of all things small after seeing me screech hysterically every time I see a spider. Similarly, I suspect that children learn from us what to think about what’s important. They see us throw plastic into the garbage can, muttering that recycling is a waste of time. In every way, they are learning from us and losing their innocent belief in the good of the world.
This phenomenon cannot be entirely blamed on the margins of society or on the people who deliberately spread hate and division. We are all guilty of contributing to our children’s loss of idealism. I am not innocent in this. Students in my school run a kindness club, which I support wholeheartedly. Being kind is important to me too, except when someone drives 30 kilometres an hour in a 50 zone. That’s when my ability to be tolerant and my belief in kindness lose to my need to get somewhere. My kids worry about climate change, and so do I, but I breathe deeply and grit my teeth when I leave a store with a gazillion items falling out of my hands because of anti-plastic bag
regulations. The reality is that I have, like many of us, lost my ability to value goodness, kindness and fairness above all else.
Recent events have made me reflect on the difference between how youth see our world and how we collectively do. Similarly, I bet they would attribute far more value to the environment, inclusion, Indigenous rights and kindness than to money in their bank accounts. Perhaps we should take heed and reevaluate what we are inadvertently and unconsciously teaching our children every time we fail to espouse the goodness in the world.
Just like fear, kids need to learn joy and wonder from us, which can only be attained if we focus on what is truly important and start speaking up again for what matters. Humanity and caring come naturally to children, and as the recent elections to the south urgently indicated, it is time for us to (re) learn this from them. If the students in my school or my own children could keep their idealism rather than lose it, like many do as they grow up, I, for one, would be excited to see what our world might look like in a few years.
Jeanne Petit-Humphries is a lifelong advocate for positive social change. She is also a mother of three who admittedly is sometimes tempted to choose convenience over idealism.
Dec 21 | 1:30-3:30PM
Recreation Centre
us for a fun, festive, family swim. Santa will be stopping by the pool deck and there will be jolly activities in and out of the pool. Festive music, holiday crafts and holiday sel e scenes. Fri, Dec 13 | 6:00-7:00PM
Revved for Winter Reads that will have you
As the seasons change, it can be tempting to curl up in front of a glorious fireplace with a marshmallow-filled cup of hot chocolate and a lot of books—not that I have a fireplace, but I can dream. However, even in colder and wetter weather, it’s healthy for us to spend time outside. If you need a bit of extra motivation,
here are four books that celebrate the fantastic things you can learn while you are out there (and one that helps teach your kids to enjoy the free fun they can find).
Growing up, I loved watching the wildlife that scurried or flew by my window, and I had lots of questions about them. Now, my children are equally inquisitive. I will be the first to admit that I did not retain all the answers I learned in my youth. Fortunately, there are books like Hiders Seekers Finders Keepers: How Animals Adapt in Winter by Jessica Kulekjian and illustrated by Salini Perera (Kids Can Press, 2022) to help with that. This book is jampacked with information about how different animals prepare for and survive the winter. If you enjoy hiking, this book also includes a small collection of animal tracks, so you can turn your
next adventure into an animal track scavenger hunt. For ages 4 to 7.
Animals need to prepare for the cold weather, and humans used to do that as well. As Grandfather teaches us in Grandfather’s Reminder by AlbertaRose Bear and Kathleen O’Reilly and illustrated by Lindsey Bear (Your Nickle’s Worth Publishing, 2022), one
way to know the seasons are changing, and different plants are ready to be harvested, is by looking for signs in nature. In this story, Grandfather is trying to encourage his grandchild to be patient and to read nature’s signs. For example, the foxtail, which told him the chokecherries were ready to be harvested. If you’re looking for an activity to try once you’ve read the book, you and your kids can research local natural signs, go for a walk and see if you can spot any. For ages 4 to 7.
If you prefer your plants more manicured than a wild chokecherry bush,
you and your kids could read Jennie Butchart: Gardener of Dreams by Haley Healey and illustrated by Kimiko Fraser (Heritage House, 2024) before you go and visit the Butchart Gardens. This non-fiction piece will bring life to the history of the Butchart Gardens, teaching you how Jennie turned the old limestone quarry into a thing of beauty
for countless people to enjoy. For ages 4 to 7.
While you are at the Butchart Gardens, why not go skating? If your child hasn’t tried skating before, or if they’re nervous about it, you could read Gordie’s Skate by Bill Waiser and illustrated by Leanne Franson (Thistledown Press, 2023). This delightfully illustrated book is about how the hockey player, Gordie Howe, learned to skate. Something you might not know about him is that Gordie and his sister shared a pair of skates. He was determined to play hockey, so he practiced all the time, and
Christina Van Starkenburg lives with her husband, children and cat. She is the author of One Tiny Turtle: A Story You Can Colour and many articles. To read more of her work and learn about her upcoming books visit christinavanstarkenburg.com. Facebook: facebook.com/christinavanstarkenburg and X: @Christina_VanS.
grew up to be a legend. For ages 4 to 7. Some of the activities above are free and others cost money. If you find yourself deciding which to take part in based on cost, you might want to pick up a copy of A Kids Book About Money by Adam Stramwasser (DK, 2024). This basic finance book for young children teaches them what money is, what it looks like, how you get it and what you can use it for in an age-appropriate manner. While I hope you never find yourself in the same situation as Gordie’s mother (where you can only buy one pair of skates for your children to share), if you want to help your kids make wise financial choices as they grow up, A Kids Book About Money is a good place to start. For ages 5 to 8.
Winter days can seem dreary and cold, but there are ways for us to encourage our children to get out in our communities so they can learn, grow and discover new things. I hope these stories inspire you to do just that.
Family Resource Guide
Simple Sheet Pan Dinners They Will Ask For
Sheet pan dinners are ideal for introducing kids to cooking.
• They don’t require the patience of sitting over the stove and stirring a sauce.
• They are super simple to prepare. Just chop, put everything in the oven and you’re done.
• Best of all, they are delicious!
I’ve written these recipes with kids in mind. Young children can help with gathering ingredients and tossing them in oil. Older children might be able to make these dishes all on their own! And busy adults can indulge in a healthy, yet simple meal.
Now that is something that we all could use in this busy holiday season!
Winter Sausage Bowl
This delicious sheet pan meal is served in a bowl with a drizzle of something flavourful. Feel free to use a vegan-friendly sausage alternative for a meatless meal!
2 large sweet potato
1 medium-sized head of cauliflower
1⁄4 cup of vegetable oil
1 onion
4 cloves of garlic
1⁄2 tsp salt, to taste
1 tsp black pepper, to taste
4 Italian sausages
Miso Sauce
3 Tbsp olive oil
1 Tbsp cider vinegar
1 Tbsp miso
1. Preheat the oven to 400° F.
2. Peel the sweet potato and chop into bite-sized pieces. Chop the cauliflower into florets. Slice the onion in quarters. Finely dice the garlic.
3. Spread the vegetables out on a rimmed baking sheet.
4. Pour the oil over the vegetables. Add the salt and pepper. Toss everything to mix well.
5. Cut each sausage into 4 pieces and place on the baking sheet. Wash your hands well.
6. Bake for 15 minutes.
7. Pull the sheet pan out of the oven and toss everything to combine. Bake for another 15 to 25 minutes, until everything is cooked through and browning.
8. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
9. Make the miso sauce by mixing the oil vinegar and miso in a small bowl. Use a fork to stir in the miso until it’s a smooth sauce.
10. Serve the baked vegetables and sausages in a bowl with a drizzle of miso sauce.
Nacho Hash
This recipe is a favourite with my kids. It’s like nachos, but instead of corn chips, we make a vegetable-packed hash.
3 large potatoes
2 sweet potatoes
5 mushrooms
1 green pepper
1 can of black beans
1 onion
3 cloves of garlic
1⁄4 cup of oil
1 Tbsp chili powder
1 cup of grated cheese
3⁄4 tsp salt and ground black pepper, to taste
Salsa, sour cream and guacamole, for serving.
1. Preheat the oven to 450° F.
2. Coarsely grate the potatoes, sweet potato and mushrooms. Finely dice the green pepper, onion and garlic.
3. Place the vegetables on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with the oil, toss to coat. Add in the chili powder, salt and pepper. Stir one more time to make sure that everything is well coated, then spread it out evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and stir the hash to ensure even cooking.
5. Open the can of black beans and rinse. Spread the can of black beans over the hash. Top with the grated cheese.
6. Bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese has melted. Serve with salsa, sour cream and guacamole.
Oven Roasted Salad
This winter vegetable salad is a perfect holiday dish. The flavour of balsamic and rosemary really complements the winter vegetables. My kids love the crispy garlicky Brussels sprouts. Serve with bread for a complete vegetarian meal.
1 large acorn squash
1⁄4 cup of cooking oil
1 lb. Brussels sprouts
6 cloves of garlic
1 Tbsp fresh rosemary or 1 tsp dried rosemary
1⁄2 tsp salt
1 can of chickpeas
Balsamic Dressing
1⁄4 cup of olive oil
2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1⁄4 tsp salt
1. Preheat the oven to 400° F
2. Peel, slice and deseed the squash. Cut it into bite-sized pieces. Place on a rimmed baking sheet. Coat with the cooking oil and pop it into the oven to bake for 15 minutes.
3. Trim off the bottom of the sprouts. Rinse, then slice them in half.
4. Finely dice the garlic.
5. Pull the squash out of the oven. Add the sprouts and toss to combine. Sprinkle on the garlic, rosemary, salt and pepper.
6. Place the pan back into the oven to bake for 15 to 25 minutes. It’s ready when the sprouts and squash are just starting to brown.
7. In the meantime, open the can of chickpeas and rinse.
8. Place the chickpeas in a large bowl with all the salad dressing ingredients.
9. When the vegetables are ready, add them to the salad bowl and toss to combine with the dressing.
10. This salad is delicious served warm or cold.
Emillie Parrish loves having adventures with her two busy children. You can find more of her recipes in her cookbook Fermenting Made Simple. fermentingforfoodies.com
Christ Church Cathedral Childcare & Jr. Kindergarten ................. 250-383-5132
ECE and specialist teachers provide an outstanding all day licensed program for 2.5–5 year olds at our Fairfield and Gordon Head locations. cathedralschool.ca
Picking Up What We Put Down
When I was looking for work after mat leave, I had an interview that I thought went really well. I ended up knowing one of the panelists, the hiring manager was friendly and enthused about me having a baby. She asked lots of follow-up questions and the job was almost directly related to my degree.
Around the same time, I had another interview that felt awkward and stilted. I left thinking, “Oh boy, I did not put my best foot forward. I’m glad that’s over.”
To my surprise, I got the job from the interview I thought I flopped and didn’t get the one that had gone well. After that I thought to myself, “I can only control what I put out into the world. I can’t control what comes back.” I had no idea what happened behind the scenes that led to me getting a job I felt less qualified for and not getting the one where I thought I aced the interview.
I’ve taken this attitude into parenting to try to keep myself from going mad from the illogical randomness of chil -
dren. Sometimes parenting feels like firing off resumès into an algorithm that’s skipping over your key words.
“Say please. Did you say please? What’s the magic word?” It can be so hard to know if you’re getting through. If they’re picking up what you’re putting down. So hard to know if your efforts are paying off. Is she healthier from those cucumber slices I lay beside the grilled cheese? Is the $80 a month for gymnastics leading to better strength and coordination? Was the tantrum from cutting her off from that last Bluey episode truly worth whatever benefits having eight minutes less screentime makes?
But then there are times that surprise you in a good way. When they’ve really picked up what you, or school, or grandma has been putting down.
We were driving to gymnastics in silence when my daughter piped up out of nowhere, “Whenever I think about that girl who couldn’t wear her orange shirt and had to go to sleep-away school, I think how sad that is.”
I was awakened from my daydreaming as I prepared to make a right turn.
“But I’m glad we have Orange Shirt Day now. I’m glad our teachers tell us about Orange Shirt Day and Terry Fox and stuff like that.”
This was late October–about a month after Truth and Reconciliation Day and even longer since the Terry Fox run. I didn’t know how much she had picked up from the school assemblies and our discussions at home.
I tried to elicit more information without being too obvious–like avoiding eye contact with a deer: “Why are you glad they teach you about that stuff, sweetie?”
My six-year-old suddenly turned into a self-conscious teenager with her reaction, “I dunno. ‘Cause it’s important” she retorted as if I had just accused her of something. I went into a monologue about how she’s right and even though some topics aren’t fun or happy they’re still important to learn about.
I must have still been thinking over my daughter’s reflection because I missed my turn and ended up overshooting and doing a huge loop to get to the gymnastics studio.
When I got there, I looked at the clock, “Oh no! We’re 10 minutes late, I thought we were just a couple minutes behind!”
“That’s okay” my daughter responded, throwing off her shoes and running down the stairs to join her classmates on the long tramp.
“It is okay,” I thought. “It is okay that we’re late and it is way more than okay that my daughter was thinking about Orange Shirt Day a month after it happened.”
Trying our best is all we can really do as parents. We try to put down what we hope they will pick up. Then try again–and who knows–they might surprise us. They might just remember what’s important.
Julia Mais is a policy and communications professional in Victoria. She looks for beauty in the everyday through writing, photography and the outdoors. She lives in a messy, cheese-filled home with her husband and young child.
Photos: Noelle Fraser
Making Holiday Memories without Breaking the Bank
The holidays are all about joy, love and making memories—not maxing out your credit card! Ditch the pricey presents and embrace the magic of thoughtful, creative and fun ways to celebrate. Here are some tips on how to keep the season merry without going into debt.
1. Skip Store-Bought
Gifts that can’t be wrapped are often the most memorable. Plan a cozy night in with friends and family, grab some blankets, pop some popcorn and have a holiday movie marathon. Or gather the crew and go on a holiday light tour around town. Host a cookie-decorating party or make your own hot cocoa party with all the fixings. No matter if you’re with friends or family—or both—these are the experiences you’ll remember long after the season is over, not how much was spent on presents.
2. DIY It
Homemade gifts have a way of making everyone feel special–and they’re even more appreciated if your kids help you. Whip up some goodies like gingerbread cookies or make holiday fudge and wrap it up in cute, festive bags. Why not simply layer the ingredients for hot cocoa in a mason jar and tie a ribbon around it?
Consider a simple craft project. Make ornaments with friends or handpaint all your holiday cards. Personalized touches show you care and cost next to nothing. People will appreciate the effort over another store-bought knick-knack.
3. Not All Presents Fit Under the Tree
Why go big on spending when you can go big on meaning? Put together a “Favourite Things” package such as a handpicked playlist for your musicloving friend, a homemade recipe book for a self-taught chef or a photo album capturing memories with your bestie. Plan a local day trip to somewhere your kids love or give them each a “Yes Day” regarding the games your family plays and what you make for each meal.
4. Host a Secret Santa Exchange
Instead of breaking the bank to buy for everyone, suggest a Secret Santa or gift swap with your friends, extended family, workplace or older children. Not only will this save everyone money, but it adds an element of surprise and makes gift-giving more exciting. Draw names, set a spending limit (get creative with a $5 or $10 max) and see what funny, thoughtful or quirky things people come up with.
5. Stick to a Budget
Set a budget that works for your family and think of it as a fun game to see what ideas you can come up with using the amount you have set aside. Add some friendly competition with friends or family to see who can find the most creative, low-cost gift. You’ll be surprised how freeing it is not to worry about spending too much, and it’s a good feeling knowing you won’t face any post-holiday financial woes.
6. The Gift of Time
Offer your time to help a friend or family member out. Maybe it’s babysitting, pet-sitting, helping them organize a room or even giving a free home spa or movie night where you bring treats and cozy blankets. Make personalized coupons as gifts, such as a coffee date or ice cream on the beach, on you. These coupons for time together are especially great gifts for your kids to give their grandparents, aunts and uncles. Often, a fun adventure can feel more thoughtful than anything you’ll find in a store.
7. Free and Festive Activities
Check out what’s happening around town. Holiday parades, tree lightings, carolling and local markets are often free or low-cost and full of holiday vibes. Bundle up and check out the lights, enjoy the music and soak in the season with your family and friends.
8. Make New Traditions
If some of your current traditions are costly, it’s time to create new ones! Start hosting a yearly brunch with homemade waffles and hot cocoa for your extended family and friends or create fond family memories by picking up some inexpensive crafting supplies so everyone can make a piece of holiday décor that can be brought out year after year.
Remember, the holidays are about togetherness and celebrating. Use these ideas to reduce the stress around how much you spend and get to making those important Christmas memories your kids will cherish for years to come.
Erika Palmer is a writer living in Victoria with her husband and daughter. She believes most problems can be solved with a good cup of tea and a huge piece of chocolate.
10:30 AM
Holiday Gift Guide
Bamboobino Pink Roller Skate Bodysuit
Cute, locally made, soft and non-damaging (to humans and the environment!), this classic onesie-style bodysuit is made mostly from bamboo and has nickel-free snaps,perfect for any baby.
Jellycat Bartholomew Bear
Jellycat products are coveted by so many, and Bartholomew Bear seems to be the stuffy everyone wants! This original bear is cuddly, soft and floppy. Perfect for anyone who wants a stuffy to snuggle with.
Mission: Small Bits of Happiness
This interactive game is created by teens for teens (although individuals of all ages love it!). Select your mission for happiness from 100 activities and complete it to win your small bit of happiness.
LEGO Nutcracker Figure
This LEGO building kit is great for the Nutcracker fan in your life. Choose from a male or female face when building this 16-cm tall figure and have fun with the movable arms and opening mouth.
The Truth in Truth & Reconciliation Game
Perfect for teens and adults, this board game is based on real-life events in Canadian history and is crafted to help people engage bravely and thoughtfully with difficult content.
Crayola Palm Grasp Crayons
Perfect for the budding little artist in your life—these washable Crayola crayons are designed for toddler hands. Each egg is the equivalent to 14 crayons and provides the colours and brightness you know and love from Crayola.
Dial a Design Bracelet Maker
The Dial a Design Bracelet Maker is a twist on the famous friendship bracelet fad. The tween or teen in your life will love to create 20 different bracelets in a variety of colours and designs.
Coco Village Wooden Play Kitchen
Toddlers will love learning to cook with this realistic wooden play kitchen. Made from materials with the highest safety standards, this kitchen has working knobs and will provide many hours of fun.
Hey Clay Monsters
This light, easy-to-sculpt clay is great for children three and older who love to create. This non-toxic clay air dries and does not stain clothes or counters. Build the monsters as suggested or check out the app for some cool guides and further inspiration.
Melissa & Doug Play to Go Ice Cream Play Set
This play set will have toddlers using their imaginations to create all sorts of ice cream treats with a variety of play food. All pieces fit in the to-go cup, making this the perfect toy to take with you.
Dyson Toy Cord-Free Vacuum
Toddlers will love helping out around the house with this toy vacuum that has working suction and really sucks up tiny pieces! It looks, moves and sounds like the grown-up version.
ThinkFun Fidgitz Twisty Brainteaser
This twisty brainteaser is perfect for tweens, teens— and even adults who love to fidget and work their brain. Enhance logic and problem-solving skills with this unique puzzle.
Rubik’s Perplexus Fusion
This 3D maze game puzzle takes the original Rubik’s Cube to a whole new level! Perfect for people of any age who like solving puzzles and challenging their mind.
New Bright Remote Control Truck
This 1:10 scale Ford Raptor Remote Control Truck will have kids and adults of all ages ready to take it for a drive. This full-function truck can tackle any obstacle in its way.
Maximizing Your Child’s Education Fund with RESPs
Whether your child aspires to one day become a doctor, teacher, mechanic or CPA, their post-secondary education will cost money, and it is important to help set your child up for success.
Investing in a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) is a great step to support your child’s post-secondary aspirations.
What are the different types of RESPs?
There are three different types of RESPs you can purchase: Individual, family and group.
1. Individual RESPs. This is a great option for single-child families, or if you are sponsoring a non-relative such as a godchild.
2. Family RESPs. For families with more than one child, this could be an ideal option as the funds can be shared amongst the children. In a family plan, all beneficiaries must be
related to you—either by blood or adoption. Beneficiaries can be added or changed over time, which is great if you have more children in the future or have children who choose to not attend post-secondary.
When the RESPs are paid out, the funds do not have to be split equally, which is useful in situations where post-secondary education costs between children differ. However, since the Canadian Education Savings Grant (CESG) contributes a lifetime maximum of $7,200 per beneficiary, this allocation must be respected when dividing RESP funds among beneficiaries.
3. Group RESPs. In a group RESP program, your funds are pooled with several other RESP accounts in a group investment plan. The benefit of this, is that your investment has the potential to grow larger than it would in an individual or family plan.
When you join a group plan, you agree to purchase a set number of plan units, which represents your shares. Your child’s birth date determines the maturity date of your plan, and you commit to making regular contributions according to a pre-determined schedule.
It’s important to note that group plans come with many risks that are not associated with individual and family RESPs. We recommend carefully considering your risk tolerance before investing in a group plan.
How do RESPs grow?
Starting early and making regular contributions can help your RESPs grow significantly through compounded return. Funds in your RESP account can be invested in mutual funds, ETFs, GICs, stocks, bonds, etc, much like how you’d invest with your RRSP or TFSA accounts. In addition, there are many federal and provincial grants available that will add to RESPs over the years.
These include the following:
• The Canadian Education Savings Grant (CESG): CESG contributes $7,200 over an RESP’s lifetime. It does this through matching 20 percent of your contributions each year (up to $500).
• Additional Canada Education Savings Grant (A-CESG): Depending on your income, you may receive 10 to 20 percent more on the first $500 you contribute each year (up to $100 annually).
• Canada Learning Bond (CLB): To help low-income fami lies get started with education savings, the Government of Canada will make an initial deposit of $500, and top this up with annual deposits of $100 until the plan’s beneficiary turns 15 years old.
• British Columbia Training and Education Savings Grant (BCTESG): This one-time grant of $1,200 can be received if you apply when your child is between the ages of six and nine years old.
Is there a contribution limit?
Your contribution room is accrued each year beginning the year your child was born, until they turn 17. You can contrib ute a lifetime maximum of $50,000 per beneficiary to an RESP. Note that the amount of annual contribution room that is eli gible for the CESG is $2,500. While you can contribute more than $2,500 a year, the 20 percent grant is only matched by the government up to $2,500 per year.
To maximize the CESG, consider contributing $2,500 a year for 14 continuous years per beneficiary, and then top it off with an extra $1,000 in the 15th year. Note that if you have missed a year or started late, you can always contribute more than $2,500 to retroactively claim grants. These contributions would be eligible to receive an additional $500 per year in CESG (for a total annual maximum CESG of $1,000 per year) if you missed contributions in a previous year.
Contribute by December 31, 2024 to get the CESG’s 20 percent matching (up to $500) for the calendar year. Regularly review your funds to ensure you can make your desired contribution.
Talk to a financial advisor or a Chartered Professional Accountant for further guidance on RESPs and other ways to save for your child’s future.
*Originally published at CPABC Newsroom. Tax rules can be complex. This article is not intended as tax advice, and you should not make tax decisions based solely on the information presented. You should seek the advice of a chartered professional accountant before implementing a tax plan or taking a tax filing position.
Shane Schepens, CPA, CA is a Partner at Clearline CPA. Shane’s focus is on Canadian tax planning, such as reorganizations, estate and succession planning for medium and small private companies. Shane is a member of the CPABC Taxation Forum.
Let’s talk about how the IB curriculum combined with the student experience at Glenlyon Norfolk School could tranform your child’s future.
How to Know If Your Child Needs a Tutor?
The Christmas season incites excitement and anticipation, but it can also bring on nervousness and reticence if your child is not doing well in school. The holidays can be the perfect time to determine if your kid needs some extra support when they go back to class in the New Year.
Is it Time for a Tutor?
Deciding to get a tutor can be challenging for families. The first question parents often ask me is: “How do I know if I should get a tutor for my child?”
Begin by reflecting on the previous year(s) and consider your answers to the following questions:
1. Has your child had difficulties in only the past year or multiple years?
2. Was most of the curriculum challenging?
3. Did your child seek extra help from
their teacher, but it didn’t seem effective?
4. Did the school provide any extra resources (either after school or from online programs) but it didn’t help?
5. Does your child do better in a oneon-one environment?
6. Is your child open to having a tutor?
If you answered “yes” to most of these questions, it might be time to consider looking for a tutor.
The Right Fit
The next question is: “How do you choose the right tutor for your child?”
Here are some things to look for and ask:
1. Does the tutor’s academic background meet my child’s needs?
2. How long has the tutor been tutoring?
3. What resources does the tutor provide?
4. How will the tutor assess my child’s needs?
5. Do they offer online and/or inperson tutoring? Some children do much better with in-person tutoring, though due to the pandemic, children are familiar with online learning.
6. Do they offer flexible contracts, or is it “pay per session?” Some tutors require a minimum number of hours and weeks. Can you cancel without penalty, if a problem arises (ie. your child becomes ill or there is a family situation that prohibits further sessions), or if you feel the tutoring is not effective for your child?
7. Can you have an initial trial session (possibly free) to make sure the tutor is a good fit for your child?
8. How much does the tutor charge?
9. How and with what frequency will the tutor communicate with you?
Remember, tutoring is not a quick fix,
especially if your child has struggled academically for several years. If you choose a tutor, you need to make a plan regarding money and time and then commit to it.
The Benefits
Beyond improving grades, tutoring offers numerous benefits that can positively impact your child’s overall development. A good tutor can help your child develop effective study habits and time-management skills. Tutoring can also boost your child’s motivation and enthusiasm for learning by providing personalized attention and encouragement. By addressing individual needs and learning styles, a tutor can help your child overcome challenges and discover their strengths, fostering a positive attitude towards education and building resilience.
An experienced tutor can also provide invaluable support during key educational transitions, such as moving from elementary to high school or from high school to post-secondary. They can offer guidance on choosing appropriate courses and help your child navigate these changes smoothly, so your child is wellprepared and confident in their decisions.
Tutoring can prevent small issues from becoming big problems and help establish a strong foundation for learning. Additionally, while parents often have the knowledge to help their children, maintaining a healthy parent-child relationship is crucial, especially in a child’s formative years.
With an experienced and knowledgeable tutor who communicates well and supports your family, tutoring can help your child achieve academic success and build their confidence.
Uncovering God-given talents in everyone.
Gordon Farlie is is a retired educator who works as a math and science tutor. With humour and heart, he makes learning fun. A former gifted student and parent of a child with learning challenges, he understands diverse needs. Passionate about astronomy, he lives in Nanaimo with his family and two dogs. Learn more at tutor-me.ca
These are just a few of the reasons you may want to join the DCS family
Preparing youth for life beyond the school doors...
Offering Preschool and K - 8
Enriched curriculum including French, strings, fibre arts, drama, visual arts, woodwork, and gardening
Long-term teacher-student relationships with emphasis on strengths, belonging, and individual and group well-being
Stunning rural campus, student gardens, and focus on sustainability
festival life, parent enrichment, and community building
Independent Schools Directory
Artemis Place Secondary
ArtsCalibre Academy
Broadmead Preschool
Brookes Westshore
Christ Church Cathedral School
Discovery School
Glenlyon Norfolk School
Lakeview Christian School
Victoria 10–12
Victoria K–12
Victoria JK–K
250-598-5183 artemisplace.org
250-382-3533 artscalibre.ca
250-881-8666 montessorieducare.ca
4 day, 3 day and 2 day programs are offered. The program follows a Montessori curriculum, the prepared environment providing activities in Practical Life, Sensorial Work, Art, Language, Math and Cultural subjects. Circle time, music, movement activities and outside play round out the activities.
Victoria 4–12
Victoria K–8
Victoria 4–12
Victoria K–12
250-929-0506 westshore.brookes.org
250-383-5125 cathedralschool.ca
250-595-7765 discoveryschool.ca
250-370-6821 mygns.ca
As the only independent JK to Grade 12 International Baccalaureate World Continuum school in Victoria, BC, GNS offers a personalized learning approach that prepares students to thrive and achieve their full potential.
Victoria K–9
250-658-5082 lcsvictoria.ca
Lighthouse Christian Academy
Maria Montessori Academy
Oak and Orca Bioregional School
Victoria K–12
Victoria K–12
Victoria K–12
250-474-5311 lcawestshore.com
250-479-4746 mariamontessoriacademy.net
250-383-6619 oakandorca.ca
A compassionate, personalised and flexible balance of inquiry and structure for home learners (province-wide OL) and in-person learners in Victoria. Inclusive (special ed) supports available.
Pacific Christian School
Pacific School of Innovation and Inquiry
Regent Christian Online Academy
Selkirk Montessori School
Victoria K–12
Victoria 9–12
Victoria K–12
Victoria K–8
250-479-4532 pacificchristian.ca
778-433-3409 learningstorm.org
250-592-1759 rcoa.ca
250-384-3414 selkirkmontessori.ca
Come see how Selkirk Montessori School puts contemporary best practices into action. Alongside engaging staff, students are solving problems, building capacity and enjoy the work of learning.
St Andrew’s Regional High
St Christopher’s Montessori
St Joseph’s Catholic
St Margaret’s School
St Michaels University School
St Patrick’s School
Vancouver Island School
Victoria 8–12
Victoria K
Victoria K–7
Victoria K–12
Victoria K–12
Victoria K–7
Victoria 6–8
250-479-1414 cisdv.bc.ca
250-595-3213 stcmontessori.ca
250-479-1232 cisdv.bc.ca
250-479-7171 stmarg.ca
250-592-2411 smus.ca
250-592-6713 cisdv.bc.ca
250-883-1667 visii.ca of Innovation & Inquiry
Victoria School for Ideal Education
West-Mont School
Shawnigan Lake
Accessible, inquiry-based learning for grades 5 through 8. Education designed to build resiliency, foster creativity and inspire imaginations.
Victoria K–8
Victoria K–12
Shawnigan Lake 8–12
250-383-6654 vsie.ca
250-474-2626 westmontschool.ca
250-743-5516 shawnigan.ca
St John’s Preparatory Academy
Salt Spring Centre School
Arrowsmith Independent School
Haahuupayak School
John Paul II Catholic School
Discover Montessori School
Nanaimo Christian School
The International High School @ VIU
Brentwood College
Aspengrove School
Stz’uminus Senior Secondary
Beachcombers Academy
Duncan Christian School
Shawnigan Lake 4–12
Salt Spring Island K–7
Qualicum Beach K–7
Port Alberni K–7
Port Alberni K–7
Nanaimo K–9
Nanaimo K–12
Nanaimo 11–12
Mill Bay 8–12
Lantzville JK–12
250-220-4888 stjohnsacademy.ca
250-537-9130 saltspringcentreschool.ca
250-752-2722 arrowsmithlearning.ca
250-724-5542 haahuupayak.com
250-723-0637 cisdv.bc.ca
250-591-4450 public.dm-school.ca
250-754-4512 ncsnanaimo.com
250-740-6317 viu.ca
250-743-5521 brentwood.bc.ca
250-390-2201 aspengroveschool.com
Our stunning 40 acre campus is located conveniently on central Vancouver Island with easy access to Metro Vancouver, Tofino and Mount Washington.
Ladysmith 8–12
250-245-6650 stzuminus.com
Fanny Bay K–7 778-427-4007 beachcombersschool.ca
Duncan K–12
250-746-3654 duncanchristianschool.ca
An interdenominational school educating students from preschool to Grade 12. Our school property includes an elementary campus (preschool–Grade 7) and a secondary campus (Grade 8–12). The first steps in your child’s education. Building on Faith, Family and Community.
continues on page 38
Vancouver Island School of Innovation & Inquiry
Accessible, inquiry-based learning for grades 5 through 8.
Education designed to build resiliency, foster creativity and inspire imaginations.
Now accepting applications for the 2025/26 academic year.
For more information, visit visii.ca
Independent Schools Directory
(continued from page 37)
Noorunissa Montessori Academy
Queen Margaret’s School
Queen of Angels School
Sunrise Waldorf School
Duncan K–6
Duncan K–12
250-737-1119 intmontessori.ca
250-746-4185 qms.bc.ca
QMS is an inclusive community where every student finds personal success. Nestled on 30 acres in the Cowichan Valley, QMS offers an exceptional education that encourages curiosity, bravery, kindness and for students to be true to themselves.
Duncan K–9
Duncan K–8
250-746-5919 cisdv.bc.ca
250-743-7253 sunrisewaldorf.org
With a strong emphasis on student well-being and genuine care, our mission is to educate and inspire students to reach their full potential through a rich and artistic Waldorf curriculum.
Phil & Jennie Gaglardi Academy
Evergreen Independent School
Navigate NIDES
Comox K–12
Cobble Hill K–7
Distance Education K–12
250-339-1200 gaglardiacademy.ca
250-743-2433 evergreenbc.net
250-337-5300 navigatenides.com
Navigate is an award-winning school, recognized nationally and internationally for our innovative approach to blended learning. We’ve implemented the new BC curriculum and built unique, flexible learning options for every student. This allows us to meet a diverse range of student needs, abilities and learning styles.
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
https://stjosephschool.ca
Email: sjv@cisdv.bc.ca
Open House February 4. Please contact the school to book a tour.
St. Patrick’s School (K to Grade 7) 2368 Trent St, Victoria 250-592-6713
https://stpatrickselem.ca/ Email: sp@cisdv.bc.ca
Open House February 4 10am to 12pm and 3:30 to 6pm.
St. Andrew’s Regional High School (Grade 8–12) 880 McKenzie Ave, Victoria 250-479-1414
https://standrewshigh.ca/ Email: sarhs@cisdv.bc.ca Open House February 5 at 7pm Grade 7 Info Night at 6pm.
Queen of Angels (Pre-K to Grade 9) 2085 Maple Bay Rd, Duncan 250-746-5919
https://queenofangels.ca/ Email: qa@cisdv.bc.ca
Open House February 3, 1 to 3pm Kindergarten Open House January 23 at 5pm. Please contact the school to book a tour.
St. John Paul II (Pre-K to Grade 7) 4006 8th Ave, Port Alberni 250-723-0637
