Island Parent June-July 2022

A MAMMOTH EXPERIENCE

BIG THINGS ARE HAPPENING rbcm.ca/mammoth

Every student deserves a chance to

St. Margaret’s School (SMS) is Vancouver Island’s only girl-centered, day and boarding STEM school. To discover all the ways we can help your child soar in JK through grade 12, visit

stmarg.ca

COMMUNITY OPTIONS

COMMUNITY OPTIONS

COMMUNITY OPTIONS

supports quality programming for families with children facing disabilities within your community.

supports quality summer programming for families with children facing disabilities within your community.

COMMUNITY OPTIONS

supports quality summer programming for families with children facing disabilities within your community.

supports quality summer programming for families with children facing disabilities within your community.

DONATE TODAY!

supports quality summer programming for families with children facing disabilities within your community.

DONATE TODAY!

Have you ever wondered about the future and what it might bring to families with family members with a disability? You can make a difference by designating Community Options for Children and Families as your charity of choice when considering leaving a gift through your will or any other gift planning instrument (gifts of stock). Community Options has supported thousands of families in the community over the past 30+ years—supporting a better quality of life for families on Southern Vancouver Island.

DONATE TODAY!

You gifts promotes kids being kids this summer!

You gifts promotes kids being kids this summer!

DONATE TODAY!

You gifts promotes kids being kids this summer!

For more information, please contact Kathleen Burton, Executive Director, 250.380.6363 ext 205

https://cocf.ca/get-involved/donations/

https://cocf.ca/get-involved/donations/

You gifts promotes kids being kids this summer!

https://cocf.ca/get-involved/donations/

https://cocf.ca/get-involved/donations/

Slippin’ Into Summer

Longer days and way more rays. Fingers sticky with watermelon and ice cream. The scent of salt air, campfires and fresh cut grass.

Whatever comes to mind when you think of summer, chances are you’re ready for not only a change in the weather, but a change of pace. After one of the coldest, wettest and windiest springs on record, summer couldn’t have come too soon. And one thing’s for sure about Vancouver Island in the summer: there’s no shortage of things to do.

Feel like ziplining on a mountain top. We’ve got you covered. A petting farm is more your speed? Lots of those here, too. Rather spend your day at the beach or by a lake? Why not?

No matter what you have planned this summer—or what just happens—we hope this issue helps you have a great time.

Within these pages you’ll find information on five outdoor games to play this summer, a selection of family-friendly Island hikes, numerous Vancouver Island activities and attractions, places to explore, creating nutritious and delicious kid-friendly summer salads, walking trails suited to families, places to see animals, good summer reads and much more. Check out what’s happening at the Royal BC Museum and don’t forget the Summer Calendar with highlights of what’s happening on the Island in June and July.

Here’s to striking a balance between the action-packed and lazy-hazy days of summer, to togetherness and solitude, to the seaside and to mountaintops, to sunshine and…more sunshine!

Happy Summer!

You Are Not Alone

You Are Not Alone is an anthology of perinatal mental health stories from conception to postpartum. The first of its kind in Canada, the book recounts the true stories of 49 moms across the 49th parallel. They write about the struggles and triumphs of motherhood and perinatal mental illness. These personal accounts were collected by Patricia Tomasi, co-founder and executive director of the Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative (CPMHC) along with registered nurse and perinatal mood disorder coordinator, Jaime Charlebois. Both share their own experiences with perinatal mental health struggles and, drawing on their own expertise as therapists and healthcare providers, include resources and critical information on the science of perinatal mental health, types of disorders, a glossary and insights from Canada’s leading doctors and researchers. To order a copy, visit cpmhc.ca/anthology

BC Summer Reading Club

Children ages 12 and under (or their parent or caregiver) are invited to visit any GVPL or VIRL branch to collect a 2022 BC Summer Reading Club (BC SRC) package. This helps kids build confidence in reading while having fun and developing stronger connections with their public library. This year’s theme: “All Together Now”—a celebration of communities and connection.

Kids can set their weekly reading goals and earn digital badges. BC SRC also has an online participation option including an online reading tracker, activities, contests, events, and more that can be found on bcsrc.ca. Online registration opens on June 13th and local libraries will open registration in mid-to-late June.

The Kiddies Store

Canada Day Celebrations

Canada Day celebrations will return to several Island communities this year after a two-year absence due to the pandemic. A multi-cultural street fair will kick off Victoria’s celebrations, along with music at Ship’s Point and fireworks over the Inner Harbour. Sooke will host the ever-popular West Coast Lumberjack Shows, set for 1, 3 and 5 pm at the Sooke River Flats plus other familyfriendly events. Maffeo Sutton

Park in Nanaimo will be bustling with various Canada Day events, as will Port Alberni, starting the day with a parade. To find out what’s happening near you, visit vancouverisland.travel/ things-to-do

Wonderment Festival

The Wonderment Festival takes place in Victoria over the BC Day Weekend, from July 29 to August 1. Part of its mission is to provide an outlet for contemporary ambient and electronic music for families with kids who may not be able to get out to see concerts. All of Wonderment's daytime programming is free, and many of Wonderment's headliners will be appearing in public parks. Wonderment's park locations are selected because they have kids' playgrounds on site or immediately adjacent. Free programs include: Friday July 29, Beacon Hill Park Cameron Bandshell, 7-9:30pm; Sunday July 31, Beacon Hill Park Cameron Bandshell, 3-10pm; Monday August 1, Banfield Park, 2-6pm; and Monday August 1, Beacon Hill Cameron Bandshell, 7-9:30pm. There will be a Synth Petting Zoo, a family favourite, on Monday August 1 at the Vic West Community Centre next to Banfield Park where artists will bring their equipment for the public to try out and learn about. For information, visit wonderment.ca

OFF-GRID Summer Camp

Cedar Coast Field Station (CCFS) offers family and youth overnight programs at its nature-based, offgrid facility located on Vargas Island, a 15-minute boat ride from Tofino. Engage in off-grid living while enjoying the natural beauty of Clayoquot Sound. Campers stay in oceanside canvas and cedar “wall tents” and discover an eco-friendly way of living based on solar energy, rainwater catchment systems and woodfired heat and hot water systems. All programs include place-based learning, traditional summer camp activities and local excursions. Cedar Coast Field Station is an independent, not-for-profit society with a vision to preserve ecological health through place-based research and education that celebrates the cultural and biological diversity of Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. CCFS acknowledges and honours the traditional territories of the Ahousaht, Hesquiaht and Tla-o-quiaht First Nations. For more information or to register visit cedarcoastfieldstation.org

10 Tips for Saving Our Planet

1. Choose Reusables. Use reusable cups, containers and shopping bags to reduce waste and cut down on plastic sent to landfills.

2. Make the Leap to LEDs. Energy efficient bulbs, such as LEDs, are a bright idea—they reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

3. Switch to Silicone. Ditch single-use plastic wrap for silicone of beeswax food covers.

4. Walk the Talk. Walk or cycle when possible and carpool when driving’s your only option.

5. Meal Plan. Prevent food waste by meal planning for the week ahead.

6. Cold Wash Clothes. Washing weekly laundry in cold water and switching from a dryer to a clothesline can cut your carbon foot print.

7. Grow Your Own Veggies. Even the smallest of spaces can be transformed into carbon and waste-reducing vegetable gardens.

8. Forget Fast Fashion. Avoid “fast fashion” that typically becomes landfill and donate used clothing to charity, friends or family.

9. Upcook Leftovers. “Upcook” excess ingredients to reduce food waste—bacon’s not just for breakfast but a topping for salad or ice cream!

10. Look for Logos. Check food packaging for a Carbon Zero logo and an ENERGY STAR efficiency symbol on appliances. From Maple Leaf Foods Green Guru, Tim Faveri

5 Outdoor Games to Play this Summer

Make this the summer your family and the neighbourhood kids learn how to play forest school games like Fox Tails, Otter Steals Fish, Bat and Moth, Camouflage and Four Trees!

These fun games are well loved by forest schoolers. They will entertain kids during your local neighbourhood block party or when camping. (Roll up this issue and store in the glove box or with the camp gear.) Early childhood educators or summer camp leaders can test these out, too. Source a bunch of bandanas from a local thrift store and you’re all set.

So get ready to play!

Fox Tails

Audience age: 5+

Time needed: 10–15 minutes

Materials needed: Bandanas (one per player) and an open field or lawn

How to play: Each player tucks one “tail” (bandana) into the back of their waistband. Players run around within a designated boundary trying to capture the tails of other players. They most also keep their own tails safe! If a player’s tail is captured,

they sit on their knees. They can re-join the game if they capture a new tail from another player while sitting. The game ends when one player captures all the tails or set a time limit. How many can play: 4+ players

Variations: Add Fairies. They collect extra/donated tails from players who already have two tails. They give tails to players that are sitting down and are out.

Otter Steals Fish

Audience age: 6+

Time needed: 10–15 minutes

Materials needed: “Fish” (bandanas) and a field or forest

How to play: Set up a circular boundary around 6–8 metres in diameter. Use backpacks or bandanas to delineate the boundary. Make sure the circle is free from obstacles. The cheeky otters are on the outside of the circle while the patient heron guards their fish (one bandana) in the middle. The heron cannot touch the fish during the game. They can stop an otter from stealing their fish by tagging the otter. The goal of the otters is to get in, grab the fish and get out of the circle without being tagged by the heron. If an otter steals he fish, they become the heron.

Variations: Once an otter is tagged, they can go outside the circle and count to ten or run to touch a nearby tree/object before trying to grab a fish again.

Bat & Moth

Audience age: 5+

Time needed: 15 minutes

Materials needed: Blindfold (bandana) and level field surface

How to play: One person is a bat, everyone else is a moth. The bat stands in the centre and calls out “bat” to those who are moths. When the bat calls, the moths reply “moth.” The bat must try to catch the moths, and the moths do their best to “fly” away from the bats. Everyone can move around, with the bat repeatedly calling out “bat” and the moths replying “moth.”

How many can play: 5–10

Variations: Instead of saying “moth,” moths can clap their hands and the bat can follow the sounds. Also, if you have a lot of players, for safety you can create a forest ring of kids to make a boundary. The boundary are kids (aka trees) and stand with hands outstretched to keep the bat and moths inbounds. Still select one bat but only 3–4 moths who play inside the forest. Then take turns rotating kids to play bat, moths or trees.

Camouflage

Audience age: 5+

Time needed: 15 minutes

Materials needed: A forest!

How to play: The game starts with the player that is “it” shouting “camouflage.” The other players scatter and hide. The “it” player counts to ten out loud with their eyes closed. After the count is over, the “it” player begins looking around. If they recognize any player not completely hidden, they call out the name and location of the player. If they have correctly identified the player, they are out. If not, the player does not have to reveal their identity and is still in play. Once the “it” player can no longer identify anyone, they call out “green light” and count out loud to five with their eyes closed. The players have five seconds to try and reach the “it” player, or at least get closer while still being out of sight. The first player to touch the “it” player without being seen is the winner.

Variations: Add face painting or fabric to hide with like painted burlaps sacks for added camo affect.

Four Trees

Audience age: 6+

Time needed: 20 minutes

Materials needed: Treed area (forest or yard)

How to play: Pick four different types of trees in the play area. Choose someone to be it. The “it” player closes their eyes and counts to 20 while the other players run to one of the four trees. With their eyes still closed, the “it” player yells out one of the four tree types. Whoever is standing at that tree is out. Repeated until there is only one player left or all the players are caught.

Lindsay Coulter is a writer, educator, facilitator, naturalist, community catalyst, soul activist, mentor, and dedicated mother of two. She’s the Director of Communications, Culture and Community at EPIC Learning Centre, a forest and nature school in Victoria. Find her @SaneAction on Instagram and Facebook.

See the Sights in the CRD

Roam Around at Fort Rodd Hill

Tour through secret bunkers, military command posts and original 19th century buildings at Fort Rodd Hill, a west coast artillery fortress on active duty from 1895 to 1956. Learn the personal stories of soldiers and their families. Camp overnight in a group-friendly oTENTik. Grab the wheel as a “master mariner” at Fisgard Lighthouse, the oldest on the Canadian west coast, and wander through a rare Garry Oak meadow. pc.gc.ca/en/ lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill

Get Out in the Garden

Butchart Gardens is open daily from 9am- 5pm, welcoming guests to take solace from this beautiful garden. You’ll find a sunken garden, rose garden, Japanese Garden, and Italian Garden along with Ross Fountain and Star Pond. For information on both present and future happenings, visit butchartgardens.com

along the way. It also intersects with the E&N Rail Trail-Humpback Connector, the 17km cycling and pedestrian trail. Start the Goose in the heart of the city or drive out to a rural access point for more of a country experience. gallopinggoosetrail.com

Lose Yourself on the Lochside Trail

The 29-km Lochside Regional Trail starts in Saanich and ends at the ferry terminal in Swartz Bay. In some places trail visitors must share paved or gravel public roads with motor vehicles and farm vehicles. Trail maps and suggested access points/ day trips are available from the CRD website: crd.bc.ca/parks, then select “Find a Park.”

Loop Swan Lake

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary features both marshy lowlands and the rocky, oak-forested highlands of Christmas Hill. The 12,000-year-old lake is home to a variety of birds and wildlife including muskrats, river otters and mink. Circle the lake along a 2.5-km trail and cross the floating walkway then stop in at the Nature House (open on a limited schedule). swanlake.bc.ca

Stretch Out at Sidney Spit

Sidney Spit Marine Park is a great destination for a day trip. The foot-passenger ferry service has re-opened so now you can book your trip to Sidney Island (25 minutes). Explore the sandy spit at the northeast end or hike around the whole island. Walk-in camping is also available. For updates on the ferry service, visit sidneyspitferry. com

While Away the Day at Witty’s

Ease into East Sooke Park

East Sooke Regional Park offers 50 kms of trails along the windswept rocky coast, over dry hilltops, through dark rainforest to sheltered coves. Aylard Farm is popular with picnickers and those looking for an easy excursion. A 5-minute walk through open fields leads to a sandy beach. Trails head inland to hilltop views, or along the rugged, more challenging Coast Trail. crd.bc.ca/parks

Make a Splash at Thetis Lake

Thetis Lake. Hike scenic trails hugging Upper and Lower Thetis lakes. The beach area of Thetis Lake is perfect for a picnic or swim, although it tends to be crowded in summer. If you have a canoe, try an early morning or evening paddle. Pay parking: $2.25 for the day or $20 for the season. crd. bc.ca/parks

“Star” Gaze at The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea

The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the ecosystem of the Salish Sea. Spend a moment with calming, drifting jellies. Take a peek at invertebrates of all shapes and colours. The Centre is open and welcomes visitors on Thursday though Tuesday from 10am4:30pm. Masks mandatory. salishseacentre.org

Fly by Butterfly Gardens

Play in the Park

Beacon Hill Park offers 200-acres to play in, just steps from downtown Victoria. Explore the trails meandering through meadows, gardens and trees, and the 18-hole putting green (bring your own clubs and balls), spray park and playground. Stroll past the duck ponds, over bridges, through gardens, and find what was once the world’s tallest free-standing totem pole. beaconhillpark.ca

Gallop Along the Goose

The 60-km partly paved Galloping Goose Trail winds from Victoria to Sooke with access points

Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park in Metchosin offers more than 5 kms of beautiful trails run through woodland, past lagoon and marsh. Watch for birds as you meander down to the sandy beach. The Nature House at the trailhead has some great displays. Check for opening hours. On Metchosin Road, approximately 40 minutes from downtown Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks

Retreat to Roche Cove

Roche Cove Regional Park in East Sooke. Picnic at the protected cove after an easy walk from the parking area. Wander the 7 kms of trails through cedar forest and along a cool creek or climb a mossy slope for hilltop views of Roche Cove and the Sooke Basin. Roche Cove is also a good access point for the Galloping Goose Trail. crd. bc.ca/parks

Victoria Butterfly Gardens. See thousands of exotic butterflies (up to 70 species) flying free in their own tropical rainforest environment. Wander through the orchid exhibit or carnivorous plant section. You’ll also see colourful fish and tropical birds. Open daily from 10am-4pm with the last admission into the facility at 3pm. Group bookings are only allowed between 8-10am. butterflygardens.com

Seek

Sun & Surf

Gonzales Beach. Sure the water is freezing, but this is a beautiful sandy beach with the southfacing views and sunshing. It’s a great beach for skim boarding and splashing about in the shallow waters. Willows Beach has all the amenities at hand: bathrooms, a tea room for concessions, a playground and a sweeping sandy beach. There’s a grassy park for picnics and lots of trees for shade. Gyro Beach at Cadboro Bay Beach and home of the Cadborosaurus! The ocean is no warmer at this beach than any of the other Victoria beaches, but the stretch of sand and nearby Cadboro-Gyro Park make it a hit with families.

includes an explanation of why llamas are special, the history of llamas in North and South America, how llamas interact with people and with each other, a discussion of the uses of llamas today, a chance to meet several llamas, experience a “llama kiss” and feel the fibre. Phone 250-4789969 to arrange a tour. millstream-minis.com

Behold the Bugs

Welcome to the

hand—and eye—at axe throwing (12+). Open Fri–Mon from 10am–7pm. wildplay.com

Visit the Farm

Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is located in Victoria’s beautiful Beacon Hill . Enjoy the farm animal experience, from alpacas to miniature goats, tropical birds and miniature pigs. The Farm is home to all kinds of fuzzy, furry, feathered creatures and features a goat petting area and the famous goat stampedes. Open seasonally. For dates and hours visit beaconhillchildrensfarm.ca

Appreciate Art

A visit to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is a one-of-a-kind experience. The diversity of exhibits and programs is welcoming for all and there’s always something new to discover. aggv.ca

Find Out About Flying

See airplanes, seaplanes, helicopters and more at the BC Aviation Museum. Learn about BC’s aviation history from early bush planes to bombers and beyond. bcam.net

Chillin’ in the Cowichan Valley

Walk Among the Totems

Duncan, aka “The City of Totems,” has over 40 beautifully carved totems scattered throughout the city, just waiting for you to take a self-guided walking tour. Follow the yellow footprints or take a virtual tour with an interactive map. Take as long as you want; stop along the way for a drink, treat, lunch, or to browse the toy shop. downtownduncan.ca

Change Your View of the World at Hand of Man

Step inside this 17,000-square-foot museum of some of the most interesting personal collections in the world. Every bit of wall space is covered with a treasure, artifact, oddity, or piece of culture and history. Don’t be surprised if the owner curator Jim Shockey joins you and starts talking about his incredible world-wide adventures over the last 40 years. This museum is a rarity and treasure all to itself. handofmanmuseum.com

All Aboard at the BC Forest Discovery

Centre

Take a trip through the past, present and future on 100 acres! Forestry and logging take an im-

portant place in history and our present-day-lives, all captured in the Forests Forever interactive exhibit. No visit is complete without a locomotive ride across the spectacular grounds and over the Somenos Lake trestle. Plan on lunch from the concessions or bring your own picnic. bcforestdiscoverycentre.com

Gear Up for Biking

Bring your bikes and ride the trails! Hundreds of kilometres of trails for all levels of ability. Enjoy the lush forests, the vistas, waterfalls and the adrenaline. Camps and clinics for kids 8–14 are available at Next Level Riding nextlevelriding.

ca. Need a bike rental to get started? Check out Cycle Therapy in Duncan to get on a bike and start seeing the sights of Cowichan from a whole new perspective. cycletherapy.ca

Cool Down on the Cowichan River

Dive into the fun of tubing down the Cowichan River with a leisurely but exhilarating floating experience. It’s Vancouver Island’s best kept secret for cooling off in the slow-moving, crystal clear waters of the Cowichan River. Jump in with your own floatie or give the guys at The Tube Shack a call for licensed and insured tube rentals and complimentary shuttle back to Lake Cowichan. cowichanriver.com

Spend the day at Transfer Beach

One of Ladysmith’s gems, Transfer Beach is a seaside park that will keep the little ones entertained for hours. Swimming, spray parks, playgrounds, and sheltered picnic areas—all surrounded by flora and fauna, viewpoints and lookouts. Pick up a game of basketball, horseshoes or sand volleyball then grab a bite and drink at the concessions and food trucks. This beach has it all, and is centrally located right off Trans-Canada highway. ladysmith.ca

Let Your Spirit Soar with The Raptors

The Raptors, 10 minutes north of Duncan, invites you to meet some of the coolest birds in the world. Check out the flying demonstrations featuring eagles, hawks, owls and vultures. Want to get closer? Take a walk through the woods with a hawk, hold a falcon on your glove, meet an owl face to beak, or spend an entire day immersing yourself in the world of raptors. pnwraptors.com

Fall in Love with Stocking Creek Falls

This gentle waterfall is situated just north of Chemainus in the seaside community of Saltair. Part

of the Cowichan Valley Trail, this easy path to the waterfall is full of wildlife, birds, trees, flowers and fresh air. Pick a salmonberry along the way and count all the owls in the tall trees. Enter Stocking Creek Park from Chemainus Rd. cvrd.bc.ca

Explore the Cowichan River Footpath

The lower stretch of the footpath, from the Cowichan Fish and Game Association clubhouse to Skutz Falls, is a well-maintained trail, beautiful at any time of the year. You’ll also find many excellent picnicking spots. There is a 2.4-km circle route to Holt Creek and a 6.4-km circle route with good picnic spots. Maps can be picked up at Duncan Visitor Information Centre.

Swimming is a Life Skill

Hunt for Fairies at Merridale Cidery & Distillery

Explore Merridale’s 20-acre apple orchard in Cobble Hill and learn about apple trees, indigenous plant life and little known facts about Cowichan. This tour also highlights “Merri and Dale”—the magical apple blossom faeries living on the property. Pick up a “Mystical Orchard Adventure Map” to search for faeries, dryads, hobgoblins, gnomes and elves or download it at merridale.ca

Get to Know Nanaimo & Area

the suspension bridge over the river. The Information Centre at the south end of town will provide directions. rdn.bc.ca/top-bridge-regional-trail

Try Your Hand at Disc Golf

Bowen Park Disc Golf is free and open to the public every day of the year. The par 54 course starts at a large, introductory sign that’s located across from the main complex building, near Bowen Road. For a course map and score card, visit nanaimo.ca

Zip, Swing & Bungy at Wildplay

Brush Up on Island History

Nanaimo District Museum offers guided and selfguided tours that encourage visitors to “Make a Discovery” while exploring the history and heritage of our area. The Museum Gallery is open from 10am–4pm, admission is by donation. The Bastion remains closed and cannon firings have been cancelled until further notice. nanaimomuseum.ca

Gander at the Goats

Coombs Old Country Market is along Highway 4A, on the way to Port Alberni from Parksville or Nanaimo. Wander the market, unique shops, galleries and studios for gifts, groceries and great food. There’s lots to see. Be sure to look up when you’re outside the market—the goats on the sod roof live there throughout the summer and “mow” the lawn. The Market is open from 9am–6pm. oldcountrymarket.com

Take Your Best Shot at Mini Golf

Sink some putts at Paradise Mini Golf and Fun Park (paradisefunpark.net) featuring two worldclass mini-golf courses complete with a mini lighthouse, pirate ship and Victorian mansion. Riptide Lagoon Adventure Golf (riptidelagoon.com) will whisk you away to another land filled with mini mountains, rapids and a research station.

Play in the Park

Lions Venture Land Playground and Splash Park is a landmark in the Parksville Community Park. Kids love the brightly coloured slides and sea creatures, swings, jungle gyms, in-ground trampolines and the ever popular Zipkrooze. Not only that, but

there are horseshoe pits, a skate park, kite field, lacrosse box, sports field and ball diamonds, and a picnic shelter and gazebo.

Go Underground at Horne Lake

Explore the beauty and mysteries of Vancouver Island’s Underworld in a subterranean adventure at Horne Lake Caves. A wide variety of tour options offers many levels of experience for families and adventurous park visitors. To reserve a tour, visit hornelake.com

Bike at Top Bridge

The Top Bridge Trail in Parksville links Rathtrevor Beach with Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park on the scenic Englishman River. The trail is 5km each way and winds through public and private property, with a number of access points (a local favourite is at Industrial Way and Tuan Road). Enter from the Chattell Road trailhead and you’ll be at

At WildPlay Nanaimo, you start with a training session on the ground to get comfortable using the ziplines and continuous belay system. Then you’ll climb up a ladder and start making your way from tree to tree by walking across tightropes, climbing up cargo nets, sliding down ziplines, flying through the air on rope swings and leaping onto swinging logs and balancing on wobbly bridges. There’s a Kids Course, too. Feeling really brave? Then give bungy jumping and the primal swing a try. wildplay.com/nanaimo

Look Waaayyy Up at Cathedral Grove

Cathedral Grove-MacMillan Park is a day-use park just past Cameron Lake on Highway 4. View some of the largest and oldest trees on Vancouver Island, including over-800-year-old giants and lush vegetation on the interpretive trail system that winds through the park. Cathedral Grove is approximately 20 minutes from Parksville. bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/macmillan

Hike to the Falls

Stamp River Provincial Park near Port Alberni is over 327 hectares of forests, rivers and waterfalls. Explore the 2 kms of hiking trails along the river, past fish ladders and crashing waterfalls. Starting

in late August, spawning Sockeye salmon begin making their way up the Stamp River. The park is a 20-minute drive from town on Beaver Creek Road.

Spend a day at the Beach

Rathtrevor Beach is a three-mile stretch of sandy seaside, perfect for families craving a day at the beach, with water warm enough not only for wading, but for swimming, too! Stick around for the sunsets, often some of the most spectacular on the Island. The nearby BC Parks campground is also a family favourite. bcparks.ca/explore/ parkpgs/rathtrevor

Meet the Herd at Morningstar Farm

Little Qualicum Cheeseworks is just north of Parksville. Wander LQC’s Morningstar Farm, meet

the small herd of Holstein, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss and Canadienne dairy cows and see how yummy, artisanal local cheeses are made. You can take your own self-guided tour around the 90 acres of beautiful working farm. Open daily 9am–6pm. 403 Lowrys Road. morningstarfarm.ca

Be Wowed by Wildlife

North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre (NIWRC) in Coombs is a rehabilitation facility, especially for raptors and black bears. The goal: to care for these animals and eventually reintroduce them into their natural environment. See eagles through one-way glass in the largest flight cage of its kind in Canada. View bears, owls, falcons, hawks, swans and ravens. NIWRA offers activities and educational programs for the whole family. Open daily 9am–4:30pm. niwra.org

Follow the Nanaimo Bar Trail

Looking for the ultimate Nanaimo Bar? Look no further than these top three options: Red’s Bakery, Hearthstone Artisan Bakery or Vault Café. Or follow the self-guided tasting trail (tourism nanaimo.com/what-to-do/sip-and-savour/ nanaimo-bar-trail) where you’ll find everything from the classic Nanaimo Bar, the organic/vegan/ raw/gluten bar and ice cream versions to maple bacon topped and deep fried Nanaimo Bars.

Poke Around the Pacific Rim

Hang 10 in Tofino

Want to Learn to Surf? You’ve come to the right place. Here are three rental places and surfing schools In Tofino: Surf Sisters surfsister.com, Pacific Surf Co pacificsurfschool.com, Tofino Surf School tofinosurfschool.ca

See the Sawmill

McLean Mill National Historic Site will be for self-guided tours with maps available outside the administration office. The Mill will also be offering guided tours in limited group sizes. Dates and times to be confirmed. Gift shop and Steam Pot Cafe are open daily, hours to be confirmed. Campground is open, with online booking available. mcleanmill.ca

Explore the Trails

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The stretch of Pacific Rim National Park between Ucluelet and Tofino boasts magnificent beaches and dramatic seascapes (and a few tourists!). Check in with the Tourist Information Centre at the Ucluelet-Tofino-Port Alberni Junction to find out about trails, beaches, eateries and activities. pc.gc.ca

Get Wild on the WPT

The Wild Pacific Trail in Pacific Rim Park. Follow cliff-edges along the extreme outer coast, including the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse site. You’ll view the ocean’s fury from the protection of the trail and from viewing platforms

situated at the best headlands along the route. You’ll also be awed by gigantic nurse-logs, raised root systems, mosses, fungi, lichens and ferns. The trail can be walked in two main sections: Lighthouse Loop and Big Beach. Then leave the coastline to visit the largest trees in the area at Ancient Cedars grove. wildpacifictrail.com

Littles to the Lighthouse

Lighthouse Loop, part of the Wild Pacific Trail and 2.6 kms long, can be walked in a 30–45 minute loop using the adjoining He-Tin-Kis Park boardwalk. The trail includes viewpoints and benches for watching whales, birds or catching the sunset. The Bog Interpretive Trail is open, a 300m interpretive loop (within the Loop!). wildpacifictrail.com/lighthouse.html

Learn About Local Marine Life

Visit Ucluelet Aquarium, Canada’s first catch-and-release aquarium, where you’ll find a diversity of local marine life. The touch tanks will be covered for animal care purposes as soap and disinfectants are harmful to the health of fish and invertebrates. Learn about the local marine ecosystems at the mini aquarium and help raise awareness about local marine biodiversity and promote respect for the ocean environment. Open every day, including holidays, from 10am–4:30pm. uclueletaquarium.org

Get Out in the Garden

The idea of the garden is that it can be both a basic introduction to the natural and cultural history of Clayoquot Sound, and a place where the relationship between culture and nature can be explored. A COVID-friendly way to spend a day in Tofino “just to set the heart free.” Now open seven days a week, from dawn to dusk. tofinobotanicalgardens.com

Try Out Tuff City Skatepark

Tuff City Skatepark is a surf-inspired park built and powered by the determination of local residents. The result is a well-designed, safe skateboarding area for the young and old, those who are learning or experienced skaters. tourismtofino.com/plan-your-trip/business-directory/tuff-city-skatepark

Or Ride on Over to the Bike Park

This mountain bike park is Tofino’s newest addition to its outdoor playground. The park is located beside the Tofino Community Hall and includes a pump track, table top jumps, a learning area, ladder planks and other obstacles. The park is “use at your own risk” so think safety first.

Indulge in Gelato

Chocolate Tofino offers handmade gelato flavours including Dutch Chocolate, Salted Caramel, White Chocolate Raspberry, Hammerhead—a secret recipe—“Kookville” and Lavender Honey, to name a few. With a menu that’s “sometimes seasonal, sometimes as we please,” you never know what you’ll find. chocolatetofino.com

Healthy Families, Happy Families

Child, Youth & Family Public Health

South Island Health Units

Esquimalt

250-519-5311

Gulf Islands 250-539-3099

(toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

Peninsula

Saanich

250-544-2400

250-519-5100

Saltspring Island 250-538-4880

Sooke

Victoria

Discover the Comox Valley

250-519-3487

250-388-2200

West Shore 250-519-3490

Central Island Health Units

Duncan

Ladysmith

250-709-3050

250-755-3342

Lake Cowichan 250-749-6878

Nanaimo

Nanaimo

250-755-3342

250-739-5845

Princess Royal Parksville/Qualicum 250-947-8242

Port Alberni 250-731-1315

Tofino

250-725-4020

North Island Health Units

Campbell River 250-850-2110

Courtenay 250-331-8520

Kyuquot Health Ctr 250-332-5289

‘Namgis Health Ctr 250-974-5522

Port Hardy 250-902-6071

islandhealth.ca/our-locations/ health-unit-locations

Changes with BC Medical Services Plan premiums mean that families eligible for partial payment of some medical services and access to some income-based programs now must apply for Supplementary Benefits through the Government of BC. Applications can be done online and take approximately 15 minutes. Families who previously qualified for MSP Premium Assistance should not need to re-apply if taxes are completed yearly. It is advised to confirm coverage before proceeding with treatment to avoid paying out of pocket.

For more information, visit gov.bc.ca/gov/ content/health/health-drug-coverage/msp/ bc-residents/benefits/services-covered-bymsp/supplementary-benefits

Peruse the Courtenay Museum & Palaeontology Centre

The Courtenay Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am–4pm. Find out why the Comox Valley, past and present, is one of the most plentiful places on earth. Take a fossil tour and travel 80 million years back in time; browse the galleries to delve into the stories that make our history come alive. courtenaymuseum.ca

See the Standing in the Gap Exhibit

Campbell River Museum’s Cecil Dawson: Standing in the Gap exhibit explores the impacts of colonization through the experiences of one family, and one artist, Kwakwaka’wakw artist and Hereditary Chief Gixkastallasame-gi, or Cecil Dawson. His artworks interpret this hurtful history and its continuing impact upon our society. Open daily during the summer from 10am–5pm. crmuseum.ca

Wonder About Whales

Look up at the Whale Interpretive Centre in Telegraph Cove and you’ll see the 18-metre skeleton of a fin whale hanging from the ceiling. Walk between the jawbones of a blue whale or check out the skull of a sperm whale with giant teeth. Housed in an old freight shed, the interactive museum’s goal is to increase public awareness about whales and other local marine mammals and the threats they face. killerwhalecentre.org

Catch a Fish

Cast a line from Discovery Pier and see what you catch. Or pack a picnic and sit at one of the tables on the pier for dining al fresco. There’s a concession stand nearby that sells ice cream and rents fishing rods in the summer. campbellriver.travel/ attractions/discovery-pier

Zip-pidy Do Da

Unfold your wings and fly on Mt. Washington’s “Eagle’s Flight” ZipTour. This dual-line, four-span zip line offers an adrenaline-filled and scenic adventure down the terrain of the Mt. Washington Alpine Resort. The total tour length is 1.44-milelong with a vertical drop of 1,364 feet! Or skip the zip and take a chairlift ride to the summit to see breathtaking mountain and ocean views. Open weekends, book in advance at mountwashington.ca

Go Go-Carting

The Saratoga Speedway provides family-friendly entertainment and activities. Get a ride in a monster truck, race a go-cart or watch the action at a Crash to Pass race featuring everything from travel trailers to boats! For a current racing, schedule visit saratogaracing.ca

Sway on the Suspension Bridge

Just a 30-minute walk from the parking lot, Elk Falls Suspension Bridge gives a bird’s eye view of Elk Falls, cascading 64 metres to the canyon below. The high wire sides mean you can relax

and enjoy the view without worrying about any climbing kids. The area is well signed. bcparks. ca/explore/parkpgs/elk_falls

Discover Local Marine Species

Discovery Passage Aquarium features local marine species and habitats from Discovery Passage. The Aquarium offers education and fun hands-on experiences suitable for all ages. With a focus on conservation and education, the Aquarium will reopen this summer with species that are collected in the spring being released in the fall.

Make a Quick Stop at the Quinsam

As one of Canada’s largest salmon rearing facilities, the Quinsam River Hatchery plays a vital role in restoring natural spawning runs to the Campbell and Quinsam Rivers during the fall. Check out the fish floor inside the hatchery’s interpretive centre, a glass floor covering a re-creation of the nearby rivers with salmon, trout and other native aquatic species. Check for re-opening and hours. pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sep-pmvs/hatcheriesecloseries/quinsam-eng.html

Celebrate the Return of Islands

Folk Festival

Islands Folk Festival resumes live performances at Providence Farm in Duncan on Saturday, July 23. With on-site camping, a ‘Wee Folks’ kid zone, shuttle service, beverage garden and food and craft vendors, this family-friendly event will feature great music and performers, craft vendors and family fun. For a full list of performers visit islandsfolkfestival.ca

Explore the Gulf Islands

Meet You at the Market

Salt Spring Saturday Market on the waterfront in Ganges is famous for a reason: there’s lots to see and do. Oh, yeah…and the Salt Spring fruitsicles! You’ll find 140+ stallholders who, between April to October from 9am–4pm, sell what they make, bake or grow on. saltspringmarket.com

See the Seashells at the Seashore Montague Harbour was declared the province’s first marine park in 1959 and the area has been home to Coast Salish people for over 3800 years. You’ll find the middens made of discarded clam, oyster and abalone shells on the seashore. Crushed by storms and bleached by the sun, the shells have created beautiful white beaches, perfect for exploring. bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/montague

Play in Paradise

Visit Big Tribune Bay on Hornby Island, dubbed “Hawaii of the North” for its crystal-clear blue waters and sweeping sandy beach. With lots of tidal pools to explore at low tide, this Hornby favourite

provides a day’s worth of to-dos so pack a picnic and beach toys and kick off your shoes. bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/tribune

Commandeer a Kayak

Go kayaking on Galiano Island with a kayak from Gulf Island Kayaking and see the sandstone shoreline and maybe even a whale or two. As the original kayak outfitter in the Southern Gulf Islands, the owners chose Galiano as its base because of the exceptional beauty of the island’s undeveloped coastline, the abundance of diverse wildlife and the reliable tranquility of its sheltered waters. For rates and tours, visit seakayak.ca

Find the Mountain Fairies

Follow the Fairy Door Trail at Mount Erskine on Salt Spring. A good, stiff hike up the 488-metre mountain takes you past twisted trees, mossy forest floors and an assortment of fairy doors. Be forewarned: the first door is further along the trail than you might expect. For details and a map, visit travelingislanders.com/enchanted-fairydoor-trail-on-salt-spring-island

Hit the Hilltops

Explore Helliwell Park on Hornby Island and take in some incredible views. This 5km hike is stroller friendly, with an all-terrainer. The expansive grass fields mean lots of room to roam, but beware of the steep cliffs! bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/ helliwell

Dedicated students in grades 6–12 come from 28 different countries to attend academic programs in Greater Victoria Schools.

Why Host?

• Enjoy an unforgettable cultural experience.

• $1100 per month will be provided to support a student in your home

• Short Stay or Long Stay Hosting Opportunities are Available

• 24/7 assistance is provided from the Homestay Office

Ramble on the Ridge

Hike along Galiano’s 75km+ of trails. One of the best hikes is the 90-minute roundtrip hike in Bodega Ridge Provincial Park. At the top, 328 metres above sea level, you’ll have a spectacular view of Trincomali Channel. Watch for endangered peregrine falcons in this safe critical habitat. bcparks.ca/explore/parkpgs/bodega_ridge

Roam at Roesland

Walk the trail to beautiful Roe Lake on North

BIRTH NEWBORN MATERNITY FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY BY KANDYCE JOELINE

3 Family-friendly Island Hikes

What better time than summertime to get out and explore the great outdoors with the kids?

Slow down and delight in their discoveries as they investigate every creek, hollow tree and snail. Don’t forget to pack plenty of food and water and take lots of breaks.

Here are three easy hikes on Vancouver Island that are fun for the whole family.

Reminders: Check trail reports, bring the 10 essentials, leave a trip plan with a responsible person, and pack out all trash.

Sooke Potholes

Round trip: 4 km

Location: Sooke Potholes Regional Park

Take a hike on the Riverside Trail, cool off on beaches, watch salmon returning to spawn, and marvel at cliffs, swirl holes, and waterfalls created by the Sooke River.

Starting at Parking Lot 1, head past the toilets and up the stairs to the right. Quickly earn the first viewpoint, overlooking deep pools in the gorge. Briefly walk along Sooke River Road. Keep left to see the ruins of an abandoned lodge. Follow the fence north. Then bear left to descend to a junction where the Riverside Trail goes up the stairs to the right. Go straight ahead and down the rock stairs to the viewing platforms. Peer over two waterfall tiers and down the gorge.

Continue upstream on the main path. Fork left by Parking Lot 2. Return to the road. At a pedestrian crossing, leave the road, and follow Mary Vine Creek left to Sand Pebble Beach. Have a picnic, go for a swim or watch American dippers hunt for insects and fish in the river.

Backtrack to the road and walk north on the shoulder to reach Parking Lot 3. At the north end, take the Riverside Trail left. Up the path, rainwater fills puddles on a rocky clifftop that serves as a phenomenal viewpoint for the Sooke Potholes. Two deep pools are divided by a narrow gap in the gorge. Keep kids away from the edge and beware of slippery rock.

Just upstream, there’s another spectacular viewpoint. The river has carved a bizarre canyon out of the sandstone bedrock. There are waterfalls, tight chasms, and swirl holes.

Push on upstream to Skipping Rock Beach. Indeed, the flat stones are perfect for skimming.

Turn around and retrace your steps downstream.

McKenzie Bight

Round trip: 3 km

Location: Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

Lively tide pools and lovely arbutus trees await. The McKenzie Bight Trail is short and sweet, but you could easily

while away most of day exploring the coastline.

A big sign indicates the way to Gowlland Tod Provincial Park across the road from Mount Work Regional Park’s parking lot. Set off on the wide McKenzie Bight Trail. Hike northwest and steadily downhill along the lush ravine of Pease Creek. Enjoy birdsong and the burble of flowing water.

Emerge from the rainforest at the mouth of Pease Creek on McKenzie Bight. Explore the beach ahead before following the trail to the right and up a little hill. Turn left at the outhouse to arrive on a grassy promontory with arbutus trees. Picnic time! Save some treats for the uphill return to the trailhead.

Extension Ridge

Round trip: 9 km

Location: Nanaimo

Extension Ridge is a pleasant jaunt through arbutus, Douglas-fir and Garry oak trees, with views of the Salish Sea. The Abyss, a rock cleft ascribed to an earthquake, is the star of the show.

Find the start of Extension Ridge Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail (TCT), on Harewood Mines Road, south of the Highway 19 overpass. Head east in the right-of-way, turn right at a signed junction and climb the steps under the power lines. Go right twice, then left at the base

of a pylon to enter a clear-cut. Keep right on the main trail.

Twenty minutes from the trailhead, ascend a conglomerate outcrop to discover The Abyss. The enigmatic fissure is narrow enough to step across but wide enough to fall in. Be careful with kids and dogs.

The TCT continues south in the woods, following the mellow crest. Twenty minutes from The Abyss, come to a wideangle viewpoint with two seats carved into stumps at the top of the clear-cut.

Keep going for 45 minutes to enjoy more of the ridge. Go under a power line. Gradually descend to a clearing occupied by a quartered circle of rocks strewn with assorted trinkets. Stay right, and reach a bluff viewpoint featuring a canine memorial plaque. Finally, steps lead down to a gravel road, where an Extension Ridge Trail signpost points back the way you came. Turn around here.

Summer FUN at GNS

Glenlyon Norfolk School is offering a variety of fun summer camps for students age 5 to 17. Arts, cooking, baking, field hockey, day camps, kayaking, outdoor education and overnight camps, entrepreneurial camps and more—our summer programs offer something for everyone!

www.mygns.ca/summer-fun

Stephen Hui is the author of Best Hikes and Nature Walks With Kids In and Around Southwestern British Columbia, a new guide to 55 familyfriendly trails. His first two books, 105 Hikes and Destination Hikes, were #1 B.C. bestsellers. Photos: Stephen Hui. Learn more: 105hikes.com

Rainbows & Dreams Preschool

St. Christopher’s Montessori School

Offering

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

JUNE

3 FRIDAY TO 5 SUNDAY

Oak Bay Tea Party V

Fri eve, all day Sat and Sun, Willows Beach

Activities at this popular family event include an air show, bathtub race, parade through Oak Bay, carnival, free live music, raffle draw and so much more. oakbayteaparty.com

12 SUNDAY

Teeny Tiny Garden Tour V

All day, various locations in Victoria

Plot your map, grab your hat, and prepare to be inspired. victoriahospice.org/event/2022teeny-tiny-garden-tour-save-the-date

23 THURSDAY TO 2 SUNDAY

Victoria Pride Festival V

All day, various locations in Victoria

We are looking forward to connecting again through our signature Victoria Pride Festival events. victoriapridesociety.org/pride-2022

24 FRIDAY TO 3 SUNDAY

TD Jazzfest V

All day, various locations in Victoria

TD Victoria International JazzFest is a ten-day music festival featuring jazz, blues and world music of local, Canadian and internationally acclaimed musicians. jazzvictoria.ca/jazzfest-home

25 SATURDAY

Comox Summer Fest

10am–5pm, Downtown Comox

CV

Specials from local merchants, street market, live music and family fun events. downtowncomox. com/downtown-comox-summer-fest

25 SATURDAY

Vic West Fest W

12–8pm, Vic West Park

Vic West Fest is a family-oriented community celebration, with local musicians, and games and activities for adults and children alike. victoriawest.ca/vic-west-fest

JULY

2 SATURDAY

One Love Festival N 12–8pm, Transfer Beach Park Ladysmith

All ages FREE Reggae event. 1lovefestival.ca/index.php

10 SUNDAY

Saanich Strawberry Fest P 11am–3pm, Beaver Lake Park

Event activities, displays, strawberries and ice cream. saanich.ca/EN/main/news-events/ events-list/saanich-community-events/saanichstrawberry-festival-2021.html

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

14 THURSDAY TO 17 SUNDAY

Northwest Deuce Days V Inner Harbour Victoria

2022 marks the 10th edition of Northwest Deuce Days and this highly anticipated event promises to impress as attendees admire classic cars, meet their owners and witness their passion first hand. tourismvictoria.com/deuce-days

16 SATURDAY & 17 SUNDAY

Nanaimo Gem & Mineral Show N Legion Hall

Vendors selling rocks, crystals and jewelry. facebook.com/2girlsrock

22 FRIDAY TO 24 SUNDAY

Nanaimo Bathtub Races N Various locations

This year’s race will start and end in Nanaimo Harbour. The finish line is below the Frank Ney statue at Maffeo Sutton park! bathtubbing.com/ bathtub-weekend/calendar-events

22 FRIDAY TO 31 SUNDAY

Splash Around Town V Various locations

A 10-day summer music festival at some of the City’s most beautiful locations. victoriasymphony.ca/splasharoundtown

While firmly embracing the Reggio-Emila (Italy) Philosophy our dedicated team of educators use the environment as the third teacher as we encourage your child throughout their day. Our purpose built facilities have been handmade using the trees from our forest. Come take a virtual tour on our website! lexieslittlebears.ca Waitlist: 250-590-3603

BC Award of Excellence in Childcare & Prime Minister’s Award of Excellence in Early Childhood Education.

The Science of Slug & Snail Slime

Snails and slugs have an extremely porous body. They absorb moisture from their environment but can also rapidly be left in trouble on a hot sunny day with no shelter to be found for meters. In an attempt to avoid desiccation, or drying up, slugs and snails produce something that is better than liquid gold. For a slug that is. Mucus! While mucus may be something we as humans shy away from, for snails, it is the reason they are able to move around so, um, let’s say “effectively.” It is also how they are able to seemingly defy gravity with their climbing feats, and how they leave love letters for potential mates.

on freshly grown vegetation, or aiding in the decomposition of dead plant material. Even if you miss seeing their tentacle laced face, you may be fortunate enough to see evidence of their visits through slime trails and tiny bites out of your plants. Gastropods are one of the most diverse groups of animals, second only to insects. Vancouver Island is home to many charismatic slugs and snails, including the second largest in the world, the banana slug. Despite its name, you do not want to eat these creatures. They can contain parasites that can cause severe damage. In any case, their texture is much less appealing than that of an actual banana!

Banana slugs have graced the presence of many Vancouver Islanders on their travels, although few are lucky enough to spot one of Vancouver Islands aptly named jumping slugs. Dromedary and Warty jumping slugs are extremely rare creatures that have little known about them. The dromedary jumping slugs for example, are only found on Vancouver Island, and only seven spots on the Island have been confirmed as known locations for them! While they may physically not be able to launch themselves off the ground in the same way that humans, kangaroos or rabbits are able to jump, they can thrash their body rapidly and sporadically to try to deter predators. I don’t speak for the predators of the forest, but I have to say that a thrashing slug does seem less consumable than a slug who has simply shrunk their body into itself as a defense.

Snail mucus is produced by glands in the foot, the body of the animal, and has properties making it similar to both a lubricant and a glue. As they move, the secreted mucus creates a gliding surface for the creature, they use the muscles in their foot to push themselves along. Once they are moving, it doesn’t take too much effort to continue their glide! On top of this, the mucus they secreted has the additional benefit of leaving a trail brimming with pheromones. These pheromones can be smelled by others of their species, and used to find mates.

This miracle mucus happens to be strong enough to anchor them onto surfaces, allowing them to climb up trees, glass, patio furniture, you name it. If they are in fear of dessication, snails can create a plug of mucus to block their shell from evaporation. This can keep them safe for months at a time until they are reintroduced to hydration.

While leaf litter filled forests are a perfect place to find these slimy wonders, even for those surrounded by buildings, slugs and snails can be found if you know when to look. Rainy days of course provide the necessary incentive for these mucusy friends, but a bonus to being a morning person is that you may be more prone to encountering a snail or slug making their way somewhere damp in the mornings! As the rising sun brings an air of warmth, the last straggling creatures of the night begin their progression into their daytime abodes. Night holds a dampness, and a safety from the drying sun that gives respite to creatures whose moisture is of high importance.

Gastropods, the “stomach-foot” animals, include a few wellknown creatures: the slugs and snails, along with their marine counterparts; limpets; whelks and nudibranchs. In many cases, snails and slugs will spend time in gardens, whether snacking

While they may seem to be creatures of little importance, terrestrial, or land based, gastropods fill an important place on the food chain. They provide nutrients for many birds in particular, robins and thrushes. Snails especially, are excellent at taking calcium from their environment and utilizing it in the growth of their shell. This is important as all of their predators will be gaining calcium as well, which is especially important during breeding season! When observing snails and slugs in your garden, or signs of slugs taking a nibble from your leafy greens, I urge you to resist the urge to use pesticides. All chemicals that we add to the environment have unintended consequences for our natural neighbors. Even if slugs are not your favorite critters, consider the potential ill effects pesticides can have further up the food chain, or on invertebrates that you gladly welcome into your garden. If you want the birds and butterflies, you have to accept the snails and the slugs as well.

Rather than dwell on their slimy, perhaps uninvited presence, take the time to observe them! Leave your blinds open tonight and aim to awaken with the sun. Sit outside in your garden as the sunny tendrils urge snails to hasten away to the damp undergrowth, or carefully walk around your neighborhood until you find one of these friends. Simply watch them. May the March of the Slugs encourage you to use your senses in exploration, follow trails laid by those before you and take… it…slow.

Kalene Lillico is a Program Naturalist at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Sanctuary. She can often be found searching for forest wisdom, and creatures of the many-legged variety, under logs and rocks.

WildPlay’s Anti-Gravity Camp

Victoria just got an invigorating new outdoor adventure day camp for kids ages 10–14. This brand new program is not just another place to drop off your kiddos for a week. At WildPlay’s Anti-Gravity Camp, your little ones will climb, zip, jump and swing through the treetops in Victoria’s West Shore, learning about themselves and the world around them while making lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

While WildPlay’s famous ziplines and adventure courses are all about fun and games in the trees, our mission with the camp is to provide fertile ground for kids to focus on relationship-building and developing interpersonal skills through activities designed to encourage and support internal growth.

But don’t just take it from us: “10/10! She was proud of herself, which doesn’t come naturally. She became more outspoken, willing to express her concerns and successes, and able to share her experiences with me. These are huge leaps and bounds for my child who has autism and anxiety. Thank you WildPlay for bringing out the child in my child!” – Parent Testimonial, Spring Break 2022

If you’re looking for a summer camp that is a place for your kids to learn and grow, WildPlay’s Anti-Gravity Camp is the place for you!

Location: WildPlay Victoria (#1757 Island Highway, Victoria BC)

Dates: 5-day programs all summer long, starting June 25th Space is filling up fast! Learn more and register online at: wplay.info/ip-agc (or scan the QR code above!) Register by phone: +1-250-590-PLAY (7529)

Take $25 off registration with code ISLANDPARENT25!

A Digital Disconnect …for a real-time re-connect

Inever thought I would be one of those parents. You know, the distracted parent, engrossed in something on their phone/tablet/laptop while their child is trying in vain to capture their attention. And then it happened. My 6-year-old son totally called me out on it.

“Mama! What is more important? Me or your phone?”

Yikes. Now, granted, my son is quite impatient when it comes to getting my attention, and I knew I hadn’t been ignoring him for an inordinate amount of time, but his words gave me instant pause.

No matter how much I tell my son I love him, if my attention is so often focused on this little gadget in my hand that he thinks it is more important to me than him, ever—well, something needs to change.

In the cold, dark, winter months it was definitely more tempting to scroll through Instagram or Marketplace when I had spare moments. It’s been a source of mental respite during long days of homeschooling and pandemic isolation with my delightful-yet-intense son. We can’t be “always on,” it’s exhausting. But as the world wakes up and summer holidays

approach, I feel like it’s going to be easier to put the Google machine down and reconnect with everything around me, including connecting in more meaningful ways with my son. I don’t ever want to take his presence for granted and I certainly don’t want him to think he comes second to a machine.

I also know that kids learn profoundly from observing what their parents do, and I want him to make healthy lifestyle choices that don’t revolve around a screen. Electronics are already so alluring, I need to reinforce that there are many, many alternatives he can choose from besides passive entertainment. And to do this effectively, I need to model it myself.

So, I’m making myself a list of resolutions—ways I can cut down on my own screen time and alternative activities with which to replace it. My intention is that this summer we can create some good habits that will stick with us throughout the fall and winter.

#1: Schedule time away from my device.

I find myself wishing we had a landline again. Because then I wouldn’t have to constantly have my phone nearby for people

to contact me. Out of sight, out of mind, right? However, with senior parents and a young-adult stepson with a chronic disease, I need to be reachable. And landlines are expensive. Since completely divorcing myself from the smart phone isn’t possible, I need to set (and keep) some boundaries for myself. Giving myself set hours when social media, news or Marketplace scrolling are “no-nos” sounds like a good start.

#2: Have alternative activities conveniently located.

A good portion of what I consume on my device is writing or art-related. Unfortunately, phones are a very private type of consumption—it’s hard to share what you’re looking at or reading with someone else. But if there are books, poetry, puzzles and magazines etc. lying around, chances are higher that, if I’m looking at something with interest, my son will join me.

#3: Creation vs. Consumption

I want to make more art. Be it visual, written or musical, putting down my phone will free up more time for self-expression—and hopefully model for my son that art isn’t just done in art class. We can live creatively every day and actively make meaning, rather than passively watch someone else’s products and thoughts scroll by.

#4: Spend more time in nature

Now that my son is older, he can walk further and tackle new physical challenges. During the summer, unencumbered by busy schedules, we can stretch ourselves to go on more outdoors adventures on this beautiful Island we get to call home. Beachcombing has the same mind-calming effect for me as phone-scrolling. Therefore, I should do it more! And we’ll pick up some litter while we’re at it. Even spending more time together in the garden will be a good start.

It feels like the world is getting ready to turn a page and start a new chapter. I feel confident that making these small changes in my relationship with my device will add so much to my life, my son’s life and our connection with each other. It’s so easy to zone out on our phones, but time already passes by far too quickly, and I don’t want to miss out on what is truly important because I’m staring at an electronic screen.

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

A Little Love Goes a Long Way (To Save Our World)

Recently I came across an essay I wrote in high school. It was basically the written version of a self-portrait, just oozing with the selfconfidence of a 17-year-old who thinks she knows everything. In the middle of my wide-eyed fantasies, one thing I practically promised my reader was that someday I would live on the ocean.

And here I am.

I love it. I love being able to walk along the beaches and seeing the waves and the mountains beyond them. We have such a beautiful home. It’s so important to me that I take care of it, learn more about it and teach my children to do the same.

Which is why I was excited to pick up The Seal Garden with photos by Ian McAllister and words by Nicholas Read

(Orca Book Publishers, 2018). This story brings you to one of the Seal Gardens in the Great Bear Sea, where seals, sea lions and otters play and stay safe from predators like Orcas. Each page is filled with stunning photos of the marine mammals napping in blankets of kelp, sunning themselves on rocks and swimming through the beautiful, blue water. For ages 5 to 9.

Another book I’ve been reading lately is Urgent Message from a Hot Planet: Navigating the Climate Crisis by Ann Eriksson and illustrated by Belle Wuthrich (Orca Book Publishers, 2022). This educational book teaches children and teens about why the earth is warming up (and how we know it is). In addition to easy-to-digest facts, the book is filled with poems written by teens and ideas on

how young people can get involved and make a difference. For ages 12 and up.

If your kids are a bit younger but are still interested in learning about how they can take care of the environment, they can always read Fresh Air, Clean Water: Our Right to a Healthy Environment by Megan Clendenan and illustrated by Julie McLaughlin (Orca Book Publishers, 2022). This non-fiction text talks about the benefits nature has for us, like the “happy bacteria” in soil that actually makes us happier. It also includes understandable explanations of different environmentallybased court cases and some ideas on how kids can help, like composing a song or talking to their friends. For ages 10 to 14.

While the previous books are all wonderful, I know that not every child will be interested in reading non-fiction. So, if your child is interested in environmental issues, but they prefer fictional tales, they might want to check out Bear in the Family by Eric Walters and illustrated by Olga Barinova (Orca Book Publishers, 2022). This story takes place after a forest fire forced Jasmin and her family to flee. Now that they’re back home they find a bear cub stuck in a well. Jasmin and her brother Hunter decide to care for it until people from the bear-rescue sanctuary can come and get it. For ages 7 to 10.

The final story for this month is Sky’s Search for Eco-happiness written by Julie Neustadter and Sandi Schwartz and illustrated by Emily Hercock (Independent, 2022). This beautifully illustrated tale follows Sky as she discovers how being outside can brighten up her day (even if you don’t want to dig in the soil to find the “happy bacteria”). For ages 3 to 7.

And there you have it: five books to help you find ways to enjoy and save our lovely home. Maybe you can take a page from Sky’s book and look for ecohappiness as you lie down on the grass with a nice glass of lemonade and read the books outside.

Christina Van

Starkenburg lives in Victoria 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 Twitter: @ Christina_VanS.

Kid-Friendly Summer Salads

My kids love salad. They love small side salads, and big dinner salads are a favourite. While I realize a love of salads is not typical for kids, it’s something that I specifically cultivated as a parent. Salads are a great way to pack a load of vegetables into your diet. They are also so much easier to make than soup or pasta.

If your kids aren’t fans of salad, here’s a few ways to get them excited for leafy greens:

1. Preschoolers are not likely to naturally love salad. The best way to get them on the salad bandwagon is to serve it when they’re hungry. Avoid snacks for at least 2 hours before mealtimes, then serve the salad first. Honestly, I think my kids love salad because I spent 5 years serving it to them when they were at their hungriest!

2. Boring salads are not appetizing. Make sure to include at least one fun ingredient. Fun ingredients can include favourite vegetables, berries or other seasonal fruit, or grated cheese.

3. Don’t include any hard-to-eat vegetables. If you want to serve firm vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower make sure to cook them first. Carrots and beets are easiest to eat when they’ve been grated. I also like to use a peeler to make paperthin slices of carrot.

Here are three simple and delicious salads that can be served as a side or a complete meal. To make a dinner-sized salad be sure to include the suggested protein and serve with a slice of bread.

Berry Salad

(Total time: 15 minutes)

Adding berries to a salad is a great way to make it feel like a treat! Use a mix of whatever berries are available: blueberries, raspberries, blackberries or sliced strawberries. I’ve even made this salad with frozen berries.

Salad Dressing:

1⁄2 cup olive oil

3 Tbsp of apple cider vinegar

2 tsp Dijon mustard pinch of salt, to taste

Salad:

3⁄4 cup of berries

1 large carrot

1 red pepper

1⁄2 cup of soft goat cheese

1 head of lettuce added protein: toasted pecans

1. Mix the salad dressing in the bottom of your salad bowl. Add in the berries and mash slightly with the back of a spoon.

2. Finely dice the red pepper and grate the carrot. Add the pepper and carrots to the salad dressing. Toss to combine.

3. Wash and dry the lettuce. Rip the leaves into bite-sized pieces.

4. When you’re ready to serve the salad, toss the lettuce into the dressing, then top the salad with the goat cheese.

Choose Your Own Toppings Cobb Salad

(Total Time: 15 minutes)

A Cobb salad is a hearty meal-sized salad served with a mix of hardboiled eggs, meat and cheese typically laid out in rows over top of a bed of lettuce. When making Cobb salad for kids, I recommend serving them a plate of salad, then letting them choose their own toppings. It’s a great way to deal with a picky eater.

Cobb salad is usually served with French dressing, however, we en- joy a homemade Ranch-style dressing instead. So easy and delicious!

Salad dressing

1⁄2 cup mayonnaise

1 tsp dried dill weed

1⁄2 cup yogurt

1⁄2 tsp garlic powder

1 Tbsp fresh chopped chives pinch of salt

Salad:

2 tomatoes

Toppings:

avocado

1 package of mixed salad greens

hard-boiled eggs

crisp bacon cooked chicken cheese cubes

1. Mix the salad dressing in the bottom of the salad bowl.

2. Dice the tomatoes and stir them into the salad dressing. Top with the salad greens.

3. Decide which toppings you want to serve, and prepare them.

4. Toss the salad and serve it to each person, then allow them to help themselves to the toppings.

Roasted Vegetable Salad (Prep time 15 minutes, Cook time 45 minutes)

Roasting vegetables for a salad does require a bit more time. However, it’s easy and delicious. The vegetables can even be roasted a few days in advance for a super easy salad dinner.

Roasted vegetables

2 medium sweet potatoes

4 cloves of garlic

Salad dressing

1⁄2 cup of olive oil

3 Tbsp cider vinegar

1⁄2 head of cauliflower

1⁄4 cup of olive oil

3 Tbsp toasted tahini

1 tsp soy sauce

2 Tbsp chopped chives pinch of salt

Salad:

1 red pepper

2 tomatoes

1 head of lettuce added protein: chickpeas and toasted pumpkin seeds

1. Preheat the oven to 400˚F.

2. Dice the sweet potato and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. Finely dice the garlic. Toss the vegetables in olive oil. Spread them out on a roasting pan and place in the oven. Roast for 45 minutes, tossing once halfway through.

3. Meanwhile, prepare the rest of the salad. Mix the salad dressing ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake the salad dressing until the tahini is well mixed in and the salad dressing is emulsified.

4. Place the salad dressing in the bottom of a large salad bowl. Dice the red pepper and tomatoes and add to the salad dressing.

5. Wash and rip up the lettuce.

6. When the vegetables are finished roasting, allow to cool slightly before mixing into the salad.

7. Toss everything together and serve.

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HALF PAGE 7" × 4.5" 05/06/22

Emillie Parrish loves having adventures with her two busy children. You can find more of her recipes in her recently released cookbook Fermenting Made Simple. fermentingforfoodies.com

Family fun starts here

Thinking about your next family getaway? Nanaimo is the perfect place for your next Island adventure. With biking, kayaking, shopping, ziplining and incredible parks and playgrounds at every turn, the a ordable family fun is endless in Nanaimo. From the moment you take the bikes o  the roof rack, get onto the water, or stumble upon that first Nanaimo Bar, come #ExploreNanaimo with the kids and see why it all starts here.

Sunshine & Summer Fun at the Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum is gearing up for a summer of fun with familyfriendly activities for kids of all ages.

Kicking things off is I See Seaweed by the Seashore, a free interactive drop-in session at the seashore diorama, held in partnership with Seaquarium Ocean Education. In celebration of Seaweed Days and Oceans Week Victoria, learn more about how barnacles live their entire lives upside down and why you can find seaweed in your toothpaste. Stop by I See Seaweed by the Seashore, June 4 from 11 am to 2 pm, to learn more about the seaweed and marine invertebrates that call our coastline home. Have you ever wanted to see bats in their natural habitat? Join us for Fieldtripper: Evening Ha-BAT-itat Exploration, for a chance to see bat breakfast as they wake up and swoop through the air to feed. While we can’t guarantee we’ll see bats that evening, a CRD Regional Parks naturalist will be on hand to lead the exploration. This free event is set for June 24 from 7:30 to 9 pm at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

And if you haven’t already, make sure you visit BATS: Out of the Darkness, a temporary exhibition on loan from Kelowna Museums. Now on display at Clifford Carl Hall on the main level of the Royal BC Museum, BATS provides a chance to celebrate and learn more about these amazing creatures.

In July, the Langley Ukulele Association’s Senior A Ukulele Ensemble Recital will hit the stage for an afternoon of music. This talented crew features 17 musicians ranging in age from 13 to 18. Join us for Music at the Museum, Saturday, July 16, from 2 to 2:45 pm.

Exploring the biodiversity of BC can be as easy as visiting your own backyard. RBCM@Home (Summer)

Backyard Biodiversity is a free digital program that encourages everyone to look a little closer at the bugs, plants, and animals creeping, crawling, slithering, and blooming right outside your door. Come read a book, do a craft, and look at weird and wonderful specimens. Brought to you in partnership with the Greater Victoria Public Library, Back-

yard Biodiversity is available online through Zoom, July 27 from 11–11:30 am.

We also have lots to offer at IMAX® Victoria this summer, including the return of Hollywood feature films with The Batman and Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore. Learn more about the magical places and creatures that make our world so wonderful with a great summer lineup featuring Dinosaurs of Antarctica, Into America’s Wild, Carbon: The Unauthorized Biography and Serengeti. Visit imaxvictoria. com or call 250-356-7226 ext. 2 for schedules and showtimes.

And don’t forget about the Royal BC Museum’s year-round food truck festival! Stay hydrated and fueled up all summer long with a visit the museum’s back courtyard to enjoy some of Victoria’s favourite food trucks, including DeadBeetz, Puerto Vallarta Ami-

gos, the Love Perogy and Yummy Truck.

As you may have heard by now, the Province of BC recently announced funding to build a new state-of-the-art museum. The current Royal BC Museum building in downtown Victoria will close to visitors on September 6, 2022, though IMAX® Victoria and the museum gift shop will remain open through to January 2023. While this work takes place, the museum will expand programs and exhibitions beyond the museum walls and into all corners of the province with travelling exhibitions, satellite exhibits, community events and innovative digital learning opportunities.

To see more great offerings at the museum, visit royalbcmuseum.bc.ca for virtual experiences, enhanced collections and behind-the-scenes access.

IS THIS YOU?

Island Parent is always looking for people who want to tell their stories and join our team: publisher@islandparent.ca

Ages 2 - 10!

All abilities welcome!

Cycling camps are still open for registration!

pise.ca/summer-camps/

Harmony, Disharmony, Repair

To help our relationship not only survive these busy years but thrive, we need to gather in knowledge. The first step is to believe that this is important otherwise we are going to put our focus on anything but our relationship; kids, work, other people or hobbies.

Even when you have young kids, you can make your marriage a priority. Just as children have a need for a secure attachment, so do adults. Being seen, soothed, supported and safe represents the needs of all people, not just children.

What to do:

• Have a greeting ritual. The moment your partner walks in the front door, go and greet him or her. Even if you have children clinging to your legs; do it! Hug each other until you feel each other’s heartbeat and have a few seconds of eye contact.

When life gets busy and we have kids, it is easy to put our marriage on the back burner. Basic needs such as time alone, time together or sleep often go unmet. When stress hits, we can easily fall into negative patterns, then we try to figure out why our relationship has problems. When we do this, we often come up with theories that cause more harm. “He doesn’t care for me or listen to my feelings.” Or “She doesn’t appreciate everything I do; she’s always complaining.”

We create more separation when we blame our partner and see them as the cause of our unhappiness. While we are wired for relationships, we are also wired to see problems and protect ourselves. When this happens, we lose our ability to care for each other. It is hard to feel empathy and curiosity about our partner’s pain if we are in the limbic ditch of fight, flight or freeze.

•Learn what your partner wants from you when it comes to comfort and care.

•Ask for what you want. Your partner is not a mind reader.

• Create rituals, easy ones that you can do every day, even when you don’t feel like it.

•Never let your partner become a third wheel to anyone or anything.

• Conflict is inevitable, the most important part of the harmony/disharmony dance is repair. Talk it out and resolve the issues as soon as you are calm enough to do so.

Focusing on your behaviour and what you can do to contribute is the work of a loving adult.

Dr. Allison Rees is a parent educator, counsellor and coach at LIFE Seminars (Living in Families Effectively), lifeseminars.com.

TO LEARN MORE

ST. JOHN’S ACADEMY

A U NIQUE IB W ORLD S CHOOL

• 190 students between grades 4–12

• Bussing from Duncan to Langford

• Accepting local day and diverse international boarding students

• We offer a 5-day boarding option for on-island and Mainland students

• Healthy lunches included

2371 S HAWNIGAN L AKE R OAD

S HAWNIGAN L AKE, BC

admissions@stjohnsacademy.ca  250 220 4888

stjohnsacademy.ca

Offering the communities of Victoria quality programs since 1990

Licensed Daycare Program for children ages 0–5 years old

Licensed Before and After School Care, Pro D Day, Christmas, Spring Break and Summer Camps for children ages 5–12 years old

Internship Program for teens ages 16–18 years old

Brown Bag Lunch Program