March 2014 Island Parent by Island Parent Group

Island Parent Celebrating

26 Years

The Resource Publication for Vancouver Island Parents

March 2014

Family Getaways 15 Spring Fling Things to Do Precious Water Eliminate the Competition? Supporting Parents Through Pregnancy Loss Earth Hour Every Hour

Spring Break Programs

children’s boutique

mps a C y a D Half m-4pm 1p m-12pm &

Sports & Games

Stories

FUN GES FOR A S 3-9 YR

Arts & Crafts

Spring Collections Are Here! Shoes • Clothing • Toys • Newborn to 12 years DOWNTOWN

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BROADMEAD VILLAGE

777 Royal Oak Dr 250 360 2520

Appaman • April Cornell • Blu • Desigual Deux Par Deux • Hatley • Mexx • Parade Organics Peekaboo Beans • Petit Lem

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NON-COMPETITIVE, SKILLS-FOCUSED

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Transforming disability into ability. At Discovery School, learning disabilities are transformed into valuable skills and abilities. Students work at their own pace in small classes, with focused, individualized instruction. • Experienced, highly-qualified teachers • Ongoing assessment, evaluation & feedback • Improves organizational & study skills • Boost confidence, independence & responsibility • Nurturing environment based on Christian values • For students aged 7 – 18 in grades 1 – 12 • Individual Education Plans • Low student/teacher ratio

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

Contents: March 2014 Abra-Kid-Abra

Feature Eliminate the Competition?........................................................................... 10

Articles

Car Seats, Cribs, Play-n-Pak, High Chairs available for short term rentals • A great selection of books • Dress-up for girls and boys • Shoes…Pedipeds, See Kai Run …and More • Rainwear and rainboots…TUFFO – MUDDYBUDDY, now up to size 5

Now Accepting Spring Consignment New & Used Toys, Clothing & Furniture 2024 Oak Bay Ave • 250 595 1613

TheatreOne and The Port Theatre proudly present

Precious Water................................................................................................ 8 15 Spring Fling Things to Do This Month..................................................... 14 Fun & Games with Toddlers......................................................................... 18 Spring Break Programs.................................................................................. 20 Watching Them Grow................................................................................... 23 Family Travel................................................................................................ 26 Supporting Parents Through Pregnancy Loss................................................. 34 Every Hour Earth Hour................................................................................ 35

Columns Editor’s Note................................................................................................... 3 Healthy Families; Happy Families................................................................. 36 Dadspeak...................................................................................................... 38 Just Eat It!..................................................................................................... 40 Book Nook................................................................................................... 42 Is There an App for This?.............................................................................. 45 New Parent Pages.......................................................................................... 48 Maternity & Beyond..................................................................................... 53 Nature Notes................................................................................................ 54 Cut It Out..................................................................................................... 56

Departments

J U S T Kidding!

IPM Notes....................................................................................................... 4 Party Directory........................................................................................ 24, 25 Family Calendar............................................................................................ 28 Around the Island......................................................................................... 32 Family Services Directory........................................................................ 46, 47 Preschool & Child Care Directory........................................................... 50, 51 Business & Professional Directory................................................................. 53

For Kids

Island Parent Magazine, produced by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a monthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on resources and businesses for families, and a forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Letters (max 250 words) should be emailed to the Editor at editor@islandparent.ca. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the Editor. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome and should be emailed to editor@islandparent.ca. Island Parent Magazine is distributed free in selected areas. Subscriptions can be obtained by sending $28.00 (includes GST) with your name and address to the address below. Canada Post: Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement 40051398.

Island Parent Magazine

SATURDAY March 15 2pm The Port Theatre

Tickets: $18

Award Winning

Suite A-10, 830 Pembroke St, Victoria, BC V8T 1H9 Tel: 250-388-6905 Toll Free: 1-888-372-0862 Websites: www.islandparent.ca, www.kidsinvictoria.com

Children’s Entertainers



250-754-8550 porttheatre.com Sponsored by: Mid Island

2 Island Parent Magazine

On the Cover: Photo by Rebekah Gin of Abundant Life Photography

President, Publisher: Paul Abra Vice-President: Anna Abra Director, Production Manager: Mada Moilliet Editor: Sue Fast Sales & Marketing: RaeLeigh Buchanan Publisher’s Assistant: Linda Frear Bookkeeping: Elaine Francis Distribution: Anna Abra, Ted Dawe (Mid-Island) Founders: Jim Holland & Selinde Krayenhoff Production: Eacrett Graphic Design Printed at Island Publishers Cover printed at Hillside Printing ISSN 0838-5505

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Nurturing a Love of Nature

o outside!” A common refrain of parents everywhere. Or, at least, it used to be. According to a recent British study cited in the Daily Mail, today’s kids play outdoors half as much as their parents did when they were young. The study, based on a survey of 2,000 parents, found that the average parent spent 10 hours and 26 minutes playing outside during the school week when they were children—double the five hours and 32 minutes children spend outdoors today. In the article, “Children Today Would Rather Read…or even Do Homework than Play Outside,” author Katy Winter states that along with reading and doing homework, the top 10 things kids would rather do than play outside include watching TV, playing computer games, listening to music, and doing chores. This means that although playing a neighbourhood game of, say, Kick the Can wouldn’t make the cut, carrying the cans down to the curb just might. In 2012, the David Suzuki Foundation conducted a survey of Canadian kids and found that 70 per cent spent an hour or less a day outdoors. That same year, the Active Healthy Kids Canada Report Card revealed that kids spend almost eight hours a day in front of screens. “So it’s not that kids don’t have time to be outside,” states the Foundation. “It’s just not part of their lifestyle.” But it should be. The Foundation’s article, titled “Healthy Kids Need Time in Nature,”states that not only is being in nature good for children, but it’s crucial. “People who get outside regularly are less stressed, have more resilient immune systems and are generally happier.” Studies

www.IslandParent.ca

show that spending time in nature or green spaces helps reduce the symptoms of ADHD. “Even in built playgrounds, kids spend twice as much time playing, use their imaginations more and engage in more aerobic and strengthening activities when the space incorporates natural elements like logs, flowers and small streams.” According to an article in The Atlantic, “How Nature Resets Our Minds and Bodies,” nature restores mental functioning in the same way that food and water restore bodies. And by “nature,” the author, Adam Alter, means a quiet natural landscape, not a quiet streetscape or playground. “The difference between natural and urban landscapes is how they command our attention,” writes Alter. “While man-made landscapes bombard us with stimulation, their natural counterparts give us the chance to think as much or as little as we’d like, and the opportunity to replenish exhausted mental resources.” A chance to think. And a chance to learn. This is the idea behind nature kindergartens—like the ones starting this fall in James Bay Community School and South Park Family School. Children learn when they are engaged and active, especially when they are in nature. Nature kindergartens—or coastal kindergartens as the two new James Bay schools are called because of their proximity to the ocean—provide kids with a chance to spend a good part of their day exploring their natural surroundings. Forests, beaches, and neighbourhood parks, among other outdoor locales, become ‘classrooms,’ places where curiosity, wonder and awe become some of the motivating factors to learn. In his book, The Nature Principle, author Richard Louv writes that outdoor learning

works because it “demands better use of the senses.” Natural environments, he argues, promote “involuntary attention” or “fascination,” which helps us to be more alert.

Editor’s Note Sue Fast The idea is that exploring the natural world makes other school subjects rich and relevant and gets students more excited about learning. And about taking care of the natural world—all living creatures included. Rachel Carson, a marine biologist, conservationist, and author wrote in The Sense of Wonder, published posthumously in the early 60s, that parents need to help their children experience “the lasting pleasures of the natural world,” pleasures that are available to anyone who will “place himself under the influence of earth, sea and sky and their amazing life.” Carson, who has been called the patron saint of the modern environmental movement, was an early advocate for getting children into nature. “If a child is to keep his inborn sense of wonder,” she wrote, “he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him the joy, excitement, and mystery of the world we live in.” Taking our kids by the hand and spending time outside with them has the added benefit of making us healthier and happier adults and, in turn, a healthier and happier society. With a strong connection to the natural world, we will be more likely to act on its behalf. So with that in mind, and with spring break this month, there’s no better time to take our kids by the hand and go outside.

March 2014 3

IPM Notes 2014 Tillicum Centre $1000 Scholarship Award Is your son or daughter graduating from a B.C. secondary school in School District #61? Tillicum Centre is committed to serving the community by helping a deserving student achieve her or his educational goals. To qualify for this $1000 Tillicum Scholarship Award, the student must be a B.C. resident who is graduating from a B.C. secondary school in School District #61. The student must also be planning to register full time in an accredited Canadian university, college, or technical school in the fall of 2014. Applications are available online at www. tillicumcentre.ca until April 7.

Eat Well Get Moving! Eat Well Get Moving! is a healthy weight promotion program for School Districts #61, #62, #63 and #64, as well as independent schools within these areas. The goal of the program is to encourage students to eat more vegetables and fruit and be more active. Research shows that eating more vegetables and fruit and being more active are the most

effective behaviours to help a person achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The Eat Well, Get Moving! program takes place between February 1 and April 30. Participants can start any time within the three-month period. Interested schools and teachers register their classes to participate. Students are given Crunch & Go cards on which they track the number of vegetables and fruit they eat and the number of minutes of activity they do. At the end of each month, cards are collected for entry in a draw for prizes. For more information and to register, visit www.fitinfitness.ca/shared_ewgm.html.

WordPLAY WordPLAY, part of Intrepid Theatre’s The YOU Show series, is a show for young audiences that explores the importance of self-expression, passion, and individuality. The show runs on March 1 at 11:30am, 1:30pm, and 3:30pm at The Intrepid Theatre Club, 2-1609 Blanshard Street. Pick of the Fringe winner Kerploding Theatre is back with WordPLAY, a new work for young audiences that follows three fuzzy monsters on an inspiring journey filled with friendship, fears and fur. Meet Willa the monster, she is starting to become scary

because she can’t find her talent. Luckily, her friends are determined to help her ward off her scary side. Featuring original choreography, music, poetry, and stories galore, these three lovable monsters are sure to delight and inspire children and adults alike. All proceeds from this performance go to support an Intergenerational Theatre project in Tamil Nadu, India. The project aims to inspire community through theatre and storytelling with the Isha School Foundation and the Tamaraikulam Elder’s village. Theatre, expression, and storytelling can have an enormous impact on young people. This show shares this importance with the children of Victoria and connects them to their global peers. Tickets on sale at ticketrocket.org or at 250-590-6291.

Visit a CRD Park Choose from a full slate of fun and informative CRD Parks programs this month. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist to learn about the natural history of the black bear at ‘Bear’ Necessities (Mar 9, 1-2:30pm) a guided walk for all ages at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park in Metchosin; find out more about Furry Forest Friends (Mar 14, 1-2:30pm), a guided walk for those 7 years and under, and their adults,

INTERMEDIATE BASEBALL Open to all (experienced or not) 11, 12 &13 Year Old Players birth age as of April 30th 2014 Players from all of Greater Victoria are welcome: Lakehill/Gordon Head, National, Sooke, Westshore, Hampton, Peninsula, Layritz, etc.  Games at Hampton Park Balanced Teams 7 Inning Games Lead Offs On Deck Batters 50’ Pitching 70’ Base Paths Balk Ball  District Tournament Team

Hampton Little League is hosting the Intermediate Division for Little League Baseball for all of Greater Victoria. Any interested players that are aged 13 years and too old for the traditional Little League Baseball Divisions offered in Victoria are welcomed. Any players currently registered in a Little League Major Baseball Division that are 11 or 12 years old, are also eligible to play in the Intermediate program in addition to your major team. Any players not currently registered in a baseball program that are ages 11-13 years old as are also welcomed. CONTACT US AT www.hamptonlittleleague.org.

Register on line any time at www.hamptonlittleleague.org or in person Saturday, Feb 22nd, Mar 1st and Mar 8th, 2014 1 pm to 4 pm at Hampton Clubhouse

COME ON OUT – GET INTO THE GAME

4 Island Parent Magazine

For more information or questions please contact: Kim at 250 686-9614

kimdirk@shaw.ca www.kidsinvictoria.com

at Mill Hill Regional Park in Langford; watch where you step at Ugh! A Slug (Mar 15, 1-2:30pm) along this all-ages guided walk at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park in Saanich; attend a Family Forest Tea Party (Mar 17, 1-3pm) at Francis/King Regional Park in Saanich, pre-registration required (250-478-3344); join in the sleuthing fun at Skullduggery (Mar 19, 11am–2pm), an all-ages drop-in event at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park; and stay busy during Spring Break with all of the extra programs from Mar 10-21. To find out more and to preregister (required for some programs), visit www.crd.bc.ca (or google Winter Nature Outings and Events Brochure).

28th Annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival Join the fun on the shores of Vancouver Island’s wild west coast at the 28th Annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival (PRWF) from March 15-23. Celebrate the arrival of upwards of 20,000 grey whales—often traveling within viewing distance of shore—on their northbound migration from the Baja Peninsula to Alaska’s Bering Sea and beyond. Throughout Tofino and Ucluelet and around Pacific Rim National Park you’ll find an array of events. Bring your pets, favourite dolls, outrageous costumes or your float, and join the Parade of Whales and Wonders (Mar 15), sign up for the 18th annual Chowder Chowdown (Mar 16), get creative at the Sea Creature Cookie Decorating event (Mar 19), drop by Ucluelet Maritime Kid’s Day (Mar 20), among other family-friendly events. Many of the activities are free, with the purchase of an PRWF Events Button. It’s an all-out celebration of our coastal lives, featuring grey whale and marine life education, inspirational talks and interpretive walks, children’s activities, culinary events, First Nations cultural workshops, and more. For more information, visit www.pacificrimwhalefestival.com, e-mail info@pacificrimwhalefestival.com or phone 1-250-726-7798.

The Cascadian Crusaders Educational Program The Cascadian Crusaders Educational Program, a local Vancouver Island nonprofit society, has created an environmental campaign to increase ocean awareness through creative education. The organization recently launched its first children’s book, The Great Plastic Round-up, and is touring in the Cascadian Crusaders Book Bus, a 30-foot cube van adorned with a www.IslandParent.ca

life-size painting of sea creatures found in the waters off the West Coast. Using the book as a starting point, the Crusaders present an environmental superhero story that follows the journey of a young woman on her quest to discover the source and cause of plastic accumulation in the North Pacific Ocean’s Great Garbage Patch. Readers learn about how our choices to consume and dispose of plastic affects the ocean’s environment. While the book is the springboard for students and teachers to embrace the problem and begin a conversation about possible solutions, the Crusaders bring their fantasy story into reality through follow-up environmental education programs in an innovative, creative and enlivening way for all participants—they come dressed in costume and deliver their presentations as the superheroes themselves. The Cascadian Crusaders are a small group of activists, artists, parents, teachers, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts with a passion for protecting the environment by inspiring one child at a time. The Book Truck travels to local schools, libraries and events throughout Vancouver Island, providing environmental education programs, recycled plastic art installations, ocean superhero photo opportunities, ocean service projects, book readings, outdoor theatre experiences, beach cleanups, and hands-on activities. See the Cascadian Crusaders at Ocean Awareness through Creative Education at the Pacific Rim Whale Fest in Tofino on Monday March 17 at 2pm at the Botanical Gardens. For information, visit cascadiancrusaders.com.

TC10K School Team Challenge The TC10K and Island Farms have teamed up to offer cash prizes to schools participating in the teams category at this year’s TC10K on Sunday, April 27. Three cash prizes of $1,000 will be awarded to school teams in the following categories: Fastest Team Overall; Most Team Members; and Best Team Spirit and/ or Costumes. To be eligible, teams and team members (minimum of 10) must be registered by March 21. All schools on Vancouver Island from kindergarten to Grade 12 are eligible to enter in either the Thrifty Foods 1.5K Family Run, or the TC10K run. Run or walk with more than 15,000 others through the streets of Victoria in the 25th Annual TC10K. To register, visit www.tc10k.ca. For more information, phone 778-677-5RUN (5786). March 2014 5

IPM Notes Fossil Fair The Victoria Palaeontology Society will hold its 18th annual Fossil Fair on March 2223, from 10 am-4 pm (drop-in anytime) at the Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Road in Victoria. Who lived here millions of years ago? Dinosaurs, trilobites, ammonites, enormous clams and sharks lived in the ancient tropical coral seas and palm tree forests that covered Vancouver Island. Paleontologists will share their personal fossil discoveries including many from this past year. Bring your family and your own fossils for identification. Kids can follow a scavenger hunt, make fossil and dinosaur rubbings, dig for fossils in a sandbox and take a fossil home as a treasure. Admission is by donation. For information, visit www.swanlake.bc.ca.

Turn Off the Lights on Earth Hour

6 Island Parent Magazine

local ingredients, using energy and watersaving settings on dishwashers and creating environmentally-friendly kitchen cleaners. “Green 365 in the Kitchen,” offers residents tips to help make their kitchens more environmentally friendly. Search #Green365 on Twitter or visit www.crd.bc.ca/green365 for weekly tips and to find out where to visit the CRD outreach team to get a complimentary tea towel. Also, the CRD has partnered with The Apple Box for a weekly tips contest running the length of the campaign. Share your best green kitchen tips and be entered to win one of the weekly draws for a box of organic and locally sourced meals from The Apple Box and be entered for a chance to win the grand prize, a $400 gift certificate to a local grocery store. To register and find out more about the tips contest, visit www. crd.bc.ca/green365.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG) Support Line

On Saturday March 29, from 8:309:30pm, hundreds of millions of people around the world will turn off their lights for an hour to demand action on climate change. But that’s just the beginning. Every hour, Canadians are taking small steps to lessen their impact on the environment. From hanging your clothes to dry to taking transit to work, those small steps add up to huge changes for the better. Earth Hour is about more than just turning off the lights. It’s also an opportunity to turn on young minds. Visit schools.wwf.ca/ to find out how to help students understand Earth Hour and the importance of taking action against climate change. There are many ways to mark and celebrate Earth Hour at your child’s school, from outdoor activities to lights-out events. Before you start planning for Earth Hour, remember to register your child’s school on www. EarthHourCanada.org so the school’s participation can be counted towards the Canadian total.

Parent Support Services Society of BC’s Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Line assists grandparents and other relatives raising a family member’s child to navigate complex services systems such as Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) and others. The support line helps grandparents find answers, assistance, and the resources they need to prevent or solve problems, and learn about benefits and other services that will support the whole family. The Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Line is staffed by two part-time advocates with training in advocacy, social work, family law, and government services pertaining to kinship caregiving. They can be reached by phone at 1-855-474-9777 (toll free anywhere in B.C.) or by e-mail at GRGline@parentsupportbc.ca. The GRG Support Line is open from 11am-3pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. At all other times callers are encouraged to leave a voicemail message or send an email, which will be returned promptly.

Green 365 in the Kitchen Campaign

Bring Back Play

Last month, the Capital Regional District launched a new outreach campaign in support of “Green 365”, a multi-themed campaign promoting year-round sustainable living both inside and outside the home. “Green 365 In The Kitchen” runs until March 31, promoting green behaviours that apply in the kitchen, including composting kitchen scraps, keeping fats, oils and grease out of the drains, cooking with

According to Active Healthy Kids Canada, 63 per cent of Canadian kids’ free time after school and on weekends is spent being sedentary. As parents, we need to get our kids moving. To that end, ParticipACTION has plenty of ideas, tips and information on bringing more play into our children’s lives. ParticipACTION has created the web-based Bring Back Play app to help parents recall the games that they loved to play, and to, in www.kidsinvictoria.com

turn, teach their own children how to play. The Bring Back Play app is full of classic, active games. These games include running games like What Time is it Mr. Wolf?, ball games like SPUD and Foursquare, and team games that have stood the test of time, such as Capture the Flag. The web-based app is optimized for mobile use, so that parents can access the game ideas, and information on how to play, while outdoors with their children. The app can be accessed from any device that has an internet connection. For information, visit www.bringbackplay.mobi.

hours, and a minimum one-year commitment. The programs strive to: provide a role model and a friend for mentees; promote the importance of staying in school and maintaining healthy relationships with family and peers; instill trust and self-confidence in order to make healthy decisions; encourage leadership skills and independent thinking; and above all, make a difference while having fun. To learn more about becoming a mentor or donating to the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Mentoring programs, phone 250475-1117 or visit www.bbbsvictoria.com.

Victoria Single Parent Resources Centre

Spend Time Ship Spotting

1Up, the Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre (VSPRC), provides practical support, opportunities for growth, and a sense of hope for one-parent families across Greater Victoria. Guided by skilled and committed staff and trained volunteers, the centre offers services to create foundations for personal and community growth in a welcoming and non-judgemental environment. The centre aims to help parents create stronger families and healthier children. The VSPRC offers comprehensive life skills programs, workshops and support groups that typically run from September through June. All fees are by donation: minimum $10 for 3-week course, $20 for 6- to 10-week course. For a schedule of upcoming workshops—including two new workshops, Conflict Resolution, and Relationships and Boundaries—visit www.singleparentvictoria.ca, or phone 250-385-1114.

Big Brothers Big Sisters What if... All children fulfill their potential? All children are set on the right path today? All children in Canada finish high school, go to college or university, get jobs and give back to their community? Wouldn’t that be something? The Big Brothers and Big Sisters Mentoring programs provide boys and girls with a role model and a friend to talk to and share the experiences of growing up with. Through regular outings, a relationship is developed between the mentor and the mentee, that is built on trust and common interests, and is supported by our experienced case-workers. The result is a life-changing experience for both the mentor and the mentee. The Big Brothers and Big Sisters Mentoring programs usually require two regularly scheduled outings a month, each of several www.IslandParent.ca

Victoria Shipping News is your source for “ship spotting,” a new hobby and activity anyone who wants to know more about the ships and yachts that ply the waters off the south coast of Vancouver Island. Ship spotting is like trainspotting or planespotting, but with ships. What ship is that in the Strait of Juan de Fuca or the Salish Sea? Where is it going? Where is it coming from? These ships come from all corners of the world. Victoria has a rich maritime history; our “small fishing village on the Pacific” is connected to the Pacific Rim. There are two ways to use this site: use the interactive live map on your smart phone to identify a ship while walking the dog along Dallas Road, or check the online schedule and head out with your binoculars to see when it will fetch a Pilot from a ship heading out to the Pacific. For more information, visit victoriashippingnews.com/#sthash. TCqLt3f6.dpuf.

Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique The Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique (CSF), BC’s francophone school district (SD #93), was created in 1995 to provide francophone education across B.C. CSF offers educational programs and services geared towards the growth and cultural promotion of francophone learners and those who meet the CSF’s admission criteria. An active partner in the development of B.C.’s francophone community, the Conseil currently serves over 5,100 students in its 37 schools spread out in more than 80 communities all over the province. The student population comes from 88 countries in the world and speak more than 40 different languages along with their francophone heritage. For more information, visit www. csf.bc.ca, phone 604-214-2600, 1-888-7152200 or email info@csf.bc.ca.•

Learning

Through Play

Discover our parent-operated cooperative preschools where children (and their parents) learn through play. Victoria Cordova Bay Preschool

cordovabaypreschool.org

Countryside Preschool

countrysidepreschool.org goldstreampreschool.com

Goldstream Preschool Gonzales Preschool

gonzalescooppreschool.com lakehillpreschool.org

Lakehill Preschool Lambrick Park Preschool

lambrickparkpreschool.ca

Lansdowne Preschool

lansdownepreschool.com oakbaypreschool.com

Oak Bay Preschool

Call (250) 655-3333

Sidney Preschool Strawberry Vale Preschool

strawberryvalepreschool.org

Outside Victoria Errington Preschool erringtonhall.bc.ca/preschol.htm Gabriola Island Preschool www.gabriolapreschool.org Call (250) 753-1939

Nanaimo Preschool Salt Spring Island Preschool

saltspringcooppreschool.com

www.vicpa.org March 2014 7

Rachel Dunstan Muller

Precious Water

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had a moment of gratitude this evening, as I helped my five-year-old get ready for bed. First there was a soak in a warm, soapy bath. Then he hopped on the toilet, pushed a lever to flush, and washed his hands in the sink. When he asked for a small glass of water before saying goodnight, all I had to do was turn on the tap in the kitchen. If none of this sounds noteworthy, consider that 10 per cent of the world’s population currently doesn’t have access to clean water. Despite many heroic efforts, that number is growing. The UN forecasts that two-thirds of the world will be faced with a lack of clean drinking water by 2030. As I write this, 2.5 billion people don’t have access to

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

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

8 Island Parent Magazine

adequate bathroom facilities. To reach any water at all, women and children in many rural areas of the developing world have to walk for miles with heavy jerry cans on their heads. Even then the water they reach is often dirty or unsafe. Women in urban areas often supply their families’ needs from polluted rivers, or purchase water at a high price from vendors. The results are tragic: roughly two thousand children a day die from water-related diseases. But this is Vancouver Island—the ‘wet’ coast. Aside from saying a grateful prayer occasionally, we don’t need to give water much thought. Or do we? As recently as January of this year, Nanaimo City Manager Ted Swabey told an audience that the city’s water supply is probably the number one issue facing the municipality. Local governments will need to find new sources of drinking water by 2024—or figure out how to limit future population growth.

Officials in the Qualicum area are warning residents that they may be facing earlier and higher water restrictions this spring. Communities across the Island are confronting similar challenges. This is bad news. At a global level, fresh water supplies are threatened by many things: changing weather patterns, power production, the diversion of water for largescale agriculture, and industrial uses of all kinds. Locally our water supply is under stress from a declining annual rainfall. As of January, Vancouver Island’s snowpack was only seven per cent of its normal level, and rainfall for the winter was at about 50 per cent. In many Island regions the water supply is also challenged by a growing population. But here’s the ray of light: we can’t solve all the problems contributing to the global water crisis, but we can be accountable for our personal consumption. And that can make a real difference—especially where we live. Canadians have one of the highest per capita water consumption rates in the world, at 327 litres per person, per day. Only the US is worse, at 420 litres. Fortunately, we appear to be doing better on Vancouver Island, thanks to increasing conservation measures. A water audit in 2012 found that Nanaimo residents were using 260 litres per person, per day, which is down from previous years. (Apartment dwellers use less.) But there’s still room for improvement. Europeans use far less water—as little as half what the average Canadian consumes—without sacrificing cleanliness or hygiene. Which brings me to the subject of World Water Day on March 22. If your family commits to the following actions on this day (or whenever it fits into your schedule), you’ll see your water consumption drop significantly and permanently. Check your water pressure. If you live in a house, you should be able to check the water pressure entering your home at the pressure reducing valve. Ours was set at 75psi when we moved in. We adjusted it to 50psi, which is still in the normal range and kinder to our plumbing. A few minutes of www.kidsinvictoria.com

effort resulted in immediate conservation. (You’ll find lots of tutorials online.) Check for hidden leaks. If your water is metered, it’s easy to check for hidden leaks. Simply find the meter and make note of the reading just before going to bed (or leaving the house), then re-check it first thing in the 785 W. Burnside Rd. 250 479 1237 morning (or upon returning home). If no www.stjosephschool.ca one has flushed a toilet, used the washer, or turned on any faucet between the two St. Joseph’s Early Learning Centre offers half-day and full day Preschool readings, they should be the same. If the in a Licensed Group Day Care for children three and four years old. numbers have increased, you have a leak, which will sabotage your conservation efOur Preschool program strives to awaken the child’s spirit and forts. Running toilets are often the source imagination and encourages the desire for independence and high of leaks. (Google “running toilet” to find self-esteem through creative play. Applications are available on-line detection and repair how-to’s.) or at the Early Learning Centre office. Faucet aerators inexpensive We are are pleased to(between announce that our Early Learning Centre is now Hours of operation are 7:30am–5:00pm. For additional $5 to $10), and should take only minutes open! Weshowerheads are offering daycare for children who are 3 Hall andat4 250-479-1237. to install. Low-flow can befull time information please contact Mrs. Maureen purchased at a range of price points; you years of age. Applications are available on-line or from the Early should be able to get a simple one for beCentrethese ofﬁce. tween Learning $15 and $20. Installing devices St. Josephʼs offers an excellent program in a on all Catholic your faucets and showerheads could Christian atmosphere. cut your family’s water consumption by as Hours of operation are 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM. For additional information much as one half. Toilet conversion. If you don’t already please contact Susan Clifford at 250-479-1237. have low flush toilets, and you’re not ready If you live in one of the following areas: for the expense or trouble of replacing these *Burnside fixtures, you can try a retrofit solution. We *Esquimalt purchased an inexpensive dual flush con*Gorge-Tillicum verter from our local hardware store several *Saanich years ago, and it’s worked very successfully. *VicWest When our top loading washer died a few *View Royal years ago, we replaced it with a front-load washer. It cost more upfront, but the water Contact us for more information: 3-4 years old - Blast Ball (U5) and hydro savings have almost certainly 5-6 years old - T-Ball/Rally Cap (U7) Web: www.esquimaltbaseball.ca offset the difference in price. 7-8 years old - Tadpole (U9) Email: esquimaltbaseball@gmail.com And then there are the behavioural 9-10 years old - Mosquito (U11) Call: 250-385-8518 11-12 years old Peewee (U13) changes: giving children shallower baths, replacing adult baths with showers, taking shorter showers, turning the water off while brushing teeth, etc. Do these changes make a difference? Absolutely! Our family of four (two adults, a seven-year-old and a five-year-old) currently Saturdays & Sundays at 1pm All Seats uses about 90 litres of water per person, Mar 1 & 2 per day in the non-summer months—and The Secret of Roan Inish we don’t feel remotely deprived. I still wash mountains of laundry, everyone bathes reguMar 8 & 9 larly, and we’re all well-hydrated. We’ve just The Wizard of Oz reduced the amount of unnecessary water Mar 11, 12, 13, 15 & 16 going down the drain. Disney’s Frozen Not confirmed at press time; please check For more water-saving tips, visit wateru cinecenta.com close to playdate. seitwisely.com. To stay abreast of local and Mar 22 & 23 global water issues, go to www.vancouveris The Gods Must Be Crazy landwaterwatchcoalition.ca. Mar 29 & 30 Raiders of the Lost Ark Rachel Dunstan Muller is the mother of five, and a children’s author. Her previous articles .com Student Union Building, UVIC | 721-8365 can be found at www.kidsinvictoria.com.

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March 2014 9

Janine Fernandes-Hayden

Eliminate the Competition? C

algary School axes honour roll, saying it hurts self-esteem and pride of students who don’t make it.” That headline, and the accompanying National Post article, left me feeling slightly irritated. I thought back to my own high school experience. I remember rushing down to the office at the beginning of each month, scrolling through the names on the “Honour Roll.” Please, please, please, I prayed with my fingers crossed, scanning the list. For some people, making the honour roll was a given, but not for me. Hard work was my only option and even then I barely squeaked out 80 per cent. In his book No Contest: The Case Against Competition, educator and author Alfie Kohn argues that competition sabotages self-esteem and ruins relationships. I admit that I haven’t read the book. However, upon first blush and in my naïveté, it seems a topic too complex to simply be resolved by eliminating competition altogether. At the outset, I question whether it is even possible. Last spring, I overheard my six-yearold son telling his buddy after a T-Ball game—one in which the officials didn’t keep score—“Isn’t it great how we beat those Ladybugs by 87 points!” It was a curious calculation, given the noncompetitive nature of the league. So I asked him, “How do you figure you won that game by 87 points?” “I was keeping score,” he replied. I know the frustration of having to tell my children in exasperation, “Why does everything have to be a competition?” I just don’t know whether it can be stopped. I also wonder whether the “selfesteem movement”—in which everyone’s a winner, there are no losers, and everyone gets a participation ribbon—ends up doing our children a disservice. Don’t get me wrong, I believe that we as parents and educators cannot undervalue the importance of building up our children’s self-esteem. I’m just not sure how this can be best achieved.

10 Island Parent Magazine

My three older children all submitted entries in last year’s Salt Spring Island Fall Fair. On the day of the Fair, the first thing they did was to rush over to the Exhibition Hall where their work was being displayed. “I won a ribbon!” exclaimed my son. “It’s only a participation ribbon,” muttered my eldest daughter. Both my husband and I nudged her into silence and, to this day, my son still believes that he won his category. This example intrigues me in several ways. The first is the fact that it’s human nature to get excited over the prospect of winning. Second is my daughter’s reaction to the participation ribbon. When do participation ribbons cease to be coveted treasures that hang proudly on the fridge and instead get crumpled and tossed into the garbage? Is it because, after awhile, so many are collected that they seem an empty accolade, unable to provide valuable feedback for improvement? The last is how reluctant my husband and I were to break the truth to our son. It is hard to see our children upset and often we, as parents, want to buffer them from the blows of failure. I would be lying if I said that my selfesteem didn’t take some good hits in high school. However, I don’t think competition was the root cause. Without an honour roll, there would have always been someone smarter than me and, irrespective of this, I would still have felt the disappointment in not meeting my own expectations. Nothing could have deterred the persistence of my toughest opponent in life—myself. What I needed was an extensive class in “Failure Management.” Is all competition bad? Does “self-esteem” mean that we need to make everyone happy all of the time? The question of whether or not we encourage competition in our families and our schools has also got me thinking about a bigger picture, one which includes the importance of striving for excellence. There are, no doubt, times when competition is inappropriate and where focus needs to be placed on collaboration and cooperawww.kidsinvictoria.com

tion instead. However, it seems to me that eliminating competition closes the door on some important teachable moments. Competition often keeps us motivated to improve and encourages everyone involved to push themselves harder than they might without it. Competition can expand the boundaries of what we believe is possible for ourselves. It can encourage teamwork, a strong work ethic, and provide learning about sportsmanship and the importance of preparation and discipline. When we fail, we gain important lessons on grace and humility, as well as on being gentle on ourselves. What can be bad about competition are our reactions and responses to it, as well as the language that surrounds it. I wonder whether using words such as “winner” and “loser,” as opposed to focusing on the process of winning or losing, is where we have gone wrong when it comes to competition. In the book Mindset, author Carol Dweck writes that we can have one of two mindsets: a “fixed” mindset, or a “growth” mindset. With a fixed mindset, we believe that our basic qualities and traits, such as our intelligence or talents, cannot be changed. When we view ourselves as a “winner” or a “loser,” we adopt a fixed mindset and our energies become focused on documenting that trait instead of developing it. We look outside of ourselves for approval and to shore up our self-esteem. We make comparisons and become critical of others as a means of validation. We worry constantly whether we are adequate or not, trying or sometimes not trying to prove ourselves and live up to the image that we have defined. The danger of a fixed mindset, according to Dweck, is that our own actions and reactions soon become a direct measure of competence and worth and when things go wrong, we feel powerless, incapable and sometimes depressed. Essentially, we hold too tightly to success and failure, becoming overly attached to outcomes. By contrast, a growth mindset could see us engaged in the process that leads to excellence. As defined by Linda KavelinPopov, the co-founder of the Virtues Project, excellence is, “giving our very best to any task we do and any relationship we have. Excellence hones our talents and turns them into gifts for the world. It requires us to practice humility by learning from our mistakes. Each time we do something, we seek to improve it, to keep raising the bar. Excellence is ongoing mastery. It flows when we are doing what we love.” www.IslandParent.ca

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March 2014

To me, whether we approach competition with a growth mindset or a fixed mindset is the difference between excellence and an unhealthy situation that has lost its sense of inspiration for all. Could it be that when we start to feel uncomfortable about competition, it is because it has moved away from the pursuit of excellence?

Friends, Fun, Adventure!

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www.rainbowexpressdaycare.com 12 Island Parent Magazine

Along with the language we use, I also wonder how our reactions and responses as parents have come to taint our children’s experience of competition. Recently, I took my son to swimming lessons. I perched myself on the side bench and hit replay in my mind. For the past three years, I have sat in exactly the same spot, zoned out in resignation, while my son perfected his chokehold technique, refusing to get his face wet. Our child is a Preschool Level 1 veteran, something that has been driving my husband and me crazy. Would it have bothered us had we been less competitive ourselves? We try not to talk about our frustration in public for fear of being shamed by others around us for seeming unsupportive. This time around, however, our son surprised us. It took several blinks for my brain to register what my eyes were seeing. There was my son, arms stretched out in front, gliding with his face down and only one wee finger touching the instructor. Then my son awkwardly slipped his ear and then his whole head under the water, finally popping up wide-eyed and anxious, to reveal a blue rubber ring in his hand. He did it! Three years to get to that point and yet, at the same time, it seemed like an overnight change. It made me realize a couple of things. The first is how important it is for us as parents to keep our expectations of our children in check. Who is the “winning” for, them or us? What is the “prize” in the bigger scheme of life? Are the timelines for achievement that we impose realistic or even necessary?

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Watching my son that day, I felt proud of him. I also felt proud of myself for the new insight that I had gained. Year after year of him being in the same level had been trying, but on this day, it didn’t matter. What had seemed like failure now translated into determination and perseverance. The accomplishment would mean a huge boost to his self-esteem. All that time was worth the lessons—for both of us. Here are some thoughts on how we might help to promote healthy competition and excellence amongst children:

What had seemed like failure now translated into determination and perseverance. The accomplishment would mean a huge boost to his self-esteem. All that time was worth the lessons—for both of us.

Swimming • Canoeing • Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits • Campfire • Nature Study • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing • Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits • Campfire • Nature Study • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing • Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits • Campfire • Nature Study • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing • Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits • Campfire • Nature Study • Cycling • Swimming • Canoeing • Sailing • Ropes Course • Windsurfing • Hiking • Faith Exploration • Archery • Crafts • Out-trips • Games & Skits • Campfire • Nature Study • Cycling •

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• Praise effort, not outcomes—be specific • Acknowledge strengths—be specific • Have fun, but not at the expense of others • Promote improvement and comparison against oneself, not others • Have children self-evaluate, prompting them with questions that are constructive and that allow them to come to a realistic assessment • Encourage training/practice • Explain to children the importance of doing their best • Embrace failure as an important part of life To me, there is nothing wrong with feeling success, nor is there anything wrong with experiencing disappointment. Competition, when mindfully considered, can allow our children to learn the lesson of both—understanding that life is a journey with ups and downs, wins and losses, and if they can find and follow the right path, then the prize is within them. Janine Fernandes-Hayden is an educator and Salt Spring Island mum of four children. She hosts a parent and kids radio show called “The Beanstalk” which can be heard at Green 107.9 FM or online at www. greenfm.ca. She is also a trained Virtues Project Facilitator.

www.IslandParent.ca

March 2014 13

From February 27 to March 2, locals can make like tourists and visit the Royal BC Museum, Butchart Gardens, Beacon Hill Children’s Farm, Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre, Craigdarroch Castle, IMAX Victoria, Miniature World, Henderson Park Golf Course, and Fort Rodd Hill/Fisgard Lighthouse, to name a few. Tickets cost $12.50 each, (or buy four and get the fifth ticket free) and entitle bearers to free, discounted and special offers on everything from ice cream cones and adventure tours to whale watching and ziplining. For more information, visit www. attractionsvictoria.com.

Take a Swing at Golf

Island Parent Magazine

For a scaled down version of a sprawling course (along with the sprawling green fees), try the Henderson Pitchand-Putt at 2291 Cedar Hill X Road. This nine-hole par three, first-come-first-serve course is open to adults, children and parties. Rental clubs and lessons are available along with drop-in hours. Rates start at less than $5. For golf course hours, call reception at 250-370-7200.

Spring 3 Fling Things To Do This Month

Be A Tourist In Your Own Home Town

Visit The Raptors Centre

Get up close with raptors as you wander through the forested trails at The Raptors Centre in Duncan and experience flight demonstrations—daily at 1:30pm—focused on the beauty of raptors in flight, their prowess and their importance in the eco chain. Raptors have awed humans for thousands of years and it’s easy to understand why—their ferocity, beauty, power, intelligence, and ability to live high above our heads captivates our imagination and triggers curiosity. The Raptors Centre offers an interactive front row seat to watch these predators of the sky and mother nature’s true athletes teach us about their world and how we all benefit when they thrive and survive. Take a Halk Walk or go on an Owl Prowl (both $15 plus admission) during your visit, or sign up for Raptor Day ($165/person) where you can spend from 10am-3:30pm working with, training, and helping care for the raptors. Open from noon-3pm throughout March. Adults $14, children $7, families (2 adults, 3 kids) $45. For information, visit www. pnwraptors.com.

Go Go Karting

Feel like going for a spin? Gather your friends and show your inner Andretti on the Island’s only Go Kart Raceway. The 1,400 ft. road course features safety guards, an over and under bridge and enough curves to challenge any driver’s skill. Open for Spring Break, from March 8-23 between noon-5pm. For more information, visit allfun.bc.ca.

Bake Gummy Bear Thumbprint Cookies

1 cup butter, softened 1⁄2 cup brown sugar, packed 2 egg yolks 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1⁄4 tsp salt 3 dozen gummy bears, one per cookie (plus more for snacking) In a bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar. Add egg yolks, one at a time. Stir in vanilla. Mix in flour and salt. Set in freezer for 10 minutes (to prevent cracks when you make the thumbprint). While the dough is in the freezer, preheat oven to 350˚ and grease a cookie sheet. Scoop and roll tablespoon-sized balls and arrange, 1" to 2" apart, on cookie sheet. Using your thumb, press a deep hole in the middle of the cookie. Make it deep and wide enough that the gummy bears don’t spill out, but not so deep that you crack the sides of the cookie too much. (You’ll get the hang of it after a few tries.) Bake 8–10 minutes, or until the cookies look almost done. Open the oven and pull the cookie sheet out enough to be able to reach the back row of cookies. Place a single gummy bear in each cookie cavity. Return cookies to oven and bake until the bottoms are golden brown. The gummy bears will melt completely in about two minutes. Let cookies cool for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool. (From thebakingrobot.com).

Be Awed at IMAX

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug continues the adventure of Bilbo Baggins, who—along with the Wizard Gandalf and 13 Dwarves, led by the legendary warrior Thorin Oakenshield—is swept into an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor from the fearsome Dragon Smaug. Along the path, the unassuming Bilbo Baggins

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not only discovers depths of ingenuity and courage that surprise even him, he also gains possession of a “precious” ring tied to the fate of all Middle-earth in ways he cannot begin to know. Or see the movie Penguins and celebrate the destiny of a very special King Penguin, who returns to his birthplace in the subAntarctic. Known as Penguin City, the island is home to hundreds of albatrosses, fur seals and brawling elephant seals—as well as six million penguins. Somehow the hero must earn his place among the island inhabitants and fulfill his destiny by finding a mate and raising a family. Descend to great depths watching Great White Shark, shot on location in South Africa, New Zealand, Mexico and California. The Great White shark evokes nightmares among those who perceive it as a devouring machine, seeking its next prey. However, it is itself on the verge of extinction, the victim of a merciless predator: Man. The film looks to find the truth behind the mythic creature forever stigmatized by its portrayal in the world’s blockbuster movie, Jaws. For information, visit www.imaxvictoria.com.

Enrol in Pirate School

Ahoy Mateys! The Maritime Museum will train children to be “the best of the worst” during March break. The sixth annual Pirate School runs March 11, 13, 18 and 20 at the Bastion Square landmark. From 1-3pm, instructors will teach young scallywags the skills needed to survive on the high seas. Pirate apprentices will learn the fine trade of all things pirate-y! Create your own pirate identity, get covered in tattoos, make a piece of scrimshaw and get initiated into the world of pirates with your personalized pirate certificate. Although the activity is guided, parental supervision is required. Drop in anytime between 1-3pm (activity length depends on child’s interest in activities) Pirate School is included with admission (2 kids under 12 free with paying adult. Additional kids $5 each). For more information visit www.mmbc.bc.ca, or email programs@mmbc.bc.ca.

Throw a Pizza Party Gather your family, friends and your favourite pizza toppings and enlist everyone’s help in preparing

the ingredients for an assortment of personal pizzas or one big pizza for all. To make things easier, pick up a bag of pre-made pizza dough at Pure Vanilla Bakery (105-2590 Cadboro Bay Road; $3.25/bag—yields 1 medium pizza) or at Demitasse Bakery (2164 McNeill Avenue; $3.95/bag—yields 2 medium pizzas).

Roast Hot (or tofu) Dogs at Goldstream

Outdoors, but undercover, the Goldstream Park picnic area is an ideal place for a weenie roast because even if it rains, the tables and fire pit are sheltered. Goldstream offers an extensive network of interconnected nature walks and trails that wind along creeks, through forested upland, among some of the oldest and largest trees in the park, and past abandoned gold diggings from the gold rush days. The Freeman King Visitor Centre at the north end of the park has several displays that outline the area’s natural and human history. The visitor centre is open daily from 9am-4:30pm. For information, visit www. goldstreampark.com.

Cover Photo Contest For the 2014 Family Summer Guide or Kids’ Guide to Victoria & Vancouver Island Send us a colourful, clear photo of your kids or family enjoying a summer moment on Vancouver island, and it may end up on the cover of this year’s Family Summer Guide or Kids’ Guide. 1st Prize: Main cover photo on the Family Summer Guide and $100 Gift Certificate to the business of your choice on Vancouver Island. Runners up: Five or more runners up will receive two IMAX tickets and their photos will be featured on the cover of either the Family Summer Guide or Kids’ Guide. Only digital submissions will be accepted. Send a maximum of three photos of medium or higher resolution. Photos must be colour shots of children or families in Vancouver Island locations. Contest is open to Vancouver Island residents only. Entry deadline is Tuesday, April 22, 2014; winners will be notified by email by May 20. Winning photos become the property of Island Parent Magazine. Send entries to: editor@islandparent.ca

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March 2014

Parents’ Night Out Need a night out? We can help! Enjoy some free time while we entertain your child in a safe, fun filled environment. 5 - 10 yrs

We will start the night out with crafts and a swim in the pool. After swimming we will have popcorn, a PJ party and watch a movie on our inflatable movie screen. An activity schedule will be posted on our website one week prior. Location:

Panorama Recreation Centre Island Room & Fitness Studio 82965 Sa 6pm - 10pm Mar 8 $20 child /$10 Sibling 82966 Sa 6pm - 10pm Apr 12 $20 child /$10 Sibling

www.panoramarecreation.ca 250.656.7271

and watch him build a NEW giant LEGO sculpture!

MARCH 15–16, 2014

SPONSORED BY

Tillicum LEGO Mania competition. As a contestant, you’ll have the opportunity to bring in your LEGO masterpiece featuring this year’s theme - Old Time Victoria. Visit us online for more details.

www.tillicumkids.com JOB #T118-15229B CLIENT: TILLICUM CENTRE PUBLICATION: ISLAND PARENT INSERTION DATE: MARCH 2014 TRIM: 4.75" X 3" PREPARED BY: ECLIPSE CREATIVE INC. @ 250-382-1103

ENROLL NOW!

West-Mont Montessori School offers innovative, personalised Montessori instruction in a beautiful natural environment for students in Preschool to Grade 8. Visit our website for details about our programs, or stop by our campus and feel what it’s like to be part of a community devoted to the development of the whole child. 4075 Metchosin Road - Victoria

Tel: 250.474.2626

Double up for a day out on a bicycle built for two. If yours is a family of four, six, or eight, the logistics are easy: two, three, four bikes, and so on. If your family is odd—in numbers that is—bring along a bicycle built for one and take turns as odd biker out. Rent tandem bikes at Sports Rent (www.sportsrentbc. com or 250-385-7368) for $25/2 hours or $39/24 hours. Bike rentals include helmet, lock, pump and repair kits. For a map of the Galloping Goose Regional Trail (and a list of suggested day trips) visit the CRD website at www.crd.bc.ca/parks/galloping-goose/ index.htm or for other bike routes, check out the Cycle Vancouver Island website at www.cyclevancouverisland.ca for links to Tours & Maps.

Meet LEGO Certified Professional, Robin Sather,

MANIA

Rent a Tandem Bike

Learn Something New

Sign up for Soil Science, Worm Composting, Mason Bees Part 1, or Spring Planting, just a few of the courses offered this month at the Greater Victoria Compost Education Centre (www.compost.bc.ca). Or get your Kids in the Kitchen at the London chef (thelondonchef.com) for cross-cultural cooking classes including Italian Afternoon, Mexican Fiesta and Greek Opa. For the budding baseball player, sign up for National Little League’s free baseball camp for boys and girls aged 8-12 years on March 2 and 30 (www.nationallittleleague.org). It’s free, it’s fun and no experience is needed.

Fly Around Town

Experience an adventure of a lifetime aboard a Hyack Air DeHavilland Beaver during a 30-minute float plane tour of Victoria. Not your average Saturday-morning-kindathing-to-do, but a once-in-a-lifetime thrill that might inspire a potential pilot or two. The flight departs Victoria Harbour from the Hyack Air dock (1234 Wharf Street) and includes spectacular views of the Butchart Gardens, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Canada’s west coast naval base, and some of the Island’s rugged shoreline. $135/person (minimum number of passengers required). For information, visit www.hyackair.com or phone 250-384-2499.

E-mail: info@west-mont.ca

Website: http://www.west-mont.ca 16

Island Parent Magazine

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Hit the Trails on a Mountain Bike

The South Island Mountain Bike Society Introductory Rides, Women’s Rides and Youth Rides are held at the Hartland Mountain Bike Park, on the second Sunday of each month. The Introductory Rides (meet at 9:30am; ride at 10am) are guided, and are for all abilities and all ages. Bring your helmet and enjoy a morning of riding. Rides last around 2 hours. RSVP to Wayne at 250-479-2897. The Women’s Rides (beginners meet at 9:45am; ride at 10am; intermediate meet at 12:15pm; ride at 12:30pm) are for women of all ages and abilities. The Youth Rides, for ages 10 to 15, start in the parking lot at 9:45am. Families are welcome, too. Make sure to bring water to drink and a change of clothes for afterwards. To get to the park, take the Pat Bay Highway to the Royal Oak exit. Turn left (right if coming from the ferries) at the traffic lights onto Royal Oak Drive, and then right onto West Saanich Road. Turn left onto Hartland Road—the well-marked parking lot is at the end of the road. Visit www.simbs.com.

Host a Book Swap

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Kids never seem to tire of hearing the same story, but if your kids have, host a book swap and add a few new tales to your library. Gather a few well-read friends, their books, their comic books, and dig in. If you’re feeling ambitious and the kids are willing, do a film adaptation of one of their favourites, or start a book club to compare thoughts.

Cross the Kinsol Trestle

One of the tallest wooden rail trestle bridges in the world, the Kinsol Trestle spans the Koksilah River, and is part of the Cowichan Valley Trail which is ideal for walking, biking and equestrian rides—with over 70 kms of local history to explore. This section of the trail is perfect for kids of all ages and activity levels. The Kinsol Trestle is a vital connector for the Cowichan Valley Trail (part of the Trans Canada Trail), the “missing link” between Shawnigan Lake and the surrounding communities. Access to the trestle is via Renfrew Road near Shawnigan Lake. From the Island Highway, follow the signs from the Mill Bay turn-off. For information, visit cvrd.bc.ca or kinsoltrestle.ca. www.IslandParent.ca

Jump into the adventure and let friendship fill each day. Experience a world of discovery, all with an amazing staff.

Oy thE bESt OF A EnjO CAnAdiAn wESt-COASt SUMMER!

SUMMER CAMPS FOR ALL AGES!

www.qwanoes.ca LIFE LIKE NO OTHER!

1-888-99-QWANOES

March 2014

Full Day Workshop

Fun & Games With Toddlers

Goose 2.0: Incorporating Digital Media into Mother Goose on the Loose

For Children’s Librarians and Programmers, Early Literacy Practitioners, Early Childhood Educators, Day Care and Pre-School providers and all those who work with young families. $100.00 for community participants. Register at https://goose2point0-victoria.eventbrite.ca/ Includes refreshments and lunch. Please register no later than Friday March 14. In this workshop, learn to:

• Increase the use of the public library and other programs by families with young children by fostering emergent literacy skills in young children; • Provide an educational model to parents, increasing their understanding/skills as a child’s first and most important teacher; • Increase the skill level of youth services staff to work with the community about the developmental needs of children; • Develop young children’s familiarity and comfort with libraries, books, words, and music, all in a variety of formats; • Incorporate technology into Mother Goose on the Loose programs in a way that supports parent-child and models healthy media behaviors.

IslandLink Library Federation

250-383-9409 www.islandlink.ca

Lighthouse Academy of

Pure, pleasing, positive.

Photo: Andrei Fedorov

Dance

Beginner–Professional • Boys & Girls • Age 2 – Adult Ballet • Tap • Jazz • Modern • Contemporary • Acro Jazz/Hip Hop • Creative • Musical Theatre • Zumba Special Needs Class • RAD & ISTD Exam & Leisure Courses

New Location!

934 Goldstream Ave, Langford

We also do DANCE PARTIES for kids and adults!

250.595.8705

lighthouseballet@gmail.com www.lighthouseacademyofdance.com

18 Island Parent Magazine

oddlers like to touch and explore. You can encourage curiosity by creating a safe home environment where you don’t have to say “no” all the time. By putting forbidden objects out of reach, you’ll have fewer confrontations. Outdoor spaces also offer great opportunities for children to learn about their world, with new and exciting things to experience, touch and discover. Always closely supervise your toddler in the outdoors. Toddlers are in constant motion, testing their new skills: walking, running, jumping, kicking and throwing. Be sure to build lots of outdoor playtime into daily routines so that your child can develop these skills and stay active. Toddlers want to climb. A safe way to encourage this skill, and to enjoy some fresh air, is at your local playground or park. Play structures should be age-appropriate and well maintained, with lots of sand or another safe surfacing underneath to cushion a fall. Supervise playground activities closely at all times, and stay within arm’s reach of your child on play equipment. Toddlers want to do what they see others doing. Encourage your toddler to help around the house by giving him simple things to do—pick up toys, fold laundry, or sweep. Toddlers are developing their imagination. By the end of the second year, your toddler will start to engage in pretend or imaginative play. She might incorporate household objects into playtime or make up little stories about her cars, trains, or dolls. Resist the urge to always direct your toddler’s play. Sit back and observe, and let him come to you when he needs you. Watch, wait and wonder!

Toys for Toddlers Toys become more interesting now that your toddler is better able to handle them. Simple things like blocks, floating bath toys, your own pots and pans or empty plastic containers, often make the best toys. Toddlers are learning how things work, and experimenting with cause and effect. They are also fascinated by measuring and pouring. Your toddler doesn’t need expensive or

complicated toys. Toys that are safe and appealing to children this age include: • push-pull toys (with short pull cords) • safe ride-on toys that your child makes move with his feet • simple dolls or animals that can be dressed, especially with Velcro or snaps (watch for features or buttons that can be pulled loose) • simple puzzle boards with several pieces • toddler building toys • large cardboard boxes with doors and windows cut out for climbing and peering through • stacking and sorting toys, large plastic or wooden boxes with shaped holes and corresponding blocks • large soft balls to kick and throw • musical toys, like a drum or shakers • hand-sized cars, trains or trucks • a child-sized broom and dustpan • peek-a-boo scarves, which can also be used for wrapping a doll, to dance with, or as a superhero cape • workbenches, blocks, toy telephones • sand and water toys, such as a bucket, shovel, rake or sieve • bubbles: You’ll still need to blow the bubbles, but this simple activity encourages visual tracking (following the bubbles as they move through the air), cause and effect (pop!), and gross motor skills (chasing and reaching).

Art and Language Toddlers enjoy simple arts and crafts, like drawing with large crayons on blank paper, playing with clay, chalk and a chalkboard (or sidewalk), and painting with large paintbrushes. Continue to use books in your toddler’s playtime and daily routines: • Have books available in different areas of your home and within easy reach of your toddler: on a low shelf or in a basket on the floor. • Toddlers enjoy books with simple rhymes and predictable text, with just a few words on each page. Books about saying goodbye and bedtime help with these transition times. Sturdy board books that are www.kidsinvictoria.com

easy to carry around are best for toddlers. • As language skills develop, your toddler will participate more during storytime. When you read, point at pictures, ask “What’s that?” and give your child time to answer. Or pause and let your child complete the sentence. Music is an important and fun part of playtime. Encourage your children to clap,

Music is an important and fun part of playtime. Encourage your children to clap, dance, and eventually sing along. Be sure to sing and dance along with them. dance, and eventually sing along. Be sure to sing and dance along with them. As much as possible, avoid TV and other electronic media. Children learn best by interacting with people, not from screens.

Making Friends: Playdates At 12 to 18 months, children usually begin to take part in “parallel play,” playing alongside (but not directly with) other children. Around 18 months, your toddler will start to notice other children and to interact with them more. Inviting a friend to your home to play is a great way to encourage your toddler’s social and sharing skills. Here are some tips to make these first playdates positive experiences: • Schedule the playdate for a time of day when your toddler is likely to be in a good mood, such as the morning or right after a nap. • Keep playdates small and short, about an hour long. Invite just one friend at a time at first. Toddlers have a short attention span. Plan a few fun activities and crafts that you can do together in a short period of time. • Toddlers haven’t yet learned to share. Put away your toddler’s favourite toys to reduce the chance of a conflict. If you have more than one of a favourite toy, then each child can have one. • Make sure that an adult is supervising children at play. • Don’t forget to serve a healthy snack!

Get hopping and book your mini-session with live bunnies today! March 21 & 22 $30 session fee Please call for more information

Colleen Boak 250-590-3506

www.roysphoto.com facebook.com/roysphoto

New Kids Dentist

Dr. Anita Gadzinska-Myers

is a Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry and has a Fellowship in Special Needs Dentistry for children • Taking over space from Dr.Luc Magne • Accepting new patients now (infants to teenagers) • Referral not needed • Member of Cleft Lip and Palate Team at Queen Alexander Centre for Children in Victoria Special Services: oral sedation • hospital dentistry • nitrous oxide

Victoria Pediatric Dental Centre 210–3930 Shelbourne St, Victoria 250-383-2133 www.victoriapediatricdentalcentre.ca

Reprinted with permission from the Canadian Paediatric Society. For more information, visit www.caringforkids.cps.ca. www.IslandParent.ca

March 2014 19

GIRLS! GIRLS! GIRLS! SOFTBALL! Recreational and Competitive GIRLS Little League Softball Programs Ages 7-12 Minors; Ages 10-12 Majors; and Ages 13-17 Junior/Seniors Hampton is proud to host the 11-12 and 13-14 year old Softball Canadian Championships in August 2014 - the teams that win these championships, advance to the Little League Softball World Series!

HAMPTON LITTLE LEAGUE CHALLENGERS!

The Challenger Program is a Division of Little League to enable boys and girls with physical and mental challenges, ages 4-22 years, to enjoy the game of baseball along with millions of other children who play worldwide.

HAMPTON LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL! We have divisions of Baseball for boys and girls of all ages th 2-13 years as of April 30 , 2014 2-4 Blastball 4-6 Tball 5-7 Mini's 7-9 Rookies 9-11 Minors 9-12 Majors 11-13 Intermediate Being part of Hampton Little League is more than just sports, we are a community! With several special events throughout the season such as Funday; Pitch, Hit & Run; a Dance; and Coaches vs. Managers Ball Games, as well as Player Development Clinics! *We also offer youth an adult umpire training* Register On-line @ www.hamptonlittleleague.org Or contact us @ 250-385-0022 and 250-361-9614 KIDSPORT, JUMPSTART & PAYMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE – NO PLAYER IS TURNED AWAY

Don’t Miss Out – BE PART OF THE TEAM!

Children/Teen (from 7 years)

Sewing Camps! Spring Break 2014 Camps Your child/teen can SEW! It’s SEW Easy! Emphasis is on sewing clothes they can wear! Home School Classes also available Fernwood/Bay area

March 10-14: Morning & Afternoon March 17-21: Morning & Afternoon Andrea Bailey

Andrea’s

23 years experience

Call www.andreasseweasy.com

20 Island Parent Magazine

250-592-7879

Spring Break Programs A

h, spring—a time of blossoms, breezes and Spring Break. There’s lots to do during the break as you’ll see from the following listing. For more information on any of these programs, please refer to the ads in this issue. Have fun in the—dare we say it—sun! Andrea’s Sew Easy. Are you looking for something different for your child to do during Spring Break? How about a sewing camp that they will treasure and enjoy for a lifetime? Andrea Bailey has been teaching children to sew from the age of seven, up to teens, for over 23 years. Small classes, maximum of four. Camps are Monday to Friday, morning or afternoon. Call 250-5927879 to sign up, or email aseweasy@shaw. ca. Testimonials at www.andreasseweasy. com. Andrea teaches year round. Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Art Break for March Break in the Children’s Studio, March 10–14 and 17–21, 2014. Roll up your sleeves and try something new over Spring Break, where young artists will exchange ideas and create masterpieces using unexpected materials and techniques. Registration now open: in person (1040 Moss St.) or by phone 250-384-4171 ext.0. For more info and complete schedule visit aggv.ca/studio-class-schedule. Boardworks Diving. Join one of Canada’s most successful springboard and platform diving clubs at Saanich Commonwealth Pool this Spring Break and learn how to dive in a fun and safe atmosphere. Choose from Boardworks OlympicGarten (5-9 yrs), FunDive (10-13 yrs), and Boardworks Jr (5-9 yrs). Diving camps combine gymnastics and trampoline training with basic diving skills in the water for a fun introduction to diving. Visit www.boardworks.ca for more information or call 250-479-0330.

or email aseweasy@shaw.ca

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Let your child experience everything you hope for them. Camp Pringle is more than just an amazing week of fun; our trained and screened leaders provide a safe place for children to develop socially, mentally, physically and spiritually. Help fight Nature Deficit Disorder! For ages 7-12 at only $275 for three full days and nights with nine awesome meals prepared by our dietary Chef Bob; you will love Camp Pringle as much as your child. Visit www.camppringle.com for easy online registration or call 250-743-2189. Christ Church Cathedral School’s Spring Break Program, Lux Mundi, provides a safe and exciting experience for your child. We have a high supervision ratio, energetic and experienced staff, excursions every day, opportunities for new friendships and lots of laughs, plus all the facilities of Christ Church Cathedral School, including a fullsize gymnasium. Children learn and grow in a safe and enjoyable environment. The program runs from March 10-21. Spaces still available. Registration also open for summer 2014. Contact us at 250-383-5125 or email luxmundi@cathedralschool.ca. www.cathedralschool.ca.

individual coaching are offered throughout the year. Within a professional and supportive learning environment, students flourish with improved acting skills, stronger confidence, creative thinking, public speaking skills, spontaneity and versatility in physical and vocal expression. For more information, or to register, contact katerubin@telus.net or 250-386-8593. www.katerubintheatre. com. facebook.com/KateRubinTheatre. Lighthouse Academy of Dance offers Spring Break DanceArts camps for boys and girls. Monday-Friday March 17-21, 4-6 yr olds, 9-10am daily $60 + GST; 7-11 yr olds, 10-4:15 daily $199 + GST; 12+ yr olds, 10-4:15 daily $199 + GST. Various dance styles, musical theatre and related activities. Optional RAD exam preparation opportunities available. Also register for summer camps from March 1. www. lighthouseacademyofdance.com. Morning Glory School just minutes from Qualicum Beach is offering handwork and music workshops for children 9-13 years old. Handwork class, felting and sewing, Tuesday March 18 and Thursday March 20, 2-3pm, or Tuesday March 25 and Thursday March 27, 2-3pm. A different project will be

worked on each week. Join in for one week or both; fee is $10 per student per week to cover supply cost. Students may join our school music class on Friday March 21 or 28, 11am-noon. No charge for the music class, but students must be pre-registered. School and office is open throughout March until our Easter Break in April. Please call or email for more information or to register: 250-752-2722 or mgs@shawcable.com. www.morninggloryschool.ca, 861 Hilliers Road, off Hwy 4, Qualicum Beach. Panorama Recreation Centre. Spring has sprung and we’re ready to have some fun! With over 10 exciting activities, Panorama has something for everyone this Spring Break. Try Tae Kwon Do, horseback riding or gymnastics. Blast-off in our Mad Science Camp or go for the gold with Sportball’s Soccer and Hockey Clinic. Love to swim? We’ve got camps in the pool for kids aged 3-9 years. Try a bit of everything in our Sunsational Camp, where you’ll play games and sports, do arts and crafts and a daily swim or skate. Live well, have fun! 250-656-7271. Recreation Oak Bay is your headquarters for Spring Break Camp fun. Join us at a variety of locations for themed activities, crafts,

This spring, the City of Victoria offers a range of programs for everyone. Looking for ways to keep the kids busy and active over Spring Break? Try Adventure Camp or Girls Only Camp. There will be Spring Break Fun Swims every day March 9-24. Mom and Dad, why not hire a personal trainer, or brush up on your kayaking skills? You can find more information on all our programs and services, as well as drop-in schedules, at www.victoria.ca or by calling 250-361-0732. Looking for outdoor FUN with kids and teens? Explore the caverns at Horne Lake Provincial Park and see underground waterfalls, fossils and amazing crystal formations. Rent a helmet and guide yourselves into some smaller caves or take a fascinating guided tour and check out what’s being protected under lock and key! For those that prefer adventure above-ground, the Cave Theatre and new Geology Trail will uncover the park’s mysteries without having to venture inside a cave. Open daily. 250-248-7829 or www.hornelake.com Kate Rubin Theatre & Drama Studio specializes in dramatic training for children, young people and adults. Classes, workshops and www.IslandParent.ca

Come See Why Learning in Nature Rocks!

Open House: Saturday, March 28, 10am–2pm "Tell me and I'll forget, show me and I may remember, involve me and I'll understand" Chinese Proverb Reggio Influenced Philosophy Child Led Learning • Ages 3–5 Registrations Now Being Taken for Limited Spaces mosnjk@hotmail.com www.naturejuniorkindergarten.com March 2014 21

out-trips, swimming and more. Camps include Sticks & Kicks, Around the World and Minion Mania. Have a blast at Oak Bay Recreation Centre with daily theme swims, fun on the ice or enjoy specialty, aquatic and sports camps! Check recreation. oakbay.ca or call 250-595-7946 to find the right camp for you. Royal BC Museum Spring Break Camp: Focus on Nature. Aspiring shutterbugs can develop their skills by participating in a photography-inspired camp. Each three-day session will include a special visit from one of B.C.’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year winners. Campers will learn about photo composition and storytelling, venture to Beacon Hill Park to capture dynamic nature shots, and have their work included in a mini Wildlife Photographer of the Year-inspired display. No fancy camera needed, but campers need to be familiar with how theirs works. Lunch and snacks not provided. March 11-13, 9am-4pm; March 18-20, 9am-4 pm. Ages 8-12. $135 per person, 10% member discount. Reserve your spot today. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/camps. Looking for Spring Break fun? Then try one of our great programs at Saanich Parks and Recreation. We have a large selection to choose from, including computers, dance, arts and crafts, martial arts, sports and daycamps for kids 5-15 years of age. Also, don’t forget about our fantastic fun swims in the pool or Everyone Welcome skates. Whatever you’re looking for, you will probably find it at one of our four recreation centres. Check out recreation.saanich.ca for more information. Benefits for your child in Sportball; building skills and confidence in 8 sports! What a

fantastic experience for a child and a break for Mom and Dad! Available in morning or afternoon half-day sessions from Sidney to Shawnigan Lake. Sportball camps focus on the eight core Sportball sports, arts and crafts, snack time, stories, music, cooperative games and theme days. Camps are run outdoors and indoors, depending on the location and weather. 250-590-4625, van. island@sportball.ca or sportball.ca St. Michaels University School is open to all children in Victoria ages 5-17 and appeals to a wide range of interests. Expert instructoris offer classes such as cooking, sports, computer animation, and much more. The Passion Sports team also returns with more sell-out elite basketball camps. For information on any of these exciting programs, visit our website at www.smuis.ca/spring or call 250-370-6120. Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort in Parksville offers the most extensive recreational programs on Vancouver Island. Enjoy a wide variety of programs including Kid’s Club 7 activities the whole family can enjoy together. Tigh-Na-Mara’s Spring Break Recreation Program includes: Build Your Own Bear workshops, off-site excursions like our new Foodie Tour for adults, Dinner and a Movie Night for the kids, Mini Spa Experiences for mothers and daughters plus our new Spring Break 101 Series including jewelry making, wine tasting, interior design, to changing a tire—we have something to suit everyone’s interests! Rediscover the natural choice for your next family getaway. www.tigh-na-mara.com. 1-800-663-7373. Spring is all about new beginnings… so don’t wait a moment longer to learn to play music! Playing an instrument is a richly rewarding lifetime asset. Now is the

Science Works For Kids • Educational Toys • Science Kits • Kites • Stomp Rockets 22 Island Parent Magazine

time to begin your musical journey at Tom Lee Music Learning Centre, where music is fun and learning is easy for all ages. www. tomleemusic.ca/learningcentre. World Music Explorers for kids aged 5-10 at Victoria Conservatory of Music this summer. Your child will experience a musical adventure as we explore World Music through creativity, composition, movement and innovative technology. Discover the unique sounds of Brazil, Africa, Asia and beyond! We dance, sing, play instruments from around the world, use cutting-edge technology and learn from special guests representing the orchestral instruments. July 14-18 and/or July 21-25. Sign up online at vcm.bc.ca/world-music-explorers or call 250-386-5311. Spring Break fun with West Shore Parks & Recreation. Check out the variety of day camps at Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre in Colwood and Centennial Centre in Langford. Preschoolers will Squiggle and Giggle all week long while school age kids will aspire to be artists, cooks, fashion designers and more. Check out all our programs at www.westshorerecreation.ca or call 250-478-8383 for more information. For up to date news find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/westshorerecreation and Twitter: @wsrecreation. Enjoy Spring Break with Science World On The Road at Woodgrove Centre, March 17-20. Live shows at 11am and 3pm daily and Science On The Spot activities from noon-2pm. Great for all ages. This is a free and fun event for the entire family in the centre court near the water clock fountain. For more information visit the event listings at www.woodgrovecentre.com or call 250-390-2721.•

Victoria’s Hands-On Science & Nature Store For Adults • Telescopes • Guide Books • Microscopes • Crystals

Hundreds of Gift Items for Science & Nature Lovers of All Ages

1889 Oak Bay Ave 250-595-6033 Open 10am–5:30pm Tuesday–Saturday

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Sarah Conley

Watching Them Grow W

ith the soil starting to warm I was spending most of my time outside in our garden. My two-year-old daughter was happiest digging alongside me with a mismatched fork and spoon. She squealed with delight every time she came across a worm or a pill bug, and leapt to her feet at the sight of a butterfly. With soil crusted on the corners of her mouth, I had to reassure myself that she was only getting her fill of probiotics and minerals—at least I hoped! Unless there were berries ripening, my six-year-old son showed minimal interest. Watering was a chore, weeding was out of the question, and to him the garden seemed to have too many vegetables and not enough fruit. Thank goodness for things that wiggle, creep, crawl, and leap. The garden’s constant movement helped keep the two of them entertained. Often just as Sam was about to express boredom I would come across a

beetle or a tree frog. They always turned out to be gifts for both of us. One afternoon as my daughter napped, Sam and I agreed that I could have an hour in the garden in exchange for an hour of board games. He joined me in the garden and instantly started humming. He chomped on a piece of sorrel, shouted out that there were green berries in the strawberry patch, and walked around our fenced plot with a new awareness. “Hey Mom, do you know you’re a lot like Rabbit from Winnie the Pooh?” I looked up at my son and dropped my trowel. “Do you think I’m grumpy?” I asked, thinking about Rabbit’s impatience, his snappy replies, and a tendency to lose control. “No,” he said. “You just both like gardening a lot.” I felt my shoulders relax as I agreed with

him. Then he asked, “Mom, why do you spend so much time in the garden?” Kneeling in the garden, I looked up at him, grateful he was blocking the sun. The answer came to me instantly. “I just love watching things grow.” And I think I’m not alone. Sure there are tons of reasons why so many of us produce our own food. But the magic held in a small seed wows me every spring. It isn’t just the surprise when green shoots appear after a week or so, it’s that I know the very essence of a plant lies below the soil in a web of roots, anchoring, nourishing, and sustaining it. I can’t help but think of our role as parents, grandparents, caregivers, and teachers as an intrinsic part of our child’s root structure. We watch our children grow, mature, and blossom because of the loving support fostered by family and community. Yes, we also have to tenderly prune off weak spots in order to guide the stronger areas, but ultimately we are there to nurture our children and give them room to grow, respecting the way they reach for the sun. Sarah Conley lives on Pender Island with her husband and two children. Sarah’s passions include writing, gardening, and raising her family.

250-480-4887

K-11 Alternative School

•

imaxvictoria.com

An empowering multi-age learning community: - child-directed learning & choices

The joy of learning - naturally.

http://oakandorca.ca 250 383 6609 www.IslandParent.ca

- compassionate communication - hands-on/minds-on math & science - prioritized environmental education - regular ﬁeld trips & nature awareness

March 2014 23

Party Directory Funtime Inflatables #1 choice for party inflatables

Hassle Free Parties for kids & families

250-474-0597

www.funtimeinflatables.ca

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

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

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

New items arriving soon!!!

G Y M

FALCON

GYMNASTICS Birthday Parties

G Y M

N Celebrate your birthday with us!

Our great instructors will treat you to an action packed two hours of fun and fitness in our great facility!

A S T I C S

40 sary r Annive 2013 1973–

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

Book Early: 250-479-6424

#208 – 721 Vanalman Ave

(Broadmead & Royal Oak Area)

www.falcongymnastics.com

~ Laser Tag ~ Human Hamster Balls ~ Booger Wars ~ Video Game Theatre ~ U:Launchers ~ Foam Party

S T I C S

250 472 3546 www.puppetbooth.homestead.com

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

250-383-FLIP

www.lionspridegymnastics.com Located in Langford

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

Call 250-370-7200

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

Call 250-595-SWIM (7946)

www.recreation.oakbay.ca

We bring the Fun2U!

Birthdays, school funfairs, fundraising, festivals, teen groups, church groups, summer camps, sports teams, corporate groups

Call Alicia 250-661-2219 Email games2uvictoria@gmail.com Global @ www.g2u.com Facebook @ Games2u Victoria 24 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Party Directory

ctoria Gymnastics

Birthday Parties Come Fly With Us!

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

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

Fired UP! Optional character

Two certified instructors and host Paintayour own ceramics Optional character

Gymnastics games and music

Par-T-Perfect

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

Now Offering t-shirt Full-week Free and one day camps! Ages Foam 6 andlanding up. pit and 40' long trampoline See website for details! www.firedupceramics.ca Party participants can win a Optional character

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

Optional character

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

See website for details: www.firedupceramics.ca

Fired UP! Paint your own ceramics

1801 Fort Street @ Richmond

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

Optional character Optional character

FREE month

Available Sat & Sun Afternoons Corner of Store & Pembroke Optional character

www.victoriagymnastics.com

250-380-2442

Action-Packed Birthday Parties Supervised • 2–8 Yrs

It’s about skills, not scores.

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

www.IslandParent.ca

March 2014 25

Family Travel Catch the Kye Bay Spirit • • • •

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

For an experience you’ll never forget!

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

ARE YOU PREGNANT? Would you like to meet other moms-to-be while keeping ﬁt? Do you want to maintain your ﬁtness level and feel great throughout your pregnancy?

ARE YOU A NEW MOM? Do you want to LOOK and FEEL fabulous? Would you like to ease safely back into ﬁtness with other moms and babies in your community?

778-977-3612 26

www.ﬁt4two.ca

Island Parent Magazine

kathi@ﬁt4two.ca

Bring your family to Blue Vista Resort and start a new tradition. Located steps from Bennett Bay and the Gulf Island National Reserve with its beaches and shoreline walks on Mayne Island, this Tourism BC Approved Accommodation has been catering to families for over three decades. With nine individualized housekeeping cottages to choose from and a quiet lawn with barbecues, picnic tables and a children’s play area, this small family-run resort invites you to join a tradition many families have been enjoying for years. Cabins start at under $100/night. Visit www.bluevistaresort.com for rates and details. Kye Bay Guest Lodge & Cottages, in Comox, B.C., has been a popular family-oriented beach vacation spot since 1932. This location offers miles of sandy beaches with warm safe swimming. The tidal pools are filled with small fish and fascinating sea life. The lawn offers places to curl up to read, sunbathe or play lawn games. The accommodations provide a comfy “home base.” Join us on the seaside terrace for Sunday pancake breakfast and Fridays High Tea. For a week you’ll never forget… call toll free 1-866-658-6131. www.kyebay.com. Ocean Sands Resort is situated on 4 acres of beautiful oceanfront property overlooking Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville. The resort consists of one and two bedroom oceanfront or poolside condominium units. Each unit has a fully-equipped kitchen, gas fireplace and large balcony either overlooking the ocean or pool. The amenities include a heated outdoor pool, playground, indoor hot tub, sauna and laundry facilities. Come enjoy the miles of sandy beach right at your doorstep.For more info, visit www. oceansandsresort.ca or call 1-877-7335969. Park Sands Beach Resort is a family-oriented RV park and campground located downtown on the sandy shores of Parksville Bay beside the Community Park with its fabulous www.kidsinvictoria.com

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playground, water-spray park and BMX/ skateboard park. Families have been coming here for generations to enjoy the wide expanse of sandy beach, the surrounding natural beauty, numerous recreation opportunities like hiking, biking and golf, and our central location, which makes for easy day trips to other Island destinations. www.parksands.com.

VCM Summer Academy

World Music Explorers July 14 -18 and/or July 21-25 • Ages 5-10 Experience a musical adventure as we explore World Music through creativity, composition, movement and innovative technology. Discover the unique sounds of Brazil, Africa, Asia and beyond! 5 - 7 years (1/2 day): $125/wk 8 -10 years (full day): $260/wk

vcm.bc.ca/world-music-explorers • 250.386.5311 Located in Parksville, Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort is an all-season destination resort offering comfort and tranquility, handcrafted log accommodation units that are surrounded by 22 acres of forest nestled above 3 km of sandy beach and the warmest swimming waters in Canada. With family accommodation, two unique restaurants, an award winning spa, Free WIFI, indoor pool and fitness facilities, plus the most extensive seasonal children’s recreational resort program on Vancouver Island, TighNa-Mara is the natural choice for your next family getaway. www.tigh-na-mara.com or 1-800-663-7373. Tourism Tofino. Tofino is where families connect. Our sandy beaches and mossy rainforest are year-round playgrounds! Pull on a wetsuit and splash around or take a surf lesson. Then, there’s tidepooling, sandcastle building, cultural discovery, delicious dining and outdoor fun including a daytrip to Hot Springs Cove, exploring Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and the quirky Tofino Botanical Gardens. Choose from a range of accommodation types and stunning views: beachfront, forested or of unforgettable Tofino Inlet. Visit tourismtofino.com• www.IslandParent.ca

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

Spring Saver & Family Fun Family Fun Packages during Spring Break March 14 - 31, 2014 With the most extensive Children’s Resort Recreation Program on Vancouver Island, 3kms of sandy beach, no resort fee, free parking, free wireless internet, indoor pool, fantastic outdoor attractions & golf nearby, Tigh-Na-Mara is the natural choice for your next getaway!

Weekday Rates from $149 per night One or more nights stay in a family friendly accommodation kids stay & eat FREE* + $5 breakfast credit per adult + kid’s welcome amenity

Additional Spring Packages:

Spring Saver April 1 - May 31, 2014 Easter Escape April 18 - 21, 2014 Visit Tigh-Na-Mara.com or call for details * Some restrictions apply Taxes & gratuities are additional

1155 Resort Drive, Parksville, BC

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

TIGH-NA-MARA.COM March 2014 27

March 2014

Generously Sponsored by and

Family Calendar For calendar updates throughout the month visit www.kidsinvictoria.com SAT 1 & SUN 2 Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale at Nellie McClung Branch Library. A huge stock of gently used books to choose from. Early bird sale 5-8pm Saturday, $3. Regular sale 9am-1:15pm Sunday, free. Closing all-youcan-carry sale for $10 runs 1:15-3:15pm. All proceeds go towards financing programs the library would otherwise be unable to carry out. 3950 Cedar Hill Rd.

SUN 2 Kids’ Buddhist Meditation Class at Bodhichitta Buddhist Centre. Meditation and Buddhist philosophy specially suited for kids 8-14. Learn to calm your minds through guided meditation and use Buddhist teachings in everyday life through stories and games. Drop-in, $5 per child; $10 maximum per family. meditatevancouverisland.org/kids-class.

TUES 4 Guys’ Night Out Baby Time at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Calling all babies and the men who love them. Join us for fingerplays, puppets, stories and songs. For dads, stepdads, foster dads, granddads, uncles and male caregivers with babies 0-15 months. 6:30-7pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

THURS 6 Giggles and Wiggles at Central Branch Library. Wiggle your way to the library for a 20-minute

storytime for little listeners with extra energy. Dance and giggle and learn new action stories and action rhymes chosen just for you. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. 10:30-10:50am. 250-382-7141, ext. 601.

THURS 6 – SUN 9 17th Annual French Fest. Enjoy musical programs on the Radio-Canada Stage in Centennial Square on Saturday and Sunday from noon-4pm. www.francocentre.com.

FRI 7 Captain Underpants and the Loopy Library at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Make your own Flip-O-Rama Book O’ Fun and hear some hilarious gross-out stories. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

SAT 8 Victoria Symphony Storytime at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Join two musicians from the Victoria Symphony and their puppet friend, Kathy Cadence, for a musical performance that matches music to words and feelings. Presentation includes an instrument petting zoo. Parents and caregivers are welcome to participate. For ages 3-4. 10:30-11:15am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250391-0653 for more information.

SUN 9 “Bear” Necessities at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. We can co-exist with these magnificent forest dwellers. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist to learn about the natural history of the black bear. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

TUES 11 Mystery Creature at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Solve the riddles to find the clues hidden along the trail with a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist. At the end, piece the puzzle together to discover who the mystery creature is. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

WED 12 Ha-bat-itat at Mill Hill Regional Park. This guided walk with a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist will help dispel fear and misinformation about these fascinating flying mammals. Meet at the kiosk at the parking lot off Atkins Ave at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #53. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

THURS 13 Captain Underpants and the Loopy Library at Esquimalt Branch Library. See FRI 7 for details. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register

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online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

FRI 14 Furry Forest Friends at Mill Hill Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist for a fun-filled forest walk with your young ones. Explore mammal adaptations, play the “camouflage” game, and learn all about our furry forest friends. Meet at the kiosk in the parking lot off Atkins Ave at 1pm. 7 years and older. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SAT 15 Ugh! A Slug at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Stroll along with a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist to peek under fallen logs and leaves in search of the giant gastropod that is one of nature’s best recyclers. Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

MON 17 Birds of a Feather at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Games, crafts, songs and hands-on activities. Fun for the whole family. Noon-3pm, drop-in. Admission by donation. For more information, call 250-479-0211 or visit www.swanlake.bc.ca. Family Forest Tea Party at Francis/King Regional Park. Here’s an opportunity to bring the whole family along for a tea party in the woods. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist for an interpretive tea tasting featuring some of our local plants. A short guided walk to see some of the plants growing in their native habitat will precede the tea sampling. All ages. $7 + GST/person or $10 + GST/family. Preregistration required before March 14. Space is limited. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

MON 17 – WED 19 Travelling Puppet Show Half-Day Mini-Camp at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Join the Travelling Puppet Show for a three half-day

mini-camp featuring puppet making, storytelling, and your wonderfully wild imagination. Make and take home your very own puppets. Family and friends are invited to attend for the last 15 minutes of the last day of camp to enjoy a performance. For ages 8-12. 1-4pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250477-7111 for more information.

TUES 18 Marsh Madness at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Games, crafts, songs and hands-on activities. Fun for the whole family. Noon-3pm, drop-in. Admission by donation. For more information, call 250-479-0211 or visit www.swanlake.bc.ca. Happy Elephant and Piggie Day at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Do you love Mo Willems’ Elephant and Piggie books? Yes? Well then, you’re invited to an Elephant and Piggie party. Join us for a celebration jam-packed with stories, crafts and activities. For ages 5-8. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information. Silly Sock Puppets at Central Branch Library. Watch short sock puppet plays for inspiration, then get creative and make your own silly sock puppet friend to take home. Materials will be provided. For ages 6-9. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

WED 19 Skullduggery at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Drop in between 11am and 2pm to join in the sleuthing fun. Through displays and activities, use your finest detective skills to help uncover the clues that animals leave behind. Meet at the information kiosk in the Beaver Lake parking lot. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Sssss-Snakes at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Games, crafts, songs and hands-on activities. Fun for the whole family. Noon-3pm, drop-in. Admission by donation. For more information, call 250-479-0211 or visit www.swanlake.bc.ca.

Superhero Showdown at Oak Bay Branch Library. Anyone can be a superhero. Let us help you figure out your superhero superpower and then create a costume accessory to take home. For ages 6-9. 3:30-4:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

THURS 20 The Amazing Race at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Challenge yourself on this “skilltesting” and fun jaunt through the forest. Drop by any time between 11am and 2pm and get the scoop from a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist. Meet at the information kiosk in the Beaver Lake parking lot. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Bugs and the Plants Who Love Them at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Games, crafts, songs and hands-on activities. Fun for the whole family. Noon-3pm. drop-in. Admission by donation. For more information, call 250-479-0211 or visit www.swanlake.bc.ca. Leadership Skills for Teens at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Leadership—it’s not just about taking the lead in obvious ways, but in everyday life, too. Join Dave Douglas, author of Leading the Way: A Step by Step Guide to Discovering and Building Your Leadership Skills for an introductory look into the esscence of leadership and how everybody can develop the skills of great leaders. For ages 13-18. 1:30-2:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

Fuel your body with better food Like many things in life, eating well is a balancing act. Jumpstart your day with veggies: Add kale to your fruit smoothies, spinach to your egg sandwich or chopped zucchini, onion and mushrooms to your omelet. Search our recipe database at thriftyfoods.com/recipes for tasty options. Your destination for better food.

Customer Service: 1.800.667.8280 • Visit thriftyfoods.com www.IslandParent.ca

March 2014 29

Monsters and Dragons at Esquimalt Branch Library. Celebrate World Storytelling Day with master storyteller Maggidah Shoshana Litman and be swept away with fun stories about monsters and dragons. For ages 5-8. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information. Monsters and Dragons at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Celebrate World Storytelling Day with storyteller Andrea Brimmell and be swept away with stories about monsters and dragons. For ages 5-8. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-391-0653 for more information.

FRI 21 Lego at the Library at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Like stories and Lego? Then this is the program for you. We’ll supply the Lego, and you will use your imagination to construct your own crazy creation to display at the library. For a project to take home, bring your own Lego. For ages 7-10. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information. Spring Fling at Francis/King Regional Park. Come and explore the sights, sounds and smells of spring. Join in the celebration with CRD Regional Parks’ naturalists for exhibits, crafts and activities—fun for the entire family. There will be guided walks at 11:15am and 1:15pm. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd. 11am-2pm, drop-in. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Family History With Your Family at the Royal BC Museum. Bring your family to the BC Archives during Spring Break. Rotate through different activity stations. Learn how to record and care for your family history, then search archival documents to find your BC family connection. Enter through the sunken garden courtyard in front of the Royal BC Museum and meet in the BC Archives Reference Room. Limited to 45 participants. 1-3pm. $25/family (up to six family members). Each family attending must include at least one adult. www. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

SAT 22 LifeMark Health Esquimalt Fun Run at Esquimalt Recreation Centre. Event entry includes chip timing, refreshments, complimentary massage treatments from LifeMark Health, draw prize entry. Kids’ zone with face painting and arts & crafts. 1K Kids’ Run at 8am; 5K at 8:30am. $22/5K; $5/1K Kids’ Fun Run. Register online at www.esquimalt.ca/5K. Salmon Saturday at Charters Interpretive Centre. There’s something fishy going on. Drop by between 11am and 2pm to check out the demonstration hatchery and the displays at the Centre with a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist. Meet at the Charters Interpretive Centre

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off Sooke River Rd. All ages. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

to the park entrance. 1-4pm. 8+ years. 250478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SAT 22 & SUN 23

SUN 30

Fossil Fair at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Who lived here millions of years ago? Dinosaurs, trilobites, ammonites, enormous clams and sharks lived in the ancient tropical coral seas and palm tree forests that covered Vancouver Island. Paleontologists will share their personal fossil discoveries including many from this past year. Bring your family and your own fossils for identification. Kids can follow a scavenger hunt, make fossil and dinosaur rubbings, dig for fossils in a sandbox and take a fossil home as a treasure. 10am-4pm. Admission by donation. For more information, call 250-479-0211 or visit www. swanlake.bc.ca.

Hummingbird Day at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. It may seem early, but Anna’s Hummingbirds start to nest in February, and it won’t be too long before the summer hummers, the Rufous, return for their annual visit. Join us as we discover how to get the most of hummingbirds in your neighbourhood through crafts, stories, hands-on exploration and song—don’t worry if you don’t know the words, you can just... hum! Noon-3pm. Admission by donation. For more information, call 250-479-0211 or visit www.swanlake.bc.ca.

SUN 23 Kids’ Buddhist Meditation Class at Bodhichitta Buddhist Centre. See SUN 2 for details. Dropin: $5 per child; $10 maximum per family. meditatevancouverisland.org/kids-class.

WED 26 A Teddy Bear’s Picnic at Central Saanich Branch Library. If you go down to the library today, you’re in for a big surprise. Bring your favourite teddy along to the library for some beary fun stories. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. 10:30-11:30am. Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-652-2013 for more information.

THURS 27 Lego at the Library at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See FRI 21 for details. For ages 7-10. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at gvpl. ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

FRI 28 – TUES APRIL 1 April Fool’s Weekend Scavenger Hunt at Royal BC Museum. Don’t let the Royal BC Museum dupe you. Our staff will place unusual objects next to artifacts and specimens in displays throughout the museum galleries. One of these things is not like the other, and it’s your job to identify the objects that don’t belong. 10am-5pm. Included with admission or membership. www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

SAT 29 Mayne-ly Up at Mount Parke Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist to explore hidden treasures on the way to the summit. Gaze below at the panoramic views of sea and land. The views are some of the best on the Gulf Islands. Bring a snack and water, and wear sturdy shoes. Meet at the information kiosk by turning right on Fernhill Rd, then right on Montrose Rd, which leads

Wonder Sunday: Sounds at the Royal BC Museum. For this month, wonder about the sounds of nature. Using the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition as our guide, we will listen closely to the small and big noises around us. An interactive, learning-based event. 1-3pm. Free with admission or membership. www. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca. Spring Time on Mount Wells at Mount Wells Regional Park. If you’ve never hiked to the summit of Mount Wells, here is your opportunity to discover this trail with a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist. Early spring wildflowers will likely be putting on a show. The trail to the summit is steep and uneven in places, so wear sturdy footwear, bring water and dress for the weather. Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Humpback Rd at 1pm. 12+ years. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

ONGOING BABIES, TODDLERS & PRESCHOOL Drop-in Storytimes for Babies, Toddlers & Families at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Caregivers are welcome and encouraged to participate. Storytimes are free and drop-in. Please come early to find a space. For a complete list of drop-in programs, call your local library, or visit www.gvpl.ca. Parent/Tot Drop-in at Gordon Head United Church. A safe place where young children can play while parents in the community connect with each other. Lots of space and toys. Tea or coffee is available for caregivers, and a healthy snack for the children. Parents are responsible for the care of their own children. Mondays 10am-noon. For more info call the church office at 250-477-4142, or Maisie at 250-477-0388. Kindergym Parent and Tot at Burnside Community Campus Gym. Ride-on toys, climbers, slides, balls, hoops and various sports equipment. The program includes free play, organized games and circle time. Best suited for ages 2-4 years, but all children under 5 years are welcome. Parent participation re-

www.kidsinvictoria.com

quired. Tuesdays 9:30-10:45am. Free. 3130 Jutland Rd. Family Playgroup at St. Peter’s Anglican Church. Free play, music and story time. Beverages and snacks provided for children and adults. Thursdays 2-4pm. 3939 St. Peter’s Rd. 250-384-7757. Email stpeterlakehill@ bc.anglican.ca.

Children Junior Toastmasters at the Oak Bay Branch Library. Develop leadership and communication skills through practical experience and fun exercises with a Distinguished Toastmaster and other community speakers. For ages 8-12. Program runs on Saturdays March 1 to May 5, 2-3:30pm (no program March 15 or April 19). Register at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-5922489 for more information. Sea-Shirt Sundays at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre. On the first Sunday of each month, create your own fish fashion. Be sure to bring a pillow case, cloth bag or t-shirt (or purchase a t-shirt from the centre) and your creativity. $2 donation for fabric paint. 1-3pm. 250-665-7511.

YOUTH Teen Writing Contest at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Enter your original poem, short story or essay—comedic or dramatic! Create

something new or polish up something written for a school assignment. If your entry is selected by the judging panel, you will win a gift certificate for the store of your choice, up to $100 for first prize! For details, contest rules and online entry form, visit www.gvpl.ca/audiences/teens/teen-writing-contest. For more information, email teens@gvpl.ca. For ages 12-18. Contest runs online until March 28. Friday Nights are Alright at Flipside Youth Activity Centre, Pearkes Recreation Centre. Play pool, ping-pong, dome hockey, foosball and two different video game systems while partaking in refreshments. Drop by Flipside between 3-6pm Fridays to pick up a free admission ticket to the Junior Braves, and show your student ID to the receptionists to gain free access to skating and rentals. For more information, contact Gaileen Flaman at 250475-5462 or email gaileen.flaman@saanich.ca.

FAMILIES Mindful Mamas at Lynn Wylie/Helga Beer Yoga Studio. All mothers (including soonto-be mamas) and levels of experience with meditation are welcome. An opportunity for restoration and nurturing yourself; please leave babies and children at home so that your attention can be focused on you. Each gathering will include a short guided instruction to meditation followed by a 30 minute

sitting, 10-15 minute audio lecture or reading on mindfulness, and 45 minutes for check-ins and sharing reflection. Chairs, yoga mats, bolsters and blankets are available, but bring your own sitting gear if desired. No registration required. Sundays, 8:30-10am. $5 donation to help cover room rental. For information, visit www.facebook.com/MindfulMamasVictoria. Ready to Rent BC offers a free course to help find and keep a rental home. Six-week courses run at different times, days and locations. We help renters identify and deal with any barriers they may have to housing. Includes bus tickets, child minding and a healthy snack. To sign up, call 250-388-7171. readytorentbc.net. Parent Sports Drop-in at James Bay Community School Centre. Parents need time to have fun and get back in touch with their inner child. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 7-9pm. $3.50/person. www.jamesbaycentre.ca. Weekly Bird Walk at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary (meet in the parking lot). Every Wednesday and Sunday noon-3pm. Metchosin School Museum is open Saturdays 1:30-4:30pm and Sundays 11am-4:30pm. An original, one-room school house built in 1871, it is set up as a classroom with old wooden desks. Families can enjoy perusing the hundreds of artifacts on display. Free. 4475 Happy Valley Rd.•

Now accepting Registrations for Spring Break Camp and March Programs Register Today For Best Selection of Dates and Times.

www.saanich.ca/alg www.saanichrec.ca www.IslandParent.ca

March 2014 31

Around the Island

Visit www.IslandParent.ca for these and other events and resources for families from Cowichan Valley north to Campbell River and west to Tofino SUN 2 Brant in the Bay at Parksville Community Park. Arrowsmith naturalists will provide spotting scopes for viewing birds and other wildlife. 11am-3pm. Free. www.brantfestival. bc.ca/events. Parksville Lion’s and Save-On-Foods Free Family Skate at Oceanside Place Arena. Spend a family Sunday afternoon together. Free, including rentals, from 12:15-1:45pm. Children under 19 must be accompanied by an adult. 250-248-3252. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

tues 4 Glow in the Dark Skate at Frank Crane Arena, Nanaimo. Come skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission rates; glow necklaces $2. 6:30pm. 250-756-5200.

FRI 7 School’s Out! Everyone Welcome Skate at Oceanside Place Arena. School is out, but skat-

ing is in. 1:30-3pm. Regular admission rates. 250-248-3252. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

SAT 8 Wildlife Photography Workshop for Kids at Parksville Museum and Archives at Craig Heritage Park. Kids will learn how to photograph wildlife. 10am-2pm. Ages 8-15 with an adult. $5/child. Pre-register at reception@ parksvillemuseum.ca. Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery. Drop-in art making program. All materials provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation. 250-287-2261.

SUN 9 Parksville Lion’s and Save-On-Foods Free Family Skate at Oceanside Place Arena. Spend a family Sunday afternoon together. Free, including rentals, from 12:15-1:45pm. Children under 19 must be accompanied by an adult. 250-248-3252. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

WED 12 Youth Career Night at Oceanside Place Arena. Eat pizza and get the inside scoop on finding employment in your community. Prepare to find work with the help of this free workshop presented by the Career Centre staff. 6-8pm. For 12-17 year olds. Pre-register with RDN, Recreation and Parks by calling 250-248-3252. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

FRI 14 Tots Movie Night Out at Bowen Complex. Bring your little one out for a movie and give them some theatre experience. This is an inexpensive family outing you and your kids are sure to love. A small snack, drink and prize will be provided to each child. Parents are free, but participation is required. $9/child. 6-7:45pm. 250-756-5200.

SAT 15 Wildlife Photography Workshop for Kids at Parksville Museum and Archives at Craig Heritage Park. Kids will learn how to photograph wildlife. 10am-2pm. Ages 8-15 with an adult. $5/child. Pre-register at reception@ parksvillemuseum.ca.

MON 17 – FRI 28 Spring Break Out Swims at Ravensong Aquatic Centre. Swim leader will be organizing many

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

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www.kidsinvictoria.com

games and activities during Spring Break. Each day from 1:30-5pm, there will be fun activities for all ages and abilities from the young to the young at heart. 250-752-5014. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

SUN 16 Recognizing Spiritual Experiences at Beban Park Recreation Centre. How do you recognize your spiritual experiences? Learn how you can be more aware of your spiritual life through simple spiritual exercises suitable for the whole family. Youth and family of all ages welcome. 11am-noon. Room 1, Beban Park Recreation Centre, 2300 Bowen Rd. Free admission. www.eckankar-bc.ca.

TUES 18 Science on the March at Country Club Centre, Nanaimo. Enjoy free hands-on activities such as a wind tunnel, marble madness, keva blocks building, nature discovery, science & art table, and much more. Fun for the whole family. Science demos at noon. 10am-2pm. Event partners NS3 (Nanaimo Science and Sustainability Society) and Country Club Centre. Glow in the Dark Skate at Frank Crane Arena, Nanaimo. Come skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission rates; glow necklaces $2. 6:30pm. 250-756-5200.

craft area, Brio train station, and snack table. Indoor car and toy riding area. Monday to Friday, 9:30am-noon and Thursdays 12:151:45pm. $2 suggested donation per family (punch cards available). 250-210-0870, laffexecutivedirector@shaw.ca, www.familyandfriends.ca. Adventures in Early Literacy at the Ladysmith Resource Centre. A parent-child, fun-filled program designed for children ages 3-5 years. Participants learn and have fun doing crafts, games and singing. A book is read, lunch and snacks are provided. 9:45-noon. Space is limited, so call 250-245-3079 to get on the list. 630 2nd Ave. Gym Pals at Oliver Woods Gymnasium for 1-4 year olds and their adult. Through climbing, riding, jumping and playing, tots can explore with their parent and develop motor skills. Drop-in $5, sibling $1. Sundays 11am-1pm; Fridays 1-2yrs 10:30-11:30am, 2-4 years 11:30am-12:30pm. 250-756-5200.

CHILDREN Junior Lifeguard Club at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre. Build lifeguarding skills, shadow lifeguards, participate in competitions, learn about first aid, participate in community events, develop leadership and more. $3.50. Ideal for 8-13 years old. Runs until mid-June. Noon-1:30pm. 250-756-5200.

YOUTH The Youth Zone in Ladysmith. A fun and safe place to hang, meet new friends and enjoy games tables, internet kiosk, TV, movies, board games, karaoke and more. Play sports in the gym, do homework, Energized leaders will challenge you to try new activities. Tuesdays, 3-6pm in the Rec Room; Wednesdays, 3-5pm in the gym; Fridays 6-10pm in the Rec Room or gym. 250-245-6424. www.ladysmith.ca. Youth Drop-in in Nanaimo. The ultimate place to be. This is a supervised space for youth to hang out and chill. Regular gymnasium activities and more. Program is free, but please register using barcode 124915. 7-9pm. Monday: Nanaimo District Secondary School; Tuesday: Oliver Woods Community Centre; Wednesday: John Barsby Community School. Teen Swim at Ravensong Aquatic Centre. Games, music and swimming. Fridays 7-9pm. Regular admission rates. www.rdn.bc.ca/ recreation.

FAMILY Family Frolics at the Community Centre, Ladysmith. Bring your parent or caregiver for open gym fun. Burn off some energy with soft toys (balls and nerf-type games), mini-trampoline, ride-on toys, hula hoops and more. Tuesdays, 5:45-6:45pm. $2 suggested donation/family. 250-245-6424. www.ladysmith.ca.•

SAT 22 Kids’ Day Open House at VIU’s Deep Bay Marine Field Station. Kick off Spring Break with a day filled with fun marine science activities for all ages. Take part in a colouring contest, get your face painted, make art to take home, and learn about the marine life on our coast. 10am-4pm. Free. www.brantfestival. bc.ca/events. Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery. Drop-in art making program. All materials provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation. 250-287-2261.

TUES 25 Book Club at Beban Social Centre. Love to read? Then this is the club for you. Each month you will read the book selected by the club, attend a meeting to discuss the story, enjoy some snacks and choose the next book. You’ll meet new people and discover some great reads. 6:30-8pm. 520-756-5200.

ONGOING

SPRING BREAK PROGRAMS MARCH 17 – 28 Spring Time Chefs Passion Sports Basketball Claymation Movie Production And much more… For more information or to register, visit our website at: www.smus.ca/spring, or call 250-370-6120.

PRESCHOOL LaFF at the Aggie. A safe play-based learning environment for families and caregivers with children newborn to age 6. Reading centre,

www.IslandParent.ca

FOR ALL KIDS IN VICTORIA AGES 5–17

smus.ca March 2014

Vanessa Bailey

SPRING BREAK March 17-21

All camps are Monday to Friday

Squiggles & Giggles Camp JDF GLLANGCOLME ROOM

3-5 Yrs 3-5 Yrs

9:00-11:30am 12:30-3:00pm

$105/5 $105/5

86097 86098

PreSchool Musical Camp CENTENNIAL CENTRE OAK ROOM

3-5 Yrs

9:00-11:00am

$89/5

86005

Aspiring Young Artists

CENTENNIAL CENTRE CRAFT ROOM

6-9 Yrs

9:00-3:30pm

$160/5

86513

Pottery Camp

THE POTTERY STUDIO at The Q! Centre

9-12 Yrs 9-12 Yrs

9:00am-12:00pm $110/5 1:00-4:00pm $110/5

85951 85952

Funky Fashion Camp

CENTENNIAL CENTRE OAK ROOM

9-12 Yrs

9:00-12:00pm

$149/5

86537

GLEE Camp

CENTENNIAL CENTRE OAK ROOM

7-11 Yrs

12:00-3:30pm

$99/5

86004

Acting Out

JOHN STUBBS MIDDLE SCHOOL GYM

8-12 Yrs

9:00-4:00pm

$169/5

86329

Mad Science Red Hot Robots JDF UPPER CLUBHOUSE

8-12 Yrs

9:00-4:00pm

$238/5

86334

Spring Break Sports Camp JDF LOUNGE

6-12 Yrs

9:00-3:30pm

$160/5

87717

Jr. Golf Camp

OLYMPIC VIEW GOLF COURSE

7-10 Yrs 9:00-12:30pm 11-13 Yrs 1:00-4:30pm

$169/5 $169/5

88565 88566

Sportball Camp

JDF LOWER CLUBHOUSE

3-5 Yrs 6-9 Yrs

9:00-12:00pm 1:00-4:00pm

$140/5 $140/5

86019 86018

Horseback Riding

CEDAR VISTA RIDING STABLES

6-16 Yrs

9:00-12:00pm

$330/5

86330

www.westshorerecreation.ca 34 Island Parent Magazine

Supporting Parents Through Pregnancy Loss

lose to one in four women experience pregnancy loss. From early pregnancy loss to newborn deaths, the sadness and grief that parents experience with pregnancy and child loss can be devastating. Outside of the actual loss, one of the biggest challenges for parents who have lost a child can be having their grief diminished or not recognized as significant in comparison to the loss of an older child or adult. There is a common misconception that pregnancy loss is less traumatic than the loss of an older child or adult, as though a parent is not as attached to an unborn child. For many people, attachment to a child starts before the child is even conceived. When parents are not supported in their grief, the grief can become trivialized. This can mean that parents do not feel they have the right to fully grieve the loss of their child due, partly, to lack of understanding. Grieving is an essential part of healing from the losses we experience. “Grieving allows us to heal, to remember with love rather than pain,” says Rachel Remen, the founder and director of the Institute for the Study of Health and Illness. “It is a sorting process. One by one you let go of things that are gone and you mourn them. One by one you take hold of the things that have become part of who you are and build again.” Social support gives a space for the grief. Often this support allows a person to work through their grief, thereby facilitating the healing process. We can support those struggling with a loss, helping them to feel understood and, in turn, facilitating their grieving. First, respect parents’ wishes regarding whether or not they want to talk about the loss. Parents often want to express their thoughts and feelings, but are unsure about how people will react. Be a good listener. Each pregnancy and child is unique and special. Parents have often named their child and have a lot to say about their experience. They have often gotten to know their pregnancy and child in certain ways. Listening to or asking about these special things can be helpful. If you do not know what to say or have feelings of sadness for the parents, it can help to let them know.

If parents do not want to discuss the loss, respect their boundaries. Talking about the loss will be emotional. Parents have wisdom about when it is appropriate for them to open up. Sometimes they’ll prefer not to discuss their loss because they feel it is a private matter. Following their lead lets them know that you care and are there if they choose to open up. It can be helpful to ask them what they need, although they might not yet know. Remember that everyone’s experience with loss is different. Listen to the person’s unique story. Let the grieving person know that you have heard how they are feeling, and validate their feelings. This can make them feel understood. Some people may be dealing with intense emotions while others might have a “get on with life” approach. When discussing the loss, it is important to remember that nothing you can say will change the outcome of the loss. This is difficult because many of us just want to make everything better. Saying “Sorry to hear about the loss” is often appreciated and may be the only thing you can do. Finally, it can help to identify ways that parents might be supported in their grieving process. Outside of discussing the loss, parents have lots of other needs that can be supported. This may include preparing food, allowing time for rest, and providing love and care. Distraction from grieving may also be helpful at times. Other times, grieving parents may want you to support their process by being involved in a remembrance ceremony or funeral. One new resource for grieving parents is the Little Spirits Garden at Royal Oak Burial Park. Little Spirits is a space within the park where families and supporters can come to grieve pregnancy and child loss, or conduct memorial ceremonies. It is sad when expecting parents experience the loss of a pregnancy, an awaited child, but we, as a community, can give care and understanding to these parents so that they can move through their grief to a place of love, healing and remembrance. Vanessa Bailey is a Victoria nurse and counsellor who supports parents with reproductive health issues. She is passionate about the health and well-being of parents and families.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Every Hour Earth Hour Turning off lights on March 29 from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. is a good start, but we can all make a difference, every minute of the day, 365 days a year. Here, from World Wildlife Fund (wwwf.ca) are:

Five easy tips… Hot water tank Check the temperature setting on your water heater. Reduce the setting to 120°F (typically the “warm” setting), if it is not already set to that temperature.

2 3 4 5 Tire pressure

Check car tires for proper inflation. This can improve gas m i l e age. The appropriate air pressure is typically listed on the door-pillar on the driver’s side, on the inside of the glove-compartment door or in the vehicle manual.

Combine trips

A lot of driving involves frequent trips nearby, to go shopping or run errands, for example. To reduce the miles you need to travel, plan and combine trips. Better yet, take someone with you so they can leave their car behind.

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

at the Cedar Hill Cross Road & Henderson entrance to UVic

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

Date

Camp

Hours & Fees

July 7–11 includes 2 overnights July 14–18 July 21–25 July 28 – Aug 1 Aug 5–8 4 days Aug 11–15 Aug 18–22

Friends & Leadership Gr. 6–12 Booster Camp Gr. 1–3 Reading & Recreation African Safari Age 4* – Gr. 1 Science & Soccer Camp Gr. 2–5 Creative Creatures Camp Kind. – Gr. 3 Sonrise National Park Age 4* – Gr. 5 Vacation Bible School Breaking Free Sports Camp Gr. 2–5 Basketball & Soccer

9am–3pm, $140

Plus fee for First Aid or Food Safe Course

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

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

Lighthouse Christian Academy Offering independent K to 12 education in a safe Christian environment Lighthouse Christian Academy actively promotes a safe environment that recognizes each child as an important part of the school community. Our well rounded K - 12 program focuses on learning skills, living healthy lives, participating in the arts, creating supportive relationships and improving the environment. Smaller class sizes allow for individual instructor attention while we work towards academic excellence rooted in Christian principles. At Lighthouse Christian Academy we encourage a daily walk with God while striving to uphold strong moral standards because we believe in achieving our personal best. Call for an information package to learn more or to book a school tour.

Leland Makaroff, Principal

250.474.5311

LighthouseChristianAcademy.com

Drive more efficiently

In particular, observe speed limits, avoid rapid acceleration and excessive breaking. Don’t drive aggressively.

Turn it off

In addition to turning off TVs, computers and lights that are not being used, unplug items on “standby” (that use electricity even when not being used), including TVs, video and audio systems, computers, and chargers.

www.IslandParent.ca

www.langfordlanes.com

250-391-7900

info@langfordlanes.com

March 2014 35

Cook Together Nourish Your Body & Your Family 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 250-544-2400 Saanich 250-519-5100 Saltspring Island 250-538-4880 Sooke 250-642-5464 Victoria 250-388-2200 West Shore 250-519-3490

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

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

www.viha.ca/prevention_services/

36 Island Parent Magazine

ooking from scratch can be a great way for families to connect, share, and learn together. A fun and affordable way to explore and learn about new whole foods, cooking can help children establish a lifelong healthy relationship with food. The thought of preparing a home-cooked meal may feel like a daunting task for some of us, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few basic food skills, anyone at any age can get started in the kitchen. Food skills include practical, hands-on cooking and shopping skills as well as knowledge of the types of foods at the market. Some of us were taught these skills by a family member when we were young, and some of us are just starting out. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you can always improve your food skills. For example, do you know how to chop an onion, or the best way to remove a garlic peel? Do you know when strawberries are in season and dirt-cheap at the market? Learning these techniques and tips is part of developing your food skills. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Learning About New Foods Have you ever watched a food show or been out for dinner and felt inspired to cook a new food or meal? Choose a food you’ve always wanted to cook or learn more about, and then find a recipe for it. You can find recipes online or try borrowing cookbooks from the library. Next, go shopping for the ingredients—you can usually find most items on your list at any time of the year. As your food skills develop, you can plan your meals based on the seasons. Foods that are in season are typically more affordable and more flavourful than imported foods that are not in season locally. For example, fruits and vegetables harvested locally in the spring—like asparagus, rhubarb, and spinach—are typically less expensive in April and May, compared to when they have to be imported in the fall.

Following and Adapting Recipes When you’re just starting out, following a recipe is an important part of preparing

a meal. This can be as simple as learning how to grill a chicken breast, cook rice, or toss a salad. Once you’re comfortable with a recipe, try substituting ingredients with foods you have in your fridge or pantry. Cooking is all about experimenting, so change ingredients and create your own favourite family recipes.

Healthy Families, Happy Families C hild Y out h & Family Pub lic Health

Tracy Cullen, Kimberley Black, Jenn Grierson

Slow cookers are a great way to make a delicious meal with inexpensive ingredients. Slow cookers work on the “low and slow” principle, cooking at a low temperature for a long time. Most inexpensive cuts of meat can be cooked using this method to produce a tasty one-pot meal. Many slow cooker recipes use simple ingredients and take very little time to prepare. Add everything to the slow cooker in the morning, turn it on, and dinner is ready when everyone gets home from work and school. Many slow cooker recipes freeze well too, turning leftovers into quick and easy microwaveable meals.

Start Where You Are and Pass It On! It takes time to make anything a habit, and cooking takes practice. Making meal preparation a part of your family’s daily or weekend routine helps ensure there’s always time to make a meal together, and can lighten the load for the week. Start small and aim to make a meal together once a week. Or, pick a day of the week that you can make some batch meals as a team or ready-to-eat snacks so the week’s meal preparation can be less stressful. Children often want to learn, too, and including them in the process can be an opportunity for bonding. It can also help bring the family together for mealtime. Children are excellent helpers and the meals and snacks they help create promote greater interest and appetite for the final product.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Children can help out by washing fresh vegetables and can learn knife skills by cutting and chopping (supervised by an adult, of course). Older children and teens can take on making one dish or even a whole meal for the family. In our busy and scheduled lives, cooking can be an important way to relax as you focus on a single activity rather than multitasking. Use this time as an opportunity to transfer essential cooking skills to your children by cooking with them. Dedicating time to cooking and preparing meals with your family will benefit your health, and can give your children the skills they need to eat well for life.

Tips for Developing Food Skills with Your Family Get your family involved and choose a food or a recipe that you all want to try. • What do you like to eat? Come up with a favourite ingredient and find a recipe that features it. • Get kids involved in the kitchen and learning about cooking. Start with washing and cutting vegetables and cooking rice or pasta.

3-5 yrs Pre-primary School

• Older children and teens can take on more responsibility, learning to shop for and prepare a meal on their own. Find out what’s in season • Buying locally grown food in season is typically less expensive and better tasting than imported produce that may have been transported hundreds of miles. • Many fruits freeze well, so stock up on seasonal fruits and freeze them on cookie sheets. Once frozen, they can be stored in airtight containers to make smoothies in the winter. Learn new ways of preparing food • Start by following a simple recipe, then adapt it using ingredients you have in your fridge or pantry. • Try a new method of preparing food like slow cooking or grilling. If you’re feeling adventurous, try canning or pickling to preserve fresh produce. Dedicate time to planning meals • Schedule at least 30 minutes at the beginning of each week to plan meals. • Think about making extra portions to enjoy as leftovers or lunches during the week.

Look It Up When You’re Not Sure! Here are some great online resources and books to help you get started: • Better Together BC: www.bettertogetherbc.ca • Dietitians of Canada Nutrition Month: www.dietitians.ca • Food Skills for Families: www.foodskillsforfamilies.ca • Family Kitchen: www.familykitchen.ca • Want to learn how south Island schools are partnering with recreation centres and Island Health nutritionists to keep kids eating healthy and staying active? Check out our Eat Well Get Moving! school program and join in the healthy competition: www. fitinfitness.ca/shared_ewgm.html. Tracy Cullen is a Community Nutritionist with the Child, Youth & Family – Community Health Program, and Kimberley Black is a Community Nutritionist with the Aboriginal Health Program. Jenn Grierson is a UBC Dietetic Intern completing her practicum. All are with Island Health.

A gentle learning opportunity for young children: - learning naturally through play

The joy of learning - naturally.

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- nature awareness and respect - compassionate communication - experience with math and science - exposure to books and language arts

March 2014 37

Don’t Mess with Mickey Mouse

M The place online where parents and grandparents get information about their community for their family: Read current and past issues of Island Parent Magazine. Visit our Marketplace to find businesses, programs and services that cater to the little person in your life. Looking for that special something you had when you were a kid? Check out our classified ads. Want to see what’s up today or this weekend? View our calendar of events. Whether it’s dance lessons, parenting workshops, fun days and festivals, what’s happening at your local rec centre or community events—Kids In Victoria has it all! Maybe you are looking for something to engage your mind or perhaps need a little bit of advice. Well we have that too on our community forum. Receive Island Parent & Kids In Victoria e-newsletter for updates and exclusive contests. You can also enter our monthly and photo contests.

Come be part of our community at

www.kidsinvictoria.com

38 Island Parent Magazine

y wife and I took our kids to Disneyland last week. The trip reminded me of a recent parenting book’s title, All Joy and No Fun, by Jennifer Senior. Although Disneyland claims to be the Happiest Place on Earth, having fun can be a challenge: it’s hours of waiting in line for a few moments of excitement and constant jostling through crowds down streets lined with merchandise carefully placed to tempt kids, but at prices that send adults into fits of rage. However, a trip to Disneyland seems to be pre-written onto the to-do lists of middle class North American families, and so my wife and I did our best to get into the spirit of things. We joined in as our kids tried to set a record for the most trips on the roller coaster California Screamin’. We took lessons on how to draw Disney characters, tried doing voice overs for scenes from some classic cartoons, and found a kiosk where we could get caricature portraits painted of our three daughters. One morning, we bought Vivian, our eight-year-old, an autograph book as a souvenir,then helped her track down Disney characters to sign it. Vivian’s still young enough to be enchanted by the magic that Disneyland always boasts about. She raced around looking for Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and, eventually, even found Mickey Mouse. As you’d expect at Disneyland, there was a long wait to see Mickey. We stood patiently in line watching him joke around with the families as they posed for pictures—he tipped hats, poked people, slipped his hands over kids’ eyes just as the camera shutter snapped. They were little tricks, harmless fun from a giant lovable mouse, but it struck me that he had a sense of humour and so when it was finally our turn, my wife and I decided to get in the picture with Mickey and Vivian. www.kidsinvictoria.com

Just before the picture was snapped, I raised my hand over Mickey’s head and split my fingers into a V. I know I’m not the first with the bright idea of giving Mickey a second set of ears, because the very moment my hand rose behind his head, he stepped back, slapped my arm away and started wagging a fat white finger at me. His handler leaped into action, a young woman who’d been managing the long line of kids. “He’s very sensitive about his ears,” she said. “Maybe you should apologize.” I wanted to point out that Mickey had been doing exactly the same thing to the kids who were posing with him immediately before us. In fact, that’s where I’d gotten the

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daNiel GriFFiN idea, but with a good 50 people watching, I was embarrassed enough by the whole scene that I just apologized. It took two or three apologies before he’d stand next to Vivian again, and even then, he wouldn’t let me back in the picture. He kept batting at me until I backed off, and so I waited until Viv had his signature then I dragged the kids off to Space Mountain. It was time for more roller coasters, more thrill rides and a little less magic. Immediately after our trip to Disneyland, I had to go to a tradeshow in Las Vegas. I took an early morning flight then a taxi to the Venetian. It’s an opulent hotel and casino with high fashion boutiques, plenty of bars and restaurants, show girls, slot machines, poker tables and staff dressed up like they’re out of Renaissance Italy. The hotel even has a canal on the second floor complete with gondolas, opera singers and a ceiling on which they simulate sunsets and dusk. I’d gone from one Disneyland to another, except that in Las Vegas I was sure no one was going to get upset about how I posed in pictures. Daniel Griffin is the father of three children and the author of Stopping for Strangers (Vehicule Press, 2012), a collection of short stories about parents, children, brothers and sisters.

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Farro & Kamut & Spelt, Oh My!

hat is old is new again, always. In fact, the regular cycle of old-styled becoming the hottest new thing is almost, yawn, old, kinda. Remember the story of the mouse and the elephant? David and Goliath? Jack and the Beanstalk? Now consider the massive multinational food-producing factories, pushing out their square tomatoes and ultra-hardy varieties of grain, working in sometimes awkward juxtaposition with local growers and producers. What’s a parent to do, given the necessity of feeding a family on a budget, while maintaining an Earth-first focus, remembering to buy local, attempting to untangle the increasingly Gordian-knot types of “organic” available now, and what else? Oh yeah, how it tastes. And the gluten content, among other things. Ancient grains, such as all of those named in the title, or seed-ish things such as quinoa, are everywhere in food magazines, on menus, in bulk and deli sections. They do all

variety is always good. Try the old grains as a side dish, under your favourite pasta sauce. Make farro tabbouleh, or cook it as a breakfast food, seasoned with cinnamon and topped with apple sauce and Greek yogurt. Stir farro into simmering soup instead of pasta or rice. Lots of recipes can be adapted to one of these ancient grains—try it out, have fun!

the things that the grains we have become accustomed to do: the pasta, polished rice and barley, and all of those other derivatives of the very familiar and well-farmed food staples. Besides giving us some variation, the ancient grains give some nutritional variety. They are still grains, and have all of the grain-like tendencies that grain has. I was enthusing about farro to a friend, who inquired cautiously about how glutinous it is. I enjoyed a mental segue to a movie I recently watched with my son, with a character enthusing about his non-gluten diet. His friend asked about what this means, exactly, and he replied that ‘gluten’ means deep-fried food, cheese or other dairy, sugar, and all of that kind of thing—anything bad for you. This was a joke (yes, a bad one), but it struck a chord. We sometimes use a broad brush to label things, and are quick to send groups of food into the no-go zone. Less is more, insofar as processing goes. Brown (rice, flour) is usually better for us. And

One-pot Farro and Tomato Sauce 1 small onion 3 cloves garlic 2 stalks celery 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 cup farro 1 small tin plum tomatoes, liquid reserved 1–2 cups water, as needed 1 tsp oregano salt and pepper, to taste 1⁄4 cup Parmesan cheese 1 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped Peel onion and garlic. Place in food processor with celery stalks, and pulse until very finely minced (almost mushed). Place medium sized saucepan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil, and then onion mixture. Season with a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 to 10 minutes, or until golden and tender. Stir in farro. Chop tomatoes (please note,

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40 Island Parent Magazine

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fresh are good to use here, too, provided that they are fresh, and not flown in from across the globe.) Stir in tomatoes and then liquid to total 2 cups. Season with pepper and oregano, and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer, and allow to cook until tender (will vary according to package directions

Just Eat It!

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602 Gorge Rd East, for the farro, but allow anywhere from Victoria BC V8T 2W6 30 to 60 minutes). Leave the lid off while cooking, and stir often. When farro is tender, yet firm, and has absorbed most of the liquid, remove from heat. Taste, and adjust 2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road (by entrance to UVic) seasoning if necessary. Serve with Parmesan cheese and parsley, stirred in. Openings forHill 2013–2014 2121 Cedar Cross RoadClasses! (by entrance to UVic)

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Farro Risotto 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 Tbsp butter 2 cloves garlic, minced 1⁄2 onion, finely chopped 1 stalk celery, finely chopped salt and pepper, to taste 1 cup farro splash of sherry, or wine vinegar 2–4 cups mushroom or beef stock 2 Tbsp butter 3 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese Heat large pot over medium flame. Add olive oil and butter. Meanwhile, bring stock to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Tip onions, garlic and celery into pot, then sprinkle with pinch of salt and stir until lightly golden. Stir in farro until well coated with all of the oil-coated vegetables. Splash sherry over and stir well. Add stock, very slowly, stirring until blended (the stirring process will take about 20 minutes, or until almost all of the stock has been absorbed, and the farro is cooked). Each grain should be distinct in texture, and yet part of a creamy whole. Once all the stock has been stirred in and absorbed, remove from heat, and stir in butter and Parmesan. Enjoy as a side dish, or as a main with a green salad and crusty bread. Kathy Humphrey lives in Victoria with her husband and two children. She tries to see cooking for a family not as a chore but as a creative outlet. www.IslandParent.ca

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A Few Good Reads...

ith Spring Break right around the corner, there may be some extra time to read. Here are a few great books, ready to become some of your new favourites. Enjoy! Because of Winn-Dixie and The Elephant, by Kate DiMagician’s Elephant Camillo You may already be familiar with Kate DiCamillo, but if you aren’t, prepare to be delighted. DiCamillo is a talented writer who moves easily between different genres. Published in 2000, Because of Winn-Dixie is one of her best-known books. It is a beautiful story about a 10-year-old girl named Opal who moves to a trailer park in a new town with her dad, a preacher. The girl longs for her mother, who abandoned her as an infant. Soon after arriving in the town, Opal finds a dog, whom she names Winn-Dixie. Through WinnDixie, she discovers unlikely friendships and realizes the universal nature of suffering. All of my kids were captivated by this story despite the difference in their ages and reading preferences which, to me, is always a clear indication of a story well told. The Magician’s Elephant is a magical story about believing in the impossible. The story is much different than Because of Winn-Dixie and may not have as wide an appeal. However, I wanted to include it because the lyrical language is a treat to read aloud, which I would recommend doing even to strong readers. The story is about a sad, lonely orphaned boy named Paul, who lives with a sour, retired soldier and has been told that his sister, Adele, died at birth. Paul has never fully believed the story and when a fortune teller tells him that an elephant will lead him to her, he is hesitant to believe, until a magician

conjures a real elephant and Paul begins to hope and have faith in what couldn’t possibly be. “Magic is always impossible,” says the magician. “It begins with the impossible and ends with the impossible and is impossible in-between. That is why it is magic.”

Book Nook PaiSleY aiKeN Fortunately the Milk, by Neil Gaimon This is a quick read that will have all those kids with a liking for the ridiculous and absurd smirking away. After taking an absurdly long time buying milk at the corner store, a father tells his children a very tall tale to justify his absence. Whether they believe him or not seems insignificant as they delight in the rollicking adventure that turns their father into the assistant of a professor/ stegosaurus, with whom he time-travels, navigating pirates, huge green globby alien creatures, prophecy-focussed tribal folk who live near an explosive volcano and of course, my kids’ favourite, dancing dwarves with flower pots on their heads. Whimsical and fun, this is a light little book that kids under 10, who have great imaginations and capacity for humour, will love. Brilliantly illustrated by Skottie Young, with black and white sketches on every page, the book is well worth adding to a library despite its short length. This was a Christmas gift and we have already read it five times! The False Prince, by Jennifer Nielsen Connor, a nobleman devises a plan to secure the throne of a vulnerable kingdom on the brink of civil war. From the streets, Connor finds four young boys who he plans to train and mold into impersonating their long-lost prince. He plans to take the most believable of the boys back to the palace and convince the council that he is their lost prince, and have him installed as a puppet ruler. The boys realize how high the stakes are after Connor has one of them killed. What seems a game becomes a contest for life. One of the contestants is Sage, a witty,

www.kidsinvictoria.com

sharp and courageous orphan who finds himself in this reluctant contest of survival. The False Prince is a rich, fast-paced, suspenseful adventure that feels realistic and believable. There isn’t anything in it that parents will find offensive. Though it is plot driven, the characters are also well developed and convincing. It is the first book of Nielsen’s trilogy and is a great read for kids who love action-packed, fast-paced reads. Seeing Orange, by Sara Cassidy I fell in love with this short little novel by local author Sara Cassidy. The book, published by Orca Books, is part of their emergent readers series. The story is about a seven-year-old boy, Leland, who has trouble writing and is struggling to focus in school, much to the frustration of his wellintentioned teacher. Leland has an expansive imagination, an aptitude for drawing, and he sees things just a little bit differently than most. When given the opportunity to solve a family mystery, Leland’s confidence grows and he finds ways to communicate better with his teacher. When I read this book to my son, his face lit up in delight as he recognized himself in Leland’s unique way of thinking about the world. I’m sure Cassidy’s well-crafted character will resonate with any primary-aged kids who find it difficult to keep their minds from floating up and away. Although I read it aloud, the sentences are simple enough that it should be manageable for many kids in Grades 2 and 3 who find reading challenging. The One and Only Ivan, by Katherine Applegate Based loosely on a true story, Ivan is a silverback gorilla who was brought from the wild to be raised by humans. He adjusts to his life, realizing that death is the only alternative, and for 27 years watches TV, makes friends with other animals around him—an old elephant, and a stray dog—and thinks about making art while living in a glass cage in an old mall. But when a baby elephant is brought from the wild into captivity, Ivan reflects on their condition and looks for the strength and courage to instigate change. This is a heartwarming, gentle story that has a timeless and classic feel to it that animal lovers will love. A great read for eight- to 10-year-olds. Paisley Aiken reads extensively to her three energetic young boys. She is founder of The Story Studio Writing Society, a charity that grows kids’ relationship with literacy.

www.IslandParent.ca

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44 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Don’t Call Me Mom

he beauty and curse of having a child with special needs is that there is a plethora of professionals involved in my child’s upbringing. I stopped counting at 40 when I attempted to add up all the early interventionists, teachers, therapists, psychologists, pediatricians, random specialists and traumatized babysitters who have been through the Sutherland Family Revolving Door of Care over the past five-plus years. And at some point in our relationship, most of them committed the cardinal sin of calling me Mom. Not “a” mom. Mom. And nothing puts my teeth on edge more than that.

I hate to be a stickler for semantics, but hey, it’s my job to give words weight. I’m here to tell you that calling me Mom suggests a few things. Although I am “a” mom, like billions of other women, I am only Mom to two people. Sometimes I will answer to a slightly sarcastic version of “Okay, Moooom,” from a recently chastised student (or husband), thus serving as an effective reminder to compartmentalize my mothering tendencies, but the rest of the time? Not cool, people. Not cool. I hate to be a stickler for semantics, but hey, it’s my job to give words weight. I’m here to tell you that calling me Mom suggests a few things. 1) You temporarily forgot my name and are scrambling in a moment of embarrassment. This is totally okay, and the following points do not apply to you. However, I find alliterative phrases helpful in these situations. May I suggest Cantankerous Carly? Or Saucy Sutherland? 2) I gave birth to you. 3) You are a toddler who has lost your mom in Thrifty’s. She and I sport the same hairstyle. In a moment of panic you clutch my leg and wipe your nose on it. 4) You are a particular vintage of nurse from rural Newfoundland. For some reason this seems acceptable for reasons of crosscultural understanding. www.IslandParent.ca

Okay, let me get to the point. Here’s what I’m actually talking about. Calling me Mom means: 5) You can’t be bothered to look at the file or ask. Show me enough respect to

Is There an App for This? Carly SUTHERLAND learn my name. I learned yours, and I have plenty to keep track of. It’s just a sign of good manners to make the effort. 6) I’m not truly invited to the table. I’ve been in far too many situations where there is a team of professionals discussing my child, and everyone has a name except for me. It’s a subversive but significant means of discounting (if not outright dismissing) my expertise, and placing me in a passive role in a situation where my opinion should be the most valued in the room. He’s Dr.__________, she’s Mrs. ___________, she’s Principal ___________, he’s Luke, she’s Linda, and I’m Mom. There is a power differential in the room that exists before I even open my mouth. Think about it. Mom should be the most empowering title going, more empowering than Overlord-Pontiff-Czar of the Galaxy. But there’s something about its use in this situation that is disempowering. Mom is too emotionally invested in this whole thing to make an educated judgment about what’s best for her child, apparently. 7) It’s condescending, especially when accompanied by a pat on the knee and delivered by some childless whippersnapper 15 years my junior who is fresh out of his practicum and ready to tell me how it’s done. Might I suggest placing “Super” in front of Mom if you really can’t help yourself? In any event, before you call me Mom, think twice. Perhaps I just enforced your bedtime or suggested that you put on a sweater, because clearly, you’ve confused me with the wrong person.

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Carly Sutherland mothers, advocates, and educates. She also hates being called Ma’am, but has decided to pick her battles. March 2014 45

Family Services Directory This directory, sponsored by Thrifty Foods, features not for profit agencies and organizations serving children, youth and families.

family support program offers advocacy, conflict resolution, education, newsletters, workshops, support groups and a resource library. Please call 250-477-7231 ext 233. TM

BC Families in Transition (formerly the Separation and Divorce Resource Centre) is one of three non-profit agencies in North America that offers professional counselling, legal support and education for people who are having problems in their relationships. Each year we help 10,000 adults, children and youth through family changes, separations and divorces, remarriages, and complex family situations. Whether you wish to separate or remain together, call us at 250-386-4331 or visit www.bcfit.org to see how we can help. Some evening and weekend appointments available.

difference in the life of a child in as little as 1 hr./ week. Contact us at 250-475-1117 or visit www. bbbsvictoria.com or ‘LIKE’ our page at facebook. com/bbbsvictoria.

Beacon Community Services is a community-based non-profit agency providing social, employment, and health services to Saanich Peninsula, Greater Victoria, and Southern Gulf Islands residents. Beacon offers: child, youth, and family services; a drop-in family resource centre; counselling; employment services for adults, youth, and people with disabilities; home support; volunteer services and opportunities; community events; affordable assisted living for seniors; referrals, information, and resources; thrift shops. For Home Support information call 250-658-6407; for all other inquiries call 250-656-0134, or visit www.beaconcs.ca.

The Child Abuse Prevention & Counselling Society/Mary Manning Centre is the primary provider of therapy and victim support services for children and youth in Greater Victoria who experience sexual abuse, physical abuse, and other serious trauma, or who may be at risk for sexual abuse. Therapy services include individual and group sessions for children and youth and group sessions for parents. Victim services include intake and referral, accompaniment and support for children and youth being interviewed by police, and court preparation and support for those testifying as victims or witnesses in criminal cases. No charge for clients. Contact: 250-385-6111 or admin@ marymanning.com.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria is a non-profit organization that provides mentoring programs for children and youth between the ages of 7 - 17. Adult volunteers (“Bigs”) are matched with children (“Littles”) based on shared interests, respect and trust. No special skills or experience are needed to be a mentor to a child, just a willingness to be a friend and commit to being a consistent, positive adult role model. Make a BIG

Boys & Girls Club Services offer after-school and evening social, educational and recreational programming for children and youth at 4 locations. We also offer support to parents (Parents Together) and programs at our Outdoor Centre in Metchosin. For more information on all programs and services visit www.bgcvic.org or call 250.384.9133.

Community Living Victoria supports people with developmental disabilities and their families by providing residential services, day and community supports (supported employment, parent support and independent living). Our Host agency provides direct supports for those with Individualized Funding and Home Share service. We also provide Autism Services for youth between 13 and 19. Our

Esquimalt Neighbourhood House Society. Our Family Services offer family resource programs with a focus on early childhood development and learning, parenting education and pre and post-natal services. Our Counselling Services are free to adults and youth (12-18 years); adult and short term clinical counselling is offered for acute mental health problems. For more information call 250-385-2635 or visit 511 Constance Ave. in Esquimalt. HeadWay Victoria Epilepsy & Parkinson’s Centre supports families living with seizures by providing tutoring and one-on-one professional consultations to help your child live up to their full potential. We offer a parent workshop three times a year as well as education presentations in schools and community groups. Keep up to date with the latest research about treatments, lifestyle, and safety issues for your child. We can be reached at www.headwayvictoria.com, or you can contact our Epilepsy Program Coordinator, Jenn Morgan, directly at 250-475-6677 or jmorgan@vepc.bc.ca. Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) is a service agency for immigrants and refugees. Programs offered include cross-cultural counseling, parenting programs (child care available), family violence programs, employment services, interpretation and translation, diversity workshops and training, ESL instruction, volunteering, youth programs and tutoring, as well as intercultural arts programming and the Diversity Health Fair. 930 Balmoral Rd, 250-388-4728, info@icavictoria.org, www.icavictoria.org. Learning Disabilities Association of BC, SVI Chapter, educates, supports and advocates for children and youth with learn-

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Call Today for a Complimentary 10 minute phone consultation Call 250-686-7582 maxinefisher@shaw.ca victoriafamilycounselling.com 46 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

ing disabilities and related conditions. Services include a public lending library, individual/ group support for parents and children, professional/educational workshops for parents and professionals. Child and youth programs include: reading/writing, academic skills, social/emotional skill development and Fast ForWord. 1562 Fort Street, Victoria, BC V8S 5J2. Ph 250.370.9513. Fax. 250.370.9421. www.ldasvi.bc.ca. www. knowyourrights.ca Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) provides programs and services to the military family community. Services include: 24 Hour Information Line, Deployment Information and Workshops, Short Term Intervention/Crisis Support, Welcome/ Relocation Services, services for families with special needs and responsibilities and childcare services and support to parents. Exciting Volunteer opportunities available! Call the MFRC: 250-3632640 (1-800-353-3329) for information. www. esquimaltmfrc.com. Parent Support Services Society (www. parentsupportbc.ca) provides support circles, parenting resources and referrals to all in a parenting role including grandparents raising grandchildren. Our training in peer group facilitation is open to the community. Support circles are free with child minding and transportation assistance available. Volunteers are always needed. Call 250-3848042; email parent-support@shaw.ca. 1Up: Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre (www.1-up.ca) provides support, education and resources for parents in the Greater Victoria area through free counselling, volunteer training for reception and peer helper positions, a mentoring program for single moms, and a support group for dads. The Centre also offers over 20 integrated life skills and parenting courses which are open to the whole community (fees are on a sliding scale). Child care assistance is available based on financial need. The Centre provides a bread pantry and free clothing for single parents. Donations of gently-used clothing, small household items, books, and toys are very welcome every Monday and Wednesday. Centre hours are 9–4 weekdays. 602 Gorge Rd. East; call 250-385-1114 or info@1-up.ca. South Island Centre for Counselling & Training is an affordable, non-profit, counselling agency serving individuals and families from all social, ethnic, and financial backgrounds. We help people with a wide range of issues including low self-esteem, depression, grief, marital and family conflict, abuse and spiritual direction. We also offer helpful “life” courses. For more information contact us at 250-472-2851; info@southislandcentre.ca.

www.IslandParent.ca

Le français

au CSF, c’est bien plus qu’une langue !

Inscrivez votre enfant dans une des écoles publiques du CSF ! Depuis sa création en 1995, le Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique offre des programmes et des services éducatifs valorisant le plein épanouissement et l’identité culturelle des apprenantes et apprenants francophones de la province. Le conseil compte aujourd’hui plus de 5 000 élèves, 37 écoles publiques et dessert plus d’une centaine de communautés réparties dans l’ensemble de la province.

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March 2014 47

Island Rhythmic Gymnastics Club

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

www.islandrhythmics.com 250-514-6761

Art Classes COMPLETE A PORTFOLIO COURSE DESIGNED ESPECIALLY FOR YOU FOR ENTRANCE INTO A VARIETY OF COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY DEGREE AND DIPLOMA PROGRAMS: Interior Design Automobile Design Architecture • Art THerapy Bachelor Fine Arts Fashion Artistic Statement Gallery & School of Fine Art Call Joan at

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48 Island Parent Magazine

Reading to Baby

eading books to your newborn is an activity that you can turn into a special bonding time with your baby. Learning to read starts right from birth, so you cannot start reading to your baby too early. Newborn babies learn how to read signals all around them by listening to voices, watching faces, and reading body language. Reading exposes the baby to the sound of your voice, which has been soothing to them even before they were born. While your newborn does not understand what you are saying, he can still begin to pick up the rhythm, tones and inflections of your voice. Making books, stories, and storytelling a part of your baby’s daily routine will help nurture a love of reading.

Benefits of Reading Unbelievably, by the time babies reach their first birthday, they will have learned all the sounds needed to speak their native language. The more stories you read aloud, the more words your child will be exposed to and the better he or she will be able to talk. Hearing words helps to build a rich network of words in a baby’s brain. Studies have shown that children whose parents frequently talk/read to them know more words by age two than children who have not been read to. Research shows that kids who are read to during their early years are better prepared to eventually start reading on their own. But perhaps the most important reason to read aloud is that it makes a connection between the things your baby loves the most—your voice and closeness to you—and books. Spending time reading to your baby shows that reading is a skill worth learning. If infants and children are read to often with joy, excitement, and closeness, they begin to associate books with happiness—and budding readers are created.

What to Read: 0–3 Months

Young babies may not know what the pictures in a book mean, but they can focus on them, especially faces, bright colours, and contrasting patterns. When you read or sing lullabies and nursery rhymes, you can entertain and soothe your infant. Books for babies should have simple, repetitive text and clear pictures. During the first few months of life, your child just likes to hear your voice, so you can read almost anything, including an excerpt from a book

you’re reading. Babies like photo albums with pictures of people they know and love. And every baby should have a collection of nursery rhymes.

What to Read: 3–6 Months

Two of my four children had colic so reading time took a back seat to the screaming for the first few months, but once the colic and fussiness settled, I was able to make up

New Parent Pages Diana Hurschler, BScN for lost time. I noticed that between four and six months, babies begin to show more interest in books. Books with mirrors and different textures (crinkly, soft, bumpy) are great for this age group, as are fold-out books that can be propped up, or books with flaps that open for a surprise. Once your baby begins to reach for and grasp objects, choose sturdy board, vinyl or cloth books with bright colours and repetitive or rhyming text. Here are some of our family favourites: Goodnight Moon, by Margaret Wise Brown Guess How Much I Love You, by Sam McBratney You are All My Favourites, by Sam McBratney Pat the Bunny, by Dorothy Kunhardt I Love You Through and Through, by Bernadette Rossetti-Shustak Brown Bear Brown Bear What Do you See? by Eric Carle The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle Where is Baby’s Belly Button? by Karen Katz Each Peach Pear Plum, by Allan Ahlberg

What to Read: 6–12 Months

Between six and 12 months, your child is beginning to understand that pictures represent objects, and most likely will develop preferences for certain pictures, pages, or even entire stories. When your baby begins to respond to what is inside of books, add board books with pictures of babies or familiar objects like toys. When your child www.kidsinvictoria.com

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begins to do things like sit up in the bathtub or eat finger foods, find simple stories about daily routines like bedtime or bath time. Your baby will respond while you read, grabbing for the book and making sounds and, by 12 months, may turn pages (with some help from you), pat or start to point to objects on a page and repeat your sounds. When your child starts talking, choose books that invite babies to repeat simple words or phrases. I caught up with a local Children’s and Family Literacy Librarian and asked her for her top picks for board books and picture books for very young children and this was her list: Opposites, by Xavier Deneux Farmyard Beat, by Craig Lindsey That’s Not My Mermaid, Usborne Touchy Feely Books Baby Faces Peekaboo! by Dawn Sirett Little You, by Richard Van Camp Welcome Song for Baby—A Lullaby for Newborns, by Richard Van Camp Duck’s Key Where Can It Be? by Jez Alborough Let’s Go Visiting, by Sue Williams Pride & Prejudice—A Counting Primer, by Jennifer Adams The beauty of reading out loud to your child is that doing so does not take much effort—you need time, some books and your baby. Read aloud for a few minutes at a time, but do it often. Do not worry about finishing entire books—focus on pages that you and your baby enjoy. Sometimes instead of reading the text to my little ones, I talk about the pictures and make up my own story line. Try to set aside time every day for a cuddle and a story, perhaps before naptime and bedtime. Books are also a great distraction if you are waiting in a doctor’s office or line-up at the grocery store—pack a few favourites in your diaper bag. In addition to the books you may own, our local libraries have a wonderful collection of books that you can borrow. Local libraries also have free programs for parents and babies or young children that use books, rhymes, felted scenes, puppets and songs. Don’t forget to pick up a book for yourself while you are there. Reading for pleasure is another way you can be your baby’s reading role model. Happy reading!

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March 2014 49

Preschool & Child Care Directory CENTRAL SAANICH Almosthome Childcare/Preschool...250-590-7666 Quality childcare with a preschool curriculum/kindergarten readiness program. Experienced Early Childhood Educators. Nurturing environment for ages 21⁄2 to 5 years old. www.almosthomecare.com. Chrysalis Child Care..........................250-652-0815 A nurturing and stimulating environment for a small group of 3–5 year olds. Qualified ECE promotes learning through play. www.chrysalischildcare.ca.

Colwood/LANGFORD Almosthome Childcare/Preschool...250-590-7666 Quality childcare with a preschool curriculum/kindergarten readiness program. Experienced Early Childhood Educators. Nurturing environment for ages 10 months to 5 years old. www.almosthomecare.com. Caring Touch Daycare.......................250-478-4886 A warm, loving, fun family daycare in a safe, nurturing environment. Infant/toddler care for ages 1–5 years. Jenn’s Little Bears.............................250-478-8999 A safe nurturing environment for children from infancy to kindergarten. Our Infant and Toddler Program enriches each child’s development while our 3-5 Program prepares children for kindergarten. Two separate buildings allow each age group space to grow! Leap Forward Childcare...................250-818-9225 2758 Peatt RD. Licenced group childcare for children ages 6 months to 5 years old. Offering full-time and part-time spaces. Open 6:30am-5:30pm. For more information please contact Amber: info@leap forwardlangford.com, www.leapforwardlangford.com. Miles of Smiles Nature Junior Kindergarten..............778-265-4374 Come see why learning in nature rocks! Reggio Influenced Philosophy for ages 3-5. Have your child become a nature detective today! www.naturejuniorkindergarten.com

CORDOVA BAY Carrot Seed Preschool......................250-652-2311 Where children can discover, imagine, construct and learn through play. Wondrous natural playground. www.carrotseedpreschool.com. Cordova Bay Preschool....................250-658-3441 A bright and cheerful parent-participation preschool with a philosophy of “learning through play.” www. cordovabaypreschool.org.

ESQUIMALT CIARA Early Childhood Centre.........250-386-7369 Education and fun hand in hand. Exceptional care for little ones ages 12 month-5yrs in an inclusive centre with Christian values. Island Kids Academy Esquimalt.......250-381-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). Preschool curriculum offered within a warm, caring all-day program. Character development using the Virtues Project. Access to community programs including swimming, skating, Victoria Conservatory of Music. Part-time spaces available. www.islandkids.ca.

La Pre-Maternelle Appletree Preschool..........................250-479-0292 French immersion program. 30 months to school age. Licensed Christian centre. www.prematernelleappletree.com. Simply Fun Childcare Centre............250-881-3958 A warm, loving, fun and nurturing place for children to grow and learn. We have spaces available for registration ages 2.5 to 12 in our Licensed Group Facility. We offer extraordinary childcare, before and after school programs and a preschool. Our teachers are extremely qualified with ECE training and have lots of experience. Call Brenda to set up a tour. Let your child’s light shine bright with us!

Highlands Lexie’s Little Bears’ Child Care Inc....................................250-590-3603 Our Outdoor Nature program provides your child with an experience un-like no other in the elements! Our program boasts our OWN 2 acre forest for your child to explore and learn while our ECEs provide a strong Reggio Emilia Influence. Like us on Facebook. www. lexieslittlebears.com. Space available. Waitlist for September being taken now!

METCHOSIN A Growing Place................................250-391-1133 Half day program (AM or PM) for 2.5-5 yrs. ECE educator, small class size. Our own petting farm. Summer program for July. Metchosin Co-op Preschool.............250-478-9241 Come visit our stunning natural outdoor playspace, and see how our inclusive, play-based program allows parents to grow and learn alongside their children. Exceptional ECE staff provide a warm and enriching experience for 2.5–5 yr. olds. Come Grow With Us! EST. 1960. Reg. begins March 1 @ 9am. metchosinpreschool@gmail.com.

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

OAK BAY Creative Child....................................778-679-0076 At Creative Child, you will find a place of quality learning and care for a small group of young children in a beautiful Montessori-inspired setting. www. creativechildcentre.com Emmanuel Preschool........................250-598-0573 Children learn through play in our non-denominational Christian preschool near UVic. Bright attractive setting. www.emmanuelpreschool.ca. Gonzales Co-op Preschool...............250-727-1003 Children use imaginations in a Learning through Play classroom and natural playground. Reggio-Emilia inspired, focus is on art, nature and music. Nurturing, highly qualified ECE and ECE assistant. Parent participation options. Allergy aware. gonzalescooppreschool.com.

Kindred Spirits Children’s House........250-590-6966 Now accepting registration for a small group of 2.5–5 year olds in a purpose built Montessori classroom. The prepared environment stimulates and engages the children at their own pace with hands on, size, age and developmentally appropriate materials. www.kindredspiritschildrenshouse.com Oak Bay Co-op Preschool..................250-592-1922 Children Learn Through Play in this parent participation school. Our bright facility is allergy-free with a large outdoor playground. www.oakbaypreschool.com. Recreation Oak Bay..........................250-370-7200 Fully licensed, qualified ECE Daycare and Preschool with play based learning. After school care also available. St. Christopher’s Montessori School............................250-595-3213 A beautiful, warm environment, steps from beach and park in Oak Bay. We offer an enriched Montessori program – half days for 3 and 4 year olds and half or full day Kindergarten. www.stcmsoakbaybc.com.

SAANICH Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre.....250-477-3731 Formerly known as Goosey Gander Kindergarten. Half Day and Full Day Preschool Programs. Children’s learning is supported and nurtured through inquiry, exploration, play and creative expression. www.arbutusgrove.ca Cloverdale Child Care.......................... 250-995-1766 Preschool for 3 & 4 year olds, Come grow with us and learn through play. www.cloverdalechildcare.com. Full o’ Beans Preschool........................ 250.360.1148 Opening September 2013. We offer ‘learn through play’ programming designed to foster your child’s natural curiosity and imagination. Flexible scheduling, 2.5 and 4 hour programs, qualified staff. Registration is ongoing!www.saanichneighbourhoodplace.com. Island Montessori House..................250-592-4411 Inclusive, integrated and nurturing preschool, kindergarten, Grade 1/2 program. Located in a lovely rural setting. Extended day available. www.islandmontessori.com. Lakehill Co-op Preschool.................250-477-4141 Where children’s development is nurtured through a child centered inclusive, play based program. Come visit our out natural outdoor playground and meet our loving qualified ECE team. Multiple Levels of participation available, please enquire. www.lakehillpreschool.org. Lambrick Park Preschool & Childcare............................................250-477-8131 Gordon Head’s only parent-participation preschool and childcare centre. Flexible options, play-based learning and outdoor play. Allergy friendly. Celebrating 40+ years. www.lambrickparkpreschool.ca. Little Readers Academy....................250-477-5550 An enriched learn-to-read program for your 3-6 yearold! Reading, Writing and Math. Half-day, weekend and evening sessions available. www.oxfordlearning.com.

Looking for child care? Taking care of children?

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

Child Care

Resource & Referral Your community’s best source of child care information and resources. 50 Island Parent Magazine

Victoria & Gulf Islands: 250-382-7000 or 1-800-750-1868 Sooke: 250-642-5152 Westshore: 250-391-4324 Cowichan Valley: 250-746-4135 local 231 PacificCare (Ladysmith north): 250-756-2022 or 1-888-480-2273 Funded by the Province of BC

www.islandfamilyinfo.ca www.ccrr.bc.ca www.kidsinvictoria.com

Preschool & Child Care Directory Montessori Educare..........................250-881-8666 Beautiful learning environments in Broadmead and Saanichton. 30 months – 5 years. Summer program available. Special needs are welcome. www.montessorieducare.com.

Babies to Big Kids Childcare............... 250-590-2722 949 Fullerton Ave. Licenced group childcare for children ages 6 months to 11 years old. Offering full-time and part-time spaces. Open 6:30am-5:30pm. info@ babiestobigkids.com, www.babiestobigkids.com.

Neighbourhood Junior Kindergarten..250-479-4410 Offering an early literacy program 4 mornings/wk. (TF) for 4 year olds in an attractive, culturally-sensitive learning environment in Lake Hill School.

Butterfly Corner.................................... 250-381-4845 Licensed family day care in James Bay. Since 1998. ECE. Ages 1–5. Full time. Fun & Educational. http:// ButterflyCornerCreativeLearningCentre.com

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

Castleview Child Care.......................250-595-5355 Learning Through Play & Discovery. Licensed nonprofit, qual. ECE staff. Since 1958. Preschool and full-time care. www.castleviewchildcarecentre.com.

Playtime Preschool...........................250-383-3101 AM or PM preschool classes up to 20 hrs/wk. Tillicum. Spacious facility, qualified ECEs. Let’s Talk About Touching Program. www.playtimepreschool.com.

Cedar Daycare...................................250-479-2032 Community oriented, NFP Child Care facility. Wide variety of activities offered including the use of a private outdoor pool during the summer months. Licensed ECE educators devoted to nurturing children aged 30 months – 5 years. www.cedardaycare.com.

Puddles & Paints Playschool............250-658-6573 Introduce your children to Nature with our outdoor nature-lovers program. Our centre backs up to 15 acres of our “secret-garden” parkland where we can learn and explore! Strong environmental awareness with a “Naturalplay-based” philosophy. ECE staff, and a strong Reggio Emilia Influence! Celebrating and supporting your child’s world and successes! Like us on Facebook! Rainbows & Dreams Preschool........250-479-1966 Small classes for 3-5 yr olds in a safe nurturing environment. Children learn through play and fun–developing a sense of confidence, independence and creativity. Highly qualified ECE teacher. Ready Set Grow Preschool...............250-472-1530 Caring, quality licensed Learning Through Play environment. In Hillcrest School, Gordon Head. Highly qualified, warm ECE. heosc@pacificcoast.net. Rogers Child Care Centre.................250-744-2343 Trusted High Quality Programs since 1991. Early Learning and Out of School Care. www.rogerschildcare.com. St. Joseph’s Catholic Preschool..............................250-479-1232 ext 120 • A Christian child centre for 3–5 year olds. • A warm nurturing and challenging program • Offered by St. Joseph’s Catholic School. St. Margaret’s School Early Learning Centre.......................250-479-7171 Junior Kindergarten for girls age 3 and 4. Nurturing, play-based curriculum with art, STEM and outdoor exploration. Specialist teachers.New LEED-certified facilities on 22-acre parkland near Quadra and McKenzie. Half or full day options. www.stmarg.ca. Strawberry Vale Preschool...............250-479-4213

Programs for 3 or 4 year olds at “The Little Red Schoolhouse.” Choose between full or partial parent participation. www.strawberryvalepreschool.org. Wiseways Preschool & Daycare.......250-477-1312

Fully licensed Christian preschool for 3 and 4 year olds. Designed to meet the needs of the whole child. Subsidized fees welcome. www.wiseways. lambrick.com.

SIDNEY Adel’s Play N Discovery House........250-655-4888

Licensed childcare, 3-5 years, Reggio Emilia inspired. Mon–Fri, 7:30am–5:30pm. 2146 Beacon Avenue W. adelplayndiscovery.com, adelina.gotera@gmail.com. Positive Path Early Learning............250-655-7244

Year-round quality child care where preschoolers explore and learn in a culture of Christian values and virtues. positivepath@shaw.ca.

VICTORIA ArtsCalibre Academy........................250-382-3533 Comprehensive programs for Preschool through Grade 5, delivering academic excellence through music, dance, drama and visual arts. Outstanding educators, locations and facilities. www.ArtsCalibre.ca

www.IslandParent.ca

Christ Church Cathedral Childcare and Junior Kindergarten...................250-383-5132 ECE and specialist teachers provide an outstanding all day licensed program for 3–5 year olds in our spacious and welcoming facility in James Bay. www.cathedralschool.ca. Downtown Y Child Care Centre.......250-413-8869 Enriched program, for children ages 3-5 years, supporting healthy child development and future school success. www.victoriay.com. Lansdowne Co-op Preschool...........250-370-5392 An extraordinary learning environment for families with young children. Parent participation. wwwlansdownepreschool.com. Nightingale Preschool and Junior Kindergarten...................250-595-7544 – Taking children’s learning forward – One of Victoria’s leading preschools and Junior Kindergartens. Balanced approach to play and education. Programme supports literacy, numeracy. Visit www. nightingalepreschool.com. Fernwood. Parkdale Early Childhood Centre.....250-382-0512 ECEs offer the highest quality care and positive learning experiences in our daycare and preschool. Full time or part time. Call for a tour or visit us at www.parkdalechildcare.ca. Rainbow Express Daycare................250-382-2314 Enriched preschool style program in a daycare setting. Visit our website at www.rainbowexpressdaycare.com. The Sir James Douglas Playschool.250-389-0500 Fun, creative and educational ECE program for 3-5 year olds to grow and develop life long skills. Come play and learn in our bright and modern centre in Fairfield. Victoria Montessori...........................250-380-0534 Unique, innovative learning environment combining the best of Montessori and Learning Through Play. Open yr. round. 30mths–grade 1. www.victoriamontessori.com.

Little Wonders Preschool (View Royal OSC)...............................250-744-2718 A creative and supportive program that will prepare your child for a lifetime of learning! Out of School Care is also available for school aged children. www.viewroyalosc.com. View Royal Preschool........................250-479-8067 An exciting inclusive program in an exceptional care environment. Licensed 3–5 year olds. Outside play and themes enrich this program. viewroyalpreschool@ live.com.

Mill Bay / Cobble Hill Starchild Centre..................................250-929-3240 Unique infant/toddler daycare, combines the best of Montessori and Waldorf. Our 9 acre hobby farm enables each child to have a garden plot, participate in planting trees, picking fruit, feeding animals, and other outside adventures. www.starchildcentre.ca.

DUNCAN Maple Tree Play House Licensed Family Childcare...............250-746-5060 A daycare program that provides enriched outdoor play time and activities that build on a child’s intrinsic love of nature. Healthy meals and snacks are provided. mapletreekids@telus.net. Queen Margaret’s Preschool/Junior Kindergarten..........250-746-4185 Offering a co-ed enriched curriculum in a friendly atmosphere. Morning ECE/afternoon daycare. www.qms.bc.ca. Queen of Angels Early Learning Centre.........................250-701-0433 We believe that the development of the whole child (physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively, and spiritually) encourages each individual to develop to their full potential. We offer an enriched full day program for 3–5 year olds based on Kindergarten readiness. Sunrise Waldorf School Preschool.....250-743-7253 A warm, nature-based rhythm where wonder is nurtured. www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org.

Chemainus Cherry Tree Child Care Centre.........250-246-9195 Preschool program nurturing creative play and engaging learning activity. 30 months to age five. Qualified and experienced Early Childhood Educator. St. Joseph’s Preschool.....................250-246-3191 An enriching preschool program allowing children to grow as individuals in a safe and nurturing Christian environment.

Qualicum Beach

VIEW ROYAL

Children’s Discovery Centre.............250-752-4343 Our program recognizes the uniqueness of each child and provides a nurturing, safe and creative learning environment. Preschool, Groupcare, Out of School care. ECE qualified staff. childrensdiscoverycentre@ hotmail.com.

A Secret Garden Preschool..............250-380-8293 Program built on Christian values. Monthly themes, weekly topics and daily activities. asecretgardenpreschool@shaw.ca.

Little Star Children’s Centre.............250-752-4554 Earth friendly preschool education inspired by nature. Kinder-Prep classes. Licensed group care. ECE instructors. www.littlestardaycare.ca. littlestar@shaw.ca.

Island Kids Academy View Royal.....250-727-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). Preschool curriculum offered within a warm, caring child care environment. Character development using the Virtues Project. Access to community programs including swimming, skating, Victoria Conservatory of Music. Part-time spaces available. www.islandkids.ca.

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

Little Friends Childcare Center........250-479-8423 For a creative learning environment. Licensed group facility. Infants/Toddlers/Preschool. www.littlefriends childcare.ca.

March 2014 51

Business & Professional Directory Ad Directory 1Up: Single Parent...... 41 The OCEAN 98.5.......... 1

Move to the head of the class.

Art Classes • Drawing  • Painting • Sculpture  • Cartooning • Portfolio Preparation for College or University

One Tutor

One Student Your Home

Abra Kid Abra............... 2 Panorama Andrea’s Sew Easy...... 20

Recreation.............. 16

Arbutus Grove............. 41 Park Sands................ IBC QBaby........................ 17

Art Gallery of Greater

Victoria................... 43 Rainbow Express......... 12 Artistic Statement....... 48 Recreation Oak Bay..... 49 Ballet Victoria............. IBC Restart Computers...... 39

Registration Ongoing

Blue Vista Resort......... 39 Romeo’s..................... 39

Ages 5 & Up Day & Evening Classes

Camp Pringle.............. 13 Royal BC Museum...... 45

Boardworks................ 19 Roy’s Photography...... 19 Camp Qwanoes.......... 17 Saanich Dental........... 11

Emphasis on Technique – Fabulous Results

Campus Honda...........BC Saanich Recreation..... 31

Artistic Statement Gallery & School of Fine Art

Smart Tutor Referrals.com

Call Joan at 250-383-0566

Professional In-Home Tutorial Support

www.artisticstatementgalleryandschool.com

Call 250-544-1588 to learn more.

Cathedral School......... 12 Scallywags................ IFC Science Works............ 22

The Children’s

Treehouse............... 43 Serious Coffee............ 32 Cinecenta..................... 9 The Shipley Group....... 11 Conseil Scolaire.......... 47 Sportball.................... IFC Discovery School....... IFC St. Joseph’s School....... 9

Jamie Lemi Co.

Emmanuel Baptist

Fun Unique Handmade Diaper Cakes

Emmanuel Preschool.. 41 St. Michaels

•

Tigh Na Mara.............. 27

League......... 4, 20, 55 Tillicum Centre............ 16 Horne Lake Caves....... 44 TJ’s The Kiddies IMAX Theatre.............. 23

Mon to Fri, 9am to 12:30pm • Cost: $225

Store...................... 49

Island Farms............... 28 Tom Lee Music........... 12 Tourism Tofino............ 26

IslandLink Library

Locally owned new business!

Contact Geri Alton at 250 653 9648

bramblewoodfarm@shaw.ca www.bramblewoodfarm.ca

Rogers ! 30 years Piano Lessons Mary of teaching

BMus, ARCT, BCRMT!

www.jamielemi.com Celebrating our “Original” Outdoor Learning Program!

excellence 30 years of teaching excellence We bring your child’s classroom…OUTSIDE!” !

Enthusiastic, Enthusiastic, flexible lessons

• “Life is playfulness. We need to play so that we can rediscover the magic all around us.” – Flora Colao flexible • Our property boasts 2 acres of forest with 2 huge Music from Mozart to Harry Potter natural play spaces for the children to discover! !lessons All ages and levels welcome! • Providing a quality Natural program through outdoor play, starting your child on the right path towards !Music from a healthy, active forever lifestyle.

Mozart to Harry Potter!

mrogersmusicstudio@shaw.ca ! UVic-area studio, 250-744-9049

Federation.............. 18 Van Island Cooperative Preschool Assoc........ 7

Island Rhythmic

Gymnastics............. 48 Victoria Children’s Choir........................ 6

Kate Rubin Theatre

& Drama................... 8 Victoria Conservatory Kye Bay Resort........... 26

of Music................. 27

Langford Lanes........... 35 Victoria Kids Consignment........... 13

Leap Forward

Childcare................ 39 Victoria Pediatric Lifestyle Markets......... 37

Dental..................... 19 Victoria Recreation..... IBC

Lighthouse Academy

of Dance................. 18 Victoria Symphony...... 56 VIHA........................... 36

Lighthouse Christian

Academy................ 35 Vitamin Shop................ 3 Making Tomorrow....... 53 Vivace Violins.............. 54 Miles of Smiles........... 21 Welcome Wagon......... 32 Morning Glory............. 44 West Shore Parks....... 22

Mary Rogers BMus, ARCT, BCRMT

52 Island Parent Magazine

University School..... 33

Maxine Fisher............. 46 Theatre ONE................. 2 Hampton Little

Spring Break: March 24–28 Summer 2014: July 7–11, July 21–25, Aug 4–8, Aug 18–22

mrogersmusicstudio@shaw.ca UVic-area studio 250-744-9049

Esquimalt Baseball........ 9

School.................... 40

Fit 4 Two.................... 26 Thrifty Foods............... 29

Kids Horse Riding Camp

For children age 7 to 14 who would like to learn to ride a horse. Or for children who have ridden before and would like to learn more. Learn or improve how to groom, tack up, work safely around a horse and basic English riding. Limit eight children per camp. Stable management topics will include learning about grooming tools, saddlery, feeding, breeds, colours and parts of the horses and equine first aid. Last day is a games day on horseback.

St. Margaret’s

Church................... 35

Mothering Touch........... 5 West-Mont School...... 16 Learn and grow with us!

250-590-3603

New Pics at

www.lexieslittlebears.com

Oak & Orca........... 23, 37 Woodgrove Centre...... 44 Ocean Sands.............. 54

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Music Mania

he first time I felt Angus kick was during an elementary school music class. Grade fours strumming ukuleles got his little toes tapping. Later, when I accompanied those same kids to an afternoon at the symphony, Angus did more than tap. “I think he likes music a lot,” I said to Mike that night as I rubbed my bruised ribs. On the outside, this hunch came in handy. I quickly realized the only way to quiet Angus’s car screams was to sing to him. My songs would go something like this: Soon we’ll reach Bay Street. Left turn, left turn, left turn on Bay Street. These musical maps calmed us both. Angus liked the singing, and I required the focus on route planning. Sleep deprivation was not good for my sense of direction. Soon it wasn’t just car rides I accompanied. I sang Angus through diaper changes, tummy time and baths. And though this didn’t always quell the screaming, it worked better than anything else. The stereo wasn’t nearly as effective. Maybe it was because Angus liked my voice better than Tom Petty’s, although I suspect he just took issue with my taste. But Mike and my tastes were all we had to take into account in the beginning. Angus couldn’t communicate an alternative. We listened to the music we had always listened to. I kept CBC on during the day like I had while waiting for his arrival. A bit of adult company. And a nice distraction from the crying, which was the sound track of Angus’s first months. Now I wonder, was his problem really colic? Or was it talk radio? These days, we only listen to the radio during breakfast. The household rule is radio until Dad leaves for work. Angus very grudgingly accepts this but as soon as Mike steps out the door the chanting begins: “CD, CD, CD!” Before Angus was born, Mike and I had a theory: kids like kids’ music because that’s what parents play for them. If we wanted to avoid Disney musicals, Backyardigans, The Wiggles (and yes, we wanted to avoid them all) we would just play our music. Good music. And Angus would like it. Case in point: the ABBA dance marathons of my childhood. My brother’s great moves to Don McLean. We didn’t take into account grandparents. Older cousins. We didn’t foresee the pleasure of singing with him our favourite

www.IslandParent.ca

Raffi songs. Unfortunately the shine of Baby Beluga began to tarnish about 300 plays ago. Yes, Angus really likes music. And I mean, really. He sits below the stereo and lists the instruments he hears: violin, piano, banjo. He has a great appreciation for banjos. He enjoys pointing out treble clefs and quarter notes in his music books. Yes, music books. Angus is a fan of sheet music. He lasts about five minutes with his toy cars, Playdough is good for seven, but he can sit on my lap and sing along to sheet music for an hour, easily. Angus sings himself to sleep at night, and he wakes up in the morning singing. He has a box of instruments that he hauls out to accompany daily life. On the potty he sits with his “geetar” (a very out of tune ukulele) in one hand and his keyboard in the other. The same keyboard that we need to take with us for even the shortest of drives. He makes up songs for the animals on his tub stickers. Don’t ask me to repeat these songs—most of the words are not in a language I understand—but the melodies are always unique. Sometimes I like to imagine I have a little

Beethoven in the house, or maybe a Hendrix. Doesn’t every mum think her kid’s a genius? Sure, mine has his limitations. He still has not figured out that when climbing stairs

Maternity & Beyond Laura TRUNKEY it is most effective to bend your knees. We have a speech assessment scheduled because, at two and a half, Angus has difficulty stringing a sentence together. And yet, he can sing—word for word—every verse of We Three Kings. Maybe passion is more appropriate than genius. More important, also. Finding something to be passionate about is a sure way to a full and happy life. Exactly what we hope for him. Laura Trunkey is mother to the amazing Angus and the author of a forthcoming short fiction collection from House of Anansi. Email laurajtrunkey@gmail.com.

March 2014 53

LUXURY OCEANFRONT CONDOS Rathtrevor Beach, Parksville, Vancouver Island

Lady of the Waters Somenos Marsh

Weekend Escape

$99/Night Quad Occupancy H Two Bedroom Poolside Condo H Minimum 2 night stay

Weekend Escape

$129/Night Quad Occupancy H Two Bedroom Oceanfront Condo H Minimum 2 night stay

Spring Break Getaway

verywhere you turn, somebody is feeding. Hundreds of busy beaks probe the water meadow, rumps ponderously following. On the slough, dabbling ducks up-end, tail feathers twitching, to reach the submerged vegetation. Bugling, Trumpeter Swans descend in formation to join the feast. March is the tail-end of the winter potlatch S’amuna (Somenos) spreads for the

power to bring forth, nourish and shelter multitudes of life-forms? The abundance of water is obviously an important factor, but not the only one. After all, rivers are full of water, but sustain a much smaller number of species. Ecologists believe the answer has to do with the way wetlands store and slow down the movement of water to make it available to living creatures.

great waterfowl nations on their annual journey. Soon, the Tundra and Trumpeter Swans, most of the geese and all the diving ducks will depart for their breeding grounds in the Interior, or fly south to Washington State and beyond. Meanwhile, the beat of mating season is picking up. Tree Swallows have been back since late February, ready to repossess last year’s nesting cavities from opportunistic squatters. The Red-Winged Blackbird’s con-ka-REE trills from every cattail, his orange-red feathers the pennant of spring jubilant. Even the ever-wary Marsh Wren has claimed a prominent perch to ensure he is both seen and heard. What gives marshes and wetlands such

Under the seemingly still surface of the marsh, water is constantly moving through shifting channels, in a complex and sinuous pattern. Many marshes are also rich in “edges”, with many pockets of diverse habitats packed closely together, making all of their resources available to wildlife. For example, a Red-Winged Blackbird at Somenos can use not only typical riparian vegetation like cattails and sedges, but also the wooded wetland with its assemblage of prey insects, as well as the Garry Oak meadow (to which they would normally not have access) on a nearby grassy knoll. A Red-Winged Blackbird singing from a Garry oak is a wondrous and unusual sight!

$595/Week Quad Occupancy H Two Bedroom Poolside Condos H Minimum 2 night stay H Available Mar 14 – 30, 2014

Summer Early Bird

30% Discount

H 2nd Floor, Two Bedroom Poolside Condos H Available for stays Jun 27 – July 17, 2014 Ranked #1 Hotel & Resort in Parksville on Tripadvisor!

1-877-733-5969

www.oceansandsresort.ca reservations@oceansandsresort.ca

Louise Reid B.Mus. M.Mus.

250-884-9574 www.vivaceviolins.ca vivaceviolins@yahoo.ca 54 Island Parent Magazine

Photo: Caspar Davis

Vivace Violins

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Walking the boardwalk at Somenos or sitting on one of the many memorial benches instills a restful, contemplative mood for many adults, and a desire to play and explore in children. Underneath the conditioning of our 21st century minds,

Nature Notes ANA SIMEON ancestral wisdom whispers that this is a good place, where land and waters yield abundant largesse for all who live here. It whispers true: the Somenos watershed has sustained humans for countless generations. Elders from Cowichan Tribes say that in the early 1800s, before the devastation wrought by the smallpox epidemic, S’amuna village numbered as many as 7,000 souls. Several generations later, the table is still spread. The Somenos wetlands and surrounding fields are ideally suited for agroecology, the practice of integrating human food production with wildlife habitat. This is the vision the community has developed through years of land use planning; the commitment was given tangible form with the protection of 170 hectares of conservation land in partnership with Ducks Unlimited and the Nature Trust of BC. But a recent proposal to build a new RCMP facility on the southern side of the marsh flies in the face of this community vision. What’s more, it comes at the very moment when the entire legal apparatus designed to protect farmland from being paved over for short-term gain—the Agricultural Land Reserve, and its independent watchdog, the Agricultural Land Commission—is under threat of being dismantled. “Chicadee-dee-dee.” “Sieva Says Woof.” “My father’s World.” “To Gaia with Love and Awe.” “Honour the Sacred.” Hundreds of boardwalk planks inscribed with community members’ names and messages speak to the love and connection Cowichan residents feel for their wetland, and their commitment to protect it. Will they succeed? In part, it depends on you and me, and the action each of us takes to protect the land that feeds us. Ana Simeon is a writer and activist in Victoria. She divides her time between working for Sierra Club BC, hiking and birdwatching. www.IslandParent.ca

BLE and the OSC Presents

2014 “VICTORIA” SUPER CLINIC 3501 Tillicum Road at Hampton Park (across from Burnside Plaza – Park at Gorge Soccer Fields) Victoria, B.C. April 18 & 19, 2014 Head Instructor Marty Lehn, Former Canadian Olympic team coach and Milwaukee Brewers scout, invites Baseball and Softball players to come out and get prepared for the 2014 season. Join Marty and his group of high level coaches for a great weekend of drills and coaching designed to get you ready for the up and coming season. The BLE VICTORIA SUPER CLINIC has limited spacing so please do not delay in signing up today. For further clinic information, visit: www.hamptonlittleleague.org or call Kim Dirk @ 250-686-9614.

Marty Lehn—Owner and Director of the BLE Camps and Tournaments, Marty is a former National and Olympic Team coach and Scout for the Milwaukee Brewers.

Baseball 9 – 11 yrs 10-13 yrs 7 - 9 yrs

VICTORIA PLAYER’S CLINIC Cost (Friday & Saturday)

Brent

Crowther—

Canadian National Team pitcher and former pitcher for the Colorado Rockies. Brent has worked closely with Canadian National Team players/coaches and a number of softball organizations province wide specializing in hitting and throwing instruction.

9:30am to 12:00pm Fri and Sat. ____ $ 65 1:00pm to 4:00pm Fri and Sat. ____ $ 75 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm Friday Only ____$ 30

Softball 10 – 13 yrs 9:30am to 12:00p Fri and Sat. ____ $65 13+ yrs 1:00pm to 4:00pm Fri and Sat. ____ $75 7 – 10 yrs 4:00pm to 5:30pm Friday Only ____ $30

***FULL CONCESSION will be AVAILABLE!*** Player/Coach Registration

Player Name: __________________________________________ Address: ______________________________________________ Contact number: _______________________________________ Email address:__________________________________________ Medical Card #:______________________________

Ryan Chenard -BLE Summer

Baseball Camp Head Counselor. Head Coach of the BC JrPBL Parksville Royals 2003/04. Former professional player in Frontier IND League. Member of Nationally Ranked NCAA div 1 Winthrop University (2000-03). Member of Canadian Junior National Team 1999. Member Team B.C. 1994

Carolyn Bell— Former Simon Fraser University outfielder *National Champions 2005 *Currently teacher at Princess Margaret Secondary *Triathlete *Veteran Okanagan Softball Camp Instructor/Head Counselor Waiver: I give permission for my child to participate in the “BIG LEAGUE EXPERIENCE” SUPER CLINIC and release all BLE personnel and guest instructors from any LIABILITY while in attendance at the clinic.. Signature:

_________________________________________________ Date: ____________ For more CLINIC information:

contact Kim Dirk at:

email - kimdirk@shaw.ca or phone @ 250 686-9614

March 2014 55

Cut It Out!

Tips from Parent Educator Allison Rees of LIFE Seminars

Playing It Safe? Cut It Out!

he overprotective parent needs to look at why she is so protective. Is she passing on her own fears to her child, when those fears may not apply to the same extent in the child’s life? Or is she unwilling to allow her baby to become a big boy? If you are overprotective, you might want to CUT IT OUT! The reality is that we cannot protect our children from every possible calamity that might happen to them. Our most important responsibility is to teach them to protect themselves, so that as they move out into each new area of life, they are capable of handling it. While a healthy, secure attachment is important for a child’s emotional health and self-esteem, it is also important for

parents to help their child to venture out and explore. Sometimes parents who themselves had insecure or anxious attachments to their own parents transfer their anxiety on to their children and try to keep them close when the children should be moving out into the world with confidence, facing surmountable challenges. A surmountable challenge is one that stretches the child a little and forces him to grow up and learn new skills, but is still manageable rather than overwhelming. If we protect our children from such challenges when they balk or whine, they will not learn self-confidence. A child will not learn to protect himself in the world if we are continually there to do it for him. We cannot protect our child from every possible

situation that comes up. Children need information and skills in order to protect themselves. Children who are overprotected have very little confidence in their ability to make a choice. They will often look to others (peers or adults) to make decisions for them. Children need to face stressful situations and work through them, and not be protected from them if the risks involved are reasonable. Of course it would be neglectful to allow our children too much responsibility too soon. The trick is to find the balance. So try to notice conflicts you might have with your child over safety. Is it possible that your fear is interfering with your ability to let go? Remember that education is power so tap into the community for useful information. Your child might be more open to hearing this if it isn’t coming from you. LIFE Seminars has two books available, Sidestepping the Power Struggle and The Parent Child Connection. See www. lifeseminars.com.

Dr. Seuss’s Green Eggs & Ham SUNDAY, MARCH 30 2:30 PM ROYAL THEATRE Do you like Green Eggs and Ham? This fully staged orchestral adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s beloved children’s classic cleverly composed by Robert Kapilow, and featuring the unstoppable Sam-I-Am is a treat for the ears! Dr. Seuss’s greatest children’s book comes to life with the accompaniment of the Victoria Symphony and the performances by vaudeville-inspired actors telling timeless tales through music, mime, comedy and narration.

Come early for the VS Instrument Petting Zoo and other activities in the lobby.

victoriasymphony.ca or 250.385.6515 56 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

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

FIFTY SHADES OF BALLET

RV Park & Campground

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

www.parksands.com 1.877.873.1600

Victoria

UVIC Farquhar Auditorium

March 22 | 7:30 pm March 23 | 2:00 pm Tickets: 250-721 8480 www.balletvictoria.ca

Paul Destrooper -Artistic Director- Ballet Victoria

Spring Break is Fun! @Crystal Pool

and Fitness Centre! • Adventure Camp • Girls Only Camp • Bronze Medallion & Bronze Cross • Horseback Riding • Spring Break Skates • World Cup Soccer • Jr. Lifeguard Camp • Spring Break Fun Swims Call Crystal Pool & Fitness Centre at 250.361.0732 for program & registration information. Visit www.victoria.ca/recservices for a complete listing of all programs and services.

Raising the Bar Raising the Raising the Bar Raising the Bar Raising the Bar

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