THE FUTURE STARTS HERE
from our family to yours
For years I heard about our public school systems in the news: the budget concerns, program cutbacks, school closures, and teacher strikes. Now, my own kids are in the school system and I’ve never been more interested in education. What I’m fnding is more than the negative stories you hear about so often in the news. I’m discovering amazing things: teachers who are innovative and constantly learning, schools that develop their own community programs, specialized schools that give families choices, and a province-wide focus that is turning more towards inquiry-based teaching and social and emotional learning. I’m fnding parents who get involved and support their schools and community organizations that volunteer time and donate money. We have more choices now in the public schools than ever before, and those options are growing each year. Our system is by no means perfect, but when you stop and look around a little, you can see some amazing things happening. This issue is all about education, and we hope you enjoy reading and learning as much as we did!
Publisher
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Managing Editor Andrea Vance editor@westcoastfamilies.com
Assistant Editor Kelly S. Thompson kelly@westcoastfamilies.com
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Contributors
S. Thompson, Heidi Turner, Andrea Vance
Nicole Breit, Jennifer Bruyns, Krysta Furioso, Patty Javier-Gomez, Jodi Iverson, Grady Mitchell, Neil Stephenson, Kelly
westcoast fnds
Sweet Legs
These snazzy one-size-fts-most leggings have tons of colourful patterns to choose from and also carry a plus-sized line. They even have a special line for children that is guaranteed to impress your little one with the selection of styles.
www.sweetlegs.ca | $25
Kodiak Wet/Snow Boots
These snazzy booties will keep little toes warm with loads of styles to choose from and tons of fun patterns that will appeal to your little ones. With a strong Canadian tradition, Kodiak has been making the warmest and toughest boots since 1910! www.kodiakboots.com | $75
iPockets by Lisa
Make your iPad or iPhone shine with these one-of-a-kind carry cases designed in BC. We love all the amazing colours, patterns, and designs that make your device stand out from the crowd.
www.ipocket.ca | $42
Panasonic PR- HC800 Headphones
Cancel out other bothersome noise when you listen to your music, with the high quality Panasonic HC800. They ofer the latest in technology to make sure your music is crystal clear, for when you need to shut out other sounds and have a little escape.
www.shop.panasonic.com | $240
Phantom Glass
These simple covers for tablets and smartphones make your device baby-proof! It doesn’t smudge, budge or shatter and ofers scratch-proof protection, giving parents peace of mind when their little one gets ahold of your most expensive accessories!
www.ptpa.com/product/phantom-glass/ | $40
modern Fuel for Learning
home ec
Recipes to build brain health
by Patty Javier Gomez, RHN
Getting children into healthy eating habits early allows them to fuel their bodies and brain with nutrients and nourishment instead of being lead down a path of allergies, learning difculties, and behavioural problems. Now every child’s problems or adversities cannot be solely fxed by a good hearty homemade meal but it is a good place to start.
It is up to us to fll children with all the goodness that nutrition has to ofer their growing bodies, although it is a bit unrealistic to think that we can shelter them from all the refned foods the world has to ofer. As long as your child is eating a whole foods balanced diet most of the time, their bodies will be able to process all that excess junk food easier, and starting healthy eating habits earlier on encourages healthy habits later in life.
Nutritional defciency can afect your child’s IQ, learning, concentration, sleep, and behaviour. Although there may be many other factors that afect these areas as well, nutrition is very important to be able to focus and learn efciently in school. Adding the following foods will help with overall health, mood, and brain function.
Balance blood sugar - Complex carbohydrates like whole grains, veggies, fruits, beans, or lentils take longer to digest than refned carbohydrates. This will release energy into the body more steadily and gradually avoid those sugar highs and lows, which can afect memory, concentration, mood, and overall wellbeing. The more regularly you eat complex carbohydrates, the better your brain works.
Ensure Healthy fats - Our brains are made up of 60% fat, so an intake of healthy fats is very important for overall brain function, especially when your brain is still developing and learning. You can ensure adequate intake of a variety of healthy fats by eating plenty of raw seeds and nuts like fax, hemp, pumpkin, etc. as well as wild salmon two to three times a week, or even supplementing with fsh oils.
Iron rich foods - Not having enough iron afects learning, memory and attention. Making sure that iron levels are normal will ensure proper cognitive function and overall health. Foods such as beans, leafy greens, beets, broccoli, and some seafood are great sources of iron.
B Vitamins - B vitamins are vital for rapidly afecting the way your child feels and thinks. We need B vitamins each and every day, as all eight B vitamins have various functions in the brain and nervous system. Eggs, fsh, dark green veggies, and whole grains are great sources of this vital vitamin.
Ingredients
Instructions
Mix in blender, serve and enjoy!
Stuffed Zucchini
Ingredients
chopped
(depending how spicy you like it)
Instructions
1. Bring quinoa and water/broth to a boil. Turn down heat and let simmer about 10-15 min. Put aside and let cool.
garlic.
4. In a small jar with a lid, add oil, vinegar, and lemon juice. Put lid on jar and shake until mixture is well mixed.
Put the rest of dressing in fridge for future meals.
6. Using a spoon, scoop quinoa into zucchini and top of with salt and pepper.
8. Top of with cheese, yogurt and any other delicious ingredients you like.
Coconut Banana Smoothie
Profle of a Playground
Expired Structures Cost Communities
by Heidi Turner
f education
or many parents and their children, public schools and playgrounds go hand in hand, like reading and writing, or peanut butter and jelly. But what many parents don’t realize is that the cost of school playgrounds is not usually covered by the provincial government or their local school district. In fact, costs associated with building or maintaining a playground falls to parents, parent advisory councils, and volunteers. Unfortunately, as many parents learn only when they start to rebuild a playground, playgrounds are not cheap.
committee three years ago to fund the playground replacement. playground equipment.
when they meet their lifespan,” Barlow says. “We have to work through to parents to plan, design, and fundraise for these playgrounds.” It might be surprising to learn that playgrounds have a lifespan, but Patti safety issues with aging playgrounds, and those issues require maintenance and funding.” In my experience, there are some safety issues with older playground equipment, where they cannot be further maintained or
old and reach the end of their lifespan, or contain materials that are not considered appropriate any more for a playground. When they reach the end of their lifespan, they are considered unsafe.”
capital funding for these projects is not available through the Ministry of Education, all associated costs for these projects must be borne by schools. playgrounds that must be removed or replaced. Of those, seven already have schools are slated to have playgrounds torn down.”
replacements. Fundraising for school playgrounds is an issue across the
decommissioned playground, according to Global News, while the Maple Ridge Times reported in October that Golden Ears Elementary successfully installed a new playground after four years of fundraising. Meanwhile,
development may come from local parent initiatives, local community service organizations, the Ministry of Education or school fundraising.
in the next few years, with the costs to fx or replace the structures varying not easy. “You can’t just do bake sales, you can’t just get the money from difcult, because there is a limited parent base. There are time challenges not in a high income tax parent bracket; we’re in-between. Our parents are working hard to keep the houses they have, but we’re not seen as desperate need, so we’re not a funding priority.”
community outreach. The problem, Barlow points out, is that fundraising for playgrounds is done by parents who tend not be professional fundraisers and often have full-time jobs and families to focus on. Fundraising is another draw on their already stretched schedules. “Playgrounds should be funded by the Ministry of Education,” Bacchus says. “They occasionally come forward, but not consistently. With so many children growing up without outdoor spaces to play in, school playgrounds are a great way to provide them with while keeping kids active and safe.”
44 new playgrounds and updates across BC. Bacchus notes that although the Ministry of Education occasionally provides funding support, it does not do so consistently. In the meantime, it is up to the parents to volunteer their time and, possibly, their money to ensure playgrounds can be rebuilt.
outdoor play is not part of our school’s commitment to children. Obesity is on the rise; children don’t have trees in backyards to play on. These are foundational years to build a healthy approach for our children.”
Parents at Nootka Elementary have attempted to branch out, ofering playground passports to the local community and seeking community involvement in fundraising. One of the biggest hurdles, though, might be in raising awareness that not only are playgrounds not funded by the school district, there is a signifcant cost associated with repairing or replacing them and communities and schools must work together to keep our children active and healthy.
School Extension Programs
Enrich Your Child’s Education
by Nicole Breit
d education
oes your child possess an aptitude for sports, art, or math, or demonstrate a high level of creativity? If so, he or she may qualify for an enrichment program through the BC public school system.
special skills and interests. Here’s a quick look at a number of enrichment apply.
Delta’s “STRETCH” Program
to ten times a year to complete a unique program of study. “High ceiling” activities, problem and project-based learning methodologies, and homebased activities encourage students to “stretch” their learning. This year, a application process takes place each spring.
www.deltalearns.ca/gifted
West Vancouver’s iDEC Program
at Caulfeild Elementary embeds technology in the classroom to support
Who is eligible? Kindergarten through to grade seven students. Because this is a program of choice, priority is given to students living within catchment boundaries.
www.sd45.bc.ca/ps/idec/index.html
Burnaby’s
Advanced Learners
builds on the core school curriculum with a strong focus on forging connections within and beyond each discipline, to the self and society. Who is eligible? Grades four through to grades seven students may apply.
Contact Jennifer.Carson@sd41.bc.ca.
Richmond’s Math Circle
with advanced lessons and extra work one to two times a week to tackle at school and at home.
Math Circle by their teachers. Permission and information letters are sent home to parents at the start of the program.
Contact (604) 668-6000.
Abbotsford Sports Academies
combination of high performance training and skill development with professional coaches during school hours.
Who is eligible? Middle and secondary students with a passion for soccer, are required.
www.sd34.bc.ca/programs/sports-academies
Vancouver’s GOLD Program
Program Basics: This alternative program for twice exceptional secondary school students (intellectually gifted with a learning disability) is ofered
develop a positive self-concept by understanding their unique strengths and difculties, and learn strategies to succeed at school.
committee by the annual January deadline.
Contact info@vsb.bc.ca
How To Apply For Extension Programs
application process is then required, and in some cases additional steps, such as a test and/or interview, must be completed.
How Parents Can Help Extend Their Child’s Learning
Outside of school, you can support your child’s special interests by:
· Nurturing curiosity. When your child asks a question, explore the answer together or direct your child to a resource.
· Taking “field trips” to museums, libraries, art galleries, musical performances, and sports events to fuel their desire to keep exploring.
“boredom” can stimulate free creative play, and develop independence so kids stop asking, “What do I do now?”
schools. Check with your school district to see what is available.
education
Outdoor Education
Learning from Mother Earth
by Kelly S. Thompson
hactivities and exploration. Mountains and lakes, oceans and valleys; we have it all! There’s a wealth of information to be gleaned from the great outdoors and spending time in the open air is excellent for health and wellbeing, especially for children who are constantly developing and growing.
These days, education is moving outdoors, with several schools and districts ofering outdoor programming to expand and extend (or sometimes, replace!) current educational methods. We’ve rounded up a few of our favourite and interesting outdoor educational programs just ready to teach your little one about the great, wild world.
Fresh Air Learning
children to explore the outdoors and learn all they can from Mother Earth, while simultaneously expanding their minds and resources for learning.
year, using play, exploration and instruction from educators to learn about forests, farms and the impact of the outdoors on the world and themselves parents can be sure that the program is an excellent supplement to their
home learners.
www.freshairlearning.org
The Environmental School Project
kindergarten to grade seven participate in learning that is “place-based, imaginative and ecological,” in nature, showing children how nature in f uences the world and how to apply outdoor-based knowledge to everyday life. Qualifed teachers have learned how to use the outdoors as
a educational tool that allows children to immerse themselves in outdoor culture and forge new friendships and experiences while learning about our rich ecological culture.
www.es.sd42.ca
The Urban Seed Project
community centres and more. The project seeks to teach children where their food come from and shows them how to make sustainable food gardens that they maintain and care for. This unique experience gives children endless learning opportunities, through plant-based science, nature awareness and more. Children also learn how to give back to the community and participate in a project that unites an entire community. One Urban
east side, which provides fresh food to the low-income neighbourhood. Kids will learn while giving back to their community!
www.strathcona1890.com
TREK Outdoor Education Program
For a truly immersive outdoor education, look no further than the TREK participate each year for the duration of their grade 10 school year, allowing teens to achieve all of their education credits while learning outdoor skills and practical, applicable knowledge for their futures. Teens will learn through outdoor activities, feld studies and trips, and occasional academic classroom learning. While exploring outside, activities include kayaking, hiking, skiing
and climbing, just to name a few! Kids will develop a new sense of confdence and understanding of the outdoors while also gaining practical skills that they will apply for years to come. TREK also builds self-esteem, as teens learn to care for themselves in the outdoors, while also honing their comprehension of teamwork as they forge new friendships. www.vsb.bc.ca/programs/trek-program-prince-wales
Outdoor School at Cheakamus Centre
This short-term program ofers students and teachers an exploration of the programs at Cheakamus Centre and explore indoor and outdoor education with guided visits to places like the salmon hatchery, farms, the forest and more.
is a great experience for students and teachers alike to learn about First Nations culture as well as nature knowledge. www.cheakamuscentre.ca
Sierra Club BC
Centre for Non-Timber Resources at Royal Roads University have partnered to ofer diferent educational programming in schools for kindergarten to outdoors, learning about natural history and the rich world of the west coast. curriculum to supplement in-class learning with education on ecosystems, human relationships with nature, and respect for the environment. www.sierraclub.bc.ca
education
Technological Teaching
How Technology is Infuencing New
Education Methods
by Neil Stephenson
it’s a fascinating time to be involved in education, as many emerging trends, technologies and ways to engage students are being developed and shared by teachers across the world. While there are many changes and new ideas infuencing today’s classrooms, here are three currently infuencing my work.
A Focus on Thinking
In BC, we are in the early stages of a new curriculum, and like other provinces, this new curriculum is designed to put more emphasis on the process of learning through students exploring bigger concepts and ideas. While the learning of foundation skills and literacies is still crucial to student success, the new BC curriculum has reduced the number of specifc outcomes in order to provide more time and space for teachers and students to gain depth in their learning. In addition, the new BC curriculum has more of a focus on developing student thinking skills, accomplished through an emphasis on critical and creative thinking.
Supporting at home:
The simplest way to support student thinking is also the lowest cost—ask questions and model curiosity at home! Get in a habit of sitting alongside your child as they are engaged in something they are interested in, and ask questions that get them thinking. From a recent Edutopia blog post, (www. edutopia.org/blog/fve-powerful-questions-teachers-ask-students-rebeccaalber) here are fve great questions to ask students: What do you think? Why do you think that? How do you know this? Can you tell me more? What other questions do you have?
the “Right Question Institute” (www.rightquestion.org/). The Right Question Institute (RQI) is an organization that assists people in learning to ask better questions. RQI was not designed originally for teachers and schools, but for parents who were struggling to ask the right questions to acquire the social service supports they needed. It was only after working with parents for a few years, working out the best way to support the design of good questions, that the RQI began using their techniques with teachers and students.
With that in mind, the RQI website has some great free resources and strategies for helping people ask better questions. I have used this in my work with with positive results. The RQI resources would be helpful to use at home with your child, perhaps as they are working on a school research project or even wrestling with a tough decision in their own lives.
STEM Education
has become popular in the last few years due to a number of factors, including a
While these individual subject areas currently exist in our schools, there are a knowledge and skills they have learned to solve problems or challenges. problems.
development of student disposition toward idea improvement.
jobs require greater technology fuency, many feel that having computer programming awareness is a key literacy for today’s students. This has lead to the support of many music and movie stars using their reputation to encourage students to learn these skills. The most popular example is the of computer science and programming to students of all ages in fun and engaging ways. Code.org has also launched “Hour of Code,” (www.hourofcode. com) a campaign to encourage teachers to introduce coding and computer the Hour of Code over the last two years. For those interested, there are a number great websites and tools for students to develop computer programming skills, even starting at a young age.
for teaching the logical thinking necessary for computer science as student teaches the basics of computer programming is Hopscotch.
The Maker Movement
movement.” The Maker movement is a contemporary do-it-yourself culture, complete with the emergence of websites, magazines, and conferences dedicated to amateur tinkering, designing, and building. This movement
for the public to drop in to invent, create, and build.
There are number of common tools and technologies that are at the heart of the maker movement, many of which are low cost enough to be purchased electronics platform designed for creating simple computers and other by a simple programming language, allowing for the limitless creativity and providing students with inspiration, design ideas, and technical support. Other
for learning the basics of circuits and MakeyMakey (www.makeymakey.com) for students to experiment with diferent input devices for their electronic creations.
in today’s world. We are striving to provide students with experiences that are relevant and purposeful, while at the same time, honouring what we know works. One of the challenges for those of us in education is to strive to fnd balance between the best of what is currently working for students and the exciting possibilities that are opening up new ways to engage students and inspire them to be curious, life-long learners.
Neil Stephenson, District Principal of Innovation and Inquiry, Delta School District See examples of Inspired Learning at: www.deltalearns.ca/180daysofearning. Follow Neil on twitter: @neilstephenson
literacy
Family Literacy
15 Minutes Is all it Takes to Improve Literacy Skills
after a long day at school, the last thing most kids want to do is learn at home. But the benefts of learning as a family outside the classroom are huge – not only are children exposed to a culture of lifelong learning, but the bond between parent and child can grow with each teachable moment.
Finding time to set aside to learn as a family can be difcult, but all you
learning activities parents can do with their children in less than 15 minutes:
1. Read a book aloud together. Children’s books are usually short and are a breeze to get through in 15 minutes.
red cars you see along the way, or fnd the whole alphabet using license plates and billboards.
rhythms, and is strongly connected to language skills.
4. Bake some cookies! Most recipes are less than 15 minutes and measuring ingredients helps children understand math and numbers.
5. Go for a walk as a family and read the street signs. You can even think of a city or country that begins with the same letter as the sign.
While we may not think of it, most of the time spent together at home can be a learning opportunity between you and your child. Even time spent doing the dishes, eating dinner or having a bath can all easily have a focus on learning in a fun way.
Put the “Home” Back in “Homework”
Literacy tips for your little ones
homework is a key part of your child’s education, and it’s important that they not only complete it, but also understand what they’ve involved in your kids’ schoolwork–you might even learn something new too! your daily routine: for homework.
personalized homework plan for your child.
4. It’s not uncommon for kids to get overwhelmed with big assignments or projects. Help them break the project down into smaller steps. Work on pieces throughout the week and do the hard part on the weekend.
5. Talk with your child’s teacher and be aware of their method of teaching. Help your child by using familiar terms and examples.
life.
7. If your child gets frustrated or distracted with their homework, allow them to take a short break. If this frustration continues, talk with your child’s teacher to determine if a tutor might be needed.
8. To reinforce comprehension and memory skills, take 10 minutes to talk about the stories you’ve read together.
child is learning math, for example, balance your cheque book or have them count out change for you.
10. Teach your child to be independent. O fer to help them with difcult homework challenges, but then let them complete the remainder on their own.
>> Healthy Living Grants
Parents want nothing more than healthy children and cultivating proper healthy living tools needs to be done both at home and at school so that positive habits are created to encourage healthy lifestyle choices and education throughout schools. Organizations, schools or students can apply with a plan, idea, or program that is aimed at beneftting wellness and active, healthy choices through education and awareness. The grants also encourage teamwork and society participation, helping children work together towards healthy learning the school community and are complementary to each other as they all help foster healthier school communities. Grant opportunities include student-level grants through Northern Connections Grants. Go online and apply today and encourage schools and classrooms to get involved. www.healthyschoolsbc.ca
>> ePACT App
Whether we like it or not, emergencies happen and we all need to be prepared to take action at a moment’s notice. However, we also know that flling out emergency forms can be tedious and is also extremely wasteful of paper. With over
each year, this creates plenty of documents to be managed be various organizations. Regardless, each time your child starts a new sport or goes to a new daycare or school, there are new emergency notifcation forms that must be flled with info such as allergies, contacts and doctor information. Thankfully, the families to input all their information one time and easily share it, similar to social media, with other organizations. Worried your a customized form from your computer with all your pre-flled health records and are better connected to their personal support networks of family and friends”
www.epactnetwork.com
>> Pink Shirt Day
Created by the CKNW Orphan’s Fund, annual movement seeks to eliminate and raise awareness of bullying by uniting the world in wearing pink shirts, running bullying education programs, and teaching children to be compassionate and was raised for the CKNW Orphan’s Fund in partnership with other local organizations who are also seeking to eliminate bullying through about raising bullying awareness, as it’s also about kindness and the impact that this can make on the a snowball efect and makes all of us more loving donation, download a poster for your school or to help raise awareness in your child’s school today! www.pinkshirtday.ca
>> #ScreensOffDelta Unplug and Connect
families are encouraged to spend 15 minutes a day reading, literacy is on the forefront of our minds. Technology comes with endless ways to access content, however, tablets, phones and computers also can distract and detract from books in their truest form and can afect face-to-face family time. The city
to encourage families to turn of all screens for a whole hour to focus on reading in their homes and engaging with their children on literacy and education. Check out their website to participate in challenges and social media awareness. Participate as a family and win some awesome prizes!
www.screensofdelta.wordpress.com/ about/
mom westcoast
Laura Patrick
By
Kelly S. Thompson | Photo by Dylan Doubt
Physio
“I can be a business owner and a mom. I just had to tap into the community.”
helped me realize that I am not the business. I am the founder, but by stepping owner and a mom. I just had to tap into the community. I call them Mom-
aPatrick seems completely at ease in the business she has built. The walls are painted bright green and toys are tucked neatly into their buckets with various ropes, bands and games lying in wait. Kids Physio looks wanted when she created the Kids Physio brand; a place where children could receive personalized and specialized physiotherapy in a place that was fun, wife who simultaneously runs three businesses, it would be an understatement
determined to be a physiotherapist who worked with athletes, which led to her undergraduate degree at UBC before going to McMaster University in several clinical placements, but it wasn’t until she worked with children in a Peterborough location that she changed her athlete focus to a desire to work to the West Coast to provide services to children.
care with school age children. It was in this role that she quickly recognized a need for children to have access to private physiotherapy services, and yet, there was nowhere they could go to receive treatment. “I was young, but there was a really big need and I saw an opportunity to become known as someone
own private practice specializing in the needs of children, seeing up to forty patients a week from a tiny space. However, it quickly became clear, as she met her husband and wanted to start a family, that she would need to create a business that could operate without her by welcoming other therapists and building a self-sustaining operation. “I realized I wouldn’t be able to maintain
Forum for Women Entrepreneurs (FWE), where she sought their experience, advice and mentorship on not only starting her business, but gaining insight into how she could raise a family while also building her brand. “My mentor
to have in place to help me look after my baby and go back to work,” she says.
her extended family, who could help provide daycare while also building a
at not only creating a business plan but also spent a year writing her systems manual, which she hoped would create a smooth operating road whenever she had to be away from work. “I want physiotherapy to be a solid, wonderful
relief and eased her professional worries as she became a mother to her son.
her clinical practice, ensuring there are three days a week where she works
whole new perspective on treating children. “Clinically, I am more empathetic since becoming a mom. I see the developmental process very diferently and
new mom and a business owner, she had to reevaluate the way she worked and make space for the things in life that mattered. “I’m much more productive
the juggle between family and work.
family tries to make the most of their time together, allowing their son to
and her furrier family members are fxtures at various Kids Physio locations, making the whole venture a family afair.
she gets. “I’m consistently maintaining the goals of the family but I always
goals not just at home, but at work too.
by Grady Mitchell
A Place to Read and Grow Vancouver’s Own Writing Program for Youth t literacy Writers’ Exchange
to getting kids excited about reading and writing, and through that to ensure that every kid knows just how awesome they are. The
establishment with a pirate shop up front and a youth writing program in back.
specialized reading and writing programs with volunteer mentors. Based kids from other inner city schools could take part, and the Writers’ Room 881 East Hastings.
Today The Writers’ Exchange runs a number of programs ranging from elementary to high schools, both in school and at their Hastings location, working alongside teachers and volunteer mentors. Every Writers’ Exchange every child gets to see their writing inside a professionally designed, highquality book. Every book gets a launch party where the kids are encouraged to read their pieces aloud to friends and family. The goal, says Managing on their own terms. “They have an opportunity to work one-on-one with volunteer mentors on fun and creative projects that really tap into their the writer and reader in them.”
also a place that’s fun, and a place where they can learn and grow and become confdent readers and writers.” Often the programs are tailored to the specifc group of kids, meaning that they can take ownership and approach reading and writing in exactly the way that most excites them.
to love reading and writing, and with your help, they can reach even more. To learn more about The Writers’ Exchange and exactly how you can lend a hand, visit www.vancouverwe.com.
photo by Joe Sales
The Odd Couple
Adult
Events for the Hip Mom Around Town!
Main Stage at the Surrey Arts Centre
January 14-25
Meet Felix Unger, the neurotic, neat-freak news writer. Meet Oscar Madison, the slovenly sportswriter. When life changes bring them together as roommates, will these two friends learn to meet in the middle? Or will their irreconcilable diferences split them apart?
604.501.5566 | www.surrey.ca
Children the Heart of the Matter Conference Bell Performing Arts Centre
January 16-17, 6:30pm
For anyone who works with young children and families in child care settings, family resource programs, primary school grades and other community programs. The goal is to raise awareness of child care and early childhood development services through professional development, networking and information sharing. www.chidcareoptions.ca/children-theheart-of-the-matter
Re-calculating- Vancouver
CBC Studio 700, Vancouver
January 22-24
Re-calculating is a one-man show featuring
Re-calculating will take you on one man’s personal journey as he navigates his way
drum kit his constant companion. realwheels.ca/on-the-marquee-our-shows/ shows-in-development/re-calculating/
PuSh International Performing Arts Festival
Various Venues throughout Vancouver January 20-February 8
Vancouver Turkish Film Festival
Vancity Theatre
January 23-25
successful and prolifc years for Turkish flms. It is evident that the time is ripe, and the atmosphere conducive to host a flm event of this calibre in
778.895.2954 | www.vtf.ca
Kids Swap Meet
Cloverdale Fairgrounds
January 31, 9am-12:30pm
Find everything from baby items, kids clothing, toys, books, outdoor toys and so much more at discounted prices!
604.533.1970
Ending the War with Our Bodies
Vancouver Public Library - Central Branch
January 31, 12noon-1:30pm
Experts, and individuals, who have struggled with body-image, talk about self-esteem, eating disorders, prevention awareness, and early intervention of eating disorders. www.jessieslegacy.com
Vancouver International Wine Festival
Various Locations throughout Vancouver
February 20-March 1
One of the world’s premiere wine festivals, this event is a unique opportunity to learn about & enjoy some of the world’s fnest wines. The event features wine tastings & pairings, gourmet dinners & luncheons, educational seminars & culinary competitions.
Check out our website for event times.
604.872.6623 | www.vanwinefest.ca
CKNW Orphans’ Fund Pink Shirt Day
February 25
Wear Pink today to symbolize that we as a society will not tolerate bullying anywhere, anytime. Purchase your pink shirt or make a donation online. Proceeds directly beneft many local organizations helping our youth. www.pinkshirtday.ca
After Hours
Vancouver Aquarium
February 26
Experience the peace and tranquility of the gallery without the kids! Join other 19+ for an adult-only evening. www.vanaqua.org
InFlux
Surrey Art Gallery February 27, 8-11pm
live music, spoken word artists, interactive conversation and networking with artists and person minimum)
604.501.5566 | www.surrey.ca
ancillary events.
604.605.8284 | www.pushfestival.ca
The Robson Square Ice Rink and Plaza
Robson Square, Downtown Vancouver
Ongoing until February 28, Check website for hours
helmet). The rink also features a concession stand with snacks and warm drinks. www.robsonsquare.com
Family Day at PdA!
Place des Arts, Coquitlam
January 11, 1:30-3:30pm
Using the Exploring Iceland exhibition by BOB Photography as a reference, kids create a giant mountain range using only white and black paints on a large roll of paper. Once they’ve contributed to the mountain, you can move on to create and paint a Japanese paper fan and
free. Register online.
604.644.1636 | www.placedesarts.ca
Be a Tree Dog Bite Prevention
Delta Community Animal Shelter
January 24, 10-11:30am
safe around dogs and prevent dogs from biting.
required for registration.
604.940.7111
Family Literacy Day
Various locations
January 27
1999 to celebrate adults and children reading and learning together, and to encourage Canadians to spend at least 15 minutes enjoying a learning activity as a family every day. www.familyliteracyday.ca
community
The Addams Family
Michael J. Fox Theatre, Burnaby February 6-21
Featuring all the characters we’ve come to love, including the unconventional romance of Gomez and Morticia, and the eccentric Uncle Fester. This www.michaeljfoxtheatre.ca
Bobs & LoLo
The ACT Arts Centre & Theatre, Maple Ridge February 9, 1pm–2pm
Join the fun with music, movement and makebelieve that create lasting memories for the
audiences to care about the world around them.
604.476.2787
Love Your Pet Day
Delta Community Animal Shelter February 15
microchip implanted in your pet. By appointment only.
604.940.7111
Heritage Week 2015
Various Locations, Vancouver February 16-22
designated by Heritage Canada, The National Trust. Hundreds of communities, large and small, buildings.
604.428.7243 | www.heritagebc.ca
Music with Marnie Band
Kitsilano Community Centre
January 17, 11am
Get ready to boogie with WestCoast Families magazine’s Reader Choice Gold Winners - The Music with Marnie Band and all of their fun and
FREE, professional 5 x 7 photograph with Marnie.
604.257.6976 | www.MusicwithMarnie.com
Gluten-Free Expo
Canada Place, Vancouver January 17-18
exhibitors, a Kid’s Fun Zone and a list of speakers that includes some of the most informed and infuential people in the gluten-free community. This expo is the best place to get the most up to-date information on everything gluten-free!
door. Children ages 10 or under get in free. www.glutenfreeexpo.ca/bc/vancouver
Norman Foote
Main Stage at the Surrey Arts Centre
January 31, 7pm
Packed full of comedy and engaging music, Norman Foote’s concerts are famous for his crazy collection of ‘props with an attitude’ that come to life onstage in surprising fashion! With young
choir, the show features their voices as Norman’s “animated wall of sound” during this entertaining
604-501-5566
www.surrey.ca/culture-recreation
Beauty and the Beast
Queen Elizabeth Theatre
February 3-8
Hurry and get your tickets to this family-friendly
Check the website for play times. www.theatrevancouver.com
Family Day
Surrey Art Gallery
February 8, 12noon-4pm
Explore, enjoy and create art together on BC’s
children must be with an adult. Cost is by www.surrey.ca
Family Day with Will Stroet! February 9, 11am Lougheed Town Centre, Burnaby
www.lougheedtownecentre.com
Mike the Knight: The Great Scavenger Hunt
February 14, Surrey, Bell Performing Arts Centre
February 15, Vancouver, Queen Elizabeth Theatre
on an interactive and eye-opening adventure for the whole family, complete with an enchanting world of medieval castles, plucky trolls and fying dragons.
www.ticketmaster.ca/Mike-The-KnightIn-The-Great-tickets/artist/2048445?tm_ link=edp_Artist_Name
Lunar New Year Celebrations 2015
The Golden Village, Richmond
February 19
Thousands will flock to Richmond’s Golden with freworks, live music, countdowns, Chinese fower and gift fairs, colourful lion and dragon dances and of course, delicious, authentic food. Gung Hay Fat Choy! www.tourismrichmond.com
15th Annual Chutzpah! Festival
Various locations throughout Vancouver February 19-March 15
hilarious comedy and engaging music highlight this year’s festival with world-class performances and workshops by international, Canadian and www.chutzpah.com
Day of the Arts Pro-D Day Art Camp: Rainy Rainforest Place des Arts, Coquitlam
February 20, 8:45am–3:45pm
Kids from Kindergarten to grade fve will explore
featuring a variety of visual and performing arts classes. Register now online, by phone, or in person.
www.placedesarts.ca | 604.664.1636
Wildlife Hero Pro-d Day Camp - Eagles Extraordinaire
5216 Glencarin Drive, Burnaby February 20, 9am-3pm
makes eagles top predators and how many species of eagles there are. Go on an hour-long nature walk and make a craft to bring home. Children will be able to touch and see real wildlife
604.526.2747 | www.wildliferesuce.ca
Cardboard Boat Races
Ladner Leisure Centre
February 20, 10am-12noon
Bring your supplies and your friends & create
construct your vessel, and then let the races begin! www.delta.ca
Coldest Night of the Year
Gateway of Hope, 5787 Langley Bypass February 21, 4-9pm
This is a fun, family-friendly walking fundraiser that raises money for the hungry, homeless and hurting in 80+ communities across Canada. Join members of your community by participating in
Gateway of Hope. Please register online. 640.514.7375
Seedy Sat/Sun & Garden Expo
Harris Barn, Ladner February 21-22, 10am-3pm
all levels, urban farmers & seed savers who are passionate about gardening. Bring your seeds to swap, visit garden, seed & plant vendors, or take part in workshops. There will be eight speakers over two days, including Brian Minter
Gardens 604.940.0937
www.ladnercommunitygarden.blogspot.com
Notes of Defance
Orpheum Theatre February 22, 2pm
adults. www.vancouveracademyofmusic.com
Vancouver Chinese New Year Parade
Chinatown
February 22
people line Chinatown’s streets to watch traditional lion dance teams, as well as marching bands and dance troupes. Pounding drums and frecrackers help ignite the excitement. This year’s parade will celebrate the year of the ram. www.cbavancouver.ca
Cammidge House Heritage Day
Cammidge House, Boundary Bay Regional Park February 22, 1-4pm
enjoy tea and baked goods served by volunteers in period costume. 604.432.6359
Visit www.westcoastfamilies.com/events_calendar for more family friendly events this month! To have your event included in the WestCoast Families community calendar, please email your details to admin@westcoastfamilies.com.
Go to www.westcoastfamilies.com to see more local and community family events in your area.
All Natural Lip Balm
by Kelly S. Thompson
Kids love to cook and craft, so why not blend the two!? All natural lip balm makes a fun gift or can be used by every member of the family without preservatives and other chemicals, and everyone’s lips will be soothed in the cold winter months!
materials
- 1.5 oz beeswax
- 2.5 oz shea butter
- 2.5 oz sweet almond oil
- few drops vitamin e oil (extends shelf life)
- 1 teaspoon essential oil of your choice
make it!
Step 1: Slowly melt the beeswax on the lowest heat setting on the stove, stirring occasionally. Use a plastic spoon and an old pot, since the balm can be hard to wash of once it hardens.
Step 2: Add the shea and almond oil, stir and melt everything together.
Step 3: Take of the heat and add the vitamin E and scented oil.
Step 4: Place open tubes on a paper towel and slowly fll them and allow them to harden.
Step 5: Wipe of excess and decorate tubes and pots with stickers, markers and washi tape!
EVERY JOURNEY BEGINS WITH A SINGLE STEP
What is the next step for your child’s education?
Education at Meadowridge School is different.
Through outstanding teaching, programmes and facilities, Meadowridge develops in children the confidence to not only meet the future, but also to create it.
Utilizing the International Baccalaureate programme, an inquiry and play-based curriculum to develop the whole child.
Specialized and dedicated teachers for French, Library, Music and P E. for all primary grades.
Co-curricular opportunities including fencing, yoga, robotics, Chemistry and Mandarin club.
JOIN US FOR O PEN HOUSE, H ELD EVERY F RIDAY T H AT SC H OOL IS IN SESSION FROM 9:00AM TO 11:00AM
Campus consisting of over 27 acres with greenhouses, a forest, discovery stream, gardens and a bouldering wall.
Faculty with advanced degrees including Master’s Degrees and post-baccalaureate.
Meadowridge School
International Baccalaureate Continuum World School Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 | Coeducational
Programmes connecting students from across all grades including reading buddy and Kindergarten/Grade 12 buddy programmes.
www. M eadowridge.bc.ca admissions@meadowridge.bc.ca 604.467.4444