June is a saucy minx of a month – tantalizingly close to summer but still filled with work and schooldays. Temptingly warm, but here on the west coast, often annoyingly rainy. June is the month of local strawberries, long evenings, afternoons gardening, mornings spent at the farmer’s market. Oh, and dads! We cannot forget that June is the month to celebrate those parents in possession of a Y chromosome, the remote control, and an inability to ask for directions (we kid!). We are so pleased to be able to introduce you to our WCF Dad this month, Matt Hern, a man who has dedicated his life to the opening of possibilities for young people and who is a driving force behind a new concept of urban, sustainable community, making Vancouver an even more exceptional place to live. And we also introduce you to the guys that support, put up with, and are partner to some of our team here at the magazine.
June itself is enough reason to throw a party, and in this issue of WestCoast Families we feature some amazing party ideas, along with family activities to get everyone outdoors, and we also are pleased to present our new teen correspondent, Karina Alibhai, who, in her column FYI – A Teen’s View, gives us her unique perspective on all the opportunities afforded by volunteering. Karina will be writing for us regularly, and you can follow along on her excellent blog, www.btwgirls.com. Also new in this issue is our Hot Spots page, where we share some of our favourite neighbourhood haunts for shopping, coffee, creativity classes and more. We’d love to hear about your favourite places too!
Whether it’s sunny or not, it’s time to get the whole family outdoors in our beautiful environment, whether it be running, going for a picnic, hiking, visiting the bird sanctuary, or the berry patch, or just spending time together at the beach. Happy Father’s Day to all you amazing dads out there, and Happy June, everyone!
Stephanie MacDonald
Editor
Go online to see even more! In June, you’ll find: Party Listings for Venues, Entertainment, and Supplies. Father’s Day Gift Guide, Expanded Community Calendar
Managing Editor Andrea Vance editor@westcoastfamilies.com
If you are between the ages of six and 15-years-old, you can apply to become a WestCoast Families PNE/Playland 2013 Ambassador. Winning ambassadors are in charge of reporting how much fun they are having at the fair or Playland, and the “Job” includes full park and ride passes for four, and four meals on the site. You get to check out all the exciting things to do at PNE and Playland, and we’ll send a videographer along with you to record the fun! The video of your experience will be posted online, and promoted by both WestCoast Families and The PNE. Enter online, and keep in mind video applications are a big plus! www.pne.ca
Deadline to enter: June 30, 2013
Enter at www.westcoastfamilies.com
Snuggle Bugz Summer Gift Basket
You could win a gift basket from Snuggle Bugz, one of Canada’s favourite online baby stores! Basket includes one ERGObaby Petunia Pickle Bottom Organic Cotton baby carrier, one large and one small Sling Sisters Reusable Snack Bags – you can look great while taking your snacks to the park for a picnic in these cute reusable bags. Basket also includes Baby Banz Sunglasses, one Baby Banz Fin Frenzy Bucket Hat , one AppleCheeks Key Fob (great for walking the dog and slinging your keys around your wrist!) Total Value: $236 www.snugglebugz.ca
Deadline to enter: June 30, 2013
Enter at www.westcoastfamilies.com
westcoast finds
father’s day gift guide
Dustin Pritchard Custom Handmade Knife
Help dad chop, slice and dice like a pro with a beautiful custom-made knife from local artisan Dustin Pritchard. Made to order with beautiful handles from reclaimed or exotic woods , these knives are made to be passed down through generations. His new series of knives is constructed almost entirely from repurposed or up-cycled materials for a one-of-a-kind kitchen treasure. From $125 at www.dustinpritchard.wordpress.com
Brewery and the Beast Tickets
While not all dads love beer and meat, if the dad in your life lives up to the Homer Simpson stereotype, this festival is for him.
Whole pig and lamb roasts, house-made sausage, charcuterie, smoked meats, ethnic-inspired dishes, classic BBQ, and other full-flavored exotic foods will be featured at Brewery & The Beast. Accompanying the decadent dishes will be refreshments (beer!) provided by The Phillips Brewing Company, Vancouver Urban Winery, and Left Field Cider. At Concord Pacific Place on Sunday, June 16th 1:00pm – 4:00pm $83 on www.breweryandthebeast.com
editor’s pick
Amsterdam Leather Bike Handlebar Bag
Perfect for Dad, or a grad, Divina Denuevo’s Amsterdam Leather Bike Handlebar Bag is the stylish answer to the minimal storage space on a bicycle. Hand painted with vegetable and soy based dyes, this leather pouch is completely one-of-a-kind and offers a rustic, old-world esthetic with a modern colourful twist. Perfect for attaching to handlebars for quick access to your phone, wallet, keys and other essentials, or to the cross bar and even the seat for quick access to your bike tools – wherever there’s a bar, this bag can be mounted. Pedal power never looked this good!
$90 at www.divina-denuevo.com
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet Pan
Give Dad the gift of being able to cook you a superb breakfast (or fry you the perfect steak) with the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet Pan. With Foundry Seasoned Cast Iron Cookware, Lodge reinvented the cookware world. Spraying vegetable oil onto the cookware, then baking it on at high temperatures creates a natural, easy-release cooking surface for Dad’s soon-to-be-legendary morning feasts.
$85 at The Gourmet Warehouse
SoundBender iPad Speaker
Whatever dad is into listening, from video games to cat videos on Youtube, he needs to have good sound. Though it is one of the leading tablets in the market, the iPad’s built-in speaker is one of its weakest features. SoundBender, the power-free sound amplifier for the iPad, solves this problem in the form of a discreet magnetic attachment that can be easily carried wherever big sound is needed.
$13 on www.thesoundbender.com
Lazer MAX Helmets
Keep their little noggins safe and looking snazzy with Lazer MAX Helmets. Even the most headwear-adverse kid could not pass up the opportunity to wear a shark on their head, or maybe a mouse? Or some aliens? MAX Helmets are aerodynamic, safe and have styles to appeal to a wide range of ages and interests!
$40 at JV Bikes
JBuddies Headphones
JBuddies’ eye-catching designs are manufactured with a durable, split resistant plastic and include a travel pouch for busy parents on the go. JLab didn’t miss a beat when it came to detail; the JBuddies include hypoallergenic ear cushions, multiple theme stickers, an easy to use volume knob, builtin volume limiter, and designs and colors that kids are sure to love.
$50 on www.amazon.ca
Fishing the River of Time by Tony Taylor
If Dad loves the outdoors, let him kick back with this elegant, gentle, meditation on life, nature, and family. As a lifetime of memories unspool at the water’s edge, the author pays tribute to the natural history of this beautiful part of BC’s coastand the natural beauty that overwhelms both the narrator and his grandson.
$20 at www.amazon.ca and other booksellers
home-ec
modern va-va-Vitamix
We admit it, the Vitamix blending machine is definitely an investment – they are not cheap! But they are one of those things that you bring into your home and then, three days later, wonder how on earth you ever lived even one day without it. They are available in the States for a bit less, and many people buy refurbished units online for a reasonable price. Here are some of our favourite go-to Vitamix recipes! Try them in a regular blender too (they just won’t be quite as smooth and luscious).
White Bean Hummus
Nourished GoGo JUICE
Technically this is a smoothie as all its pulp is inside. But GoGo Juice just sounds better. Loaded with vitamins and minerals, calcium, protein and antioxidants, this is a standard go-to morning ritual. When summer is here switch up the apple for melon or other seasonal fruit. Remember you want the bulk of this refreshing drink to be green leafies. Give it 3 consecutive days, you will be hooked.
Ingredients
• 2 handfuls spinach
• 1 handful kale
• 1 lemon, peeled
• 1/4 cucumber
• 1-2 celery stalks
• 1 Thumbsize piece of ginger, peeled— more if you like it zingier
• 5-10 Fresh Parsley sprigs
• 1/2 an apple—more if you want it sweeter
Instructions
Put all ingredients in Vitamix, fill with water @ 5-6 cups. Blend well until smooth.
Excellent source of cholesterol lowering fibre and folate, this protein dip packs in the flavor and the health boosting nutrients. Eat with cut up veggies, smear on toast and pile on the veggies, wrap in collard greens leaf. And the Vitamix makes this power-packed food super easy.
Ingredients
• 1 1/2 cups cooked canneli beans
• 1/2 cup tahini *
• 1 clove of garlic
• 1/2 lemon juice
• salt and pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
* If you can’t find tahini at your market, use 2/3 cup toasted sesame seeds + 3 tbsp olive oil, blended.
Instructions
Put first 5 ingredients in Vitamix, blend. Slowly add in oil. Blend till smooth.
Reece’s Ice Cream
Packed full of good stuff, AND everyone will love it for dessert on a warm summer night.
Ingredients
• 2 frozen Bananas
• 2 tbsp Raw Cacao
• 2 tbsp Raw Crunchy Almond Butter
• 1 tbsp unrefined Coconut Oil
• 1/3 cup maple syrup
• Raw Cacao Nibs-optional
Instructions
Pour all ingredient except cacao nibs in Vitamix. Process until well combined, about one minute. Pour into a bowl (it will be like soft serve ice cream), and top with cacao nibs
hotspots
You may not believe this, but we at WestCoast Families don’t spend 100% of our time slaving away to put out this magazine: we roam around our neighbourhoods and have our favourite haunts, just like you. These are a few of the places we love, and we’d love to hear about the places you love, too. Discovered a new kidfriendly café, chic boutique, or specialty purveyor of your favourite treat? Let us know, and you could see your recommendation on this page!
Le Marche St. George
The most unique coffee spot in town, nestled deep in a residential neighbourhood between Main and Fraser, just south of King Edward St. The building has been a storefront for decades, modeled after an old-time general store. They sell specialty products from France and beyond, along with gorgeous ceramics and great espresso.
www.marchestgeorge.com
Krysta, WCF Art Director
Clayzone Ceramics and The Art Way
My family and I love this little artsy enclave on East 15th Ave., just west of Fraser Street in Vancouver. Though she began by focusing on art classes for adults, the talented Denna Erickson of the Art Way now offers parent and child creativity classes this spring and summer, using fine arts as inspiration. Clayzone Ceramics offers fantastic clay classes and drop-in sessions for both kids and adults in a warm, helpful environment. Aline Beth Marshall also sells beautiful pottery and sculpture in the front of the store.
www.theartway.ca and www.clayzoneceramics.blogspot.ca
Stephanie, WCF Editor
House of Jewels
The House of Jewels is a hidden gem for local fashionistas looking to shop for unique and stylish clothing, jewellery and other accessories. You will fall in love not only with the awesome finds but the cozy atmosphere and the personal service. At the store on 953 Nicola Street, the warm ambience makes you feel like your are browsing your best friend’s closet and invites you to come back again and again.
www.houseofjewelsboutique.com
Monica Gonzalez, WCF events
the value in volunteering a teen’s view fyi
there are two types of people in the world: those who like to volunteer and those who don’t. If you have a son or daughter who is particularly interested in volunteering, then congratulations! If not, don’t worry - many teenagers don’t understand the point of volunteering, but there are some good reasons to donate your time for a cause. Hopefully these tips and tricks will help you persuade your teen to volunteer.
Reasons to volunteer
First of all, volunteering is now a requirement to get into many universities. Also, in order to graduate in British Columbia with your Dogwood diploma, a high school student must complete at least 30 hours of work experience and/or community service. If this is not enough to convince your teen to volunteer, then here are some other reasons.
Volunteering teaches people about themselves. As teenagers, we don’t know what we want to be in the future or what field we want to go into. Volunteering is a great way for teens, like myself, to be exposed to different careers, fields, hobbies and interests. It also helps teens develop strengths and skills such as communication, teamwork, time management, leadership and taking initiative. The skills developed by volunteering help students not only in high school but also in their future.
Volunteering opens many doors; students are able to meet new people and make new friends. It also provides students the opportunity to extend their network and make valuable connections.
Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and often when you volunteer, you feel good about yourself because you know you have made a difference.
Volunteering is also great way to gain perspective on your own life. The process of volunteering can be very humbling and it makes you consider the situations other people are in. When you volunteer you can focus on others and see that your involvement in the world can be meaningful.
Volunteering also helps in finding employment. Employers are often looking for a candidate who is well-rounded and shows commitment. Volunteering also shows employers that you believe in making the world a better place and that you will put time and energy into doing what you’re passionate about.
When and where to get involved
It’s easy to volunteer over the holidays since many students have time off. During the summer and winter breaks, there are many opportunities to volunteer in the community. During the summer, many camps are looking for high school counselors and these positions can be on a volunteer basis. In the winter many homeless shelters are looking for students to help out.
You may want to look into volunteering in your religious or cultural community. Your church, temple, mosque or other place of worship may be able to use your teen’s help.
If your teen is interested in working with kids, you may want encourage him or her to become a big sister or big brother, a camp counselor or volunteer in an after-school program. As a high school student, volunteering with young children is really fun and the students are given the opportunity to teach and inspire the younger kids.
Karina Alibhai is our new teen correspondent, giving both parents and fellow teens her unique insights on the issues and concerns confronting today’s teenager. We’re very happy to have her perspectives in WestCoast Families in hard copy and also online! Feel free to contact her with questions through this magazine, and read her excellent blog, BTW, which can be found at www.btwgirls.com
by Karina Alibhai
If your teen is an animal lover, many shelters depend on volunteers to keep the animals well exercised.
If your teen is interested in politics, he or she may want to volunteer for a political campaign. This is a great way to learn about the political system.
If your teen is interested in environmental issues, volunteering with an environmental conservation group or a community cleanup group may be a good idea.
If your teen likes to travel, you may want to consider giving them the opportunity to travel abroad and volunteer. Many companies offer spring break and summer trips for high school students. These trips are for students in grades 8 and up and will allow them to travel abroad to volunteer and become global-minded citizens.
Celebrating Birthdays with Presents AND Helping Others
By Stephanie MacDonald
though birthdays lose their charm once you’ve had a few too many, every parent knows that to a six-year-old, his birthday party is like a magical wonder day with no equal. Birthday parties are undeniably one of the most happy and eagerly anticipated events in childhood, and we would never change that. However, you may be like many parents whose kids already have closets and drawers overflowing with more toys, games and stuffies than they could play with in a year, and we have found that there are some ways to update the birthday party to take into account the joy in receiving, the fun of doing, and introduce the pleasure of helping as well. Your house will be less cluttered, your kids will be just as happy, and you may even effect some positive change for the planet.
One simple way to focus less on the consumerism aspect of birthday presents is to list activities your child enjoys, and ask for passes. They get to go to the ice rink or pool, a movie, or a membership to their favourite museum, Science World, or aquarium, and you don’t have to worry about another year of well-intentioned clutter.
Clare Adams, founder of The Gift Pages, a gifting resource launching this month, is just as passionate about thinking differently about gift giving, and is particularly fond of experience gifts like those available at Vancouverbased Perfect Day (www.perfectday.ca). “A month after a birthday, it can be hard to remember who bought which toy or game, but the memory of a day spent whale watching or an afternoon zip-lining would likely be remembered for years to come”.
If you’d like to focus on one larger gift for your child and direct the rest of presents towards helping a cause, there are many ways to do this! Locally, through The Sunny Bear Birthday Club at the Children’s Hospital, you can order a supply of pre-printed donation cards and envelopes to enclose with your invitations or provide to guests at your party, along with a note encouraging guests to donate in lieu of gifts. Guests should bring their donation sealed in the envelope provided to the party. Then, simply collect the envelopes and drop them off in person or in the mail. Big Brothers of
Started in Toronto, ECHOage is a platform that families can use to turn their children’s birthday parties into charitable events. You and your child go online and select the present of their dreams and a charity that they want to support. When guests RSVP for the party, they have the option to simply make a donation with half of the money going toward the child’s presents and half being donated to the designated non-profit organization. Because guest resources are being pooled, instead of a huge pile of plastic destined for the closet, the birthday child can get that shiny new bicycle, aquarium, or dance lessons they’ve been wanting.
Children are raising funds for some truly deserving organizations - including their own schools! And they are learning wonderful lessons about their place in the world and enjoying some really nice birthday parties at the same time. To date, over $1.2 million has been donated to deserving organizations through ECHOage parties.
Resources
ECHOage Parties www.echoage.com
Sunny Bear Birthday Club tributeprogram@bcchf.ca | 604-875-2444
Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver www.charitybirthday.com
Circus West
Vancouver
Venue and Entertainment
www.circuswest.com
Craft Caravan
Party Supplies
Online www.craftcaravan.com
Create-It Emporium
Cloverdale
Venue and Entertainment
www.createitemproium.com
Feel Fabulous Spa
Mobile Entertainment www.feelfabulous.ca
Fort Langley National
Historic Site
Fort Langley
Venue and Entertainment www.parkscanada.gc.ca/fortlangley
Fun Magic Shows
Mobile Entertainment www.peterrookemagic.ca
High Touch High Tech
Mobile Entertainment www.sciencemadefunbc.net
Jump Gymnastics
Vancouver Venue
www.jumpgymnastics.ca
Party Guide
Planning a party? Take a look at these party people and places for great ideas. There’s even more at www.westcoastfamilies.com
Limegirl
Mobile Entertainment www.limegirl.ca
Living Magic Entertainment Entertainment
Mobile www.livingmagicentertainment.com
My Gym
Maple Ridge Venue and Entertainment www.mygym.com/mapleridge
Party Arts
Mobile Entertainment and Supplies www.partyarts.ca
Playland
Vancouver
Venue and Entertainment www.pne.ca
Science World
Vancouver Venue and Entertainment www.scienceworld.ca/birthdays
Vancouver Tumblebus
Mobile Entertainment www.vancouvertumblebus.com
Vancouver Phoenix Gymnastics
Vancouver
Venue and Entertainment www.phoenixgymnastics.com/parties
a Party On the Go
A No Fuss, No Muss Party Resource Guide
nyone who has hosted a party in their home knows that the pre-party preparation and post-party clean-up can be enough to discourage you from wanting to have a party at all. So it’s a good thing that a bunch of businesses have popped up that bring the party to you—they help keep it local and easy! Here is just a small sample of some of the fun and creative choices available.
Fantasy Fables
Fantasy Fables has been bringing Disney princesses to parties since 1995. Choose a princess—Cinderella, Snow White, Princess Jasmine, Pocahontas are among the choices — and watch your little girl’s face light up when that princess arrives on your doorstep. The princess’ visit includes a performance of her most well-known songs, games, princess make-up, stories, and a special keepsake for all guests. They offer two packages: Princess Wishes (60) min up to 20 guests; and Princess Dreams Dressup (80 min) up to 12 girls and 2 boys. The cost for Princess Wishes for Vancouver starts at $175; additional travel fees are applicable to travel outside the Vancouver area.
www.fantasyfables.com
Vancouver Tumblebus
No need to figure out how to get a dozen party guests to the gym on the opposite side of town, now the gym comes to you. The Tumblebus is a gym on wheels. This converted school bus has everything to keep the kids busy: bars, beam, vault, mountain, trampoline, rings, zip line, monkey bars and more. The Gold package includes the Tumblebus for one hour for up to 15 children. Two instructors are on-hand to help the kids and the package also includes invitations; goody bags; a balloon bouquet; and a special medal ceremony, t-shirt and group photo for the birthday child. $250
www.vancouvertumblebus.com
Rent a Pony
What little one doesn’t want a pony? Now you can give him just that, at least for a couple of hours. Rent A Pony in Surrey gives you the option of having a party at their location, or they can bring the pony to yours. Their ponies arrive at your home ready to be petted, brushed, fed, and of course, rode. Children are led on foot when riding the ponies. For safety reasons helmets are required when riding, and for peace of mind, any little droppings the pony leaves behind will be picked up. The birthday child is left with a wonderful memory and a coupon for free pony to use on future visit. Prices start at $175 for one pony, for one hour.
www.rentapony.ca
Feel Fabulous Mobile Spa
It doesn’t matter how old you are: everyone likes a little pampering; even better when the pampering comes to you. Feel Fabulous Mobile Spa is just that, a spa service that comes to you for the sole purpose of making you feel fabulous! They offer endless spa party options including customized invitations; fluffy spa robes and cozy slippers; colourful spa atmosphere and décor; and goody bags. All spa parties include spa, makeup and hair services and there are even packages available for boys. Prices vary depending on the package you want and the number of party guests, but there is a combination to fit every budget. Contact vancouver@feelfabulous.ca
www.feelfabulous.ca
Fraser Valley Party Rentals
If you want to customize your next event, but aren’t sure exactly what you want then Fraser Valley Party Rentals is the place to turn. You can rent everything imaginable: backyard games; bouncy castles; cotton candy and slushie machines, inflatable obstacle courses; dunk tanks; bear stuffing stations; and face painters and balloon twisters and many more entertaining options. They have something for all ages, interests and budgets. Most rentals include delivery, set up, and pick up. Worried about rain? They even rent tents, tables, and chairs too. Rates vary depending on rental item and duration. Contact them for more information: info@ fraservalleypartyrentals.com.
www.fraservalleypartyrentals.com
The Art Express
The Art Express is the perfect party solution for your creative little ones. This studio on wheels will bring “art fun on the run,” straight to your door. The bus can seat up to 12 kids plus the birthday child and is ideal for 3- to 10-year-olds. Kids climb on board the colourful studio and spend an hour and a half creating something special. Painted t-shirts; bug boxes; sleep over sacks; and picture frames are just a few of the choices. Imagine that, painting and crafts without the cleanup! It’s not just for kids either, book the Art Express for any event and they will customize the craft to suit your group. Rates start at $300.
www.theartexpress.com
PlayPodz
Today’s interactive video games can be a lot fun, but not many of us have the setup to accommodate up to 16 players simultaneously. Invite PlayPodz to your next party— birthday, corporate, fundraiser, dry grad—to solve the problem. They will roll their Mobile Gaming Arena right up to your event location. You choose the games you want to play ahead of time from the latest selection for Wii, Xbox 360, or PlayStation consoles. Games are available for all ages and ability levels and can be set-up for teams working together, or players all compete against one another. PlayPodz does all the set-up and clean-up. A two-hour weekday rental starts at $299, weekend rentals starting at $349.
www.playpodz.com
kids get active
Let’s Play!
Fun for Every Child
tThe Let’s Play Program is the result of a cooperative effort between BC Wheelchair Basketball Society (BCWBS), the Rick Hansen Foundation, and the Province of British Columbia. It is intended to help kids with mobility limitations to become physically active early in life by helping to establish the fundamental skills, knowledge and abilities needed to confidently participate in play, sports, and physical education with their peers.
The program is directed at children in British Columbia 10 years of age and under with mobility related disabilities and provides them with:
• A sport wheelchair specifically designed and sized for young children
• Equipment for the wheelchair (cushion, straps, etc.)
• Adapted sports equipment for program facilitators
• Training and best practices guide for teachers, parents, recreation programmers and other facilitators
• An online resource that includes activities to build knowledge, skills and abilities
• Expertise and guidance for organizations that want to deliver inclusive physical activity programs
The sport wheelchair provides a freedom for those with mobility impairments that may have kept them from actively participating in physical activities with their peers in the past. It provides able-bodied children the opportunity to enjoy fun activities and gain a greater awareness of the challenges their friends face. This approach helps promote opportunities to engage parents of children with and without disabilities into a dialogue that raises the playing field for inclusion. Ultimately, this will lead to a lifelong love of physical activity and ensure an enduring healthy lifestyle.
To meet the objectives of the program, BCWBS has purchased over 100 wheelchairs of various dimensions to be distributed throughout the province. These chairs can be obtained for free by applying to BCWBS. In cooperation with local organizations, BCWBS is assisting community stakeholders to develop inclusive physical activity programs.
The benefits of physical activity are universal for all children, including those with disabilities. The participation of children with disabilities in sports and recreational activities promotes inclusion, minimizes deconditioning, optimizes physical functioning, and enhances overall well-being. For more information please visit our website: www.letsplaybc.ca
• January
Chilly Chase Langley, Vancouver 778.292.0619
Walk/Run for Memories
Various Family www.alzheimerbc.org
• February
Fort Langley
Historic Half Marathon Fort Langley Family and Kids 778 292-0619
• March
BC Lung Association: Climb the Wall Family
604 731-5864 | www.stairclimb.ca
BMO St. Patrick’s Day 5k
Vancouver Family www.stpatricks5k.com
Diva on the Run
Jericho Sailing Park, Vancouver 8k & Kids 5k 778 786-4116 www.divaontherun.com
Various Locations Family & Kids www.run4change.net
PMC Sierra Science Fair Fun Run 5k
Vancouver Family 604 602-6252
Run for Light 4.3k Vancouver Family 604 325-8638
SOS Children’s Village BC Run and Walk Richmond Family www.sosbc.org/run
Vistas Run 5k, 10k
Maple Ridge Family 604 463-7722 www.vistasrun.com
• June
Child Run 1k, 5k Vancouver Family
604 875-2444
Earth Run 5k, 10k Vancouver Family 604 899-8826
Not only is running great exercise and an awesome way to spend time and connect with your family, running for a good cause can help organizations raise badly needed funds for research or outreach. And the good news is, there’s a run in the lower mainland at every time of year, to suit every level of fitness and charity of choice. Start in January, and you’ll not only rack up the distance, build stamina, and work off calories, but you’ll feel great seeing your own times improve, and feel even better knowing you and your family are participating in an activity that helps raise funds for worthy causes. So get those running shoes on and get out there!
Easter Seals
24-Hour Relay
Burnaby Family & Kids
604 873-1865 www.24hourrelay.com
National Push Your Tush Walk/Run for Colon Cancer
Vancouver Family www.coloncancercanada.ca
Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon & 5k
Vancouver Family
778 786-3116 www.canadarunningseries.com/svhm
Ridge Meadows Hospital Fund Run 5k, 10k
Maple Ridge Family & Kids
604 476-7158 www.rmhfoundation.com
Run, Walk & Roll for our Kids 2k, 5k, 10k
Surrey Family
604 591-5903 | www.cdfbc.ca
Run Up for Down Syndrome 5k
Burnaby Family 604 444-3773 www.dsrf.org/events/run_up_ for_down_syndrome
Subway Commit to Fit Kid’s Mile and 5K
Vancouver 604 266-8879 | www. thunderbirdstrack.org
Longest Day 5k
Vancouver 604 266-8879 | www. thunderbirdstrack.org
SunRype TRi KiDS Triathlon Series
Burnaby Kids ages 3-15 www.trikids.ca
• July
Steveston Salmon Festival Mile
Richmond Family & Kids 604 295-0490 | www.kajaks.org
Canada Day 8k Run/Walk Pitt Meadows Family & Kids 604 465-4787 | www. pittmeadows.bc.ca
The Underwear Affair Vancouver 604 734-2873 www.uncoverthecure.org
Shoppers Drug Mart Run For Women UBC, Vancouver Family & Kids www.events.runningroom.com
• August
Vancouver Kidney Walk Vancouver, Tri-cities, North Shore Family 604 736-9775 | www.kidney.ca
SeaWheeze Half Marathon Vancouver 1-800-263-9300 www.seawheeze.com
Delta Half Marathon & 5k Delta Family 604 596-2453 www.deltahalfmarathon.com
• September
Terry Fox Run Various Locations Family www.athletics.ca
COTS Walk & Fun Run 2k, 5k, 10k Richmond Family 604 271-7719 www.childrensots.org
Surrey International World Music Marathon, Half, 8k Surrey Family & Kids www.surreymarathon.com
CIBC Run for the Cure 5k Vancouver Family 604 683-2873 www.runforthecure.com
• October
Granville Island Turkey Trot 10k Vancouver Family 604 568-8648 www.turkeytrot.ca
Strachan Hartley 10k, 5k Legacy Run North Vancouver Family 604 313-5285 | www.shlf.ca/run
Great Pumpkin Run 5k
White Rock Family & Kids 604 535-4520 www.thegreatpumpkin5k.com
MEC North Van Fall Classic 10k, 5k North Vancouver Family 604 990-4417 | events.mec.ca
James Cunningham Seawall Race 5.9mi* Vancouver Family 604 687-0932 www.seawall.lgrr.com
• November
Vancouver Historic Half
Vancouver Family
778 908-4321 | www.tryevents.ca
• December
Jingle Bell Jog 5K, 1K
Coquitlam Family
604 526-0206 www.jinglebelljog.ca
kids get active
Active for Life
Physical literacy skills are the key to raising active kids
By Clare Adams
with better weather in sight and more opportunities to get outdoors, we’re thinking more about getting our kids to put down the video games, turn off the TV and head outside for some exercise. Without a doubt, I know I find it easier to keep my kids active in the summer months with longer days and easy access to bikes, parks and the great outdoors.
However a new initiative aimed at keeping kids engaged in lifelong active habits is trying to let parents know that simply getting kids to spend time in activities isn’t necessarily the key to keeping them Active for Life.
Richard Monette, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief at Active for Life, explains the premise behind this great new resource: “We want to promote children’s physical literacy to help parents raise active and healthy kids. In response to increased rates of child obesity and sedentary behaviour, Active for Life was formed in 2011 to give parents the tools to help their children develop skills and habits for lifelong physical activity”.
So what’s the concept around physical literacy and how will that make a difference? Well, it’s pretty simple. The more physical skills a child has in their skill set, the more choices are open to them to participate in different
sports and activities and the more choice that they have, the more likely they are to find activities they enjoy and stay active.
For example, if I teach my 5 year old to ‘balance’ walking along a skipping rope laid on the ground, he’s building a fundamental skill that could help him with ice skating, skiing or gymnastics. Similarly taking the time to play a simple game of catch in the back yard teaches hand-eye coordination, throwing and catching, which are the basics for baseball, lacrosse, cricket, rugby, basketball. You get the idea?
One of the best things about Active for Life’s online magazine and newsletter is that they are packed with information, ideas and resources to help parents to know which activities will help cultivate which skills, what is age and developmentally appropriate for your child, and how to have fun while learning the skills, too.
For me, the greatest learning point has been to understand that organized sports are not always the answer. Just 10-30 minutes practising a skill in your back garden or at the park can be just as valuable. Similarly though, just getting the kids off the screens and outside might keep them active for 30 minutes, but ensuring they have opportunities to work on their physical skills might just keep them Active for Life!
>> Breast Milk Bank Expansion
The BC government is providing a grant of $650,000 to the BC Women’s Hospital + Health Centre Foundation to support their campaign to expand the milk bank program at BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre in response to community demand for donor breast milk for preterm and critically-ill babies. The milk bank provides pasteurized donor milk to about 2,500 babies a year. Almost all of the recipients are premature and critically-ill children whose mothers are unable to breastfeed or provide enough breast milk to feed their children. Pasteurized donor breast milk helps prevent serious illness and decreases health-care costs, including reducing a baby’s length of hospital stay. Donor milk is provided with a prescription from a doctor or midwife.
The BC Women’s Hospital + Health Care Foundation’s goal is to increase capacity to double the number of babies who receive milk from the bank. The foundation has a campaign to raise the money needed to move the milk bank to a larger, purpose-renovated space.
“BC Women’s Hospital is committed to excellence in care for the province’s sickest babies, and providing access to breast milk helps give newborns the very best start in life. The hospital is grateful for this tremendous boost to the milk bank,” said Jan Christilaw, president of BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre.
A processing fee of $5 per 120 cc’s of donor human milk is currently charged to recipients outside of BC Women’s Hospital. www.bcwomensmilkbank.ca
>> Science World Seeks Crowdfunding for Exciting new Music Exhibit Aimed at Getting British Columbians AMPED about Music!
Science World would like to build a one-ofa-kind exhibition showcasing the science, technology, creativity and craft behind the art of music.
As a charity, Science World needs the community to help build this innovative 2,500 square foot exhibit from scratch—and that’s where you come in. Donate today and receive some exciting “perks” including passes to see AMPED when it opens, and a few exclusive opportunities for the serious supporters. We want to show that making music is creative and fun; that anyone can make music; and if you’re passionate about it, you could consider one of the many career opportunities in the music industry that the exhibit will highlight. How will your gift will be put to work? We need $15,000 for:
• Building materials; everything from wood to paint to construct recording station booths, DJ re-mix stations, jamming stations and a lounge area within the exhibit
• Special Programming delivered by our special “AMPLIFIED” volunteers – members of the music community who will be sharing their talent and expertise with our visitors
• Video production and Displays: we’ll be interviewing music professionals with inside knowledge of the music business, and displaying these clips throughout the exhibit
Music Artifacts, lighting, signage, design-work and everything else that is going to make this exhibit spectacular!
Donate at www.indiegogo.com/projects/amped-by-science-world-bc
>> Nature’s Classroom gives elementary students the opportunity to grow food for their local food bank
This spring, local elementary school students will learn more about their environment and become master gardeners while helping those in need in the community of Langley. It’s all thanks to a unique program called Nature’s Classroom, now in its third year of operation.
Developed in partnership with Envision Financial, Maples Discovery Gardens Co-op and Langley Environmental Partners Society (LEPS), Nature’s Classroom allows grade three to seven students to grow food for the Langley Food Bank while becoming stewards of the environment.
As part of Nature’s Classroom, Langley students in six classes selected from Langley Meadows, R.C. Garnett, Simonds , Topham, Alex Hope and Peterson Road elementary schools will attend six workshops at Maples Discovery Gardens Co-op (located across from the Langley Events Centre on 200th Street) over a 12-week period beginning in April and ending in June. In 2012, six garden plots and two table top gardens provided a bounty of lettuce, beets, broccoli, potatoes and carrots to Langley’s local food bank.
As part of Nature’s Classroom students will:
• Plant their own vegetable gardens in plots at Maples Discovery Gardens Co-op
• Learn about soil and composting
• Discover the needs of plants and become “master gardeners”
• Learn about the watershed they live in and the ecosystem of Latimer Creek (adjacent to the Maples Discovery Gardens Co-op)
• Attend a harvest celebration with teachers and volunteers at the program’s conclusion
>> Joy of Feeding 2013 at UBC Farm
With its goal of strengthening the connections between whole local foods, cultural cooking and family, the Joy of Feeding fundraiser encompasses far more depth of vision than a typical fundraiser. Joy of Feeding 2012 had an underlying political motive of fostering cross-cultural understanding through food. Indeed, last year’s 16 home cooks represented countries such as Syria, Egypt, Pakistan and Mexico, all of which have experienced political turmoil within the past year. Last year there was a fun musical component, including a surprise performance by JUNO Award-winning artist Dan Mangan. This year promises to be even better!
On Sunday, June 30th, 2013, sixteen home cooks of different ethnic backgrounds offer you tastes of their family comfort foods at this third annual international food fair and UBC Farm fundraiser. For more information and for tickets please visit www.joyoffeeding.com
celebrate canada day
Burnaby
Burnaby Village Museum presents: Canada Day
Burnaby Village Museum
Burnaby is offering visitors the backdrop of its 1920s village streets, family entertainment including musicians, displays and demonstrations. Admission is free on this day and all season. There will be something for everyone to enjoy: children can join in the heritage games, get their face painted and have a laugh with children’s entertainers.
www.burnaby.ca
Surrey
Surrey Canada Day
Cloverdale Millennium Amphitheatre
10:00am -10:30pm
Surrey’s extravagant celebration includes live concert performances on the main stage, Canada color hair dye booth, marketplace, and fireworks. For children there is a kids zone, midway, fair food, soccer zone and face painting.
www.surrey.ca/canadaday
Vancouver
Waterfront Party and Parade
Canada Place
Downtown Vancouver’s biggest Canada Day celebration has live music and entertainment on three stages for all to come and join the fun. Later in the evening, the parade takes off on the corner of Georgia Street and Broughton Street.
Waterfront Party: 10am - 6pm; Parade starts at 7pm www.canadaday.canadaplace.ca
Canada Day Burrard Inlet Fireworks Show
Burrard Inlet
10:30 pm
This unique two-barge simultaneous pyrotechnic extravaganza lights up the sky with an extravaganza for the senses.
www.canadadayfireworks.ca
marketplace
North Delta
Canada Day in Delta Chalmers Park
6:00 – 11:00pm
Children’s activities, a barbeque including hot dogs, hamburgers and refreshments, live concert and fireworks to finish the night off. www.corp.delta.bc.ca
White Rock
Canada Day by the Bay White Rock Beach and Promenade 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
The day long party along White Rock’s promenade will feature live performances from entertainers and dance groups, children’s activities and artist displays. www.whiterockcity.ca
Ladner
Canada Day in Delta Delta Museum (Ladner)
9:00 am - Noon
Festivities include a pancake breakfast, live music, children’s activities and a giant Canada flag cake. www.corp.delta.bc.ca
Coquitlam
Coquitlam Celebrates Canada Day 2013 Lafarge Lake and Evergreen Cultural Centre Noon – 10:30pm
Explore the arts, experience culture, and taste flavours from around the world as Coquitlam celebrates Canada’s 146th birthday! There will also be four stages jam packed with entertainment! www.coquitlam.ca
Please go to www.westcoastfamilies.com for these and more listings with live weblinks.
dads westcoast
By Stephanie MacDonald | Photo by Revival Arts
Greg Vance
Entrepreneur/Investor
Dad to Olivia, 5, and Jesse, 2
Husband of Andrea, WCF Publisher
“Without a doubt, the proximity of outdoor recreation makes this one of the best places on earth to raise a family. We absolutely love the accessibility of the ocean and the mountains, as well as the wonders of the seasons. Our kids have grown-up both on snow and on water, and it’s a thrill to see them learn and experience nature, while developing life-long skills. As for Fathers Day: Surprise me!”
Corey Loken
Retail Manager
Dad to Emma, 7
Husband of Jodi, WCF Advertising Manager
“I would have to say the variety of activities we have access to year round. We are an active family that enjoys being outdoors and living on the WestCoast gives us access to many opportunities for family adventure. My dream Father’s Day would start with a family round of pitch and putt, or maybe even going to the driving range. I would love to share an activity that I really enjoy, but don’t do as often as I would like, with my family. We would then go for a nice brunch (preferably a buffet!) and maybe finish off by going to a family movie (the new Superman movie!). That sounds like a pretty awesome Father’s Day to me!”
Behold the men of the WCF families: Greg, Alex, Dylan and Corey, along with their offspring. Since it is nearing Father’s Day, and they are generally swell guys, and they were pretty generous on Mother’s Day this year, we decided to let them say something for a change. We asked these pillars of home and the community: What’s the best thing about being a dad on the West Coast? And not that we’re asking for any particular reason, but what, for you, would make for the best Father’s Day ever?
Alex Huckriede
Building Consultant
Dad to Willow, 12, and River, 9
Husband of Stephanie, WCF Editor
“West Coast dads are blessed with having a place here that allows us to be outside doing exciting activities year ‘round. Ski in the morning, and bike ride around the park for the afternoon. Fish for salmon and watch whales at the same time. The mountains and ocean are at our doorstep and we can enjoy them all with our kids. For Father’s Day, the best gift would involve an outdoors weekend. A weekend out camping with family and friends around a fire, roasting marshmallows and swimming in the lake is by far the best day a guy like me could have.”
Dylan Doubt
Photographer
Dad to Clementine, 7
Partner of Krysta, WCF Art Director
“Bike rides through the woods are what living here is all about. Living in the city, It’s easy to forget the proximity and beauty of the woods, mountains, and ocean. For Father’s Day, It’s almost embarrassing to admit, but I really would like a good breakfast in bed. Better still, if it was preceded by waking up to a quiet house after a luxurious sleep in. Then again... it would be nice to get a new grinder for the espresso machine.”
dad westcoast Matt Hern
By Stephanie MacDonald | Photo by Dylan Doubt www.dylandoubt.com
the plump and garrulous chickens in the back of this East Vancouver home seem very contented. Kept collectively by three families on the block, their upkeep and eggs are shared, and they happily cluck away unaware of the notions of community, collectivism, or modern urbanism of which they reflect part of a possible (and charming) future.
Unlike his chickens, Matt Hern is very aware of these concepts. In fact, he’s considered an expert, if one with radical leanings, about the future of urban social development. He’s a professor at UBC and SFU, and has written three books and edited a couple more about this subject. Oh, he’s also the founder of this little thing you may have heard of called Car Free Day, coming to a street near you on June 16th. Matt operates according to what sounds like a simple plan: when you do not have what you want, you make it. When a system does not fulfill your needs, create an alternate system that does. Want a sandwich? Having trouble putting on your pants over your shoes? You can fix that! But when what you want is a more flexible, inclusive school for your child, or when the transportation system is about to put a highway through your neighbourhood, this “just go ahead and do it” philosophy becomes a lot more daunting. Unless, of course, you are Matt Hern. In which case, you just casually go about building an alternative school program, or reimagining your city’s relationship with automobile transportation as though it was no different from putting a piece of cheese between two slices of bread.
Well, at least that’s how easy he makes it look.
When you meet him, or have the opportunity to hear him speak publically, it’s not hard to see why he’s good at getting people on board with projects such as the Eastside Learning Centre, Car Free Day, the Purple Thistle Centre, and his current Groundswell project: he is an exceptionally charismatic and engaging guy, projecting both amiable confidence and ardent curiosity.
“There have been a lot of projects that bombed too, you know,” he says modestly. “You just don’t really hear about them.” The journey began when Matt and his partner, Selena, moved to New York right after university, where Matt began working for The Nation magazine. They soon found themselves moving back to the west coast after Selena became pregnant with the couple’s oldest daughter, Sadie. “We did not want to deal with the American healthcare situation.” Faced with a baby to raise and no suitable employment or childcare options, the young couple started up the Eastside Learning Centre, an alternative school where they could both work (Selena and Matt both had education degrees), and they could switch off caring for their baby girl. The school was a positive learning experience for both founders and students, and in 1997 the school was successfully merged with the similarly-minded Windsor House School in North Vancouver, where Matt continued to work for five years, and where Selena taught until she started her PhD studies recently.
Working closely with a group of seven teens post-Windsor House, Matt then started the Purple Thistle Centre, a “youth-run centre for arts and activism,”
urbanist, author, organizer, gardener
2,500 square feet of space where youth can engage with each other and the community. The centre encompasses a large garden space, a library, bike workshop, computer lab, silkscreening room, animation facility, and a lot more. It is now run by a youth collective that controls all the day-day operations. He was also paying the bills as a sportswriter covering the NBA (he’s a devoted basketball fan) for sports websites, a newspaper, and even his own radio show; while also earning a MA and PhD, welcoming another baby, Daisy, to their family, starting Car Free Day on the Drive, lecturing at home and around the world, and publishing five books, among other things.
Matt and Selena’s idea of a “vacation” is to round up 25 teenagers and take off on an itinerary-less cross-country road trip for a month. It’s exhausting just writing about it.
In the midst of it all, Matt has been a devoted partner and father, and the family has an ever-evolving group of young people who have lived with them, some for long periods, and who have become an important and cherished part of their extended family.
As their girls grow up–Sadie is now in university, and Daisy is almost finished high school–Matt has turned his formidable energy towards a slightly older demographic, with Groundswell Grassroots Economic Alternatives Program, “a greenhouse for economic alternatives: a training institute where young people (up to age 35) can come together for a year’s intensive program to imagine, design and build new enterprises.”
This new idea grew out of the mingling feelings of anxiety and possibility that come with an impending empty nest. “I guess Groundswell is what I’m doing instead of a midlife crisis,” he says, overlooking his harmonious backyard chickens; simultaneously an activist, agitator, professor, urban farmer, and foremost, a father to a lucky few, and a mentor and role model to countless more.
For more information about Matt’s books, “One Game at a Time” (due in 2013), “Stay Solid! A Radical Handbook for Youth”, “Common Ground in a Liquid City”, “Everywhere all The Time”, and others, and to learn more about Groundswell, The Purple Thistle, the teen trips and exchanges and everything else Matt has his tentacles in, visit www.mightymatthern.com.
Vancouver Craft Beer Week
Various Locations in Vancouver
Adult Events for the Hip Dad Around Town!
May 31-June 8, check website for details
Featuring larger events, more breweries and special guests from the brewing industry, VCBW consists of a series of signature festival events and independently organized satellite events at numerous venues around town. 604.618.1963 | www.vancouvercraftbeerweek.com
After Hours; Jellyfish
Vancouver Aquarium
June 6, 6-10pm
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of these spectacular and surprisingly complex creatures. Plus, explore the galleries and exhibits in peace and tranquility without kids underfoot. Must be 19+. Please purchase your tickets online.
www.vanaqua.org
Ladner Village Market
Historic Ladner Village
June 9 &23, 10am-4pm
This is one of BC’s favourite outdoor street market including artisans, fresh food, live music and crafters. Fun for the whole family!
www.ladnervillagemarket.com
Bard on the Beach
Vanier Park
June 12 to September
Bard’s 2013 productions showcase three of Shakespeare’s most revered and popular plays, complemented by a Canadian play set in Shakespeare’s era. www.bardonthebeach.org
Transforming Human-Robot Interaction
H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, Vancouver
June 13, 7 pm
Find ways to help humans and robots work together with Dr Elizabeth Croft. Admission by donation. www.spacecentre.ca
www.dad-camp.com
DadCAMP
BC Lung Association RUSH:
Race and Urban Scavenger Hunt
All over Metro Vancouver
June 15
Teams of 2 will scour the city of Vancouver, deciphering clues to help them complete a predetermined number of Checkpoint Challenges at unknown locations. The challenges are designed to test teams’ limits, both mentally and physically, while also being fun and entertaining.
604.731.LUNG (5864)
Vancouver Draw Down
Check website for locations & times
June 15
This annual, daylong celebration of drawing challenges all Vancouverites to dispel their perceptions about drawing. Over 35 free drawing workshops will take place across the city in community centres, museums, art galleries, neighbourhood houses and public parks.
www.vancouverdrawdown.com
Car Free Vancouver Day
June 15 & 16, Kitsilano
June16, Commercial Drive, Main Street and Denman Street
This festival brings thousands of people out to celebrate and party in the street including road hockey, street performers, food and much more! Pick your location and join the fun!
www.carfreevancouver.org
Father’s Day Run
Metro Vancouver
June 16
Join Prostate Cancer Canada in helping awareness and funds for this disease. www.fathersdayrun.ca
Glam: 2013 Top 30 Vancouver Mom Blogger Celebration
Vancouver (secret location!)
June 19, 7pm-9pm
VancouverMom.ca will be searching for Vancouver’s top 30 Vancouver mom bloggers. Now in its fourth year, this annual event has the most talked-about, anticipated event for some of the most digitally dialed-in moms in Vancouver. www.vancouvermom.ca
Make Music Vancouver
Random locations throughout Vancouver
June 21, 2pm
Calling all music lovers! A free outdoor music festival, bringing art & music to the streets of Vancouver. www.makemusicvancouver.com
TD Vancouver International Jazz Festival
Various venues throughout Vancouver
June 21- July 1, 12noon-late
Vancouver’s signature festival celebrates over eleven days with the world’s best jazz, funk, Latin, fusion, and world music artists perform at venues big and small, indoor and outdoor across the city.
604.872.5200 | www.vanjazzfest.ca
Scotiabank Vancouver Half-Marathon and 5k Run/Walk UBC Student Union Centre, East Mall @ University Blvd, Vancouver
June 23, 7am(half marathon) & 9am(5k)
This event is Canada’s easiest scenic half-marathon, running past beaches, with mountains in the background, and finishing in Stanley Park, with a net drop of 76 metres (250 feet).
www.canadarunningseries.com
Kids Swap Meet
Cloverdale Fairgrounds
June 29, 9am-12:30pm
New and gently used items for kids from baby to 10 years such as toys, books, movies, clothing and ride-on toys. 604.588.9919
www.iusedtohavehair.com
Random thoughts from a single dad trying to find his place in the world.
www.urbandaddy.wordpress.com
Father of three children who started a blog to keep an online journal of his kids progress and to start discussions around issues he’s interested in. Interesting and entertaining!
www.thedadjam.com
Vincent is a Vancouver Dad of two, who started this site for his own sanity and to share some of his experiences and advice with others. The Dad Jam is a large-scale web conversation on various fatherhood topics.
blogs
www.envirodad.com
Eric is neither a professional Dad nor an environmental scientist. He is just someone who cares, and is trying to make the right decisions as he lives his life as a father, environmentalist and business owner. Eric and his wife Karen have 4 children and reside in Ajax, Ontario.
HSBC City of Bhangra Festival 2013
community
Various Locations throughout Vancouver and Surrey
May 30-June 8, check website for times 10 days of free and ticketed events including a free concert, Celebrate the Harvest, interactive workshops, demonstrations and a closing gala. 604.684.2787 | www.cityofbhangra.com
Hats off Day
Hastings St between Boundary Road and Gamma Ave, Burnaby
June 1, 9am – 3pm
Parade 9am, Street Festival 11am Heights merchants “take their hats off” to their community and have a one-day extravaganza featuring a colourful parade and a big street party afterwards including music, food and kids activities. www.burnabyheights.com
Day Out with Thomas
Railway Heritage Park, Squamish
June 1-2 & 8-9, 9:30am and every ½ hour after that Bring the kids for a 25-minute ride on a full size Thomas the Tank Engine, and enjoy live music and storytelling. Tickets are $23+tax for ages 2 and up. 604.898.9336 | www.wcra.org
West Vancouver Community Day
Ambleside Park, Vancouver
June 1, 9:30am-4pm
This will be a fun filled day of activities and festivities for the whole family, starting with a parade that will lead to the festivities. 604.925.7194 | www.westvancouver.ca
Salmon Barbeque
Ladner Harbour Park
June 2, 12noon-5pm
Help support Shriner community activities and enjoy a salmon dinner! Adults are $10 and children under 12 $5. 604.943.3548
Kids Summer Camp Expo
Croatian Cultural Centre, Vancouver
June 2
If you are a parent looking to put your child in a summer camp this year, this is a one-stop shop for all your informational needs. Meet various day and summer overnight camps throughout the Lower Mainland and parts of British Columbia all in one location on one day www.kidsummercampexpo.com
Vancouver Symphony Kids’ Koncert: Mozart’s Magnificent Voyage Orpheum Theatre, Vancouver
June 2, 2pm
The Dream Children are about to be written out of Mozart’s famous opera! Hoping to change their fate, they enlist the help of the composer’s young son Karl, embarking on an incredible journey that teaches Karl much about the great composer and his legacy of timeless music.
604.684.9100 | www.vancouversymphony.ca
Secret Garden Series
Surrey Museum
Tuesdays, June 4-18 12:30pm-2pm
Kids aged 3-6 years are invited to join the staff for afternoons filled with fairy crafts, games, and stories about an English secret garden in the early 1900s. Please pre-register.
604.592.6956 | www.surrey.ca
Teddy Bear Family Concert
Town Centre Park, Coquitlam
June 8, 2:30-6pm
This promises to be a fun evening of music for children of all ages including shows by Tony Prophet, Chris Hamilton and Music with Marnie. Free admission www.festivalcoquitlam.ca
Community Fun Fest
Lord Roberts Elementary, Vancouver
June 8, 10am-5pm (Kids swap & craft fair til 2pm)
Tons of Fun activities for children and grownups alike with food trucks, bouncy castles, yard sale, kid’s swap, craft fair, silent auction, bake sale and more!
604.713.5055
Hockey Night in Canada Play On!
Streets outside Coquitlam Centre
June 8-9, 8am-8pm
Canada’s Official Street Hockey Tournament is for all ages, all skill levels, open to both girls and guys. Teams must pre-register. www.playon.ca/events
If you’d like WestCoast Families magazine delivered to your event free of charge, please email your request to publisher@westcoastfamilies.com.
calendar
Children’s Festival Pirates Fair
Fraser River Heritage Park, Mission
June 9, 10am-4pm
Music, dance, juggling, games, numerous art workstations, pony rides, bouncy balloon and more guarantee smiles and laughter all around, with a Pirates Theme.
604.826.0029 | www.missionartscouncil.ca/events
Family Day at Surrey Art Gallery
Surrey Art Gallery
June 9, 12noon-4pm
Drop in for family-friendly activities inspired by the exhibition Spectacular Sangeet, plus a special performance at 2pm. Children must be with an adult. Suggested donation $4 per child. Explore, enjoy and create art together!
604.501.5566 | www.surrey.ca
World Ocean Day Celebration
Blackie Spit Park, Surrey
June 9, 11am-3pm
Join this community celebration and get some inspiration for ways that you can enjoy and care for our world’s oceans with plenty of family activities, great food, and over 70 free events & programs.
604.502.6065
Vancouver Draw Down: The Nano-Gigantic Drawing Experiment
ArtStarts Gallery, Vancouver
June 15, 12noon-4pm
Create animal and botanical-inspired art using tiny pin pencils on minuscule formats or humongous drawings using hand-made mop paint brushes on the wall. Free www.artstarts.com
15th Annual Surrey Fest
Central City Plaza -13450 102 Avenue, Surrey, BC
June 15, 11am-6pm
Hosted by the Whalley Community Association, Surrey Fest Downtown will have live musical talents, including the Now Junior talent search winners and bands such as March Hare, Sway, and All About Jack. There will also be food vendors with mouth-watering selections and entertainment for the family to enjoy as there will be bouncy castles, face-painting, crafts, and a magic show. www.surreyfest.com.
Father’s Day - Black Powder Event
Kilby Historic Site, Harrison
June 16, 11am-3pm
Watch the live Cowboy Action Show, archery and knife throwing demonstrations, chat with black powder gun enthusiasts, stroll thru Trader’s Row and stay for the BBQ!
604.796.9576 | www.kilby.ca
Father’s Day Bagel and Boat Breakfast
Britannia Shipyards, Richmond
June 16, 10-11:30am
Come for a bagel breakfast and then build your own model wooden fishing boat to take home! $10 per child (accompanying parent is free of charge)
604.718.8037
Point Grey Fiesta
Trimble Park, Vancouver
June 21-23, please check website for times
This fiesta starts with a parade on West 10th Ave, then continues with stage performances, activities, a carnival and exhibitors. Fiesta is free with the exception of the carnival rides and midway games. 604.263.6443 | www.pointgreyfiesta.org
Webster’s Corners Day
Webster’s Corners Elementary School, Maple Ridge
June 22, 11am
This annual family event features games and interactive activities for kids of all ages.
604.463.5311
Surrey Doors Open
Check website for locations
June 22, 11am-4pm
This free family event provides the unique opportunity to be a tourist in your own city with over 30 buildings offering a behind-the-scenes look at Surrey’s rich culture, history, art and architecture including free activities, guided tours, food and more! www.surrey.ca/doorsopen
Let’s Play!
Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children, 3644 Slocan St, Vancouver June 22, 1:30-3pm
Visit www.westcoastfamilies.com/events_calendar for more family friendly events in June! To have your event included in the WestCoast Families community calendar, please email your details to admin@westcoastfamilies.com.
An afternoon of modified wheelchair sport activities and loads of fun. Everyone is welcome. Sport Wheelchairs and equipment provided. www.letsplaybc.ca | 604.333.3532
Green Space Scavenger Hunt
By Jodi Iverson
Spring is here and the WestCoast is in bloom. What better way to encourage your little ones to start exploring than with this fun and simple scavenger hunt? This tutorial is easy to customize for any age, and is portable enough to take along wherever your adventures may lead!
materials
• Cardstock
• Printer (or pen!)
make it!
Step 1
Compile a list of fun finds suited to your backyard, a park, your camping destination and more; be creative! Use illustrations for little readers, and consider laminating your list and using a dry erase marker!
Step 2
Create a check list describing each find kids will enjoy ticking off each find as they go.
did you know?
The Guinness World Record largest scavenger hunt included over 14,580 participants from 90 countries!
Congratulations to the winner of the “Active Families” photo contest from the 2013 Diversity Health Fair!
We challenged kids and families to show us their most active pose and we just couldn’t resist this one.
Thanks to Bini Ball from Magna Vita Photography for volunteering at this fun event, and taking this amazing photo. www.magnavitaphotography.com
summerlearning
DID YOU KNOW? Most students lose about two months of grade level equivalency in math skills over the summer months, and Parents consistently cite summer as the most difficult time to ensure that their children have productive things to do.
Summer learning loss doesn’t have to happen! We’re telling parents about the educational AND FUN things kids can do this summer to keep their minds and bodies moving. Don’t miss this opportunity to tell our readers about YOUR summer learning programs
Rain or shine, WestCoast Families is telling readers about all the amazing things to do with kids this summer. It’s the perfect opportunity to tell families in the Greater Vancouver area about local attractions, family-friendly campgrounds, and places to visit during this favourite time of year.
