Families with babies and families without babies are sorry for each other.
~ Edgar Watson Howe (American editor,
1853-1937)
There’s a fine line between over-scheduled and downright insane. I think my family crossed that line three weeks ago, when all of the after-school activities fully launched.
What was I thinking? It’s been less than a month, and I’m already exhausted. My carbon footprint, thanks to all the driving hours I’ve logged in the past month, is larger than it was for the last four months. The back seat of my car has become the graveyard of a dozen on-thego meals—and yes, several of those were purchased in places that don’t require you to undo your seatbelt. Ironically, the offspring, the one actually participating in all of the activities, is lapping it up and even complains about the things that fell off the list or just never made it on in the first place—items like art and princess classes, figure skating, sky diving…yeah, basic stuff.
It’s easy to forget with all of that running around that you’re not actually spending time with your kids (outside of the car, of course). So we’ve put together a fabulous list of fall activities the whole family can enjoy together, away from the soccer field and out of the rink, as well as some great reads and cool crafts. And for a small getaway, think about someplace close like Sun Peaks (skiing optional). Turn to page 16 for ideas on what to do.
your thoughts
Loved the article on school fundraising in your latest issue! [September, Fundraising for the Future] I am so tired of bake sales and scented candles, and our PAC is now planning to get in touch with the companies in your article so that we can also be a “wealthy school.”
Thanks!
Donner
Just wanted to say thanks for the great finds that you feature in each issue. I love that you always focus on local stores and products, as well as fair trade and sustainable stuff. Keep up the great work!
Helen C.
October is also the month we focus on everything baby. Check out our twin survival guide, cool finds for baby’s room, how to deal with gaggers, circumcision pros and cons, and the 10 signs your baby has healthy attachment.
No October issue would be complete without something pink for the cure, and this month we take a look at local events and ideas on how you can support the cause, as well as interview a local mom who has had first-hand experience dealing with breast cancer and has come out on the other side. At the very least, it’s a story that should remind us about the importance of not only treasuring our time with our families, but also our time alone.
Have a happy and healthy month, and I’ll see you in November!
Hello, as a new Mom I absolutely loved your West Coast Baby Guide. It is a great resource of valuable information and great discounts. Thanks for a wonderful job that your team is doing!!! Your magazine covers feature ever so adorable models. ;-) How do you select cover girls and boys? How can one get on the cover of your magazine? Anastasia
Editor’s Note: We love getting photos of our readers’ kids and are always looking for new cover models! If you think your child would make a good cover model, email a photo of your little (or notso-little!) one to info@westcoastfamilies.com with the words “Cover Model” in the subject, and we will get back to you if a space opens up!
Got anything to say, rant about or praise? We want to hear it all!
Email editor@westcoastfamilies.com with your comments, questions and suggestions, and be entered to win monthly prizes!
WestCoast Families (WCF) is an independent, regional parenting publication. As the Lower Mainland’s prime resource for happy, healthy & active families, WCF provides informative and relevant content.
Published nine times per year in British Columbia, Canada. Total circulation: 50,000
For queries about editorial submissions, please view the contributor guidelines on our website.
To submit a community calendar event or share your feedback, please email info@westcoastfamilies.com.
WestCoast Families is proud to have been selected as a mom-friendly employer for the 2010 Progressive Employers of Canada List. And congratulations to our fellow inductees!
Photographed
WIN a Family Prize Pack to experience
Rescue
Stories at the Vancouver Aquarium.
Includes 4 admission passes, and a special family animal encounter with Schoona the sea turtle! (Value $250). On now through November 6, meet the Aquarium’s family of rescued marine animals, including dolphins, sea otters, a harbour porpoise, a sea turtle and more. Learn about their incredible rescues and their inspiring stories of survival through special exhibits, shows and programming. www.visitvanaqua.org
Deadline to Enter: October 15, 2011
WIN this Starter Set from gDiapers!
gDiapers is the maker of sustainable and stylish cloth diapers and fashions— with the added bonus of reusable or biodegradable inserts! Prize includes your choice of either Garden Party (girl) or Game Day (Boy) printed gPants, three other Fall Colour gPants, one pack of gCloths, one pack of gRefills and gWipes (value $150). www.gdiapers.ca
Deadline to Enter: October 31, 2011
WIN a Family Basket from Sisters Making Scents!
This local Vancouver company specializes in handmade, sustainable and all-natural products for bath, body and baby. Their line includes soaps, balms, insect repellent, bath salts, headache remedies, massage oil candles and a line of baby products. Prize includes soaps for the whole family, body and room spritzers, Bummer Butter, nail and cuticle conditioner, lip balms, salt scrub, body butter and more (total value over $150)! www.sistersmakingscents.ca
Deadline to Enter: October 31, 2011
Twitter Contest!
Follow us on Twitter (@wcfmag) and be entered to win a Pink Voice Rockrz, an innovative microphone that magically interacts with included accessories to transform your voice. Tap the accessories to the mic to unlock different voice effects: you’ll hit those soaring high notes with ease, hear your voice echo across the stadium, and transform into a rocking robot as the crowd cheers in amazement! $24.99 at Toys R Us and Walmart. www.voicerockrz.com
*Be sure to include your Twitter handle when you enter online and follow us on Twitter! Deadline to Enter: October 31, 2011
Keep Little Feet Warm and Dry with Stonz Wear
These little booties are ideal for newborns and kids up to three years. Softskid-resistant rubberized soles are perfect for developing feet, plus flexible design and adjustable fit keeps these booties on baby’s feet, even as she grows. $44.99 at Active Baby, Boomers & Echoes and Kiddo Kids. www.stonzwear.com
Dress Them Gently in Peekinz Baby
Started by three local moms who are also sisters, this made-inCanada line of soft bamboo clothing also includes the patented Peekinz Pocket, a back pocket opening on all one-piece items that allows for quick diaper checks without disrobing baby! Onesies $30-$34, sleepers $50-$60, hooded rompers $65. www.peekinz.com
Keep Heads Cozy with Silkberry Baby Hats
Made in Vancouver, these handmade hats are made from bamboo and mercerized cotton, a non-itchy yarn with a silky feel—perfect for babies’ sensitive heads. They are also hypo-allergenic and super-cute! $24.99 at Little Earth and Room for Two. www.silkberrybaby.com
Obasan Crib Mattress
This Canadian company manufactures mattresses and bedding from natural rubber and organic cotton and wool. Choose from crib and toddler mattresses right up to king-sized luxury for yourself. Prices vary. Available at the Obasan store in Vancouver or online. www.obasan.ca
Breathable Baby Mesh Crib Bumpers
Safer than regular bumpers, Breathable Baby allows air to flow through cribs freely, while keeping little heads and arms from getting stuck or bumped. Soft, padded sides fit both slatted and solid end cribs. $39.95 at Toys R Us. www.breathablebaby.com
Heal Little Tushies With Bummer Butter
From local Vancouver company Sisters
Making Scents, Bummer Butter is made from all-natural shea butter, whipped with sweet almond oil, plus pure essential oils of sweet orange and French lavender, known for their healing properties. Healing and safe for your baby’s skin. Moms will want to try it too (perfect for stretch marks!). $12.95 at Buy the Bunch or online. www.sistersmakingscents.ca
Write a Hug with Little Jots
Little Jots offers the convenience of choosing either carefully crafted pre-written notes or the writing your own special message (the pre-written notes were developed in conjunction with child development specialists). Seal the Little Jot with a “hug” or “kiss” sticker and pop it into a child’s lunchbox, shoe, pillow or backpack. Perfect note for a birthday or Christmas gift! Ten percent of all sales in B.C. go to B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation. $14.95 at Hip Baby and London Drugs. www.littlejots.com
11th Annual WestCoast Women’s Show
Tradex, Abbotsford
October 21-23
Come out for B.C.’s largest and most successful women’s event show! Don’t miss HGTV’s Colin and Justin on the Main Stage, as well as Tara-Jean and Vincent from So You Think You Can Dance Canada. Shop and learn from hundreds of exhibitors, covering everything from health and wellness to cooking, fashion, accessories and more! Plus stay for the fashion shows, martini nights and the hotter-than-hot firemen’s calendar fashion show. And don’t forget, Sunday is Mothers and Daughters Day at the show! See website for full details, admission prices and hours. www.westcoastwomen.net
9th Annual Baby & Family Fair
Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre
October 29 & 30
With over 100 exhibitors covering everything from RESPs, baby and kids clothes, furniture, toys, games and much more, this is one of the largest baby and family shows in B.C! Don’t forget to enter to win the $25,000 family grand prize, meet Po from , and catch Bobs & Lolo performing their latest hits. And don’t miss the baby races and the 2011 photo contest. See website for full details, admission prices and hours. www.baby-fair.com
fall fun listings
Reapers Haunted Attraction and the Maze of Terror
9423 Gibson Rd , Chilliwack
Ongoing to October 14, various times
Don’t miss out on your Scare! For the older kids (8+) check out the scary Reapers attraction, or for the younger kids, there is a pumpkin patch and corn maze. Reapers-$10, corn maze-$9 or both$17. Receive $1 in Reapers dollars with a canned food item for the Salvation Army, to be used at the concession for food or merchandise—help them take the scare out of hungry!
www.reapers.ca
Applebarn Pumpkin Farm
333 Gladwin Rd, Abbotsford Daily, various times
Pick your own pumpkins, and check out the jumping pillow, tractor trail, zip lines and slides, petting barn and more! New this year: try the corn maze! Children under two are free. See website for details.
604.853.3108 | www.applebarn.ca
Farm Fall Harvest
Laity Pumpkin Patch, Maple Ridge
October 1-31
Visit this educational farm for plenty of fall fun! See the animals, take a tractor-wagon ride, fairy tale trails and pick your own pumpkin to take home. Weave your way through the “cornfusing” corn maze, shop the farmers’ market, plus there’s so much more to do! $4/person, free/kids under two. See website for full details. 604.467.4302
www.laitypumpkinpatch.com
Grave Tales
23433 Mavis Ave, Fort Langley
Weekends in October, various times
Spine-chilling tales of love, mysterious burials and old-school amputations. Fort Langley’s past is depicted at night by our expert storytellers, and will leave you spellbound as you weave through the village from the misty cemetery to the deserted Hudson’s Bay Company fort. Lanterns and flashlights are welcome. The tour runs about two hours and involves 90 minutes of walking on various terrains suitable for adult and teen audiences. Tickets available online. $13. 604.513.4777
This pumpkin patch is filled with many fun family activities including U-pick pumpkins and gourds, hayrides, petting zoo, ring toss, face painting, concession and more! Children 2 and under enter free. Pumpkins are extra and priced by size. 604.992.7748
Maan Farms
790 McKenzie Road, Abbotsford
Daily, 9am-6pm
There is a petting zoo, hay wagon rides, Kidz Corral, bee centre, self-guided tours of the farm, and an exquisite panoramic view of the valley from the top of the 360-degree lookout- $6. Or try the A-maze-ing Farm Fun Package where not only do you get everything from the Farm Fun Package, you also get: Access to Papa Jo’s A-maze-ing Mazes: $10. The Pumpkin patch is open until October 31. Access to pumpkin patch is free, and kids under 2 are free.
604.864.8723 | www.maanfarms.com
Pumpkin Patch at Aldor Acres
24990-84 Ave, Langley
Ongoing until October 31, 9am-5pm
Visit the pumpkin patch any day until Saturday, October 31 to see the farm animal displays, take a hayride and pick the perfect pumpkin you really want to carve from the field. $7/person or $30/ family. Pumpkins sold separately by size.
604.888.0788 | www.aldoracres.com
Halloween Ghost Train
Stanley Park
October 7-31, 6-10pm
During October, the train is converted into a Halloween Ghost Train. The Ghost Train boasts a new theme each year and is great fun for anyone who enjoys being scared and amazed. Lots of fun, but be warned that tickets sell out fast! This year’s Ghost Train, in addition to the train ride, will include the always-popular Haunted Children’s Farmyard and its spooky animals, along with other activities. On Thursday through Saturday nights, you can take part in the Creatures of the Night Walks. Check online for ticket prices.
604.257.8531 www.vancouver.ca/parks
Children’s Halloween Festival
Bear Creek Park Train, Surrey
October 14-31
Take the train ride through the Halloween Forest Display. Play Halloween games, make special spooky crafts and get a candy treat. Take home a farm-fresh pumpkin. For the older folks and mature youngsters, try the night-time frightful train ride into the dark forest loaded with night-time creatures. Popular characters from previous years’ performances will be back. Great fun! Both day and nighttime trains run rain or shine. See website for prices.
604.501.1232 | www.bctrains.com
The Haunted Coalmine Oct 29-31, 6-9:30pm
3166 East 16 Ave, Vancouver
This is the 8th annual haunted house presented by Scared Stiff Productions. This event is not only for fun and to scare the pants off you, it is also a fundraiser for Make-A-Wish Foundation. There is a suggested donation of $2. The goal each year is to raise $6,000 as that is the amount needed for the foundation to grant just one wish. For all ages. www.scaredstiffproductions.com
PNE Fright Nights
PNE Fairgrounds
October 14 to 31, 6pm-11pm
Don’t miss the scariest Halloween event in Vancouver! Fright Nights at Playland is a Halloween experience for the lovers of freak, horror and terror. Disturbing haunted houses, freaky twilight rides, escapee axe murderers and a handful of monsters fill all of Playland making for a deathly night out! We strongly advise you to keep a friend close; within arm’s reach... you never know what creepy creatures are waiting for you in the shadows! Miss it and be left in the dark. Check online for tickets prices.
www.frightnights.ca
Haunted Farm
Historic Stewart Farm, Surrey
October 22, 7-8:30pm
Something creepy is cooking in the farmhouse. The barn has been taken over by ghosts! Wear your costume and join in for a fun and spooky guided tour through the farm. Please pre-register. One session is $10 and appropriate for 7-11 year olds. 604.592.6956 | www.surrey.ca
Prehistoric Maskerade Science World
October 22, 6-10pm
Throw on your best tusks, dress up like a sabre tooth tiger, or get dad to dress like a caveman and come enjoy a special evening exploding with fun for the whole family! Trick-or-treat amongst Extreme Dinosaurs, some of the scariest creatures ever found, and enjoy our feature musical group, street entertainment, theatre performance, delicious food, family photos, spooky projects, dino dig, face painting, and a great Maskerade goodie bag. This is a family fundraising event and tickets are $90 per adult and $60 per child. 604.443.7500 | www.scienceworld.ca
Halloween Murder Mystery
“Curse of Witches”
October 25, 6:30-9pm
Barclay Manor
Welcome one and all to Barclay Manor’s Annual Halloween Murder Mystery whodunit. Play detective and deduce who murdered the strange body on the floor, a body surrounded by mysterious signs and objects of the occult. Have the party of a lifetime as you tease your taste buds on scrumpdelicious. Halloween goodies and win cauldrons of hidden prizes! Barclay Manor presents English drawing room mystery at its best. Come in costume if you choose but come to scare and be scared. Register early as space is limited.
www.barclaymanor.ca
Halloween Tricks and Treats
Surrey Museum
October 28, 11am-noon & 1-2pm
Funny tricks and yummy treats make this Halloween party safe and fun! Decorate a take-home pumpkin, dance the Monster Mash, and make a spooky ghost. Please pre-register. $6.50 (3-6yrs).
Haunted House
Barclay Manor, Vancouver
October 28 & 29, 7-9pm
For bigger, braver souls (six years and up), Barclay Manor has been converted into a spooky scary house. Being a heritage home it has it own natural creepiness. It takes about five minutes to make your way through. Pre-purchase your tickets or pay at the door. $3/person.
604.257.8333| www.barclaymanor.ca
Haunted Village
Burnaby Village Museum
October 28, 29 & 30, 6-9pm The circus is coming! The ghoul community in the village are hosting a traveling circus. Problems ensue. Come join the dead-folk & help solve the mystery. Fun for all brave families. Come rain, shine or waning moon! Wear your costume and bring your flashlight and camera. See the circus characters, ghosts, witches, stilt walkers and goblins lurking in the village streets. Trick or treat at the houses of the ghoulish village folk. Hear the devil’s blacksmith at the anvil. Run by the live scarecrows. Marvel at the fire show. Adults $14, children (2-12 years) $9. Entrance includes unlimited carousel rides and for the children, trick or treating.
604.293.6500
www.burnabyvillagemuseum.ca
Halloween “Fish or Treat”
Vancouver Aquarium
October 29, overnight
Trick or treat, smell my feet; give me something good to eat. End your Halloween night with a spooky filled adventure through the galleries. Legend has it that on Halloween the past meets the present. Bring your costumes to go trick or treating on a night stalkers tour where you will join other families in a quest to find the elusive ghost of Joshua Brown, a former aquarist. Bed down in Arctic Canada as you lull yourself to sleep with the magical Beluga Whales. It includes an evening snack and a continental breakfast. $110 per participant ($88 for members). An adult must accompany children 16 and under. Minimum age is five years. Pre-registration is required.
604.659.3552 | www.vanaqua.org
Halloween Hoopla
Bill Copeland Sports Centre, Burnaby
October 29, 12:30-3pm
Ice-skating, face painting, creepy crafts and ghostly games are all part of the spine-tingling day. Costumes are optional but encouraged. Regular admission and rental rates apply.
604.298.0533 | www.burnaby.ca
Halloween Howl
False Creek Community Centre
October 29, 10:30am-noon
A spooktacular event that includes Halloween-themed games and crafts, children’s entertainment, pumpkin patch and a treat bag. Everyone is encouraged to come in costume. Space is limited and registration must be done in advance (to know how many pumpkins are needed). Children must be accompanied by an adult. This event is suited for children under nine years. $5/person. www.falsecreekcc.ca
Family Fright at the Fort Fort Langley National Historic Site
October 29 & 30
Enjoy Beaver Tales Theatre’s 45-minute spooktacular theatre show for kids of all ages, plus a full day of spine tingling activities in Fort Langley.
604.513.4777
www.parkscanada.gc.ca/fortlangley
Pumpkin Power
Surrey Museum
October 29, noon-2pm
Like pumpkins? Here’s your chance to view, decorate, and eat them! Design your own take-home Jack O’Lantern, do crafts, and taste some pie while watching the Cloverdale costume parade. Drop-in, admission by donation.
604.592.6956
Halloween Weekend
Capilano Suspension Bridge
October 29 & 30
The park will be festively decorated with a harvest theme, offering musical entertainment and special activities for the whole family to enjoy. Enjoy a grand Jack-o-lantern display along with fortune telling, temporary tattoos, kids crafts, musical entertainment and trick-ortreating if you show up in costume.
604.985.7474 | www.capbridge.com
Haunted Cannery Tours
Gulf of Georgia Cannery
National Historic Site
October 29 & 30
Join in for a hair-raising tour through the Cannery, as ghosts of the departed lead guests on a spooky journey through B.C.’s fishing history. Tours start at 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, 4:30 and 5:30pm.
604.664.9009 www.gulfofgeorgiacannery.com
Kilby’s Harry Potter Halloween
Kilby Historic Site, Harrison Mills
October 29 & 30, 11am-8pm Wizards and Muggles alike are invited to Hogwarts for a fun-filled, magical time! Enter the site through gate 9 and 3/4, visit Diagon Alley, attend a Potions class, and play a game of Quidditch. Crafts for the kids and treats! Visit the restaurant & gift shop. $9/adults, $7/youth and students, $24/family, free/five years and under.
604.796.9576 | www.kilby.ca
Halloween Carnival & Haunted House
Coal Harbour Community Centre
October 30, 10am-1pm
Join us for this fun, hair-raising afternoon and get into the spooky spirit! Enjoy creepy crafts, terrifying treats, tombstone tumbling, eerie entertainment and more! Wear your costume and visit the spooky graveyard. Pre-registration is recommended, as space is limited. Parent participation is required. $6/child (2-6 years).
604.718.8222 | www.coalharbourcc.ca
Planning For Family Fun at Sun Peaks
By Debbie Bowman
As the leaves change from green to yellow and we begin to feel that familiar chill in the air, most of us start to think about and plan for our winter holidays. And for many of us a winter holiday means fun in the snow, specifically, skiing! But with so many ski resorts to choose from, it’s difficult to decide on a destination that will please every member of the family.
Sun Peaks ski resort is a great family destination any time of the year, but especially in the winter. In fact, the resort was designed in such a way to make it easy for the entire family to have a great time. From the world-class ski slopes to the European-themed village, it’s a cinch for each family member to individualize their experience.
As far as skiing is concerned, you can’t get much better than Sun Peaks for easily accessible variety. For example, the wide, lightly treed trails found off the Sundance Express chair are the best bet for new skiers and children. And for the expert skiers in the family there are chutes, moguls, double black diamond runs and two amazing bowls—dubbed the Crystal and the Toilet bowl (try to ski that without a grin on your face). Sun Peaks also has many treed areas for amazing glade skiing, including some new runs cut into the heavily treed Lonesome Fir Glades. And for those who like to hit the rails and fly over jumps, Sun Peaks has the nine-acre Rockstar Energy terrain park with separate zones for experts, intermediates, and beginners.
Speaking of experts, I know there are some moms out there who can ski circles around Dad and the kids, but for moms like me, there’s the newlyformed Ski Sisters. Created by two certified female guides who know the Sun Peaks mountains like the backs of their hands (um, I mean ski gloves) Ski Sisters offers affordable, individualized, and fun lessons for women who want to shred the slopes.
Although Sun Peaks is world famous for its skiing, it’s about so much more than that. Visitors can go tubing, ice-skating, trek through the hills on snowshoes to a waiting bonfire and hot chocolate, yell “mush” while riding a dog sled, or enjoy a magical sleigh ride. And for something entirely new and exciting, you may want to try Sun Peak’s newest sport—snow-biking. Touted to be easier to learn than skiing or snowboarding, the experience is likened to floating through clouds of powder.
If you’d rather enjoy the snow from afar, there are other things you can do at Sun Peaks. You can stroll through the village and the fabulous shops; you can enjoy a rejuvenating spa experience; or you can relax while you sip a glass of wine in one of the numerous pubs. In a nutshell, whether your favourite three-letter-word is “ski” or “spa,” there is always something to catch your fancy at Sun Peaks.
And, as the name implies, Sun Peaks is a sunny place. In fact, when you visit Sun Peaks, sunscreen is almost as important as your skis. That’s because, during
an average year, Sun Peaks is blessed with 250 days of glorious sunshine. That’s not a bad average, and it’s nice to anticipate a sunny winter’s day, especially when we’re experiencing the liquid sunshine so prevalent in Vancouver during the winter. All that sunshine, fresh air, and playing in the snow creates a big appetite. So we mustn’t forget the famous high-elevation cinnamon buns that can be had at the Sunburst Lodge. They’re prepared fresh every twenty minutes— which is good, because they disappear quickly. It’s even said that the higher elevation makes them bigger, fluffier, and extra delicious—or maybe it’s just the ambiance of eating a gooey cinnamon bun surrounded by acres of snow. Either way, the buns are just a chairlift away, and definitely worth the trek. And remember, one doesn’t need to count calories when you plan on skiing all day. Speaking of chairlifts, if you need one more reason to choose Sun Peaks this year, it’s got to be the historic Burfield Chair. Tod Mountain, the name previously bestowed upon the Sun Peaks area, first opened as a ski destination in 1961 when the Burfield Lodge and chairlift opened to the public. Since then the Burfield Chair has been a favourite for skiers and boarders to access the mountain. For many years it was even the longest chairlift in North America. To mark the Burfield Chair’s historic birthday, Sun Peaks is planning a year of festivities that will commence on December 3. From a pageant to a penguin “belly slide” race, all the festivities are themed 1960s to honour the decade when all the fun began. Though it may be too cold on the slopes for hot pants, I’m sure some ancient snow suits from the 60s will be spotted on the slopes.
For a great day of skiing with the sisters contact Ski Sisters at www.sunpeaksresort.com/winter/sports-school/ski-sisters
For more information on Sun Peaks resort, visit www.sunpeaksresort.com
For useful and detailed ski-run information visit www.powdertravel.com/ski_sun_peaks.htm
October is Pink for the Cure!
Pink Ribbon Tea:
Beating Cancer One Cup at a Time
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there is a lot that you can do to show your support. And while there are many runs and walks in which you can participate and raise funds, not everyone who wants to show support is able to actually run, or even walk, for that matter.
Get Pink’d!
This idea marked the birth of Pink Ribbon Tea at local Fairmont Hotels. Joey Holt was manager of The Fairmont Store in The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and suffered from breast cancer for over two years before succumbing in November of 2010. Each year in October, she saw a gathering of runners and walkers for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation’s CIBC Run for the Cure. She recognized that there are some people who could not directly participate, but who want to contribute to the cause in some way. Her vision was to hold an annual Pink Ribbon Tea in various locations across Canada in order to raise money for breast cancer research in a fun and social way.
The gathering after Holt’s funeral in 2010 was really the inaugural Pink Ribbon Tea as The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver baked three hundred pink-iced tea cakes for the reception and arranged them on tables in the form of CBCF’s pink ribbon emblem. Her husband, Gerald Holt, has been working with
On October 27, wear pink or dress casually in support of the CBCF. Register your office, school or group to receive your Get Pink’d buttons and participant kit. For more information, call 604.683.2873 or email nhouston@cbcf.org.
Individual Get Pink’d buttons will also be available October 21 to 23 at your local Canada Safeway for a minimum $5 donation. www.cbcf.org/getpinkd
Fairmont Hotels to create Pink Ribbon Tea in Joey Holt’s memory. Private Pink Ribbon Teas are also being held in West Vancouver, Langley and South Surrey with all proceeds and donations going to CBCF for breast cancer research.
You can experience the Pink Ribbon Tea at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Fairmont Pacific Rim and Fairmont Chateau Whistler during the month of October. Two dollars from the sale of every afternoon tea will be donated to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation. Or you can choose to host your own event in your home or at another venue. There is no minimum donation. Learn more at www.pinkribbontea.com
Shop Pink!
Many local businesses are partnering with CBCF to sell products in support of the cause during the month of October. From pink cupcakes and cones to chocolates, groceries and restaurant meals, here is a list of local businesses that are showing their pink colours for October:
Buy-Low Foods
Esquire Coffee Houses
Hillside Estate Winery & Bistro Hotel 540
Impact Canopies Canada Inc.
Marble Slab Creamery Original Cupcakes by Heather and Lori Rockford Wok Bar and Grill Rogers’ Chocolates Thrifty Foods
Sweet offerings from the Pink Ribbon Tea at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Demystifying Circumcision
By Nicola Enright-Morin
Having a baby is a life-changing event. From the moment you’re pregnant, you’re bombarded by choices to make on behalf of your unborn child. Natural birth or caesarean? Breast milk or formula? Are soothers good or bad? There are so many decisions, some big, some small, yet everything must be carefully considered. If you’re expecting a boy, you’ll have one more decision to make: circumcision. For many families, because of their religious or cultural beliefs, this is an easy choice to make. But for many other parents, the issue presents a real dilemma. After all, what you decide will affect your son for a lifetime, so you want to get it right.
Over time, circumcision has become a heated issue, so wading through both sides of the debate and finding out all the facts can be a real challenge.
Some groups, including the Canadian Children’s Rights Council, are vehemently opposed to the procedure, declaring it unethical and a violation of human rights. While advocates for circumcision say that new medical research demonstrates many positive health benefits, some life saving, so that circumcision is a great choice. Before you make any decision, it is vital to do your research. The Internet can be a useful tool, but there is also a lot of misinformation on circumcision, which can leave you more confused than ever. Begin by talking to your family doctor, or a health practitioner in your area. They should be able to tell you all the latest information, as well as inform you of all the options currently available in the Lower Mainland.
But what is circumcision exactly? According to the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) “Circumcision of baby boys is a surgical procedure to remove the layer of skin (called the foreskin or the prepuce) that covers the head (glans) of the penis and part of the shaft.” Here in Canada, circumcision is no longer routinely performed, unless the operation is needed for health or medical reasons. Therefore, if parents elect to circumcise their son, they must go to a private clinic. Finding accurate information on current trends is not easy. According to the official statistics, the number of boys being circumcised across Canada has dropped dramatically since the 1970s. However these figures do not include the number of circumcisions performed at private clinics, so the real figure could be much higher.
Dr. Neil Pollock, who has been performing circumcisions for over twenty years, says that, despite what the official statistics say, a great many families still choose to circumcise their sons. His clinic is one of the busiest in the Lower Mainland and in the twenty years he has performed the procedure, he has completed over 30,000 circumcisions. “I offer families a virtually bloodless, virtually painless, 30 second infant circumcision procedure, which provides a wonderful service in our community for families who have weighed out
the risks and benefits, and have decided that circumcision is something they really want to do for their son.”
According to many new studies, performing circumcision can reduce the rate of urinary tract infection and penile cancers. In recent years, it has also been shown in some studies that there can be a reduced rate of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV.
Although in most cases circumcision is quick and uncomplicated, there are instances where it doesn’t go smoothly. Dr. Glen Ward, a paediatrician in Surrey, B.C, and Chair of the CPS Public Education Advisory Committee, says, although it doesn’t happen often, “I’ve certainly run into families where they’ve had complications from circumcision.” He said issues that that can arise include, “local infections around the head of the penis, bleeding can be quite profound with some of these kids, too much tissue taken off, the tip of the penis can be taken off, and there can be scarring and other cosmetic issues.” He says that parents must look at the issue in the same way that they consider every choice they make for their child and try to choose what is best.
Stella Lombardi, a mother of two boys from Burnaby, opted to circumcise both her sons. Her oldest child had a medical condition, so specialists at B.C. Children’s Hospital recommended circumcision. Because Lombardi’s son was eight months old, instead of a quick procedure, the circumcision involved day surgery, which meant her son had to go under general anaesthetic, which for her “was the scariest part.” Despite her worries, she says “The one thing I remember, in terms of recovery, is that it was unbelievably good. He woke up and he was fine.” When the Lombardi’s found out they were expecting a second son, she says, “We knew that we would get him circumcised. Because, as a parent, I felt bad that my older son had to be ‘put under’ and no one wants that for their child. Also, what if the same medical issue happened again? The chances are, it could have and if that would have happened, I would have regretted it and said I should have done it sooner.” She says the fact that her oldest was circumcised also influenced her choice, because as brothers she wanted them to look the same.
However, many parents feel that it is important to leave the choice up to the child. Christina Black, from Kitsilano, says that even though she looked into the option of circumcision, she decided against it. “It’s not my body, so how could I choose? In the same way as I didn’t pierce my daughter’s ears because it is her body, I felt the same for my son. He has the right to choose when he is old enough to decide for himself.”
Ultimately, no matter what you decide, circumcision is just like all the other choices you make for your child. Armed with all the right information, only you can decide what is in the best interest of your child.
Resources
Canadian Paediatric Society National professional association of paediatricians in Canada.
www.caringforkids.cps.ca
American Academy of Pediatrics Professional association based in the United States, but also with members from Canada. www.healthychildren.org
World Health Organization www.who.int
Canadian Children’s Right Council A non-profit, non-governmental education and advocacy organization. www.canadiancrc.com
Dr. Neil Pollock www.pollockclinics.com
Twin-frastructure A Battle Plan for Bringing Home Two Babies
By Angela Ford
The ultrasound tech was late that day and I was preoccupied with my bladder. When I finally lay back on the paper-covered bed, I was in a desperate situation, bladder-wise, and so not prepared for what came next.
“It looks like twins.” I craned my neck and saw two black sacs, each with a tadpole baby floating in the middle.
By the time I was released to the ladies’ room, my brain had caught up with the news. Twins would not look like quiet tadpoles for long. Very, very soon, twins would look like a chaotic swirl of diapers, spit up, and laundry.
For the next six months, I drew up a battle strategy. I read books and blogs and spoke with every twin mom who crossed my path. I felt I was ready when they finally came home. Twins, however, are crafty. In the wake of their coordinated attack, I tweaked my systems, adapted my infrastructure, did a lot of laundry, and managed to raise them to toddlerhood. This is what I learned.
Safe places for waiting babies
From the very beginning, twins learn to be patient. If you are changing, bathing, or soothing one twin, the other must be put down. You will need safe rest stops set up in key locations like the family room, kitchen, and bathroom. I rated my rest stops on the toxic twin scale: how safe is Twin A if I am up to my wrists in Twin B’s revolting diaper?
• Bouncy chairs. Quick to buckle and stable enough for robust, kicking babies, bouncy chairs are a staple in the twin home. Get two, and use them in rooms where you want the babies up off the floor.
• Baby gyms and play mats. These padded mats have arches that provide the framework for dangly toys. I loved the baby gyms because they are cheap, portable, and the babies can stretch out and kick their legs.
• A cozy blanket. This easy, low-cost rest stop is perfect for a carpeted family room. The one drawback is that in my house, a blanket on the floor appears like an area rug, inviting older kids to walk on it, sometimes with shoes.
Transportation
There are many ways to carry two babies, most of them cumbersome and awkward. Short of having a second person following you everywhere, these are the best solutions.
• Large receiving blankets. When my boys were tiny newborns, I wrapped them in a loose swaddle, then carried them in my arms stacked like cordwood. This works for short trips, and only until they weigh about ten pounds.
• Baby sling. Made of stretchy, sturdy fabric, one baby slips in, freeing your hands to carry the other.
• Soft baby carriers. When the babies outgrow the sling, you will need something more robust. I loved the Ergo Baby carrier: it holds big babies with the weight on the hips, and it can be worn on the front, side, or back.
Changing diapers—lots of diapers
Perhaps the first thing twins learn is the coordinated poop. It works like this: one twin poops. Mom changes him. The other twin poops. Mom changes him. The first twin poops again. Mom changes him. This trick is also great for Dad, as well as kind-hearted relatives who offer to help.
• Multiple diaper stations. Unless you live in a bachelor suite, you will need a few different spots to change diapers. Set up one main change table, plus one or two satellite stations.
• Supply kits. All diapering stations need a basket with diapers, wipes, bum cream, and a change pad with extra covers. Use the floor or a stretch of bathroom counter for your satellite stations.
• One central diaper disposal. Whether you use cloth or disposable, put all used diapers in one disposal. It is a small detail to carry a dirty diaper from a satellite station to your main disposal. It is a much bigger job to keep multiple disposals smelling fresh.
Feeding
Feeding twins is tricky, no matter how you do it. I have friends who always double nursed their twins. When I double nursed, putting two babies to two breasts seemed to require a third hand. I opted to nurse one and bottle feed the other at the same time, switching babies for the next feed.
• Nursing pillow. However you double feed, a nursing pillow is a lifesaver. Look for one that curves to your body, and wide enough to support two babies.
• Comfortable chair. Pick one cozy feeding spot and keep a basket nearby with lanolin cream, breast pads, and burp cloths.
• Bottle set-up. I chose glass bottles and powdered formula. Set up your bottles the evening before by filling them with sterilized water. Pre-measure the powdered formula into little plastic cubes (sold in baby stores for freezing purees). To prepare a bottle, heat the water, add the pre-measured formula and give it a shake.
The most important gear: a camera, notebook, and a few minutes to write your thoughts
Know that when your babies are two, their infancy will be a blur. Take lots of pictures. Take your babies’ hand and foot prints. Clip locks of hair. Write down heights and weights. Soon they will be running and colouring and starting school. You will want to remember their soft feet, the curve of their cheeks, and the way they both grabbed for the same dangly toy as they kicked in the baby gym.
Angela Ford is a freelance writer and mother of four children. She successfully managed twin boys through babyhood and is now battling the toddler years.
Twin Resources
Juggling Twins: The Best Tips, Tricks, and Strategies From Pregnancy to the Toddler Years , by Meghan Regan-Loomis. A fun, easily digestible set of ideas for new twin moms.
www.babygizmo.com has honest, thoughtful video reviews of baby products, including several double strollers.
www.raising-twins.com is run by a twin mom, featuring lots of practical advice for the different stages of pregnancy, twin infancy, and beyond.
• Twin baby items are often for sale on Craigslist.com and Kijiji.com. Look here first for items like bouncy chairs, play saucers, and double stroller frames.
• If you’re buying new items, make sure you choose a store with knowledgeable sales staff who won’t just try to sell you the most expensive item.
10 Signs Your Baby Has Healthy Attachment
By Michele Kambolis
There’s a great deal of fuss in the parenting world—school gyms are filled with parents eager to hear about attachment parenting. Those on the other side of the parenting craze argue that attaching to babies requires neither training nor attention. Whether you argue for the need of attachment training or believe bonds develop regardless, securely attached children enjoy far reaching benefits compared to their less bonded school chums. But sometimes babies are fussy no matter what we do, clouding our own sense of security that our baby is attached. There’s relief in knowing that even the most sleep-deprived among us can assess healthy attachment with ten easy signs.
Mommy, Don’t Go. Babies and toddlers who are securely attached will let you know it loud and clear. Whether you’re on your way to a yoga class or off to work, a securely attached child will become visibly upset when you leave, and filled with joy upon your return. On the other hand, a child who shows very little preference between parents and strangers, particularly after a long absence, is showing signs that attachment is fragile. So, while it may be disheartening to hear your baby’s cries, take heart in knowing it’s an indication they’re solidly attached.
Safe Haven. If your baby seeks you out first when startled or scared, you’re on the right track. Returning to you for comfort and safety in the face of a fear or threat means healthy bonds are being made. A baby who rejects their parents’ attempts to reach out with comfort may be showing a deeper distress and, left unchecked, that can lead to a lack of security and extreme clinginess later on.
Secure Base. Have you ever noticed that your baby continuously has their eye on you? While they may venture a little further when learning to crawl, or accept the arms of a stranger, they’ll only do so with your reassuring eyes. Being your baby’s base of security from which they can explore their surrounding environment is a safe bet your attachment is strong.
Separation Anxiety. Separation anxiety is distressing for everyone involved, particularly a new caregiver left with the daunting task of soothing a crying baby. While the upset may be extreme at times, your securely attached baby is more likely be comforted to some extent by others and will greet your return with smiles and reaching arms.
Play, Baby, Play. Signs of healthy attachment have as much to do with what you’re seeing within yourself—especially when it comes to play. Parents of securely attached children tend to put in much more play-time than those who aren’t. That means the endless games of peek-a-boo, cooing, pat-a-cake and rounds of “Old MacDonald Had a Farm” are going a long way to ensure your baby will thrive later. While you may not enjoy hours of carpet time, simply chatting, smiling and stimulating your baby’s mind with books and music means you’re providing the social stimulation babies thrive on.
Tune In. A responsive parent means a more securely attached child, so if you find yourself “tuned in” to your baby’s moods, facial expressions, body language and understand their cries like a skilled interpreter, you’re right on track. At the same time, go easy on yourself if you’re not reading your baby’s signals one hundred percent of the time. Studies show if you’re tuning in accurately at least one third of the time or more, chances are your baby is bonding. Take comfort in knowing that attachment is a work in progress, and in time you’ll more readily understand what your baby is trying to tell you. Some fear responding to their baby’s needs creates a dependent or “spoiled” child, but it’s quite the opposite. The trust that forms from healthy attachment leads to greater independence and a more self-assured older child. If ever in doubt, you can always seek the advice of a doula, paediatrician or parenting expert to ensure your baby bond is developing smoothly.
Stress Management. Attachment is a two-way process and the acute awareness your baby has to your cues is key to their survival. Unfortunately, that means they’re also picking up on your irritations, stressors and emotionally charged times. Your touch, voice and emotional tone are all informing as to whether life is safe and soothing—or a danger zone. Babies need to be in a calm and alert state in order to bond, but so do you. So go ahead and take that much needed time, knowing that managing your stress is great for you both.
Quality Counts. A myth still exists that you need to be with your baby 24 hours a day to ensure healthy attachment. What matters most is ensuring the time that you do have is loving and responsive. Parenting is one of the hardest jobs of all and it’s amazing how much work such a tiny baby can be. Having the support of another caregiver that understands the power of attachment and can consistently respond to your baby’s needs is key to ensuring their sense of security remains strong, while you have a well-deserved break.
Fall In Love. While loving your baby and being attuned to their needs aren’t necessarily one and the same, the “falling in love” that comes with parenting gives you an endorphin surge that allows you to step up to your baby’s demands—nature has programmed you that way. The simple joy of holding your baby releases potent neurochemicals, giving you energy, motivation and focus, and counteracting the fatigue from sleepless nights. So, go ahead and tell the story of your baby’s first word, roll over, ride on the family pet, or whatever daily delight moves you. If your friends joke that the conversation has become baby-centric, you can always argue it’s attachment biology kicking in.
The Power of Nature and Nurture. When it comes to attachment, there is no nature/nurture debate—both biology and environment carry significant weight. A baby who faces health problems, has a compromised nervous system, or experienced prenatal or delivery concerns is at greater risk of insecure attachment. At the same time, babies who are separated from their primary caretaker early in development or experience a series of changes in caregivers are also at risk. There are circumstances far out of your control playing into the attachment equation, but awareness keeps you alert to the chance of something going wrong—and taking extra precautions helps ensure your baby’s emotional and physical balance.
Michele Kambolis is the Clinical Director of Harbourside Counseling Centre and CHI Kids (www.thechikids.com). She writes for many local publications and can be followed at The Vancouver Sun blog Parent Traps, where she offers advice to help you out of the hairiest, scariest and stickiest pitfalls of raising kids from toddlers to teens. Feel free to contact Michele with your most challenging parenting questions: mkambolis@me.com.
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Choking in Infants & Toddlers
Do You Know What to Do?
By Kristy Hill
Nothing scares me more than my son choking. Out of all the menaces my two-year-old son could get himself into—falling down stairs, getting lost in the mall, drowning in the bathtub, running onto the road—I fear choking the most.
Thankfully, my son has never choked on anything, but he gags all the time. I panic when he stuffs a banana in his mouth, a piece of bread, or a whole cookie, because he gags almost every time. One day, my son was around a corner and started gagging on something. I ran to him. He was still coughing, but I had no idea what he had in his mouth. I panicked that it was a rock, a coin, a grape, a whale. I panicked.
He managed to cough and clear his airway as I gave him back blows, thinking that I’m helping him. But it made me think—was I supposed to do that? Was I supposed to do the infant choking procedure with back blows, or abdominal thrusts, or was I supposed to do nothing at all? And at what age do you switch from the infant procedure to a child procedure?
I spoke with Michelle Hebein, a Red Cross Master Instructor Trainer and had my questions answered and learned what to do whether gagging, choking or unconscious and based on the child’s age. So now I’ve learned, try not to panic and just let him cough!
What to do when an infant (birth to 12 months) or child (one to eight years) has mild obstruction
*A mild obstruction is when an infant is able to cough, make noise, and there is air exchanging.
• Stay calm and don’t panic.
• Encourage the infant/child to cough.
• Infants like to mimic you, so encourage more coughing by coughing yourself.
• Know that as long as they are coughing, they are getting oxygen.
• Do not give any back blows or other procedures; allow coughing to dislodge the obstruction.
What to do when an infant (birth to 12 months) has severe obstruction
*A severe obstruction is when an infant is making a wheezing noise or no noise at all and is unable to cough.
• Stay calm and don’t panic.
• If you are alone, call 911 as you begin to help the child.
• If there is another person there, have them call 911.
• Place the infant on your forearm with their face in the palm of your hand with their arms and legs on either side of your arm. Stay low to the ground and use your knees to provide stability.
• Tilt their head downward and administer five back blows with the heel of your hand between their shoulder blades.
• Make an infant sandwich with your forearms and flip the infant to your other arm, face up. Keep the infant tilted downward.
• Put two fingers mid chest in line with their nipples and administer five chest compressions.
• Continue alternating between back blows and chest compressions until the obstruction dislodges or the infant becomes unconscious.
If the infant becomes unconscious:
• Begin CPR.
• Lay the infant down and provide 30 chest compressions with the same two fingers.
• Push hard and fast, aiming for 100 compressions per minute.
• Look into the infant’s mouth to find the object they were choking on, if you see nothing, tilt their head back and make a seal over the infant’s nose and mouth with your mouth.
• Breath until their chest rises.
• Allow the chest to rise back up between compressions. This will increase the oxygen exchange.
• If the air goes in, give a second breath. If it does not go in, lift the infant’s head back further and breath again. If air does not go in, return to compressions.
• Continue doing 30 compressions and two breaths and checking for the object, until a Sign of Life is present.
What to do when a child (one to eight years) has severe obstruction
*A severe obstruction is when a child is making a wheezing noise or no noise at all and is unable to cough.
• If you aren’t the parent or guardian, tell the child you are trained and you are going to help them.
• If you are alone, call 911 as you begin to help the child.
• If there is another person there, have them call 911.
• Prepare to provide abdominal thrusts (formally called the Heimlich Manoeuvre).
• Kneel down with your knee between the child’s legs, allowing the child to be supported by your body.
• Make a fist and line it up with the child’s abdomen, just below their rib cage, wrap your other hand around your fist.
• Provide five firm thrusts in an upward motion.
• Have the child bend over with their hands on their knees and their chest parallel to the floor. Put your arm under their armpit and over their shoulder to support them.
• Give five very strong back blows with the heel of your hand between their shoulder blades.
• Continue to alternate between five abdominal thrusts and five back blows until the object dislodges or the child becomes unconscious.
If the child becomes unconscious:
• Begin CPR.
• Provide 30 chest compressions. Place your hand at their armpit and slide it to the centre of their chest. Using both hands, provide chest compressions.
• Push to a depth of 1/3 of the child’s chest or approximately two inches.
• Open the child’s mouth and see if you see the obstruction. If not, tilt their head back, pinch their nose and make a seal over the child’s mouth with your mouth.
• Provide one breath. If the breath does not go in, tilt their head back further and provide another breath. If air still does not go in, go back to chest compressions.
• Repeat the 30 compressions and two breaths and checking for the object in their mouth until a Sign of Life is present.
• Even if the obstruction clears, continue 30 compressions and two breaths until a Sign of Life is present. The object could clear but they might not be breathing yet.
Things to remember:
• Just like you anxiously wait to hear your baby’s first cry the moment they are born, look for signs of life that indicate the infant or child is obtaining oxygen and breathing after they have been without oxygen or been unconscious. If signs of life are present, still bring the infant/child to the hospital or doctor to ensure there hasn’t been damage or swelling in their throat. Keep the item the infant/child was choking on to show the doctor.
Signs of life:
• vomiting • eyes are open • movement • crying • coughing
• If something changes after you first called 911—either the infant/child goes from conscious to unconscious or vice versa—call 911 back and update them so they can prioritize your call appropriately.
• If the infant/child is unconscious and you are hesitant to provide mouthto-mouth resuscitation, chest compressions alone are still effective and vital. The pressure from chest compression keeps the blood flowing and draws oxygen into the blood. When doing chest compressions, wait for the chest to rise back up between each compression; this allows for oxygen to exchange.
• There are some cases where you might want to wait to call 911. For example, if you are alone and you find a child unconscious, you might not know how long they have been unconscious for. Therefore, it’s important to start CPR immediately with either mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and/or chest compressions for two minutes before stopping to call 911. If you can provide CPR at the same time as calling 911 that is even better!
Food with high-risk for choking
When preparing meals and snacks, cut up or avoid food that is at high risk of causing choking and ensure that food is soft and easy to chew. The food and items below are a high-risk because of the way infants and children chew, their lack of molars until the age of two years, and the width of their airways. Infants under 12 months have an oesophagus only as wide as your pinkie finger.
Items to avoid before the age of four:
• grapes
• hot dogs
• nuts
• peanut butter
• gum
• popcorn
• hard candy
• cherries
• raw carrots
• gummy candies
• stringy foods (celery)
• whole olives
• marshmallows
• cough drops
For more info, consider taking a first aid/CPR course at your local community centre, YMCA or at St. John’s Ambulance (www.sja.ca).
reading corner
The Ghostly Tales of Mr. Tooth by Gerald Holt
From this local Vancouver writer comes the story of Hal, a boy whodoesn’t believe in ghosts—that is, until he meets Mr. Tooth, the old school crossing guard. Halloween is just two weeks away. Hal has no idea what to wear for “Trick or Treat,” but Mr. Tooth helps Hal decide with his eight ghostly tales. And in the end, Hal has very good reason to believe that spirits do roam the streets on All Hallows Eve. Ages 9 and up. $5.99 at www.amazon.ca
By the Light of the Harvest Moon by
Harriet Ziefert,
illustrated by
Mark Jones
As the bright moon shines, gold, yellow and crimson leaves are tossed by the wind before settling into the pumpkin patch. Gradually, the leaf people emerge to celebrate another harvest and the autumnal equinox. Ages 2 and up. $16.99
The Haunted House that Jack Built by Helaine Becker, illustrated by David Parkins
“This is the mummy, that chased the ghoul, that scared the ghost, that sampled the stew, that cooled in the house that Jack built.” And so the classic story is taken on a ghostly and funny ride that ends in happy smiles and shared treats. Perfect read-aloud fun. Ages 3 to 8. $7.99
Halloween Night by Marjorie Dennis Murray, illustrated by Brandon Dorman
“Twas Halloween night, and all through the house, every creature was stirring…including the mouse.” Join Ogre, Olaf, the witch, the banshee, the mummies and zombies, as they get ready for the best Halloween party ever. Ages 6 and up. $19.99
One Red Apple by Harriet Ziefert, illustrated by Karla Gudeon
Follow the journey of one red apple as it grows on a tree, is plucked from an orchard, taken to a market, bought by a family, eaten on the grass, and given back to nature to produce…one red apple. A gentle way to introduce young readers to the growing cycle. Ages 2 and up. $16.99
Spooky ways to learn and have fun on Halloween
Halloween isn’t just about dressing up and eating candy—it also provides fun opportunities to learn!
Embracing the literacy activities already happening in your life makes it so much easier to ensure your family is getting 15 minutes of learning experiences a day.
ABC Life Literacy Canada reminds families to practice literacy skills at Halloween with some fun literacy tips, tricks and treats:
Tell ghost stories on Halloween night. Make up your own stories or read a classic scary book together.
Organize Halloween candy in different ways. Organize by shape, size, candy name, or even candy type, and then trade! This activity helps to reinforce basic math along with association and matching skills.
Bake a pumpkin pie. Following recipes is a great way to improve both reading and math skills. Children can read the instructions out loud to help measure the ingredients
Rainbow Magic Special Edition: Trixie the Halloween Fairy by Daisy Meadows
Rachel and Kristy can’t wait to go trick-or-treating together, but Jack Frost is determined to put Halloween out of business for good! With the help of Trixie the Halloween Fairy, the girls try to stop Jack and his goblins before it’s too late! Ages 6 to 8. $8.99
when making a treat for the family.
Research the history of Halloween, and share spooky statistics!
Embrace the Power of Reading. Together, you and your child can create your own Halloween-themed e-book with Energizer’s Power of Reading program. Visit www. promotions.energizer.ca to access the one-of-kind story builder and watch your story unfold.
Literacy benefits the entire family and is constantly happening in our daily lives. From writing a grocery list to surfing the Internet to reading the newspaper, learning happens in many ways all year round. Celebrate Family Literacy Day® on January 27, 2012 www.FamilyLiteracyDay.ca
Karma Taiji
Local Mom, Teacher and Survivor shares her story…
What’s the lowdown on you?
I am a 34-year-old mother of two children. My son is almost five years old and my daughter is two-and-a-half years old. My husband and I have been together for 15 years and have been married for seven years. Our other family member is our dog. I am a high school teacher. I am vegetarian and eat mostly vegan. I love to cook and eat. My other favorite pastimes are shopping at the local farmers’ market, tending my community garden plot, walking, doing yoga, playing with my kids, visiting the beach, and writing about my cancer experience to help other women.
How has cancer touched your life?
I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer a year and a half ago, when my daughter had just turned one. My doctor had been tracking a couple of lumps in my breast that appeared just after my daughter was born. I thought they had to do with breastfeeding, and everyone else thought they were cysts. I could not believe the news when my third ultrasound and biopsy results came back that I had cancer: I felt like I was ripped out of my place in the normal order of things and had to discover my way back. It did not take me long to accept that my cancer experience was unique and that I couldn’t compare myself with anyone else: This was my lot in life and I had to do everything I could to get healthy for my kids and my family. Because I was young, I was put on a fast track for aggressive treatment. I had six rounds of chemotherapy (puking, bone aches, losing all of my hair, menopause, mouth sores), followed by 28 sessions of radiation (sore arm, burnt skin, stiff muscles), a full year of a targeted IV therapy (Herceptin), and a double-mastectomy with an immediate DIEP reconstruction (13 hours later I had new breasts made from my tummy tissue). I spent Christmas hunched over like an old lady, but with the news that they had successfully removed the single small tumor that remained. >>>
I just completed my Herceptin treatment in May, so my post-cancer life is relatively new. I still have physical, emotional and mental hurdles that I have to deal with. I have anxiety and fear of recurrence. I have been told this is normal for someone who has finished treatment, but it affects my energy levels and ability to do things with my family. Physically, I have a lot of stiffness and pain on the side I had my lymph nodes removed. I am also trying to get used to my scars and post-surgery body. I want to try to have some control over my body after everything I have been through. I see a physiotherapist to help me with stretching and getting my strength back. I am part of a yoga study for women post-breast cancer treatment. I try to walk every day and I take vitamins and eat well to feel as healthy as possible. I also see a massage therapist, a counsellor, an acupuncturist, a naturopathic oncologist, and I have tried Reiki and bio-energy healing. I make sure that I am taking care of my body every day. The most positive impact that cancer has had on my life is that I now appreciate the moments, my family, my friends, and the little joys of each day. I have faced death and can now fully embrace life. Every day I remind myself that I am loved and loving and that everything is okay right now.
What are some of your biggest challenges of being a mom and dealing with this type of illness?
Kids don’t slow down or give you a break when you have cancer. Most of the advice and exercises for cancer patients are for older people who don’t have a one- and three-year-old running around needing cuddles, needing reassurance, needing your time and energy. I remember being told that I HAD to take time for myself, if I wanted to meditate I had to put a sign on the door telling people that. I just laughed thinking about my kids, who can’t read, barging in, banging on the door, or screaming around the house as I tried to relax. Also, I just wanted to spend as much time as possible with my kids while I was feeling good, because there were and are so many times that I don’t have the energy or patience. At these times I feel guilty, and have to remind myself that I am doing the best I possibly can at that moment. All of my parent friends tell me that they are the same way with their kids, and they haven’t even had cancer. It is so hard to find balance as a family in regular life, then you add a major illness and it sometimes seems impossible. You learn that you have to appreciate the good times, no matter how small. Another challenge is that it is hard to know how much to share with your kids or how to support them when they are that young. All of the support programs in Vancouver are for school-aged children. My daughter was so young that she was unaware of most of what was going on. She and my husband became really close because he had to put her to bed and help her when she was sick. My son was very sensitive and aware. He didn’t talk for two days after he found out that I was sick. He just wanted to cuddle me all of the time. I felt so guilty that I was putting him, and the rest of my family, through this. We took him to visit a play therapist to help him through everything. She told us that we were telling him all of the right information and he was actually very confident with life and he was just reacting how he would to any challenge—it just happened to be cancer. I remind myself all the time that through this experience my kids are becoming compassionate, caring human beings.
What would you describe as some of the biggest rewards of your work/ family?
When you go through a life-challenging illness, you really learn to appreciate who makes up your community. Throughout chemo and radiation, I had meals dropped off, people came and cleaned our house, we had babysitters, there was a community fundraiser, people sent care packages and letters, and my work colleagues sent money, books, and a juicer. The biggest reward of my work and family has been the support and love they have provided us with in times of need.
I just started back to work in September. I am doing a very gradual re-entry, as I don’t have a lot of energy. I am really glad to be back. It is so nice to have a focus to my life other than cancer. When I am in class teaching I can focus on my class and on giving to my students. I really missed my colleagues, who were so supportive of my family while I was going through treatment. I see my work family as an extension of my support community. I could not have gone through my treatment as gracefully without them.
My family has been how I can face each stage of my treatment and recovery with determination and focus. My kids remind me to live in the moment. My husband reminds me to love and be loved. My parents and siblings and grandparents and aunts and uncles all remind me that it is my relationships that matter.
Do you manage to take time-out for yourself? If so, what does that entail?
I think this is one of the biggest lessons I have learned from being sick: you have to take time to be healthy. Being healthy actually takes practice. I have read a lot about the importance of taking time to be mindful in life: through meditation, yoga, or relaxation. Many cancer recovery books suggest that you take time to meditate at least twice a day. This is not realistic for me most days, as I take my son to kindergarten, drop my daughter at daycare, take the dog for a walk, get ready for work, plan dinner and go to all my appointments. I always come back to an idea that a counsellor at the Cancer Agency told me in a mindfulness course: even if you just sit in the mediation position, you are making a difference. So every day I try to take some time out for me, even if it only means sitting for a few minutes, taking a shower, or going for a walk. Every week I book a massage, an acupuncture appointment or an appointment with my physiotherapist. One of my greatest joys is going out with my friends. We talk about parenting, eat good food, complain about things, and I forget that I had cancer. I have learned, too, that the more time I take for myself, the more effective I am as a parent and a partner.
Any must-haves?
Good friends and loving family relationships and a supportive cancer-mentor. In terms of must-have items, I have always relied on good books such as Crazy, Sexy Cancer Tips and Becoming the Parent You Want to Be. I also constantly use my juicer these days.
Tell us one or two of the most important life lessons you have learned as a mom/survivor.
The little issues don’t matter and shouldn’t get in the way of important relationships. Life is unpredictable, so spend your time doing the things you enjoy and cultivating a loving atmosphere everywhere you go. Being healthy on all levels takes time and practice.
Anything else you’d like us to know?
There are many great resources for young adult cancer patients, like Young Adult Cancer Canada, Rethink Breast Cancer and The Callanish Society.
How to Be a Bad Mommy—and Why
By Amy Fardell
e’ve all seen the horrible news stories—cautionary tales to mothers everywhere—about mothers like Andrea Yates (who drowned her five children in the bathtub) and Britney Spears (who—figuratively— drowned herself in a destructive lifestyle that caused her to lose custody of her children). Nor is the Bad Mommy phenomenon a new one—just look at the likes of Joan Crawford, or, earlier still, Medea of Greek tragedic lore. What is recent is the vigour with which bad mommies are unmasked and exposed, no matter their personal degree of bad-parenthood—in all the blogs, comments sections, social media feeds and online magazines of the day. There seems to be a shadowy Stasi of Bad Mommy Police who are watching and waiting in the wings, ready to send a frown or a nasty comment your way at the first hint of less-than-perfect behaviour. Even more interesting, BMPs are a purely North American creation.
On a recent trip to Italy and France with my kids, I was struck anew by how different mothers behave and are perceived. At a busy, upscale bistro in Lyon one night, while I was subtly hissing at my own children to stop bouncing in their seats, I noticed another family of four a few tables over. The kids were about the same age (somewhere between precious and atrocious) and one of them must have done something to tick off the mom, because without any warning, she leaned across and delivered a solid smack on the hand of the one nearest her. No one gasped or looked twice (okay, I did, which caused everyone to stare at me as if I was a freak). Then she lit up a cigarette and took a sip of her wine. Snap! In less than one minute flat, she had become the ultimate bad mommy, but there was no one around to notice or care—except me—and I was feeling a little jealous.
Let me clarify. I am not advocating corporal punishment or smoking in the presence of children.
My jealousy stemmed from her utter lack of concern—her mental freedom—to parent her children as she saw fit, and enjoy her vices at the same time. This was a mother who put her own needs—in this instance, the need for an enjoyable evening out among other adults—above the needs of her children. And that ability is the very antithesis of what makes a good mommy.
Ayalet Waldman, in her book Bad Mother: A Chronicle of Maternal Crime, Minor Calamities, and Occasional Moments of Grace , writes, “The single defining characteristic of iconic good motherhood is self-abnegation. Her children’s needs come first; their health and happiness are her primary concern…If a good mother takes care of herself, it is only to the extent that she doesn’t hurt her children.” According to Waldman, the myth of the “good mother” doesn’t actually exist. June Cleaver is a fictional character, after all, lest we forget.
And there lies our guilt. The word “good,” in this context, is interchangeable with the word “perfect.” And we, as a collective group, like nothing better to than to beat ourselves up over our lack of perfection, and, as a result, point to mothers who have fared worse than us, so that we can then say to ourselves, “Well, at least I’m not as bad as her.”
All of this finger-pointing, however, prevents us from celebrating ourselves outside of our roles as mothers. Our constant effort to look better than the Brittany’s and Andrea’s of the world can only take us so far. Perhaps the key is to allow ourselves to feel what we feel, do what we do, and, in the word of Waldman, “just get on with it.” Let’s just all admit that we’re tired, cranky and bored a fair bit of the time, that finger painting is really not that intellectually stimulating, and that the urge for red wine and a quiet, padded room can sometimes be overwhelming.
And once that’s out in the open, we might feel better about taking more than a few stolen moments for ourselves, about putting our needs first more often, and just getting on with it.
Adult Events for the Hip Mom Around Town!
Quintessence Breastfeeding Challenge
Multiple locations throughout Vancouver and the Fraser valley
October 1, Latch on at 11am
This fun event is a challenge for which geographic area (province, state or territory) has the most breastfeeding babies, as a percentage of the birthrate, “latched-on” at a certain time. Check the website for locations. www.babyfriendly.ca
CIBC Run for the Cure
Multiple Locations throughout the Lower Mainland
October 2
This is Canada’s largest single day, volunteerled fundraising event dedicated to raising funds for breast cancer research, and education and awareness programs. 2011 will mark the 25th year as a leader in funding breast cancer research, education and health promotion initiatives. This will be a year of celebration, reflection on our progress and achievements, and a time to give thanks to those who have led us to where we are today. Register online to run or walk 5k or 1k for a great cause.
www.cibcrunforthecure.com
Moms Unite “Kids Stuff Swap Meet”
Southarm Community Centre, Richmond
October 2, 10am-1pm
There will be over 75 tables with lots of gently used kids stuff such as toys, books, clothing and more! Admission is free.
604.718.8060
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Place des Arts’ Gala Fundraiser: Impromptu!
Place des Arts, Coquitlam
October 15, 7pm
Get all dolled up in your glad rags as Place des Arts transforms into an underground club à la 1920’s Chicago, featuring impromptu entertainment, delectable appetizers, a swanky silent auction and other swell surprises. Win a trip for two to Jasper and bid on luxurious items, including a stay at the exclusive Sonora resort. Tickets: $50 with proceeds benefitting Place des Arts’ scholarship and bursary programs.
604. 664.1636 | www.placedesarts.ca
Fraser Valley Wedding Festival
Cascades Casino, Coast Hotel & Convention Centre
October 17, 4-8pm
Plan a girls’ night out so you can check everything off your wedding to-do list in a fun and interactive way. Shop ‘til you drop at the matrimonial mall and wedding gown sale. After, gossip with your girlfriends in the complimentary bridal tearoom where you can indulge until you bulge with wine, cake, cupcakes, and delicious dips into chocolate fondue. Tickets are $5 and available at the door.
778.997.1944
Emergency Preparedness Workshop
Cameron Recreation Complex, Burnaby
October 20, 7-9pm
Learn what should you be prepared for, how do you begin and what do you need to be prepared. These informative workshops will guide you through the steps to get you and your family started on becoming more prepared. Please register in advance in person at any City of Burnaby Recreation Centre, or online at webreg.city.burnaby.bc.ca/webreg (barcode 253507)
West Coast Women’s Show Tradex Centre, Abbotsford
October 21-23, please check website for hours
One of the biggest and most popular events for women in BC is back! Find one of a kind shows, performances and exhibitors. Enjoy plenty samples, fashion shows, and celebrity presentations and of course the Firemen’s fashion show on Friday night! Tickets are $12. www.westcoastwomen.net
Fraser Valley Bead Show
The Cascades Casino and Convention Centre
October 21-23, check website for times Bangles and baubles and beads, oh my! The largest bead show in Western Canada returns this October. Come down to the Fraser Valley Bead Show to find jewellery, loose beads, take a class, or watch free lampworking demonstrations. Entry is $7 and free for children under twelve.
778.997.1944
Bras Across the Bridge
Capilano Suspension Bridge
October 21,
Join Virgin Radio 953 and Capilano Suspension Bridge in October for the third annual Bras Across the Bridge. To draw attention to Breast Cancer Awareness Month, residents are encouraged to donate their bras for this great cause. For each bra donated, Virgin Radio and Capilano Suspension Bridge will donate one dollar each. After the event, the bras will be washed and donated to local women’s shelters.
www.capbridge.com
Huge Indoor Kidswapmeet
Cloverdale Fair Grounds
October 22, 10am -1pm (Early bird admission 9am)
If you are looking for a bargain for newborn to teen items this is the place with over 150 vendors. Families selling their children’s gently used items for bargain prices as well as a few new businesses! $3 admission per person (early bird is $5).
604.513.8880
Light the Night Walk
During this leisurely walk, walkers carry illuminated balloons—white for survivors, red for supporters and gold in memory of loved ones lost to cancer. Thousands of walkers—men, women and children—form a community of caring, bringing light to the dark world of cancer. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society funds lifesaving research and support for people battling cancer. Anyone can take part—children, adults and seniors are all welcome. This is a casual fundraising walk with no fitness requirements. There are many ways you can help.
www.lightthenight.org
Science World
Ongoing until April 1, 2012
Extreme Dinosaurs gives you the inside scoop on the world’s strangest dinosaurs. These life-sized animatronic creatures come to life and let you experience first-hand what it would have been like to share our world with these wacky reptiles. This 10,000-square-foot exhibition features 19 animatronic dinosaurs and two full-scale articulated skeletons. The dinosaurs come to life with blinking eyes, moving limbs, gnashing teeth and thundering roars.
www.scienceworld.ca
Family Film Night Series
Community Meeting Room at Lynn Valley Main Library
October 4 & 18, 6:30pm
The series will feature family-friendly films, (October 4: Gnomeo and Juliet; October 18: Despicable Me). The events are free and open to everyone, but registration is required.
604.984.0286 x.8144 | www.nvdpl.ca
Beaver Buddies
Burnaby Lake Regional Park
October 8, 10-11:30am
Look for beaver lodges, beaver chopped trees and beaver trails, play games and make a craft to take home. For ages three and four. $12.23 per adult/child. Please preregister.
604.421.5225
Story Time and Craft in Indigo Kids
Chapters on Robson
October 8, 2pm
Join other kids for story and craft time in the dynamic new kids department; featuring terrific new kids’ books and themed crafts!
604.682.4066
Bowen Island Apple Fest
Crippen Regional Park
October 9, 11am–3pm
There will be a variety of heritage apples to taste, games for the children, apple pie sales, a pie-baking contest, local food and tours of the Heritage Museum. Take the ferry and enjoy a 100m walk to Davies Orchard. This is a free event.
604.788.5634 | www.bowenheritage.org
Healthy Kids’ Preschool Fair
Edmonds Community School
October 13, 9:30-11:30am
Visit a health nurse, play on the indoor playground and take part in activities and crafts. Community agencies specializing in preschool services are on hand to answer questions. Admission is free.
www.burnaby.ca
Nature in My Backyard: Native Plants in Your Neighbourhood
Green Timbers Urban Forest (14600 block—100 Avenue)
October 15, 10am-noon
Get dirty as you add to the urban forest at Green Timbers Park! Plant native shrubs and plants, go for a nature walk, and play a game to learn more about the plants found in Surrey. Discover local trees, plants and wildlife, and learn tips and tricks on becoming a family of eco-heroes! Suitable for children ages five and up, who must be accompanied by at least one adult. This is a free event.
www.surrey.ca
community calendar
Discover Burns Bog
Burns Bog, Delta
October 15
Want to explore a globally unique ecosystem? Come discover how the plants and animals have adapted to these specific conditions and why this makes Burns Bog so important to the environment. burnsbog.org/events
Apple Festival
UBC Botanical Garden
October 15 & 16
This delicious fruit, and have fun doing it! Featuring activity stations ranging from crafts to face painting, games and even storytelling, this is a great place to bring the kids while taking a break to enjoy some the festival’s selection of tasty edibles such as apple pie and hot apple cider, available near the Apple Tasting Tent. www.botanicalgarden.ubc.ca/applefestival
St Roch Engine Room Guided Tour
Vancouver Maritime Museum
October 16, noon-4pm
Come explore the engine room on St Roch. The guided tours are about 10 minutes long and will include stops in the main hold, engine room and tiller flat—areas of the ship are not normally open to the public. Tours are included with admission to the Museum and are free to members. Bring a flashlight! www.vancouvermaritimemuseum.com
Vancouver Celebrates Diwali
Throughout Vancouver
October 16-23, 2-4pm
The 8th annual festival has various activities taking place throughout the city. Come join the festivities at a mini-festival workshop held at False Creek Community Centre. This is a free event. www.vandiwali.ca
Family Sunday
Richmond Art Gallery
October 23, 1-4pm
This free event includes hands-on art activities, story time, gallery games and more. Each month is different, so you’ll never know what you’ll see at the Gallery! All activities are free, thanks to the RBC Foundation. Drop-in.
604.247.8300
The Dance Centre presents Discover Dance! Scotiabank Dance Centre
October 27, noon
The company is known for high energy shows which explore the culture, traditions and rhythms of Brazil through music, dance and martial arts, including the exciting acrobatics of capoeira. There will also be a questionand-answer session for artists and audience. $10/$8 students.
604.606.6400 | www.thedancecentre.ca
9th Annual Baby & Family Fair
Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre
October 29 & 30
With over 100 exhibitors covering everything from RESPs, baby and kids clothes, furniture, toys, games and much more, this is one of the largest baby and family shows in B.C! Don’t forget to enter to win the $25,000 family grand prize, meet Po from Kung Fu Panda, and catch Bobs & Lolo performing their latest hits. www.baby-fair.com
Witchy Fun
Historic Stewart Farm
October 29, 1:30pm-3pm
Come in costume to carve your own takehome witch pumpkin. Decorate witchy treats, sample witch’s brew, and attend Witch School to earn your broomstick. $8 (five to nine years) www.surrey.ca
City of Richmond Halloween Fireworks Festival
Minoru Park
October 31, 7-9pm
A fun-filled evening featuring a live DJ, fire dancers, a magic show and arts and crafts followed by a 15 minute fireworks display. www.richmond.ca
Make your Own Recycled Masks!
By Shari Pratt
Suitable for ages 6-12
Supply List
• Milk jug
• Tempera paint
• Paper Mâché Mix (see recipe)
• Newspaper strips
• 12’ x 14” piece of sturdy cardboard (I used an old box)
• White glue
• Hot glue gun, glue sticks (for adult use)
• Embellishment supplies: google eyes, pipe cleaners, felt scraps, fake fur scraps*, beads, assortment of beans*, fun foam scraps
*Often after Halloween, fabric stores will put fake fur on sale.
*Beans can be found in the bulk food section of your supermarket.
Preparation
Paper
Mâché Recipe
Blend together:
• 1 cup flour
• 2 cups water
• 2 tbsp salt (to prevent molding)
Instructions
1. Cut a clean milk jug in half (you will be using the handle half). See photo.
2. Have an adult hot glue the milk jug to the piece of cardboard (centered).
3. Cut the cardboard into an oval shape (around the milk jug, leaving 1” cardboard showing).
4. Paper Mâché: Dip strips of the newspaper into the mixture. Run it between two fingers to take off any excess mixture.
Drape the strips over the milk jug and around the cardboard. Apply two layers.
5. Features: tear up small pieces of newspaper and allow to soak in the paper mâché mixture for a few minutes. Squeeze out the excess mix and paper can now be used as a clay to create ears, noses, etc. Attach to wet mask. Allow mask to dry (could take up to three days).
6. Once dry, paint a layer of white paint over entire mask. Allow to dry.
7. Once dry, paint your mask with desired colours. Add stripes, polka dots, swirls...let your imagination go crazy!
8. Embellish the mask with google eyes, pipe cleaners, fake fur, etc. Attach with white glue. Note: some items may attach better using a hot glue gun (have an adult do this).
Artistic Influence
Ron Mueck (born 1958) is an Australian hyperrealist sculptor. Mueck’s sculptures are so lifelike that it feels as if they were cast from life. Mask II is many times the size of a human head. Mueck’s early career was as a model maker and puppeteer for children’s television and films.
