Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.
~ Albert Einstein
As I’m writing this, I am stealing glances out the window at the trees along my street. Most are still that verdant, lush shade of green that signals high summer, but one tree has already begun to turn a rich orange and gold. Some of those gold leaves have fallen and dried to crisp brown curls, waiting for the city to sweep them away.
I had to put a sweater on my daughter this morning— over her loud and repeated objections. She enjoys the freedom of bare arms and shorts, of sandals with no socks, and today was a slap in the face to all of that. “It’s not cold! It’s sunny! I’m not cold! Those aren’t goosebumps, those are freckles!” she reasoned vociferously. After I told her that she could take off the sweater when it was warmer, she finally calmed down enough to say, “I don’t like the cold.” Join the club.
I really shouldn’t complain. It’s been a good summer. We have spent more than our fair share of days at the beach, combining “ocean science” lessons—“Mommy, this seaweed looks like lobsters!”—with lots of castle building and bubble blowing and general lazing about. There have been days of farmers’ markets and festivals and days of quiet books and berry picking.
But there really isn’t that much difference between children and adults. Like my four-year-old, I am greedy for every warm, sunny day; eager to fill it with every possible enjoyment before the rainy season begins. And also like my four-year-old, I am loath to prepare for the month to come. But back to school is no longer a future event, it has landed smartly on my doorstep with all its baggage and expectations in hand.
I know I’m not the only one heaving sighs of longing for long, lazy days, so we’ve put together an issue full of help for those headed back to school—and their ‘rents. Whether you’re trying to figure out how to convince
your thoughts
Thanks for the great list of summer activities! [July/ August] Both my husband and I were lucky enough to get most of this summer off, so we ended up going through the list with our kids, and having a blast! The best part was the Slow Food bike tour we took in Harrison— what a great idea! Keep up the great work! The Campbell family
I really like the new craft project column you have. [Last Look] My son and I did the project in the last issue, and we had a lot of fun with it. Thanks!
your child that they really don’t need the complete Hello Kitty stationery set, or those $200 sneakers, or just trying to figure out how to pack a healthy lunch that won’t become mush, offend anybody’s environmental ethics, cause an allergic reaction in anyone your kid decides to trade with, or end up in the garbage instead of your kid’s stomach—we’ve put together some great information what to watch out for, what to get, cool finds that won’t break the bank, and our annual consignment guide, perfect for all you deal-hunters (and which mom isn’t?).
We’ve also focused on education in this issue, looking at ways parents can help their kids learn, both in and outside of school, as well as new ideas in alternative learning and transition tips for students with special needs. And don’t forget to check out our new makeover contest that is launching in this issue. Four lucky moms can win a $1,500 head-to-toe makeover just in time to vamp it up before the holiday season approaches. Reminder: This is your last chance to vote in our 2nd Annual Readers’ Choice Awards and be entered to win great prizes, like the Ultimate Family Pass, which includes annual and season family passes to a dozen major attractions. Vote online at www.westcoastfamilies.com today!
I hope the start of this busy season finds you calm, organized and ready to rise to the challenges ahead. Of course, if you’re at all like me, the organization part might take a while to manifest, but no matter.
See you next month!
While I enjoyed the article on multi-age classrooms in this issue [July/August] I would have liked to see feedback from parents whose children have NOT done well in that setting. I don’t think it works for everyone.
D.
Carleton
I really liked the dad you featured in your Father’s Day issue [WestCoast Dad, June]. He seems like a great guy, and it’s nice to know that some men are responsible for the meals in their family!
Annie T.
Jennifer Sands
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!
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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.
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WIN! This Back-to-School Friendship Fair Prize Pack (value $150)
From connecting with old friends from the previous year to creating new routines and forging new friendships, September and the back-to-school rush is always full of excitement for children...and their parents. Celebrate the beginning of the school year with this great prize pack from Nestle Fav*rites (value $150). Prize includes gym bag housing the following items: 1 x 94-count box Nestlé Fav*rites (peanut-free); sidewalk chalk; skipping ropes; Frisbee; craft kits (includes craft supplies and instructions); crayons; markers; construction paper and more!
DEADLINE TO ENTER: September 30, 2010
WCF presents
30th Annual Terry Fox Run
September 19 | Multiple locations
If you’ve considered supporting a charity as a family, be sure to check out this wonderful event for families with children of any age. This year marks the 30th Annual Terry Fox Run—a non-competitive, inclusive event with no minimum fundraising or entry fees. “It’s simply about coming out to do your part to raise funds for cancer research,” says Donna White, Provincial Director for BC & Yukon. “Whether that’s on your bike, running, rollerblading, walking the dog or pushing a stroller.” Most events also have lots of family-friendly activities, from pancake breakfasts to face-painting, so it makes for a great day out. “Kids really resonate with Terry’s story” adds Clare Adams, Fundraising & Office Administrator and mother of two, “there are so many positive messages to share with them about pursuing your dreams and perseverance and I love the idea that we can participate together, celebrate a great Canadian hero and give back”. This year’s Run is being held at over 100 locations around B.C. 1.888.836.9786. | www.terryfox.org
WIN!
This Amazing Kodak ESP 7250 Allin-One Printer (value $199.99)
The Kodak ESP 7250 All-in-One Printer is the perfect homework companion and suits a student budget, to boot. Proud parents can scan, copy, and print their elementary school artist’s masterpiece or A+ tests to share with Grandma and other loved ones. High school students will be convinced that homework is cool now that they can print from their iPhone or Blackberry. Post-secondary students will be happy the Kodak ESP 7250 is easy on the pocketbook by saving $137 a year with the cheapest ink replacement costs in the industry. (Kodak Black Ink Cartridge costs $9.99 MSRP and Kodak Colour Ink Cartridge costs $17.99 MSRP.) www.kodak.ca
DEADLINE TO ENTER: September 30, 2010
Momcafé: Living the Dream
October 1, 2010 | 9am-11am | Location TBD
Join a group of professionally minded moms to hear the true stories of these incredible women, and be inspired! Shannon Ward and Diana Stirling are determined to ensure that they and other women entrepreneurs are building businesses that support their ideal lifestyle and that, more importantly, they are not building their lives to accommodate their business. They strive to use their business to build “Pretirement Wealth,” which includes both capital AND the time and freedom to enjoy it. They have worked hard, fallen hard, and risen from the ashes to tell the story of how they went from their “dream” business with $1m in revenue to fulfilling lifelong personal dreams while succeeding with a new business model based on a very different definition of success.
Diana is just returning from four months in Australia with her family and Shannon is just returning from a two month “learn to surf” trip in Costa Rica with her family. Always on the same page, Shannon & Diana have a passionate story to tell about what they did to start putting action behind their words. They will never accept hearing “I want to, but...” Childcare will be available onsite.
www.momcafenetwork.com
CanIGetTheRecipe.com
From local Vancouver mom, cook and editor Carrie Snell, CanIGetTheRecipe.com features fabulous, healthy recipes from local chefs, foodies, cookbooks, restaurants and readers like you! All recipes are family-friendly, and come complete with shopping lists.
Nourished.ca
Started by a local mom, this website offers holistic nutritional advice and counselling services, creating personalized nutritional plans that don’t just make you healthy, they make you happy!
Little
Girls Can Be Mean:
Four Steps to Bully-Proof Girls in the Early Grades
By Dr. Michelle Anthony and Dr. Reyna Lindert
Little Girls Can Be Mean is a parent’s, counselor’s, and educator’s go-to guide for helping young girls deal with, stand up to, and resolve friendship struggles, relation aggression, social cruelty, and bullying in elementary school—written in a hopeful and helpful tone. The book is written with all girls in mind, from various backgrounds and personalities. This is the book caregivers or educators of young girls should read before they pick up Queen Bees & Wannabes, Odd Girl Out, and Reviving Ophelia. SRP $14.99
LearnNowBC.ca
The LearnNowBC.ca web portal, created by the Virtual School Society, is a single point of entry to information about distributed (online) learning in British Columbia for students K to 12, parents and educators. This one-stop educational portal provides access to choices and free services for learners of all ages.
Hand Wash Cold: Care Instructions for an Ordinary Life by Karen Maezen Miller
It’s easy to think that meaning, fulfillment, and bliss are “out there,” somewhere outside of our daily routine. But, in Hand Wash Cold, wife, mother, author, and Zen Priest Karen Maezen Miller reveals the ancient wisdom that we too easily overlook— the care instructions that come tucked inside our ordinary lives. Like the laundry tag sewn inside a precious garment, she encourages us to pay attention to ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. SRP $14.95
Cool Finds!
Dynowear
This protective undergarment features integrated neoprene foam padding at the knees, hips, tailbone and elbows, perfect for active kids or those involved in more aggressive sports. Fits under most athletic clothing and is lightweight and comfortable. Various prices and sizes. Available at Canadian Tire stores. www.protectiveundergarment.com
Balanced Day Lunchbags
Two lunchbags in one! Great for kids who need extra snacks, or just need a little more direction about what to eat during each break. Each side of the bag is numbered 1 and 2, and has insulated liners and handy elastic straps inside for keeping drinks, packs, spoons, etc, in place. SRP $16.95. Available at Little Earth Children’s Store, Clothes Encounter, and Scallywags. www.balanceddaylunchkit.com
Made By Survivors
An initiative of The Emancipation Network, each original handicraft is made completely fair-trade by rescued women and children survivors of human trafficking from around the world. Collection includes cute and colourful backpacks, handbags and coin/accessory purses. All profits go back to helping the survivors. Elephant backpack and cottage purse, $18 each at www.madebysurvivors.com.
Libre Tea Glass
The first eco-friendly portable, and insulated carrying cup specifically designed for drinking loose-leaf tea on the go, the Libre tea glass features a durable, heatresistant exterior and a health-conscious glass interior that ensures the flavour of your tea is unaltered. $25 at Murchie’s and Whole Foods locations. www.libretea.com
Kaboodle Swimming Bags
Created by a local mom, these durable bags are made from oxford nylon, feature sturdy inside zippers and many cool designs, and large shoe pockets to keep footwear dry. SRP $25. Available at Jack & Lola’s and at local aquatic centres. www.kaboodlebags.ca
Eco-Friendly Lunch Utensils from Lavish & Lime
Litterless Lunches from Raspberry Kids
The Goodbyn Lunchbox ($29 in various colours) is BPA and phthalate-free, dishwasher-safe, has a carrying handle and can easily slip into a backpack. The handsewn Lunchskins reusable sandwich and snack bags ($8.49-$9.99 in various styles and sizes) are made from a quick drying cotton fabric, are dishwasher-safe, and have snug hook-and-loop closures. www.raspberrykids.com
This stainless-steel mini cutlery set ($8 in various colours) comes with a fork, spoon and portable chopsticks that screw together. Dishwasher-safe. www.lavishandlime.com
When Saying “I’m Sorry” Just Doesn’t Cut It: Teaching Children About Accountability and Empathy
By Wendy Helfenbaum
Last month, my four-year-old son accidentally tripped a little girl at the park. Howling, she ran to her mother. My little guy, oblivious to what he had done, kept barrelling towards the swings. Should I drag him over and make him apologize, I wondered, or give him a chance to realize she was crying because of his actions?
As I hesitated, the girl’s mom shrieked, “Aren’t you going to DO something?!”
I glanced at my carefree son. Nope, he didn’t have the faintest idea what was going on here.
“Sweetheart, why do you think that girl is crying?”
“Because she hurt herself.”
“I think you tripped her by mistake. Why don’t you go over and see if she’s okay.”
“Her mommy’s fixing her.”
“Yes, but it was your fault that she fell. Maybe you should say you’re sorry.”
“But I’m not sorry. She was in my way.”
Sigh.
The girl’s mother was waiting for me to force my son’s apology, but instead, I told him that if he hurts someone and doesn’t apologize, he gets to go home. Turns out, I may have actually done the right thing.
“A lot of what parents do in the name of trying to develop empathy is absolutely counter-productive,” says Alyson Schafer, psychotherapist and author of two best-selling parenting books, Breaking the Good Mom Myth and Honey, I Wrecked the Kids. “If we force children to say ‘I’m sorry,’ we’re more likely to get into a power struggle: they won’t say it just to defy us, or they’ll say it—in a snarky voice—which is not being empathetic at all. Trying to get someone to say ‘I’m sorry’ is like trying to get someone to say they’re Italian if they’re not. Even if you get them to say it, it doesn’t mean anything.”
Andrea Rooz, mom of Zachary, six and Marley, four, admits, “Most of the time, I have to prompt my kids to apologize, but they’re getting better at knowing when to do it on their own.”
Getting an early start
Schafer, who has two teenagers, says it’s never too early for children to learn about accountability. “Part of the job of parenting is to move the emphasis off of the individual to be a more social thinker,” she explains. “We accomplish this by asking the child to ‘P and C’—participate and contribute to others. Most kids just take, take, take, and develop a ‘What’s in it for me?’ attitude. Instead, focus on: ‘What can I give? How can I help? How can I contribute?’ This is early caring about others, such as learning to bake cookies to take to school, or offering to hand out napkins at snack time.”
Parents as pushovers
Part of the problem, adds Schafer, is that many parents just accept “I’m sorry” on its own. “Saying ‘I’m sorry’ often gets kids off the hook,” explains Schafer. “When I speak [to parents] about accountability, I want them to think about logical consequences. If a child is pushing [someone] at a play date, say, ‘If we can’t play nicely, we need to go home.’ It’s different than saying ‘I’m sorry’; if they say they’re sorry, the play date goes on. At some point, we have to create some consequence whereby we’re stimulating intrinsic motivation. Freedoms and responsibilities go hand in hand; you can’t have the freedom and not the responsibility.”
Schafer suggests that instead of obsessing over those two little words, stick with a different dialogue. “I appreciate that you’re having remorse; however, I would prefer that we promise our friend that this won’t happen again, which kids are more likely to stick to. It’s much more powerful.”
Model behaviour
Schafer believes that the best way to teach a child to say “I’m sorry” is to say it yourself, sincerely and often. “Let them hear you say ‘I’m sorry,’ ‘please,’ and ‘thank you’ every day. We model it, they mimic it, it’ll happen.”
Tanya Zelyuk and her husband make a concerted effort to apologize to each other in front of their three children “to show them it’s okay to make a mistake and be sorry about it. My six-year-old twins, Kayla and Jaden, are very empathetic, and will acknowledge when they’ve done something wrong,” she says. “However, they’ll sulk and need a little while to cool down before saying ‘I’m sorry.’ Embarrassing children by yelling at them about their actions in front of others is not the best tactic. I pull the child aside and try to get them to imagine how they would feel if the situation was reversed: ‘Would it make you feel sad if so-and-so called you a bad name?’”
Hands off
Schafer suggests giving a child time to apologize before you draw attention to their behaviour. Rooz lets her kids “figure these things out themselves, because if we, as parents, constantly step in, what are they really learning? Negotiating and compromise are skills and the only way they’re going to get it is through practice.”
Schafer says encouraging open communication also goes a long way. “Sometimes, people really do get angry, and you want to validate your child’s feelings. It’s okay to feel angry, I want to hear your emotions, I want you to tell me about your emotions; I don’t want to shut it down by saying, ‘Tell me you’re sorry’.”
Wendy Helfenbaum is a writer and television producer at www.taketwoproductions.ca.
Family Surfin’ Safari in Tofino
By Debbie Bowman | Photos by Douglas Ludwig (douglasludwigphotography.com)
What song comes to mind when you think of a surfing song? Probably “Wipe Out” by the Beach Boys. And along with the song you probably imagine big, mean curls of green water and a surfer getting hurled in what’s called the spin cycle.
When surfing brings to mind images of wipe outs and surf boards flying through the air, you probably don’t think to try it yourself—and you certainly wouldn’t think to have your kids try it, right? Well, there’s another type of surfing that exists. A type of surfing for the rest of us—and it’s close by. At Tofino, surfing can be a safe, comfortable and fun experience—even in autumn—for the entire family.
I’d wanted to try surfing for a while. On previous trips to Tofino I’d been intrigued when I saw the shiny, black-suited people bobbing beyond the breaking waves or carrying their surf boards to and from the beach. When I looked harder, I was impressed to see that all sorts of people were trying it; fit people, not-so-fit people, young, old and everything in between. And they looked like they were having a great time. So our family decided to try surfing, too. I’m so glad we did.
Since we didn’t know the first thing about surfing we decided to take lessons. There are many surf schools to choose from in Tofino, but we decided to go with Bruhwiler Surf School. Raph Bruhwiler, the owner of the surf school, is Canada’s most famous surfer. He’s also passionate about sharing the joys of surfing with others, especially kids. And besides, my kids were interested to know that Raph is the one who surfed the torch in during the torch procession prior to the Olympics. Cool, eh?
We didn’t have any surf gear either, but that wasn’t a problem. Bruhwiler Surf School provides wet-suits for all its students, even the smallest ones. They also provide great boards for learning—i.e. more stable and a little softer. Soon after arriving at Raph’s little blue shack we were ready to start surfing.
We had to learn a few things first before we went out into the water, so on a sunny but windy April morning we started our lesson sitting on the sand of Chesterman Beach. We were taught how to paddle with and catch the incoming waves, how to pop up into the crouched position, how to stand up on the board, and how to protect ourselves when we fell off, i.e. duck and cover your head.
As well as surfing, we were also taught how to respect the power of the water, but not in a way that instilled fear. Instead, we were armed with the skills we needed to safely enjoy the Pacific Ocean. Skills like how to discern the wave action on any particular day and how to swim out of any rip currents. All of the information was fun and fascinating, but after about forty minutes of our beach lesson we were ready to head out into the waves.
Okay, I’ll admit it, I was a bit nervous about the frigid Pacific water and turning blue despite my wet suit. How could a thin layer of material protect me from such cold water? Despite my apprehensions, we proceeded to carry our boards into the water and toward the breaking white waves. Was I cold? Not in the least. Actually, I was surprised at how comfortable I was. We all felt like we could stay in the waves for hours.
While in the water I was happy to note that even though it was a windy day, the waves where a nice size—not huge or gnarly like you might expect. The gentle slope of Tofino’s beaches makes for easy, foamy waves close to shore. In fact, even though
the waves were big enough to surf, the water was never deeper than my waist.
The kids had a great time trying to surf but after a while they got tired of working with the longer boards. They decided to switch to boogie boards and spent the rest of the day riding in on their bellies. Meanwhile, my husband and I kept working on catching waves and trying to stand up on our boards. Even though we had to duck and cover our heads many times, we still had a blast!
So come on out and make your next family trip a surfing adventure. At Tofino, the waves are friendly, and instead of Wipe Out, you’ll find yourself humming a different tune while you and your family carve the waters of Chesterman Beach. Something more along the lines of Surfin’ Safari, by the Beach Boys: “Let’s go surfing now; Everybody’s learning how; Come on and safari with me.”
See you on the beach!
Debbie Bowman is a freelance writer based out of Vancouver who can’t wait to get back into the waves of Tofino. She also apologizes for the tenacious tunes she placed in your ear with this article.
Resources for Your Surfin’ Safari
To set up your own family lesson you can contact Raph Bruhwiler at Bruhwiler Surf School. Call 250.726.5481 or you can visit the website at www.bruhwilersurf.com.
For mother/daughter time, check out Surf Sister (www.surfsister.com) for Tofino’s only women-only surf school.
While we were in Tofino we stayed at the Pacific Sands Resort (www.pacificsands.com). We enjoyed a spacious, beach-side suite with a full kitchen. For more options on places to stay, visit www.tofinotime.com.
For more information on other activities in Tofino, visit www.tourismtofino.com
consignment store listings
CLOVERDALE
Little
ABBOTSFORD
Heaven Only Knows
#105-32885 Ventura Ave
604.852.3611
Little Critters Outfitters 33550 South Fraser Way
604.854.6006 | littlecrittersoutfitters.com
DELTA
Buttercups 4877 Delta St 604.946.3997 | buttercups.ca
MacGillycuddy’s for Little People 4881 Mackenzie St
604.263.5313
Rubenesque 564 West Broadway 604.879.3906
Sports Junkies 102 West Broadway 604.879.6000 | sportsjunkies.com
Turnabout 3109 Granville St
604.732.8115 | turnaboutclothing.com
Wee Ones Reruns 612 Kingsway St 604.708.0956 | weeonesvancouver.com
WEST VANCOUVER
Encore Fashion Boutique 2445 Marine Dr 604.922.2020
The Secret Closet Children’s Consignment 1844 Marine Dr
604.926.1630 | thesecretcloset.ca
WHITE ROCK
Kiddazles 1253 Johnston Rd 604.531.7931
Turnabout 1446 Johnston Rd
604.536.2827 | turnaboutclothing.com
Additive-Free Lunches
By Gloria Tsang, RD
Although it may not be on any lesson plan, one important subject for all families this fall is food additives. There are more and more of them in the foods we eat every day. With kids heading back to school, it’s time for parents to start learning about what’s lurking in the foods they’re planning to pack for lunch.
Some food additives actually serve a nutritional purpose—like the B vitamins added to white flour, or the folic acid added to some breakfast cereals—but others are worth watching out for. Some food additives are used only to enhance the shelf life of a product, or give it a colour or texture that consumers will find appealing. Studies are starting to show that some of these additives can be harmful—even increasing cancer risk—so as parents and consumers we really need to understand what is in the foods we choose.
If you’ve been buying pre-packed meals for your kids’ lunches, watch out— they’re simply loaded with food additives, including preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and dyes. Here’s a list of some of the worst additive offenders, along with replacement options that are additive-free.
Cured meats and cold cuts: Bacon, turkey slices, ham, and hot dogs are loaded with sodium nitrite, a preservative that leads to the formation of carcinogenic compounds in foods. Manufacturers add yet another additive— ascorbic acid—to suppress the formation of the carcinogenic compounds.
Healthy alternative: Use leftover chicken or turkey breast from last night’s dinner, or choose uncured cold cuts that are nitrate-free.
“Diet” (no-fat/fat-free/sugar-free) yogurt: Yogurt becomes much less healthy when natural sugars and fats are removed and replaced with artificial sweeteners, like acesulfame-K.
Healthy alternative: Choose natural, organic yogurt with a short ingredient list.
Potato chips: Chips and snack foods often contain BHA and BHT, which are added to prolong shelf life. Some studies suggest these additives may be carcinogenic.
Healthy alternative: Instead of packaged chips, pack a bag of popcorn (not the microwave kind). It’s a whole grain that’s low in calories.
Soft drinks: Soda often contains artificial sweeteners and dyes made from coal tar. Both may increase cancer risk, and some dyes may cause allergic reactions. Healthy alternative: The best drink to pack is water, but if your kids want something with flavour, choose 100% fruit juice (not punch or fruit drink) or milk.
Baked goods: Commercially processed baked goods like scones and cookies may contain partially hydrogenated vegetable oils—which form trans fats and affect blood lipids—as well as artificial sweeteners that may increase cancer risk.
Healthy alternative: Next time you bake at home, double or triple the recipe and freeze the extras. Then just grab a treat from the freezer when you pack your kid’s lunch!
The foods we pack for our kids’ lunches shouldn’t have ingredients we can’t recognize, pronounce, or understand. By using these healthy alternatives, you can pack a healthy lunch you’ll feel good about, in about the same amount of time.
Gloria Tsang is a nutrition expert and founder of www.HealthCastle.com. You can find more healthy eating tips from Gloria online.
Back to School Buying
By Sara Dimerman
While eating breakfast today, I watched as young models paraded up and down the set of a popular television program. Trudy, wearing skinny black jeans and a black t-shirt, stopped to pose and smile as the host ooh’d and aah’d over her cool back to school look. Her puffy pink vest matched her backpack and her new sneakers with skulls and pink trim were the perfect accessory to complete the outfit.
I was grateful that my eleven-year-old was fast asleep in bed or I imagined that she too would join the throngs of young viewers begging their parents for that same sporty outfit for their first day back to school. It’s difficult to escape the frenzied buzz of chatter as children excitedly swap stories of what they will be wearing, carrying and using their first day back. The trick is to balance your budget with your child’s desires for the latest and greatest in new clothing and supplies as the first day of school approaches. Here’s what to keep in mind:
1. It’s normal for children to want to dress to impress their first day back to school—especially as they reach grades four and up. No more are they willing to accept their older siblings’ hand-me-downs or what you’ve selected for them. While acknowledging their desire to make a good first day impression, try not to be coerced into buying the most expensive label on the rack. Help your child realize that even items that are more reasonably priced can look great. Give your child an allowance for their first day back to school outfit that fits your means and stick to it.
2. It’s also normal for your child to want fresh new markers, pencil crayons, rulers, erasers, pens, pencils, binders…and the list goes on. However, my guess is that if your house is anything like mine (and especially if you have more than one school-aged child), you could probably open a stationery store with all the items stuck away in drawers. Let your child know that you are willing to purchase new only once he or she has sorted through drawers and organized items by category. Then decide which items are absolutely necessary to purchase. So that they can experience the thrill of walking through the aisles of their favourite stationery store and buying something new (even if they don’t need anything), you may again offer an allowance to purchase something small such as a new pencil case or binder.
3. If your child’s backpack is truly tattered or torn and in need of being replaced, try to resist buying only those with a popular logo or icon on it. These items generally become outdated before those with none. If your child is stuck on a particular backpack and it does have an icon that you fear he will outgrow, then make sure that he or she knows your position on not replacing it until it is no longer usable.
4. So that you don’t have too many duplicates of the same item in the house, offer some of what you don’t need to families who cannot afford to purchase new. So many of us buy new because we can’t find the old and then realize, when organizing, that we have 20 erasers, for example, that we had forgotten about. The easiest way to keep track of what we have and what we need is to keep organized. Rulers with rulers, paper with paper and glue with glue, for example.
5. If your child is insistent on an item that you feel is unnecessary, first explain your rationale for not purchasing it and then ask him or her to try to convince you why you should change your mind. If your child makes a convincing argument but you still see the item as a luxury, make a plan for your child to contribute towards the item or work towards saving for it or paying you back. It’s wise for children to learn how to delay gratification by saving towards something they want and also for them to appreciate the value of the item by using their own money.
Sara Dimerman, Dip.C.S., C.Psych.Assoc., is registered with a College of Psychologists and provides counselling to individuals, couples and families. A parent herself, she is the author of two parenting books, ‘Am I A Normal Parent?’ and ‘Character Is the Key.’ Find out more at www.helpmesara.com.
Learning at Home: How Parents Can Help Children Learn Both In and Outside of School
By Michelle Carchrae
Children are born learners. Filled with curiosity, babies and toddlers begin experimenting with the world, preschoolers ask endless questions and school-aged kids start learning skills they will need to continue learning throughout life. Schools provide resources, teachers and lots of other children for kids to learn with, but school isn’t the only place kids learn. Learning also happens at the kitchen table, while reading bedtime stories, exploring in the park and baking cookies with grandma. Parents can help their children learn by getting involved, reading together and providing opportunities for children to explore and learn outside of school.
Being an Involved Parent
Research has shown that children who come from homes in which parents have positive relationships with their child and are involved with their child’s learning do better in school. The Harvard Family Research Project, produced in 2006, showed that this is true for children of all ages, from preschoolers getting ready to enter kindergarten through to high school students applying for college. Parents can get involved with their child’s learning by reading to them from a young age, talking to children in full, complex sentences, helping kids figure out their homework assignments, and simply being positive and encouraging. Making time to be together is an important part of nurturing a positive parent/child relationship, and having a strong base at home allows children to put more energy into learning at school.
Reading together
Reading together is another powerful and simple way to help a child learn. Reading gives children the gift of a parent’s time, presence, attention and exposure to the world through literature. Children are often able to listen to books that are more complex than they are able to read themselves, which helps to build their vocabulary and lengthen their attention span. Even watching Mom read by herself at home shows a child that reading is enjoyable and worthwhile. A recent study published in the journal Research in Social Stratification and Mobility showed that the number of books in a house correlated with an increased number of years of school completed for a child who grew up in that home. Data for the study came from 27 countries around the world and over 70,000 cases. Books prominently displayed and read at home declare a family’s love of learning.
Life Learning and Play
With our cultural focus on formal education and schooling, it is easy to forget that learning happens even when we’re away from the books. Teachable moments arise frequently during everyday life, especially when spending time with curious little people. Discovering a slug eating a dandelion on a nature walk is a great opportunity to talk about herbivores and carnivores. Measuring flour for cookie batter is a chance to do real-world math. Children also learn while playing with each other. In fact, many researchers are now pointing out how vitally important unstructured, creative play is for children. A report by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2007, “The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds” says, “Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength.” Play also increases a child’s ability to be self-directed, and it builds social skills such
as negotiation and self-advocacy. This valuable play is child led and active, like playing pirates with a cardboard box. Adult led or passive activities, such as participating in coached sports or watching TV, do not show the same gains in self-motivation and creativity.
Homeschooling
Learning at home instead of at school is a growing movement across the United States and Canada. In British Columbia, the number of children reported as either Registered Homeschoolers or enrolled in a Distributed Learning program tripled from 15,918 in 2004/2005 to 46,505 in 2009/2010. Registered Homeschoolers have the freedom and responsibility to educate their children entirely by themselves, while students enrolled in a Distributed Learning program are considered students of a particular school and receive support, funding and guidance from that school. There are many resources and local support groups for homelearners in Metro Vancouver, including homelearning co-ops and daytime classes for school-aged children at a variety of facilities. The decision to educate a child at home instead of at school is one that each family makes for their own reasons, but those families who choose to homeschool have an active and supportive local community to participate in. It can be tempting to fill up a child’s schedule with extracurricular activities and tutoring sessions in order to give him an advantage at school, but the research shows that a strong relationship with parents, a love of reading and time for creative play all give a child a love of learning that extends beyond the benefits of flash cards and memorization. Parents can help children learn at home by supporting a child’s efforts with homework and school activities, reading together regularly, and making time and space to learn informally through exploration and play. For parents who homeschool, educating kids at home allows the family to focus on learning and maintain strong relationships without having to decompress after school and homework time. Whether a family chooses school or home education, the most important factor in encouraging a child’s learning is the support of loving, involved parents.
Books and Resources for Learning at Home in Metro Vancouver
• To learn how to maintain a strong parent/child relationship, check out Hold on to Your Kids by Gordon Neufeld, Ph.D. and Gabor Maté, M.D. (Vintage Canada)
• For more information on play, see Playful Parenting by Lawrence J. Cohen (Ballantine Books)
• Bestselling author of Snow Falling on Cedars, high school teacher and homeschooling dad, David Guterson explores the benefits and downsides of school and homelearning in his book, Family Matters (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)
• Learn more about the difference between Registered Homeschoolers and Distributed Learning Programs at the B.C. Homelearners Association (www.bchla.bc.ca)
• Browse listings of current groups, activities, classes and meetings for homelearners at the Greater Vancouver Homelearners website (sites.google.com/site/gvhomelearners)
Neuroplasticity: A New Learning Path for Children with Special Needs
By Angela Davidson
What is neuroplasticity? According to Webster’s New World Medical Dictionary, this refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. Neuroplasticity allows the neurons (nerve cells) in the brain to compensate for injury and disease and to adjust their activities in response to new situations or to changes in their environment.
The concept is fairly new, and it wasn’t until 1999 that educators and neuroscientists came together to create meaningful dialogue on this topic. In fact, it was as recently as 2008, at The Learning & the Brain conference in Massachusetts, that over 800 educators first gathered to explore and learn about brain-based teaching for children, adolescents and adults, influences that change the brain and affect learning, and techniques for treating mood, ADHD, stress and learning problems. And in 2009, The Brain that Changes Itself, a documentary put forth by the Suzuki Foundation, looked at how programs using neuroplasticity have helped people like Roger Behm, a blind man who is now able to see via his tongue (and can throw a basketball into a garbage can to prove it).
The theory has now been put into practice by Arrowsmith Schools in Canada. “Typically, schools for students with learning disabilities capitalize on a student’s strengths in order to help them compensate for their weaknesses academically and/or socially,” says Sandra Heusel, admissions director at Eaton Arrowsmith School in Vancouver. “So, when they eventually leave these schools, whether that is after elementary or high school, the weaknesses still remain, but the support is now absent. This leads to difficulties in postsecondary education and in the workplace. Neuroplasticity targets the weak areas of a student’s brain and, through specifically designed cognitive exercises, the students work to create new, denser neural pathways in the brain. Once the cognitive capacities for learning have been strengthened, students transfer back into typical public or private schools and finally can use their intelligence to read, write, spell, do math and interact socially.”
The full implications of this theory and research are yet to be determined, but for parents of children with special needs, there might be a new light on the learning path.
To view The Brain that Changes Itself, visit www.cbc.ca/documentaries/ natureofthings/2008/brainchangesitself.
For more information on Arrowsmith School, visit www.eatonarrowsmithschool.com.
Back to School Transition Tips for the Child with Special Needs
By Katrina McGee
Provide new teachers with a positive profile of your child. Emphasize his or her strengths, effective teaching strategies and a few adaptations that will be helpful to them in those first days back.Keep it to one page.
Visit new schools or classrooms before the first day of school. Point out the amenities, teachers and staff that your child will need to know.
Help your child make social connections with new peers.
Create a home-school “communication book.” Be open about how well your child has slept, eaten and how he or she feels that day. It will help the teacher create appropriate expectations and levels of challenge.
Use visual schedules and reference materials to familiarize your child with new teachers, daily routines and the school’s layout. These tools can provide extra clarity and predictability for the child who struggles with change or who is experiencing some anxiety.
Katrina McGee, B.A., B.Ed., Dip. Ed., is a Behaviour Consultant with Laurel Behaviour Support Services. For more tips, please contact Katrina at 604.299.4001 or email kmcgee@posabilities.ca.
Where to pick up your copy of
Love Those Loot Bags
Over
Vancouver East
Killarney Community Centre
Sunset Community Centre
Dandelion Kids
Westcoast Chamber Music
Cirkids
Phoenix Gymnastics
Sunset Community Centre
Vancouver West
TJ’s Kiddies Store
Gator Pit
Toy Jungle
Wiz Zone
West Van Memorial Library
Toys R Us
Classy Kids Consignment
Vancouver Downtown Beansprouts
Mt St Joseph Community Centre
Kidlets Clothing Co
Vancouver Police Museum
Frog Hollow
Wee Ones Reruns
Nannies on Call
Maple Medical Clinic
North Shore
North Shore Winter Club
Maplewood Farms
Kuddel Muddel Kids
Parkgate Community Centre
Creative Kidstuff Toys
Lynn Valley Medical Clinic
Capilano Fish Hatchery
Richmond
Richmond Ice Centre
Clarice Kids Fashion INC
Richmond Public Library
Minoru Aquatic Centre
Sylvan Learning Centre
Brighouse Library
Classy Kids Clothing
Coquitlam/ Poco/Port Moody
Chimo Pool
Burnaby Lake Sports Complex
Siblings Children Boutique
City Centre Aquatic Centre
Sylvan Learning Centre
Terry Fox Library
Surrey/Delta
Newton Community Rec Services
Sungod Aquatic Centre
Strawberry Hill Library
Vertical Reality Climbing
Newton Library
Newton Wave Pool
Chan Hon Goh
Artistic Director of Goh Ballet Academy
What’s the lowdown on you?
I am an only child born to parents who were professional ballet dancers in Beijing, China. I loved to dance all of my life and had a 21-year career with the National Ballet of Canada, 15 of which I was their Principal Dancer. Having just retired a year ago from performing on stage, I am now the Director of the Goh Ballet Academy in Vancouver—the place where I did my training, an institute founded by my parents in the late 1970s. I am married with a little four-and-a-half year old boy. My husband and I share the common language of dance as he is a former Principal Dancer himself. This love of dance has somehow been passed on to my son who also loves to sing and dance whenever he has free time. I consider myself very fortunate to be able to pass on my years of experience as a dancer to aspiring dancers who would like to pursue their dream of becoming a professional.
How did your career come about?
I was presented the silver medal at the Adeleen Genee International Ballet competition in London, England, in 1988 and was the first Canadian in the history of the competition to ever receive a medal. This was my vote of confidence to pursue a career out of my passion for dance. I was referred and recommended to audition for the National Ballet of Canada in the spring of 1988 and was given a contract right away, but at that point I had not graduated from high school and believed strongly that I wanted to complete my schooling. So rather than join them right away, I joined the National Ballet in the summer of 1988.
The Price of Motherhood
By Amy Fardell
Ialways laugh when someone asks, “Are you a working mom?” I mean, really, is that a serious question? I suppose it’s only self-evident to other mothers, but here’s a news tip: All mothers work. They work their bodies and brains to exhaustion on a daily basis, and most receive less credit for it than a fouryear-old gets for her latest sticker project.
This interesting phenomenon has been on my mind recently, as I have been contemplating a return to the “working” world—a full-time office job outside of my home that does not involve juggling laundry, meals, activities, homework, playdates, medical appointments, sudden obsessions with pink, and the never-ending chorus of “WHY?” In other words, I want to do something easy for most of my day, like pushing paper, dealing with grownups, and sitting quietly in front a computer in an air-conditioned cubicle that might—just might—have a picture of my kids on the desk.
Ironically, this “easy” job is the one that will make more money for my family. Despite recent studies published by the World Health Organization, showing that mothers—specifically those whose primary work is looking after the family—are the single greatest wealth builders in any country (that’s right, the world’s largest unpaid workforce is also its most productive in terms of human capitol output), mothers’ work remains largely unappreciated and mainly unpaid.
What’s even more ironic is that women who work after having children are penalized for the unpaid work they have taken time to do. According to Ann Crittenden, a former New York Times economics reporter and author of The Price of Motherhood: Why the Most Important Job in the World is Still the least Valued, mothers returning to the outside workforce have to deal with what she calls a “Mommy Tax.” Employers regard you as having taken a mental step backwards
during your time off, so you take a hit in your income—which is why so many mothers choose not to return to work, or pursue their own businesses. Crittenden estimates the loss of income for a college-educated woman of one child is close to one million dollars in lifetime earnings—even if she goes back to work while in her thirties.
Perhaps some of this has to do with how mothers regard themselves. How often have you heard a mom at the playground say, “Oh, I’m just a stay-at-home mom.” Just. As if all she does is eat bonbons and watch soaps. We downplay the importance of our roles in our family and our community, as if we’re afraid of sounding like whiners or else making those around us feel inadequate. As Nelson Mandela once wrote, “Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people will not feel insecure around you.” Perhaps we all need to take this to heart, and stop trying to downplay what we do. (And the same goes for all of you stay-at-home dads, too.)
So the next time you are going for an interview, or negotiating a pay raise with your boss, keep this in mind and let your mad skills shine. If we all stand up and acknowledge ourselves and the price we pay to be mothers, maybe someday that Mommy Tax will become something we charge, rather than swallow, for all the work experience we’ve acquired—both in and outside of our homes.
What are some of your biggest challenges in work? In life?
Many different challenges have come about at different stages of my life but all in all they have made me who I am and have made me much stronger and wiser in my decisions and perceptions. Finding enough time in the day to do and accomplish everything that I hope to is usually impossible but the fact that I keep trying continues to get me ahead.
What would you describe as some of the biggest rewards of your work/family?
Seeing other people happy makes me happy. Seeing that my work has made a difference to their everyday or may have created a memorable experience in their lives feeds my will to do the best I can at everything that I take on. Having a supportive and loving family means the world to me because they are the group of people that I like to share my triumphs or sorrows with. Success would not mean a thing without having my family and friends to share and enjoy being with. They fuel me with goodness and inspiration to face the world.
Do you manage to take time-out for yourself? If so, what does that entail?
In all honesty, I should take more time for myself. I do believe it is important to give yourself the time to think and relax and absorb. So when I do take time for myself I like to get a massage or a facial; do something that is indulging only me or is good for the soul.
Any must-haves?
I suppose by must-haves you are wanting me to list a materialistic thing, but those, in my opinion, could all be replaced. But if I had to name a couple… access to information—be it from the internet, TV or newspaper—and mint-flavoured waxed dental floss.
Tell us one or two of the most important life lessons you have learned through being a mom/business owner.
To have an open heart—be receptive and listen. Only through proper understanding are you able to react or provide the right interactions in any situation.
To endure—because you never know the outcome and to have the patience of enduring certain situations may often be better than an instant reaction. This usually helps me see the bigger picture.
As a mom I have become a lot more forgiving of situations and more compassionate, which I believe is a great dose that everybody could use a little more of.
Anything else you’d like us to know about you?
I enjoy being happy and surrounding myself with good people and friends.
Adult Events for the Hip Mom Around Town!
Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival | Vanier Park | Ongoing to September 25
This annual festival is running in open-ended tents on the waterfront in Vanier Park, against a spectacular backdrop of mountains, sea and sky. Pack a blanket, some snacks, and an umbrella (just in case!) and enjoy the plays. 604.739.0559 | bardonthebeach.org
Cyndi Lauper at Summer Night Concerts | PNE Fairgrounds | September 3, 8pm
After 25 million albums sold, 13 Grammy Award nominations, two Emmy Awards, two American Music Awards, and 18 MTV Video Music Awards, Cyndi Lauper continues to lead as a singer, songwriter, musician, actress, and activist. Have some fun and watch Cyndi Lauper live on stage at the PNE. pne.ca
Sustainability Community Breakfast | BCIT Downtown | September 8, 7:30am-9am
Attend this breakfast to share actions and strategies on building a more sustainable Metro Vancouver. This is your opportunity to network with others working in the private, public, academic and not-for profit sectors. For updates, more info and to register, see the website under “Breakfasts.” metrovancouver.org
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Raising a Happy Kid | West Vancouver Community Centre | September 16, 7pm-8pm
This is an informative and interactive evening with child and youth psychologist, Dr. Carla Fry. You will learn how to tell the difference between a passing sadness and a clinical depression problem, how to identify what you are doing that helps or doesn’t, what you can do to help your kids cope, and about resources to help your kids deal with stress and anxiety. Bring an open and curious mind, and be ready to take a look at your parenting and modeling as you uncover how to help your kids bounce back from any sadness or depression they experience in their lives. Open to parents of all ages of kids and free to the public. Please call ahead to reserve your seat. 604.925.2225 | drcarlafry.com
Best Foot Forward | Surrey Museum | September 16, 7pm-8:30pm
Popular fashion historian Ivan Sayers presents fancy footwear from his personal collection. See fashionable women’s shoes from the twentieth century, decorated with luxurious fabrics, beads and embroidery. Please pre-register. 1 session $10 (16+yrs). 604.592.6956 | surrey.ca
Body Worlds & The Brain | Science World | Starts September 16
This exhibition contains a special feature that unravels the mystery of the mind and secret world of the brain. This all-new version of Dr. Gunther von Hagen’s’ world-famous exhibition looks at the body in a previously unseen way! With over 200 authentic human specimens, and highlights on recent neuroscience findings on brain development, function and disease, it will excite even those guests who visited Body Worlds 3 in 2006. 604.443.7443 | scienceworld.ca
EAT! Fraser Valley—The Everything Food & Cooking Festival | Tradex, Abbotsford | Sept 17-19, various times
Offering up three delicious days full of local foods, live cooking demonstrations, wine and beer tasting and lots more. In addition to the numerous cooking demonstrations, it will also feature the BITE of the Valley Pavilion. You will be able to indulge in delicious menu items from various local Fraser Valley restaurants with appy-sized items ranging in price from only $1-$3. This show is the best way to discover new foods, cooking techniques, shop from local companies and explore the numerous exhibits, and watch some live cooking demonstrations on the ever-popular Food Network Celebrity Stage. eat-fraservalley.com
Grand Wedding Show 2010 | Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre | September 17-19
Organizing your wedding will be a labour of love—a page in the personal history of your new family to be shared for generations. And the Grand Wedding Show is your resource for the anything wedding. For two exciting days, Canada’s finest wedding purveyors will gather to offer you a sneak peek at upcoming trends in fashion, food, decoration, and so much more. Whether your inspiration is Midnight Roses in Milan or Bollywood Blast, the Grand Wedding Show is your perfect starting point to ever after. Remember to bring your to-do list! Please check website for hours and show times. grandweddingshow.com
City of Coquitlam’s Children’s Swap Meet | Poirier Community Centre | September 19, 9am-1pm
Parents have been busy all summer sorting through their closets, garages and storage in preparation for this sale! Come and find great deals on numerous items. There will be clothing, toys and many other items available. Come early to find great deals! coquitlam.ca
Scotiabank Aids Walk for Life | Sunset Beach | September 19, 10am registration and Pancake Breakfast
Canada’s most important HIV/AIDS fundraising and awareness event is the annual Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life. During the national event, cities and communities from across the country will host walks to raise funds for local services and programming and to increase awareness about HIV/AIDS. aidswalkforlife.ca
Living the Dream | Location TBD | October 1, 9am-1pm
Join a group of professionally minded moms to hear the true stories of these incredible women, and be inspired! Shannon and Diana are determined to ensure that they and other women entrepreneurs are building businesses that support their ideal lifestyle and that, more importantly, they are not building their lives to accommodate their business. They strive to use their business to build “Pretirement Wealth”, which includes both capital and the time and freedom to enjoy it. Childcare provided. Please check website for location. momcafenetwork.com
The Bellies to Babies Celebration | Croatian Cultural Centre
October 3, 11am-4pm
A one of a kind event, offering a unique opportunity for new and expectant parents and grandparents to explore and shop for trendy baby fashions, décor and so much more! Community resources and support services will be on hand to answer questions for new and expecting parents. belliestobabiescelebration.com
community calendar September 2010
SummerFest
North Shore Waterfront
Ongoing to September 5
The North Shore’s favourite waterfront festival is an eleven-week celebration of music, dance, culture and community. Hop on the SeaBus to experience a spectacular outdoor festival featuring local talent, cultural dance, live concerts, artisan farmers’ market, and kids activities. SummerFest is a free community event and is in support of local charities; donations will be accepted on site. lonsdalequay.com
Confederation Park Miniature Railway
Confederation Park, Burnaby
Ongoing to October, 11am-5pm
Ride the miniature train for only $2. Fun for all ages! Open Saturdays, Sundays and holidays through October. Dress appropriately!
604.291.0922
Chilliwack Bluegrass Festival
Chilliwack Heritage Park
September 3-5, please check website for times Bluegrass music fills Chilliwack Heritage Park for three fun-filled days of music, picking and corn. Also featuring open mic, beginner jams, corn shuckin’ contests, free workshops & children’s activities. Pay camping available. Check website for fees and performers’ schedule. Please no alcohol or pets. chilliwackartscouncil.com
Vancouver International Tap Dance Festival
Various locations
September 3–5
Celebrate the art of tap dance. Everyone from newcomers to professionals, youngsters and adults, have a chance to learn how to tap from an incredible group of professional tap dancers sharing their knowledge and artistry. The festival will also feature performances and presentations, along with some of the most glorious moments in tap dance. Please check website for times and locations. vantapdance.bc.ca
7th annual Lytton River Festival
Between Main and Fraser Streets
September 3, 10am-4pm
This event attracts hundreds of locals and visitors, and celebrates Lytton’s natural surroundings, vibrant community, and First Nations culture. Participate in free activities throughout the entire weekend, including music, farmers’ market vendors, a magician, and the River Fest Pow Wow on Sunday. riverfestival.ca
Grandparents Day
Krause Berry Farms
September 6, 11am-2pm
Kids, bring your grandparents out for some fun on the farm. We appreciate all grandparents and what they do for our community and their families. Show them your appreciation and we’ll help by serving them a slice of roasted corn pizza. Take them on an educational tour of our berry fields on a fun hayride. This is a great day for making lasting memories. Remember to bring the camera! krauseberryfarms.com
Fleetwood Community Festival
Fleetwood Community Centre
September 11, 11am-3pm
This festival is designed to create a sense of community. Come enjoy this day of fun, excitement and celebration! Activities include arts and crafts, a bouncy castle, and much more! This is a free family event for everyone. fcasurrey.ca
Max and Ruby Bell Performing Arts Centre
September 11, 1pm & 4pm
It’s a big day for someone special. Bunny siblings Max and Ruby have a million-and-one things to do before the very exciting event; they embark on a musical bus ride to find the greatest present in the world before coming home to undergo an unpredictable make-over just for this happy occasion. This fastpaced theatrical production will have the whole audience singing and hopping to original tunes alongside our favourite pair of bunny siblings, Max & Ruby! Find tickets online. maxandrubyontour.com
Kindermusik with Notable Kids
CEFA, Park Royal South
September 11, various times
Free Music & Movement Demo Classes. Early childhood development using music as the medium. Fun, dynamic music classes designed to enhance cognitive, linguistic, physical, emotional, and social growth. Come sing & dance & play! Limited spaces available. Please register.
604.773.4317 | notablekids.ca
Huge Indoor Kids Swapmeet Cloverdale Fair Grounds
September 11, 9am-1pm
Families and those expecting, this is a goldmine, everything from toys to strollers, clothing to baby gates! Newborn sizes up to and including teen stuff. Get there early for best selection at 9am, early admission is $5.00 (kids are free) 10am to 1pm regular hours $2.00. Parking is free.
604.513.8880
Davie Day
Davie Street (between Burrard and Broughton Streets)
September 11, 11am-8pm
Davie Day celebrates the history, culture, creativity, beauty and fun of Vancouver’s West End. This annual community festival makes room for performance stages, roaming entertainers, exhibitors and more. A line-up of local and international talent keeps the party going with song, dance and cultural acts that excite and inspire. Food kiosks, extended patios, street vendors, artisans and local merchants offer a taste of the West End’s flavours and finds. davieday.com
Paws For A Cause
Stanley Park Lumberman’s Arch
September 12, 9am registration
Bring along your pooch for a day of family fun at the Scotiabank and BC SPCA Paws for a Cause Walk. Once there you can enjoy displays from local animal rescue and welfare groups, giveaways, fantastic entertainment, and activities, all in support of our favourite furry friends. Make it a day for the animals! Donate to help those animals in need. Registration includes a Red Bull Energy drink or Red Bull Energy Shot!
604.681.7271 | spca.bc.ca/walk
9th Annual Southlands Country Fair
Southlands Riding Club
September 12, 10am-4pm
Enjoy a day in the country without leaving the city. There will be pony rides, horse entertainment, a petting farm, live music, carnival games, a farmers market and much more. The day runs rain or shine, and entry is by donation. Some activities may cost a small fee, but there are plenty of free events as well. A fun filled day for the whole family!
southlandsridingclub.com
Shiamak’s Bollywood Jazz
Scotiabank Dance Centre
September 16, noon
Agassiz Fall Fair & Corn Festival
Agassiz
September 17-18
This festival includes a parade, stage entertainment, midway corn husking, 4-H exhibits, educational displays, antique tractor pull, photography, a farmers’ market, kids corner, crafts, flowers, vegetables and much more! Please check the website for times. 604.796.3246 | aggasizfallfair.ca
Whole Foods Market 30th Birthday Bash
Any Whole Foods Market
September 18, check website for time
Come join us in celebrating our 30th Birthday. Whole Foods Market is hitting a milestone. In honour of the momentous occasion every store is hosting a party. This is a free event! wholefoodsmarket.com
6th Annual Fall Festival
1st Street, west of Lonsdale Avenue
September 19, 10am-4pm
Lower Lonsdale Business Association presents a fall fair with festivities for all ages including Bobs & Lolo, who will be performing many songs from their latest album. Festivities kickoff at 10:00am and will include the very popular Edge Climbing Wall, full line up of musical entertainment for the whole family, demo stage, strolling entertainment, displays by local merchants and LLBA members.
lowerlonsdalebusinessassociation.com
Terry Fox Run
Various locations
September 19, please check website for times
Celebrate Terry Fox’ legacy and dream to find a cure for cancer. Join in a non-competitive run as an individual, family or group to help raise funds money in Terry’s name. Please find a local run online or pre-register. terryfoxrun.org
Youth Open House and BBQ
False Creek Community Centre
September 24, 6pm-9pm
Come out for some free burgers and dogs at this welcome back weenie roast and youth open house. Learn about youth programs, play games, meet the youth workers, and hang out with your friends in the gym or our games room. This night is completely free and lots of fun!
vancouver.ca
Video Game Play Day: 8- and 16-Bit Era
Surrey Museum
September 25, 1:30pm-4:30pm
Go back to the glory days of Super Mario Brothers and Sonic: NES, Genesis, and SNES games on the Museum theatre’s big screen, and maybe a few other oddities and surprises from the 1980s and early ‘90s. Space is limited, so registration is recommended. All ages, by donation.
604.592.6956 | surrey.ca
Apple Day
Historic Stewart Farm
September 25, noon-4pm
Tour the farm’s orchard and learn about heritage varieties of apples, taste samples, and watch cider press demonstrations. Bring your questions to Master Gardeners, learn about grafting, and purchase fruit trees and fresh honey. Drop in, all ages. Adults $5; children $2.50; five years and under free.
604.592.6956 | surrey.ca
Scotiabank Dance Centre Open House
Scotiabank Dance Centre
September 25, 11am-5pm
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The Vancouver Bollywood Jazz team showcases this dynamic fusion of Western jazz and hip hop with Indian dance techniques, in a performance bursting with energy and fun. The Discover Dance! series is a great opportunity to sample the diversity of BC’s dance scene. Entertaining, informative and suitable for all ages, each show combines performance with artist talkbacks, and sometimes audience participation. Tickets $10/$8. 604.606.6400 | thedancecentre.ca
From tap, contemporary and belly dance to flamenco, salsa and classical East Indian dance, the annual Scotiabank Dance Centre Open House offers the chance to sample a host of dance styles in a day of open classes, studio showings and events, and is very family-friendly, lots of fun and free!
604.606.6400 | thedancecentre.ca
Matisse’s Window: Shiny Black Glue
By Shari Pratt
Suitable for ages 6-12
Supply List
• Black tempera paint
• White liquid glue (I use leftover white glue from my kids’ school supplies) You will need the glue bottles too
• Black construction paper (I used 11 x 17)
• Masking tape
• White Chalk
• Coloured Chalk pastels
• Optional: photographs or books about Landscapes and Wallpaper patterns
Instructions
1. Talk about the artist Matisse. Show pictures of his window painting.
2. Step by Step drawing (some parts of this piece involve ‘directed drawing’):
Preparation
1. Black Glue: Mix in a bowl: 2 cups white glue with 1/8 cup black tempera paint. Pour back into empty glue bottles.
2. Tape each child’s paper to a surface (can be a table, desk, piece of cardboard from a box) like so:
tape around entire paper
• 1st using white chalk, draw a horizon line approx 1/3 up from the bottom of the paper
• 2nd draw a table on the right hand side below the horizon line
• 3rd draw a window and window frame on the left hand side above the horizon line.
3. Talk about how Matisse put flowers on his table. Encourage your child to use his/her imagination to draw an object on the table using white chalk.
4. Talk about what Matisse saw from his window. Encourage your child to use his/her imagination to draw what s/he sees from his/her window.
5. Talk about patterns. Show pictures of wallpaper patterns. Draw a simple pattern on the wall.
6. Show your child how to squeeze out the glue from the bottles (don’t squeeze too hard or the glue will come out in globs).
7. Allow to dry (could take up to 2 days).
8. Use a variety of pastel colours to fill in the spaces between the black glue lines (Hint: don’t use more than 2-3 colors per space, for example: use 2 colours for the wooden floor, 2-3 colours for the patterned wallpaper). **It is important not to blow the dust into the air, shake it gently into a garbage can.
9. Un-tape from surface.
Artisitc Influence
Henri Matisse (Dec 31, 1869– Nov 3, 1954) was a French artist best known for his use of colour. He was influenced by the impressionist and post-impressionist painters Cezanne, Van Gogh, and Gauguin. This painting was originally commissioned as “Harmony in Blue,” but Matisse was dissatisfied with the result, and so he painted it over with his preferred colour of red.
Henri Matisse
Title: The Dessert: Harmony in Red, oil, 1908
Shari Pratt is a local artist and teacher, and owner of Creative Kaos School of Art and Imagineering (www.sharipratt.com).
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