WestCoast Families Pre-Summer 2024

Where Students Choose To Be

The fact that students choose Brentwood is what makes this place so special. Because when a student truly wants to be here, and they’re surrounded by a family of like-minded friends and supporters, we believe they can choose to be ... anything.

See you at Parksville Beach!

Ju l 12 - Aug 18

Competition July 11-14 Gates open to public July 12 at 2 pm

Exhibition July 15-August 18

Footprints Security Opening Weekend Concert featuring Trooper - July 13

Canadian Tire Learn to Sculpt July 13 & 14

Tim Hortons Summer Concert Series July 19, 20, 26 , 27, August 2, 3, 16 & 17

Art in the Park July 20 & 21

Mid Island Co-op Rock the Park Music Festival August 9-11

Coastal Community Credit Union Sculpture Light Up! August 16 & 17

Tim Hortons Summer Concert Series August 16 & 17

Quality Foods Festival of Lights August 17 (dusk)

Quality Foods Kids Sandsculpting Competition August 18

Carol Riera/PREC Symphony by the Sea featuring the Vancouver Island Symphony - August 18

Jim Schneider Publisher publisher@westcoastfamilies.com

Stacie Gaetz Editor editor@westcoastfamilies.com

RaeLeigh Buchanan Account Manager raeleigh@westcoastfamilies.com

Kristine Wickheim Account Manager kristine@westcoastfamilies.com

On the Cover Photo by Maggie Black Photography maggieblackphotography.com

WestCoast Families, published by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a bimonthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on resources and businesses for west coast families. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher.

For distribution inquiries, please email publisher@westcoastfamilies.com

Mailing Address 518 Caselton Place, Victoria, BC V8Z 7Y5 250 388 6905

WestCoastFamilies.com

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Why should children explore? Because it is how they learn—it’s how we all learn!

Using our five senses to examine the things around us gives us insight into how they work, how they impact us and how we influence them. It’s the most effective way to gain information about the world around us, whether we are in our own backyard or on an exotic vacation thousands of kilometres from home.

Kids need to plunge their hands into dirt, listen to the bird chirping in the trees, jump from rock to rock, examine the sap leaking from a tree and pluck that berry off the bush to pop it into their mouth.

Watching our children explore in this way—this unplanned, unscheduled, unharnessed way—can inspire and enlighten us as parents as well. We appreciate the little things more and accept that we still have a lot to learn when we see their eyes light up as a ladybug takes flight off their finger or when they realize they actually like the taste of fresh peas from the garden.

Making sure we take time to explore with our children without boundaries, parametres or plans is imperative to building our bonds with them. When you think back on your childhood, what were your favourite memories? Most often, it is during an adventure of some kind. When you and your family discovered something you never experienced before.

There is a time and place for schedules, deadlines, homework and rules but there must also be a time for exploration, imagination, adventure and creativity. Don’t forget to let your children use their bodies and senses to investigate their world.

Encourage them by asking questions: What kind of bugs do you think live in that dirt? I wonder how many different birds make this area their home. How do you think those rocks got there? Why do trees have sap? What kind of other animals eat those berries? And then figure out the answers as a team.

Spending time together creates connection. Learning together strengthens your bond. Exploring together is what childhood is all about.

– Stacie Gaetz

Let’s Explore! 2024 SUMMER

July 2-August 2 (Granville Island)

July 8-July 19 (Surrey Centre)

Get inspired this summer! Programs for Ages 2-19 in Visual Arts, Dance, Theatre, Film, and more. Register now!

artsumbrella.com/summer

Credit: Devan Francis

BCCPAC

If you are the parent or guardian of a child enrolled in the public school system of BC, you are automatically a member of the British Columbia Confederation of Parent Advisory Council (BCCPAC). The BCCPAC governs all district Parent Advisory Councils (PAC) and offers a ton of resources for education guidelines, PAC guidelines, resolution services and even parent workshops on their website.

bccpac.bc.ca

Confident Parents: Thriving Kids

Are you struggling with helping your child with their anxiety or behavioural issues? Confident Parents: Thriving Kids is a part of the Canadian Mental Health Association of BC and offers trained counsellors to work one-on-one over the phone with parents of kids aged three to 12 to offer videos and other resources to handle the tough times.

welcome.cmhacptk.ca

Digital Indigenous Sport Gallery

You may already be familiar with the Indigenous Sport Gallery located in the BC Sports Hall of Fame, but did you know that they now offer a digital experience? This 360-degree virtual tour of the gallery includes new content never seen in the physical gallery. See virtual video profiles of featured athletes and enjoy the 3D interactive artifacts.

indigenoussportgallery.com

Teens: Creative Minds

Teens: Creative Minds is a travelling exhibition from the Sherbrooke Museum of Nature and Science and will be at the Museum of Surrey until August 4. Focusing on celebrating young inventors, this exhibit offers interactive modules and will feature five young local entrepreneurs sharing their journey.

surrey.ca/arts-culture/museum-of-surrey

Club Fit

Club Fit is a specialized program through Special Olympics British Columbia offering Special Olympic athletes of varying skill levels an opportunity to improve their overall health and fitness throughout the year. Club Fit is proud to offer new athletes (14 years old and older), as well as former athletes, a place to improve their wellness for their whole lives.

specialolympics.ca/british-columbia/what-we-do/ sports-programs/club-fit

Fresh Finds

The days are starting to get longer, and the sun is shining more! Grab these local products so your family can be ready for summer.

Riding the Pine Shopping Bag

Show off your local pride and be sustainable at the same time! Riding the Pine is a lower mainland-based company offering a variety of artistic and beautifully crafted shopping bags and other products perfect to take to farmers’ markets and to carry all your summer essentials.

ridingthepine.ca

Friday Harbour Cloud Towel

The Cloud Towel—offered in several patterns and sizes—is not simply a towel! It’s a moisturewicking, anti-bacterial, UV-protecting, sustainable wonder towel. Founded last year in Vancouver, these easily packable, super soft bamboo towels are a must-have for summer adventures. fridayharbourco.com

KINeSYS Spray Sunscreen

Created by two Vancouverites who were parents, outdoor lovers and skin cancer survivors, KINeSYS sunscreens were formulated to be effective, broad spectrum, water resistant and perfect for every member of the family to wear while enjoying all the outdoor activities summertime offers.

kinesysactive.ca

Aralea Sun Kiss Balm

Keep your lips soft and moisturized with the Vitamin D vegan lip balm, created and crafted in Vancouver. This Vitamin D3 balm is infused with cooling peppermint oil as well as other natural botanicals in conscious packaging.

araleabeauty.com

Monos Carry-On Plus

Monos, a Vancouver-based travel lifestyle company, is your go-to for all your travel needs. A lot of thought has gone into creating sustainable, accessibly priced, durable, useful bags that will get your entire family packed up and ready to go on a summer adventure.

ca.monos.com

Navigating the Journey Travelling with kids from a psychological perspective

Travelling with children can be a rewarding experience, offering opportunities for family bonding, exploration and creating lasting memories. However, it can also be daunting for many parents and filled with challenges and uncertainties. As a psychologist specializing in child development, I understand the intricacies of managing the psychological aspects of family travel.

In this article, we’ll explore the psychological dynamics at play when travelling with kids and offer strategies to make the journey smoother for both parents and children.

Understanding children’s perspectives

Before embarking on any journey, it’s crucial to consider your children’s perspective. Travelling can evoke a range of emotions in kids, including excitement, anxiety and curiosity. Younger children may feel overwhelmed by unfamiliar surroundings, while older children might express resistance due to disruptions in their routines or concerns about leaving behind familiar comforts.

Involve your children in the planning process. Discuss the upcoming trip with them, allowing them to express their thoughts and feelings. Encourage questions and provide ageappropriate explanations to alleviate any anxieties they may have.

Additionally, it is important to highlight the positives of travel, such as new experiences, adventures and the chance to spend quality time together as a family.

Managing expectations

Setting realistic expectations is critical to a successful travel experience. Travelling with children may only sometimes go according to plan, and unforeseen challenges may arise. Flexibility is essential, as it allows you to adapt to changing circumstances and embrace the spontaneity of travel.

Communicate openly with your children about what to expect during the journey and at your destination. Discuss any rules or expectations regarding behaviour, safety guidelines and routines while travelling. Establishing clear boundaries and guidelines can help mitigate potential conflicts and ensure a smoother travel experience for everyone involved.

Common challenges and solutions

Unpredictable Circumstances: Unexpected delays, weather changes or logistical challenges can add stress to the travel experience. Stay flexible and approach setbacks with a problem-solving mindset. Have contingency plans in place and communicate openly with your children about any changes to your itinerary.

Limited Resources: Travelling with children requires careful planning and organization to ensure you have everything you need on hand. Pack essential items such as snacks, entertainment, medications and comfort items to keep your children content during the journey.

Disruptions in Routine: Travelling often disrupts familiar routines, which can lead to meltdowns or behavioural issues

in children. To overcome this challenge, try to maintain some semblance of normalcy with a consistent bedtime routine. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth transition to bedtime in unfamiliar environments:

1. Replicate Familiar Bedtime Rituals: Bring along comforting items like favourite blankets or stuffed animals to create a sense of security.

2. Simplify Bedtime Routine: Develop a portable version of your child’s bedtime routine, including familiar activities such as reading a story or taking a warm bath.

3. Establish Quiet Time: Designate a period before bedtime for calm, relaxing activities to help children wind down.

6. Monitor Sleep Cues: Pay attention to your child’s signals of tiredness and adjust bedtime accordingly to prevent overtiredness.

7. Create a Comfortable Sleeping Environment: Ensure the sleep space is conducive to rest by adjusting room temperature and providing comfortable bedding.

8. Maintain Consistent Wake-Up Times: Help regulate your child’s internal clock by sticking to regular wake-up times, even while on vacation.

Coping with stress

Travelling can be stressful for parents, especially when managing the needs and behaviours of young children in unfamiliar environments. Recognizing the signs of stress and implementing coping strategies to alleviate tension and maintain a positive mindset is essential.

Practice self-care techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation or taking short breaks to recharge when needed. Prioritize rest, and don’t hesitate to ask for support from your partner or other family members. Additionally, be mindful of your children’s cues and emotions. Validate their feelings and offer reassurance during moments of distress. Encourage open communication and problem-solving, allowing them to express their concerns and actively participate in finding solutions. Parents must always share “their calm,” model self-regulation strategies and not amplify their children’s emotional chaos in times of change like travelling.

Travelling with children provides valuable opportunities for growth and resilience-building. Please encourage your children to embrace challenges, adapt to new environments and learn from their experiences. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and foster a sense of resilience to serve them well in future travels and life. Remember to embrace the journey, cherish the moments and savour the precious time spent together as a family. Safe travels!

Dr. Jillian Roberts is a Professor at the University of Victoria, a Registered Psychologist and the Founder of MindKey Health. She is also the author of Calm, a soothing board book to remind us that the little people in our lives need us to be their calm.

Life Through the Eyes of a Child

Exploring the world with your kids is one of the most rewarding parts of parenthood. Parenting comes with both challenges and surprises, and one of its hidden gifts is the chance to reconnect with your inner child.

As I often say with a smile, being a parent means being a kid again. With my two amazing daughters, the moments I cherish most are the times we spend together exploring—whether it’s hiking through dense forests, watching birds in city sanctuaries, picnicking by the beach, visiting museums and art galleries or picking blueberries at a nearby farm. Our family adventures take us on road trips, annual camping excursions and even snowshoeing up mountain trails. These shared experiences transform parenthood into a journey of wonder, laughter and discovery.

Parenting means following your kids’ lead. When you are outdoors, you’re not just walking—you are pausing, running in circles, picking up leaves and rocks and getting your hands dirty in mud and sand. With your kids, you embrace the whimsy of childhood with -

out hesitation. This playful approach strengthens your bond with them and sparks your curiosity. The questions they ask can lead you down paths you never imagined.

A few years ago, my daughter in kindergarten asked me about the significance of cedar trees to Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. Her simple question opened a world of exploration and research for me. When you step into your child’s world, you not only learn more about them, but you also rediscover the joy of learning and exploring.

Kids have a way of catching you off guard and pushing you out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s a fresh perspective on an old topic or a challenge to your daily routines, they can disrupt the patterns you rely on as an adult. This disruption is part of the journey, nudging you to explore new ideas and rethink the familiar. As a parent, you learn to embrace the messiness and vulnerability that come with raising children. Beneath these moments of chaos and uncertainty lies an opportunity for exploration—of yourself, your

family, your social connections and the world around you. You quickly realize that while you’re teaching your kids about life, they’re also teaching you valuable lessons in return. Above all, you discover the importance of curiosity, the power of questions and the value of a spirit open to adventure and exploration.

Exploring with your kids takes you to unexpected places. Through family outings, you learn about the history of your surroundings, reconnect with nature and see firsthand how everything is connected. You begin to appreciate the creativity that can arise from embracing vulnerability and the freedom that comes from letting go of rigid routines. These experiences reinforce the idea that parenting is not just about guiding your children—it’s about growing alongside them and finding joy in the unexpected. Each step on this journey reminds you that exploration is limitless, and the best discoveries often happen when you step outside your comfort zone.

Parenthood is an ongoing journey of exploration and discovery that shapes

you and your family. By embracing the spirit of exploration, parents unlock a world of learning, curiosity and growth, transforming mundane routines into meaningful adventures. It is through this journey that parents find themselves becoming more open-minded, adaptable and compassionate.

As you explore the world alongside your children, you foster not only their sense of wonder but also your own. This journey encourages you to step outside of your comfort zone, ask questions and see the beauty and find joy in everyday moments. Ultimately, the exploration you share with your children becomes a cornerstone for building lasting memories and deepening familial bonds.

Bicram Rijal is a visual anthropologist and photographer based in Metro Vancouver. He loves being outdoors and gardening with his family.

On the Sea-to-Sky Highway, between Vancouver & Whistler

Small House, BIG Connections

It is not a rare occurrence for me to go on a rant about the size of my house. Our chairs hit the walls when we push away from the dining room table, the living room is cramped and our kitchen feels like we have exactly 22.5 centimetres of counter space. Unlike many, we have no family room, TV room, guest room, breakfast room, play room or extra room for that matter. As you can undoubtedly surmise, we suffer greatly.

I say this tongue and cheek as I am highly aware of the massive amount of privilege we have. My house would seem palatial to many around the world. My complaining is completely unwarranted, yet it does reflect a human propensity to always want more or my undoubtedly erroneous belief that having a larger house would suddenly make my life, and certainly parenting, much easier.

Not having a rec room has meant that my children have always played underfoot. You cannot imagine how many LEGO pieces I have stepped on in my life, or, for that matter, the number of bad words my children have learned because of these painful incidents. I have honestly fantasized about how my life would be so much easier, and tidier, if my kids could keep their toys in a room dedicated to their enjoyment. The living room could return to its original purpose, a place to provide me with a semblance of having some control over my environment. If anything, my life would resemble a bit more what I should aspire to if I am to believe all the home décor websites and magazines.

Perhaps even more frustrating than the endless toys underfoot, is the fact that we do not have any rooms in our

house where one can find some peace away from others. I love my kids, I really do, but sometimes I dream about finding refuge in a space from which all people, noise and clutter are prohibited. My desperation has been such that I can frequently be found sewing in the small corner I have created for myself in our unheated, uninsulated, dark basement. Sure, I can’t feel my hands, but at least I can spend a few minutes away from the chaos of our busy family life.

Our kitchen is another place that has prevented me from being a perfect mom all because of lack of space. It has caused me to shoo away the kids and the dog on many occasions. I will be entirely to blame if my children have no idea how to boil water when they move out. I blame the size of my kitchen. I am sure that if I had a glorious island, more counter space and a double-sink, I could have been the culinary equivalent of Jamie Oliver. Instead, most nights, my kids might describe me as a cranky working mom pushing from one end of the counter to the other the myriad of objects, lunch bags, toaster and coffee pot, preventing me from moving around efficiently. It is exhausting and may explain why we eat frozen pizza more often than I care to admit.

As the summer approaches and I anticipate with much glee, and perhaps some very real trepidation, long days with the kids underfoot, I know that my house is going to feel even smaller. It is the time of the year when my love for my sweet cherubs is certainly put to the test. After all, there’s only so much noise and mess a mere mortal can endure.

As my children have gotten older, however, I have grudgingly had to admit that this enforced intimacy has some benefits. At an age when kids want to be as far from their parents as they can, unless they want something from you that is, mine have no choice but to be in the same room as me most of the time. Sure, we have nightly heated discussions about what show to watch, but at least we are all watching TV together in the only space that has a comfy couch to sit on. I might not be able to make “gourmet” meals, but I am noticing that the kids frequently choose to do their homework on the dining room table, which is about 10 centimetres from the kitchen sink, rather than in their bedrooms. It provides me with some opportunities to interact with them that I might not have in a bigger house. So perhaps having a small house, at least by our North American standards, is something I should be grateful for. It certainly has allowed me to realize that closeness with my children does and should trump everything, even my occasional dream of moving to a deserted island.

Jeanne Petit-Humphries is an educator, a mother of three amazing daughters and is learning to appreciate her small kitchen.

Experience Exciting Summer Events & Activities at Hands On!

The award-winning Hands On Children’s Museum in Olympia, Washington is a fabulous family destination—especially for the annual Summer Splash! Festival of Fun! The summer-long event is jam-packed with new play and learning adventures each week. From animal encounters to stage performances, visiting artists and special events, there’s something for everyone.

With 150 interactive exhibits, an art studio, make space, children’s garden, lighthouse lookout and a half-acre of outdoor play space to explore, you can easily spend several hours or an entire day. There is even a free wading stream for kids to enjoy outside on the East Bay Plaza.

Mark your calendars for the Fire Rescue Spectacular on July 13! The free street fair is the ultimate firefighter and firstresponder experience for kids. Explore Olympia’s fleet of emergency vehicles, meet Sparky the Fire Dog, climb aboard vintage fire trucks, experience the spray gallery, take the junior firefighter challenge and more. Inside the museum will be wacky Dr. Science demos and special activities where kids can learn how to start a campfire and basic first aid techniques. Additional festival highlights include a 25-foot rock wall

climb, animal encounters with real farm animals and therapeutic ponies, a sailboat regatta, sock skating, visiting artists, a Native American storyteller, bubble mania and nature activities.

The Summer Splash! Festival of Fun is presented by WSECU, it’s worth a trip!

Ready, Set, Camp!

Are you and your family interested in experiencing Canada’s great outdoors, but don’t know where to start?

Whether you want to get your first taste of camping or enhance your skills and take your camping experience to a new level, Parks Canada’s Learn-to Camp program is here to help!

Located in major cities across the country, including Vancouver, the Learn-to Camp program offers a variety of pop-up activities and overnight events for families to learn the basics of camping in a fun and accessible way. Visit our outreach booths and participate in workshops at local parks, beaches, libraries and special events near you. Take part in immersive activities that introduce your family to camping. With the help of experienced Parks Canada

staff, participants will learn how to plan a trip, what to pack, wildlife safety and more.

In addition to pop-up activities throughout the city, Parks Canada is offering two overnight events for families to experience camping this summer. Join the Vancouver Learn-to Camp team the weekends of July 27 to 28 in the City of Richmond or August 10 to 11 in Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. Families will learn the basics of setting up a tent and using a camp stove, while having plenty of time for exploring, playing and connecting around the campfire! By the end of the weekend, your family will have a new appreciation for nature and be set up to create a lifetime of camping memories.

In collaboration with Mountain Equipment Company, alongside many

community partners, the Learn-to Camp program brings to life the essence of what makes Canada’s outdoor spaces so spectacular. The program is designed to be inclusive, safe and accessible for all families, regardless of your level of camping experience or ability. Parks Canada staff are happy to accommodate special needs or requirements to ensure that everyone can participate and have a great time.

If you’re ready to sleep under the stars and learn new skills, sign up for a Learn-to Camp program today! It’s a great opportunity to bond with your family, make new friends and experience the beauty of Canada’s natural environment.

Parks Canada protects and presents nationally significant examples of Canada’s natural and cultural heritage and foster public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment in ways that ensure their ecological and commemorative integrity for present and future generations. To learn about more opportunities in your area or register for an overnight event, visit parks.canada.ca.

Better chess moves, better life moves

Books to Inspire Your Adventures

Welcome to a world of wonder. In each of the books below, you and your children will be invited into magical worlds that are very different from our own, and ones that are right outside your door. As your kids head outside this summer, these books will help them find ways to entertain themselves like hunting for squirrel tracks or journeying under the sea in their minds. And the more they read, the more they’ll realize that nothing can stop them from seeing adventure wherever they are.

The first book might seem a little out of place in a collection of book reviews coming out at this time of year, but Hiders Seekers Finders Keepers: How Animals Adapt in Winter by Jessica Kulekjian and illustrated by Salini Perera (Kids Can Press, 2022) is a good way to help encourage your children to explore the world around them. This story is filled with small educational snippets about different animals and how they survive the winter. It also contains a collection of animal prints, for example, a raccoon or a great horned owl, in the back that you and your kids might be able to spot while you’re going on an afternoon hike in the woods. For ages 4 to 7.

Another book that will help build a sense of wonder in your children for the world around them is Ocean by Gail Armstrong (Big Picture Press, 2024). Each illustration is so incredibly detailed that it seems impossible that they were created with paper and not digital software. The pictures will draw your children down into the ocean depths to learn about ocean life and then pull them back up into Mangrove forests and tidal pools. Every page is covered with facts about

the water cycle, animals and the environment. But, unlike a typical textbook, each page is a lift-the-flap adventure that draws children in as they hunt to find all the hidden tidbits. For ages 8 to 12.

It is unfortunate, but sometimes when our children are exploring, they can be discouraged by someone’s ill-thoughtout words. If that’s the case, For Our Daughters by Mel Nyoko and illustrated by Joelle Avelino (Random House, 2024) might be a good fit. This book helps young girls find the words to say to naysayers and to refute their own minds when the naysaying is self-inflicted. It is positive and uplifting and designed to help young girls feel empowered to dream big. For ages 4 to 7.

If your children aren’t outdoorsy types, or they prefer the company of people in cities to walking through the forest, they might enjoy Roy is Not a Dog by Esmé Shapiro and Daniel Newell Kaufman (Tundra, 2024). This book encourages children to be detectives in their own neighbourhood and learn about those who live around them (not necessarily by spying on them, but by talking to them). Because as Weasel and Pam Pam learn, even in small communities where everyone knows everything about everybody, there is still so much that you can discover. For ages 4 to 7.

is the author of One Tiny Turtle: A Story You Can Colour and many articles. To read more of her work and learn about her upcoming books, visit christinavanstarkenburg.com, Facebook: facebook.com/christinavanstarkenburg and X: @Christina_VanS.

Christina Van Starkenburg lives with her husband, children and cat. She

Sometimes as a parent or guardian, you might find that the kids ask for “one more story” until your voice is hoarse from reading. This is one of the reasons why books like The Last Zookeeper by Aaron Becker (Candlewick Press, 2024) exist. This book has no words.

The story, which is about a robot who is taking care of animals after a flood, is told exclusively through the watercolour paintings. And if you’re curious about how it encourages children to get out and explore, well, you’ll have to read the book

to find that out. I’m just kidding, the robot is struggling to care for the animals, so the robot decides to build a boat and set sail for somewhere that has enough food and shelter for all of them. For ages 5 to 9.

There you have it. Five wonderful worlds set in places far from our reality and locations that are right under our noses. I hope you and your children have a great time learning about different sea creatures, forest dwellers and new friends as you enjoy this great summer.

Spots are filling up fast, register today!

Having Fun with

LJiggly Jelly!

ooking for a fun afternoon activity and a low-sugar treat? Why not make jelly from scratch?

Did you know that it is so easy to make jelly desserts (Jell-o) from scratch? From-scratch jelly means that you don’t have any additional sugar, fake flavours or food colouring. It doesn’t take any extra time or effort when compared to the boxed versions. Best of all, it’s a fun way to get kids into the kitchen.

The recipes below all use fruit juice for sweetness and flavour. But you can make jelly out of most liquids. Once you get started, try making jelly out of sweetened herbal tea or your favourite brand of soda. It’s fun!

Vegan Jelly (Prep Time: 10 minutes)

Jelly doesn’t have to be made with gelatin. Agar agar and vegan pectin can be used to make jelly too! My preferred brand of pectin is Pomona’s Pectin because it can set jelly without any added sugar.

1 box pectin or 2 tsp agar agar powder 4 cups fruit juice

Follow the instructions on the package for setting 4 cups of liquid.

Bring juice to a boil. Turn down the heat stir in the pectin, continue stirring until it is fully dissolved.

Pour the hot juice jelly into serving dishes (individual bowls or one large container).

Refrigerate for 4 hours before serving so it is nicely jiggly.

Juicy Fruit Jelly (Prep Time: 10 minutes)

Gelatin is high in collagen and protein, so it’s good for filling kids up. This recipe uses fruit juice to provide all the sweetness. For a refined sugar-free treat, use unsweetened juice.

Looking for a summer activity? Turn your jelly into a fun experiment. Start by making individual bowls of jelly and add a different type of fruit to each one.

There are certain fresh fruits that contain the pepsin enzyme which will prevent the gelatin from setting. Test and see if you can find out which fruits have this enzyme! I’ll give you a hint, they’re mostly tropical fruits. (Science note: the pepsin enzyme breaks down proteins, like those in gelatin).

4 cups of fruit juice

2 tbsp of gelatin powder (or two envelops)

1⁄4 cup of fresh fruit (berries or oranges are good choices)

Bring 2 cups of juice to boiling. Remove from heat. Sprinkle on the gelatin powder and whisk vigorously to dissolve.

Stir in 2 cups of cold juice and pour into serving dishes. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours (until the jelly has begun to set but is still liquidy). The amount of time will depend on the size of the serving dishes.

Stir in some chopped fruit. Return to the fridge for another 2 hours to fully set.

Fruit Mousse (Prep Time: 15 minutes)

This recipe is fluffy, airy, and colourful. Feel free to try this with other types of fruit. However, raw peaches are not a good choice for this recipe. You can use canned or cooked peaches because cooking denatures (breaks apart) the enzyme.

1⁄4 cup of cold water

1 tbsp of gelatin powder (or one envelop)

1 cup of pureed berries

1⁄4 to 1⁄2 cup of sugar (to taste)

3 tbsp fresh lemon juice

1 cup of whipping cream

Sprinkle the gelatin over the water and let it stand until the gelatin has dissolved, about 5 minutes.

Place the fruit into a blender. Pulse until it is pureed. Add in more fruit, if needed. You want to make 1 cup total.

Sweeten the fruit puree, to taste. The exact amount of sugar needed will depend on how tart or sweet the fruit is.

Mix the fruit puree and the gelatin. Add the lemon juice and stir to mix everything well. Heat it up to just about boiling. You can do this in the microwave or the stove top.

Scrape the fruit jelly into a 5-cup serving dish and place in the fridge to partially set. This will take about 2 hours. The jelly needs to be about the consistency of unbeaten egg whites.

When the jelly is semi-set, whip the cream until it holds stiff peaks.

Fold the whipping cream into the fruit mixture. Try to keep the air bubbles in the cream so it is nice and fluffy. Place the bowl back in the fridge until fully set, about 3 hours.

Emillie Parrish loves having adventures with her two busy children. You can find more of her recipes in her recently released cookbook Fermenting Made Simple. fermentingforfoodies.com

Entertaining and exploring with the family in an unfamiliar city is never easy. Whether your next family trip is to Vancouver, or you are exploring your own home town, we have made it easy on you by putting together this collection of things to do!

There are activities and attractions for every kind of visitor. There are more than enough things to do with families in the Lower Mainland to keep everyone engaged.

Come explore!

Sign your kids up for arts activities tailored to your child’s abilities and skillsets!

MUSIC • DANCE •

THEATRE • VISUAL & LITERARY ARTS

Registration begins June 22 for the 2024/2025 season! placedesarts.ca • 1120 Brunette Ave., Coquitlam, BC

Thoughtful Leader vs Controlling Parent

When parents contact me and complain about the power struggles they are having with their children, I wonder what part they are playing in the dance. Let’s face it, the reason people take parenting classes is often to attempt to change their children’s behaviour.

This is why we start by teaching parents what “normal” behaviour looks like in children. We encourage them to consider the child’s maturity level, temperament and developmental needs. We believe that parents need to understand all of this before considering any attempts to “discipline” their child.

Most of our courses are eight weeks long. By the third week, we hear parents say, “My kids are fine. It’s me that must change.” Music to our ears because we know two things from this statement:

1. They are going to mirror acceptance to their child instead of holding the bar at an unreachable height.

2. They are ready to work on their belief systems and their reactions.

ANTECEDENTS

When we move into the discipline part of the LIFE material, we start by suggesting that understanding antecedents (triggers) to a child’s challenging behaviour is the beginning of supporting children. Antecedents are what happen before a behaviour, even simple things like hunger and fatigue can be overlooked. Instead, the temper tantrum becomes the problem and a search for the right kind of punishment ensues. Eventually, parents realize that punishment or “logical consequences” don’t work.

Parents must dig and investigate to identify possible triggers. Has there been a new event in their child’s life? How are they getting along with the other parent? Are challenges happening at a certain time of day, such as transition times? Or is there a particular circumstance where the challenges show up? Once an antecedent is identified, parents can attempt to manage it or support their child emotionally.

RESPONSIBILITIES

We then identify what responsibilities belong to a child and teach parents the gradual art of teaching, supporting and letting go. This can be challenging for parents who tend to over-function by taking over other people’s responsibility. Where there is over-functioning, there is underfunctioning. Parents learn in many ways to

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parent less in certain areas that we identify as “kid issues.” They learn not to say, “I told you so,” when their child messes up but rather, give love and support without taking over.

When parents control less, they have more authority. Let’s identify control; gushy praise, rewards and punishments, nagging, perfectionism, coercion and overprotection are all examples of parents trying to control children. When we stop nattering at someone about their responsibilities and focus on our own, we clear a path for people to do the same. Anyone who is over-controlled feels as if their head is being pushed under water and they fight and gasp to take a breath. To add to this, if they are told that their “behaviour” is unacceptable, 10 times a day, they feel like a gigantic disappointment. Nobody wants to be anybody’s disappointment, that includes our adult partners.

BOUNDARIES

When parents are confident with their own boundaries around what is reasonable and what they are willing to do and not do, they stand as a thoughtful leader. This

eases anxiety as children want that reason able structure.

While there is much more to the dance of parenting, including our language, for now ask yourself:

• Do I have a positive and supportive view of my child’s behaviour?

• What are possible antecedents to con sider?

• Where do I over-function?

• How confident am I with rules that re ally matter?

• Can I stand firm in my values without getting triggered by my child’s reactions?

A parent who stands strong in their own values is likely to be more effective than a parent who relies on techniques directed at their children.

Grown-up parents facilitate grown-up children.

EXPERIENCE THE LARGEST SCREEN IN BC

Dr. Allison Rees is an educator, counsellor and author of Sidestepping the Power Struggle and The Parent Child Connection. To see her course online, go to lifeseminars.com

Fostering a Spirit of in your Children

CExploration

hildren, by nature, are curious beings! However, nerves, anxiety or a jam-packed schedule can hold kids back from feeling confident, excited and free to explore new things. It can be easy to get swept up in the busyness of life and miss out on that unscheduled time.

Let Loose

It’s even easier to forget how fun and simple it can be to explore. We don’t need to go far or spend hours in the wilderness to foster a spirit of exploration in our children. We are all explorers; we just need to carve out a little bit of time to get into the spirit of open-mindedness.

Take time to do nothing. Although nothing sounds like…. Well, nothing—it doesn’t need to be! Giving children parametres to safely explore their surroundings without any set schedule, just allowing time to wander around together or independently nearby, can help children reignite their imagination. Giving children unstructured play time when they are used to a very full schedule can feel strange or bor-

ing for them at first, but as kids begin to unwind, their creativity can shine through and take the lead.

Kids will invent new games, come up with stories and older children may find a new spot to hang out with friends. Children who are free to make mistakes feel more comfortable branching out, because they aren’t as preoccupied with a fear of making errors.

Open Up

Ask open-ended questions whenever possible. It’s a wonderful way to encourage kids to open up, take in their surroundings and dive deeper into what they are seeing.

Another amazing side effect is that the parent-child connection is strengthened, and parents are more able to see the world through their child’s eyes. Open-ended questions are a gentle nudge to explore, that shows a child that the parent is listening, engaged and is exploring alongside them.

For a nervous child, having the support and eagerness of a parent who wants to play can provide a game-changing

confidence boost. During the brainstorming and decisionmaking phase of adventure planning, asking open-ended questions can empower kids and spark the interest of teens. Starting with questions about what kind of hobby they’d like to try, or a place they’d like to see, and why, can start to open the doors to great conversations and adventures.

Something New

Visit somewhere new together, and let your child take the lead. This doesn’t need to be somewhere far, it can be as simple as a playground you haven’t visited before, or walking a nature trail that you haven’t wandered in a while. Your child might prefer some structure to the adventure, or they may know where they want to go first. You know your child best, so starting small and branching out with baby steps may be the most successful approach to build adventuring momentum. Just follow their lead and see what happens!

Start with an activity that has some set goals. If you or your child need some inspiration to get started, trying a new outdoor activity like geocaching, or a local rock hunting-andhiding group can be a fun way to scope out new places. Sometimes, a great mission can be to taste something new! Trying a restaurant that offers traditional foods from a different culture is a great way to engage all five senses and spark a new interest. If you like art, pack up some sup-

plies with the goal of painting or drawing an outdoor scene together, whether you simply sit outside your home or go to the park, creating art somewhere outside can offer a new perspective and spark a feeling of wonder.

Get in the Spirit

When we help foster our children’s spirit of exploration, we are in turn fostering our own. Spending time outside or trying new things together can help adults slow down and live in the moment, with the added benefit of a strengthened connection between family members. Children who explore can feel more confident and secure, which provides benefits in so many areas of life. Every time we explore together, it feels easier to integrate into our lives. Take a bit of time to adventure this week, and watch your child become a natural explorer!

Kellen Hollier is a mom of two who loves psychology, animals and having fun outdoors. She is a graduate of the Camosun College Arts & Sciences program and enjoys writing about her parenting experiences.

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In the Lower Mainland

10 Family Fun Days

When you live in Vancouver or any of the wonderful communities in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, you’re lucky to have access to a huge variety of areas to explore. So, the next time you’re planning a family day out, why not venture outside of your neighbourhood and find a new favourite spot to visit?

Here are 10 adventures we highly recommend.

1. Garry Point Park

This large waterfront park is located near Steveston Village in Richmond. In addition to the spectacular views of Fraser River and Gulf Islands, this park offers an immense variety of grassy areas, hiking routes and biking paths along the waterfront. BBQs and concessions are open seasonally. Make sure you find the hidden tidal pools!

2. Tynehead Regional Park

This 260-acre park located in the Guildford area of Surrey is a wildlife habitat and meadow along the banks of the Serpentine River. The nature trails are spectacular, and the park offers several secluded picnic spots for relaxing. This park also has many great spots for fishing, as well as a salmon hatchery if you visit at the right time of the year.

3. Maplewood Farm

Maplewood Farm is in North Vancouver near Mt Seymour. This park has an entrance fee, but the cost is affordable at a family rate and goes towards supporting the animals and other park expenses. Learn about the farm and visit all the animals while exploring this exceptional nature-based area.

4. Britannia Mine Museum

This museum can be found along the Sea to Sky Highway between West Vancouver and Squamish. This immersive historical adventure will take you on a wild ride! Take an underground tour, see what life was like back then in the historical buildings, pan for gold, visit a fun play area and take your picture with the biggest truck you’ve ever seen.

5. Fort Langley National Historic Site

Located along the banks of the Fraser River in historic Fort Langley, this site offers fun for the whole family. Learn about Canada’s fur trading history, visit historical buildings and participate in interactive exhibits. You can even pre-book on-site camping spots in historic cabins to extend your family adventure.

6. Sasamat Lake in Belcarra Park

This park and adjacent lake are located in Port Moody, off the Barnett Highway. These year-round trails are accessible and offer a variety of routes to see various aspects of nature. It will take you about two-and-a-half hours to completely circle the area. Finish off with a swim or a paddle (you can rent kayaks) in this fantastic lake.

7. George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary

The George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary is in Delta, near Ladner, and is an ideal spot to visit if your family likes birdwatching. The sanctuary requires you to pre-book your visit, and you’re going to want to ensure everyone has proper footwear, but it’s worth it! Several trails and observation towers ensure you can view as many birds as possible—it’s estimated that over 300 species visit every year.

8. Deer Lake Park

Deer Lake Park is a wonderful green nature oasis located inside the city of Burnaby. Walk the trails and check out the birds, visit the playgrounds and rent a canoe to explore the

lake. Make sure you visit the Burnaby Art Gallery located within the park.

9. Lynn Canyon Park

This park is located in the Lynn Park area of North Vancouver. Wonderful nature trails that you can choose based on your time and skill wind around this park and lead you to the falls and a swimming hole. This park also boasts a suspension bridge with jaw-dropping views.

10. Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site

The village of Steveston is the largest commercial smallcraft fishing port in Canada, so it’s fitting that this historical site is located there. Visitors can watch demonstrations of how the cannery works and explore other interactive exhibits about the history of Canada’s West Coast fishing industry.

Erika Palmer is a writer living with her husband and daughter. She believes most problems can be solved with a good cup of tea and a huge piece of chocolate.

Exploring Art with Your Kids

If you are looking for something fun and different to try with your kids this summer, why not take them to some family friendly art galleries?

Galleries are often seen as formal or stuffy, but they are the perfect place for kids. They are colourful, spacious, engaging and many even host art classes, camps and workshops for children.

Art galleries are a great place to learn about local culture, exotic places around the world, textures, lighting and even science.

Art showcases the world around us and gives kids a glimpse into another person’s creative process. It teaches them that imagination is something to be cherished and there is no right or wrong in the creative process.

Art galleries give your child a chance to be exposed to things they wouldn’t normally explore. They may not realize that a sculpture can be created out of

mud and twigs or that sand can be used to create art on a canvas.

Here are a few of our favourite galleries to bring the kids to in the Lower Mainland.

The Vancouver Art Gallery

The Vancouver Art Gallery has programming geared toward families and kids. There are child-based classes, The Making Place, Family Tours, summer camps and events like Kids Take Over that showcase artwork by local students.

This year, from March to December, the gallery features Self-Guided Art Agent Packs. Visit and enjoy interactive activities designed for the whole family. Explore, chat and play in the exhibition spaces with self-guided Art Agent Packs. Inside each pack, you’ll find items like a sketchbook, a search-and-find

activity, gallery games to do as a family, self-guided tours, a storybook and more.

Admission to the gallery is free for children 12 and under, when accompanied by an adult.

Learn more at vanartgallery.bc.ca

The Surrey Art Gallery

The Surrey Art Gallery has numerous programs designed toward kids and families and is right next to Bear Creek Park, which is home to several public art pieces.

This year the gallery will feature a Spring and Summer Family Art Party where kids can create their own found objects print, explore the landscape and ecology through watercolour resist painting and experiment with geometric abstraction. Join an ecologically minded performance of The Big Wail with Jayne Walling in the Studio Theatre.

Fort Langley National Historic Site

Admission to Surrey Art Gallery is free.

Learn more at discoversurreybc.com

New Media Gallery in New Westminster

The Art + Technology LAB is a teaching space located next to New Media Gallery. Public, school and professional artist programs are offered throughout the year. They focus on encouraging a broad understanding of how technology can be used for creative purposes, pedagogy, critical thinking and the creation of meaning. Programs range from the ages of three to 18 and include:

• Creative Filmmaking

• Robotix

• Sound Explorers

• Little Makers

• Tiny Tots + Technology

They also provide tours, workshops and eight exciting camps. Learn more at newmediagallery.ca.

West Coast Curated

If you are looking for a family-friendly art gallery in your area, look no further than West Coast Curated. West Coast Curated is made in partnership with destination marketing organizations from the communities of Vancouver, Whistler, Vancouver’s North Shore (the City of North Vancouver, District of North Vancouver and West Vancouver), Burnaby, New Westminster and Langley. Visit westcoastcurated.com to learn more.

Experiment with the materials, processes and ideas that you see in the artworks on display in local art galleries. This is a great way to introduce your children to art, inspire their creativity and instill a sense of exploration for years to come.

Stacie Gaetz is the managing editor of WestCoast Families and the proud mama of a delightful daughter and silly son who fill her days with love and chaos. Reach her at editor@ westcoastfamilies.com.

Rising from the mist of the Fraser River, Fort Langley

National Historic Site is a time capsule to Canada’s vibrant past. Explore where Hudson’s Bay Company traders met California gold seekers and listen to First Nations interpreters share ancient stories. Youth under

17 enjoy free admission to this immersive experience! parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/langley

The Papa Penguin Play

May 15 to June 2 | carouseltheatre.ca

This play is a co-production between Carousel Theatre for Young People, Vancouver International Children’s Festival and Zee Zee Theatre. Recommended for all ages, the 50-minute-long Papa Penguin Play will be on stage at the Waterfront Theatre from May 15 through June 2.

Day Out with Thomas!

May 25 to 26 & June 1 to 2 | exploresquamish. com/event/day-out-with-thomas

Thomas the Tank Engine will be rolling into the Railway Museum of BC in Squamish the weekends of May 25 to 26 and June 1 to 2. Take an interactive train ride, play games, enjoy some bubble-themed activities and take some amazing pictures with everyone’s favourite locomotive.

June 11 to September 21 | bardonthebeach.org

Western Canada’s largest non-profit Shakespeare Festival returns to Vancouver’s Vanier Park for another season starting in June. Two modern performance tents offer Shakespeare plays, related dramas and several special events in the scenic park. Make sure you visit the Bard Village, eat at the concessions and shop at the Bard boutique.

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