CityParent – Greater Toronto Area: Includes Halton, Peel, York and Durham – February 2023

Free activities for all ages and abilities! Various locations throughout Oakville.

Monday, February 20, 2023 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Build your Family Day tradition with us! Our Family Day events feature tons of FREE recreation and culture activities, entertainment, special events, and more. Visit oakville.ca for event schedule and locations!

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Mary Racioppo

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Amanda Pereira

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celebrate love VALENTINE’S DAY IDEAS FOR KIDS

Valentine’s Day is the day we get to express our love. Even though we do it every day in one form or another for those we love, there’s something to be said when February 14th rolls around.

When my kids were younger, we took them to the store. Each of them would pick out their favourite Valentine’s Day box of cards for each one of their classmates at school. The fun they had signing their names and just how happy they were to be giving someone a card knowing it would make them feel special. One of my boys wanted to buy extra in case some of their friends received less than they did.

It was a day that started at home, even as they got older. I made sure I had something special for each of them when they came for breakfast. I would give them each a gift bag with a card and buy them something small, nothing too substantial (this tradition carried on until the day they moved out). When they came home from school, I’d have a batch of cookies baked with a red heart in the middle. I’d watch and hear the buzz around the kitchen table as they pulled out their decorated paper Valentine’s Day bags filled with cards they had received. Seeing how happy and excited they were after receiving a small card with a special note was amazing. For our daughter, my husband always got her a card and a stuffed toy or trinket. That always warmed my heart.

Although the tradition for Valentine’s Day has always been known to be chocolates, flowers, and a romantic dinner, it doesn’t have to be.

In today’s times, Valentine’s Day is for everyone; whether you have a romantic partner, single friends, or a BFF, there’s always a way to celebrate.

The following are some ideas I’ve curated and done myself to make those special people in your life feel the love. It doesn’t have to be extravagant.

• Cook dinner or order in and watch a movie. There are so many memorable fl icks like Valentine’s Day, The Notebook, Ever After, or Gone with the Wind. For kids, check out Lady and the Tramp, Frozen, Winnie the Pooh: A Valentine for You or Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown.

• Gifts are also quite simple. Consider Valentine story books with familiar characters they know and love such as Franklin’s Valentine by Paulette Bourgeois, Sesame Street: My Fuzzy Valentine to Elmo by Naomi Kleinberg and Christopher Moroney, Peppa’s Valentine’s Day by Courtney Carbone and EOne.

No matter what you do or what you get—show love. I am trying to remember where I read or saw this quote that resonated with me, “Nothing is better than someone who is happy because of you.”

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent

SONSHINE AND BROCCOLI

FEBRUARY 20, 2023

2:00 PM

Spend Family day with Performing Arts Brampton at a fun-filled musical afternoon with Sonshine & Broccoli, pre-show activities, creative workshops meet and greets and more! For 16 years, best friends, Juno Award nominees and Canada’s Premier children’s entertainers, Sonshine and Broccoli have been engaging children and parents alike with their infectious enthusiasm and energetic pop-rock songs. This one-of-a-kind children’s musical duo, have rocked out shows across the country and have had audiences singing and dancing along to their four hit studio albums. A household name in children’s entertainment, they’ve recently started production on an animated children’s television show based on the rockin’ adventures of Sonshine & Broccoli! You don’t want to miss this exciting performance at The Rose Brampton starting at 2:00pm. Be sure to arrive early because Your Family Day of fun activities begins at 12:30PM! This is a FREE performance, however, advanced reservations are necessary.

BOOK TICKETS

1 THEATRE LN, BRAMPTON, ON L6V 0A3 / 905 874 2800

get creative KIDS WRITE 4KIDS

January is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby or to take current hobbies and passions to the next level. If you know a young writer who loves putting pen to paper, now could be the time to put their literary works to the test to be in with a chance of becoming a published author, while making an impact.

Since 2012, national youth education charity, Ripple Foundation, has been discovering young Canadian authors with its annual Kids Write 4 Kids contest.

Kids Write 4 Kids is an annual creative writing competition for students in grades four to eight. Aspiring writers have the opportunity to craft an original literary piece with full artistic license over genre, format and theme.

Submitted to a judging panel made up of accomplished editors, authors and previous winners, the winner will see their work published in ebook and paperback formats. They will also choose a charity to benefit from 100% of the proceeds from book sales during 2023, garnering philanthropic ways among the next generation.

Ivy Wong, Founder of Ripple Foundation, started the charity’s flagship program to give back to children and to cultivate a love for reading and writing and the creative writing skill of tomorrow’s leaders.

“Storytelling is an important tool throughout life, personally, professionally, socially, emotionally,” said Wong. “Being able to articulate your thoughts on paper in a way that others understand is powerful and builds confidence in the next generation. It’s especially important to today’s young people who have been met with unprecedented times the

last few years and need an outlet to make sense of it all.”

The one-of-a-kind challenge has received over 3,000 submissions since it started, and 21 authors have been discovered from across Canada, impacting and benefitting multiple charities and organizations along the way.

The competition now welcomes entries until March 31, 2023, which must be submitted by the author’s parent, guardian, or teacher. It is completely free to enter and the maximum word count is 5,000.

Wong adds, “Writing journeys start within, from the imagination. But it is an art, and should be practiced and perfected like any craft. My – and the judges – best tip is to ensure you give yourself enough time to write, edit, read, and repeat this process again multiple times. Even the greatest authors have to rework their literary creations often more than once. We cannot wait to see what this year’s Kids Write 4 Kids contest entrants have in store for us!”

To learn more about eligibility and entry details, visit ripplefoundation.ca

“STORYTELLING IS AN IMPORTANT TOOL THROUGHOUT LIFE, PERSONALLY, PROFESSIONALLY, SOCIALLY, EMOTIONALLY.”

valentine

GIFT GUIDE For the Custom Couple

A personalized gift puts a smile on everyone’s face and melts their hearts! With a selection of photobooks, blankets, mugs, travel mugs and so much more. $ Varies per product available at walmart.ca

Manta Silk Mask

Kahlmi Baby Massager

Lego Icons Orchid Toy Building Kit for Adults

Gift that special someone with flowers that will last a lifetime. The LEGO Orchid (10311) model building project for adults will help you build a beautiful plant display for your home or office. Make your display unique: rotate the stems, blooms, roots, and leaves to create your favourite look, then rebuild the stems to create new flower arrangements. Inspired by real orchids – LEGO® from the LEGO® Botanical Collection – designed specifically for adults. $69.86 CAD available at walmart.ca

Kahlmi is the first baby massager to soothe infants and strengthen the bond between parents and babies. It is a must-have for new parents who want to keep colic at bay and improve baby’s sleep. A finalist for the 2022 JPMA Innovation Awards, this innovative baby massager brings the power of baby massage into the hands of the user. It helps improve digestion, lessen fussiness, boost immunity, promote body awareness, and more. $207.00 available at kahlmi.com/en-ca

Just Dance 2023

Manta Sleep masks combine skin-protecting silk and true 100% blackout to provide the most rejuvenating sleep possible for your Valentine. Manta SILK Mask is the only anti-aging mask designed for deep sleep. Made with lustrous and durable 22 momme silk that prevents wrinkles and refreshes skin cells, Manta SILK Mask provides the anti-aging benefits of deep sleep and the anti-aging benefits of silk at the same time.

$69.00 US available at mantasleep.com

RAE Skincare Gift Sets

Give the gift that will keep on giving. RAE Skincare is a brand that is all natural with organic botanical ingredients in their formula. RAE has curated their popular all-skincare type packages, including the following: All Bright Make Up Remover which is soft and gentle, but oh so powerful. Reveal Cleanser containing an array of antioxidant properties sure to help make your skin look younger and healthier. Essential Toner with lavender petal, a powerhouse ingredient— consider it to be a multivitamin for your face. Pose Moisturizer, one of RAE’s most popular moisturizers with game changing active ingredients that easily absorbs into the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple. 3 specially priced unique bundles to choose from. The Kiss includes all 4 products. The Smooch includes 3 of the 4 products, and The Peck includes 2 of the 4 products. $160.00, $125.00, and $90.00 available at raeskincare.ca

Just Dance 2023 is an immersive and shareable experience of dancing to your favourite artists’ songs. It’s the ultimate dance game with 40 hot new tracks! This year’s Just Dance will offer for the first time in the franchise’s history an Online Multiplayer mode that will enable players to enjoy the full game online with up to five of their friends or family members! The game brings us the best tracks to dance to with songs by Billie Eilish, Ava Max, Doja Cat, BTS and many more. For the second year in a row, Canadian Just Dance players will get to discover local talent starring in their favorite dance game with the participation of Montreal-based dancer, choreographer and influencer Citron Rose, who has created her own choreography for this year’s edition of the game! Available on Nintendo Switch™ system, PlayStation® 5 and Xbox Series X|S consoles $39.96 available at walmart.ca

THE UGLY DUCKLING

LIGHTWIRE THEATRE

Lightwire brings a classic tale to life in an unforgettable theatrical experience. With dazzling visuals, poignant choreography, and the creative use of music, this production brings the story of the Ugly Duckling into a new and brilliant light.

MARCH 23, 2023

6:30 PM

BOOK TICKETS

THEROSEBRAMPTON.CA

A baby friendly play date for moms

Enjoy the newest Hollywood movies baby-friendly environment

Perfect outing for moms with babies 0-12 months of age

• Watch the movie with your little one in a car seat beside you or snuggled in a carrier

Enjoy the newest Hollywood movies in a baby-friendly environment

NOW PLAYING AT YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD CINEMA

Enjoy the newest Hollywood movies in a baby-friendly environment

Barrie, Etobicoke, North York, Oakville, Oshawa, The Beach, Vaughan.

NOW PLAYING AT YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD CINEMA

Perfect outing for moms with babies 0-12 months of age

Perfect outing for moms with babies 0-12 months of age

Dads, grandparents and friends welcome.

Enjoy the newest Hollywood movies in a baby-friendly environment

• Watch the movie with your little one in a car seat beside you or snuggled in a carrier

Perfect outing for moms with babies 0-12 months of age

Enjoy the newest Hollywood movies in a baby-friendly environment

• Watch the movie with your little one in a car seat beside you or snuggled in a carrier Dads, grandparents and friends welcome.

Dads, grandparents and friends welcome.

NOW PLAYING AT YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD CINEMA

Barrie, Etobicoke, North York, Oakville, Oshawa, The Beach, Vaughan.

NOW PLAYING AT YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD CINEMA

• Watch the movie with your little one in a car seat beside you or snuggled in a carrier

Perfect outing for moms with babies 0-12 months of age

MOVIESFORMOMMIES.COM

• Watch the movie with your little one in a car seat beside you or snuggled in a carrier

Barrie, Etobicoke, North York, Oakville, Oshawa, The Beach, Vaughan.

Dads, grandparents and friends welcome.

cityparent.com

MOVIESFORMOMMIES.COM

Dads, grandparents and friends welcome.

Barrie, Etobicoke, North York, Oakville, Oshawa, The Beach, Vaughan.

MARCH PERFORMING ARTS BRAMPTON

Willow Go™

A GAME-CHANGING ALTERNATIVE TO CONVENTIONAL PUMPS

“Willow Go” has revolutionized pumping. Moms love the ease of use and freedom the pumps offer. No more clunky pumps, no more compromise between breastfeeding goals or the ability to move about their day. “Willow Go” introduces a pump that fits into your life, not the other way around. Willow Go is a game-changing alternative to conventional pumps, delivering on both performance and convenience. Pumping can be one of the most

challenging early motherhood experiences, and the team at Willow are proud to reinvent solutions to enable feeding success.

Among the features of the Willow Go is its ability to provide effective and comfortable double-electric pumping:

• With Willow Go, you can pump cordfree, hands-free from anywhere, anytime thanks to its sleek wearable design. No cords, tubes, or bulky motors are needed!

• The Willow Go features ultrapowerful suction with up to 280mmHG, and moms can choose between six different levels of suction in Stimulation mode and nine different levels in Expression mode.

• Moms rated Willow Go 100 percent comfortable in a clinical • Safe and Reliable: The Willow Go pump is Health Canada-cleared and includes a one-year manufacturer warranty.

$499.99 CAD available at amazon.ca

WITH WILLOW GO, YOU CAN PUMP CORDFREE, HANDSFREE FROM ANYWHERE, ANY TIME THANKS TO ITS SLEEK WEARABLE DESIGN.

FINALLY A CARD THE KIDS WILL LOVE!

WATERDOWN DANCERS INC was established in 1997 and has since developed a strong reputation for being an accomplished, family focused studio. We believe that dance can enhance everyone’s lives, regardless of age and level. Our qualified instructors teach proper and safe technique to all levels, and make it a priority to encourage and instill confidence in all dancers. We emphasize teamwork and provide a positive atmosphere for our dancers to develop lifelong friendships; everyone has a place at our studio. WDI is more than just a dance studio; it is a place to further dance education, a safe haven, and a family. We offer two programs (Recreational and Competitive) and offer classes from our tiniest dancers (2 years) to adult (18+). We provide instruction in ballet, jazz, tap, acro, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop and more. Our dancers have many opportunities throughout the season to perform and be involved in the Waterdown community.

waterdowndancersinc@gmail.com

waterdowndancersinc.com

905-690-0060

facebook.com/waterdowndancersinc instagram.com/waterdowndancersinc

february COOL THINGS

Step2® Whisper Ride Cruiser

The Whisper Ride Cruiser from Step 2 keeps your little one engaged and entertained. The ride-on car features a working horn, a movable steering wheel, and other helpful features for a comfortable stroll. Your little one will love pretending to drive with the Whisper Ride Cruiser from Step 2. For ages 1.5 to 4 years and up to 50 lbs maximum weight. Easy to assemble. $119.99 available at bedbathandbeyond.ca

Graco® Modes™ Adventure Double Stroller

Graco’s Modes Adventure Double Stroller Wagon is loaded with features that make big adventures comfortable. The wagon features two wide, plush child seats for extra toddler comfort and all-terrain rubber tires with suspension for the park. Seats children up to 50 lbs. Suitable for children up to 35”. Features 3-point adjustable harness, lightweight aluminum frame for easy maneuverability, transportation, and storage, lockable rear wheel brakes and front swivel wheels, push or pull handles, plush child seats for extra toddler comfort, and height-adjustable handle for parent comfort. $599.99 available at bedbathandbeyond.ca

Butter & Charcuterie Boards by Cuisipro

We’ll see even more charcuterie and butter boards in 2023! Perfectly laid out boards are always a showstopper, whether you’re the host or the guest! Durable and lightweight, ideal for everyday use. Prepare and serve, all on one board. Cuisipro fibre wood boards are made of recycled material that is BPA free, LFGB and FDA certified. Two-sided design for optimal usage, heat resistant up to 175°C/350°F and dishwasher safe.

$21.99 available at cuisipro.com

Baby Bedtime Moisture Wash & Baby Moisture Lotion by Johnson’s®

Let moisture do its work for your little one. The JOHNSON’S® BEDTIME® Moisture Wash doubles as a moisturizer and cleanser. With its NATURALCALM® aroma, this product gently cleanses and soothes baby. So, what happens after baby gets a bath? More moisture! The JOHNSON’S® Baby Lotion helps replenish baby’s skin and nourish skin for 24 hours. Clinically proven mild formula, specifically designed for baby’s delicate skin. The JOHNSON’S® Baby Lotion is proven to protect baby’s skin and is a must-have for a happy baby this winter.

$7.47 each available at walmart.ca & amazon.ca

Cuisipro Soft-Touch Aluminum

The Cuisipro Soft-Touch Stock Pot is the perfect pot for pasta, soups, or deep frying. Ergonomic SoftTouch handles offer comfort while cooking and domed glass lids allow for self-basting and viewing of food while cooking. The aluminum body distributes and retains heat evenly for more consistent cooking. The Whitford non-stick coating easily releases food from the cooking surface. Suitable for gas, electric, ceramic and halogen appliances, oven safe up to 320F/160C.

$189.99 available cuisipro.com

Cuisipro Magnetic Spot Scrubber

Cleaning up after cooking and baking is part of the process. Keep your kitchen in tip-top shape with the right tools. Cuisipro Magnetic Spot Scrubber cleans hard-to-reach areas. Scrubber will follow handle as you move along the container, perfect for hard-to-reach areas.

$9.99 available at cuisipro.com

So much to ZOO!

Did you know the Toronto Zoo is open 365 days a year? Enjoy year-round adventures with over 3,000 animals, 10km of walking trails and four indoor tropical pavilions to escape the cold! Bring your family to meet ours this Family Day weekend and connect with wildlife this March Break! Visit torontozoo.com for upcoming events and to plan your trip today!