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

Super FUN! Super VALUE! Super FLEXIBLE! Super CONVENIENT!

Summer Super Playgrounds

Register once for $36.61 and play all summer!

We’re excited to offer our half-day drop-in camp membership at five parks in Oakville this summer. Campers will enjoy supervised games, crafts, sports and making new friends without the commitment of a full-day, week-long camp! Offered weekdays from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Age: 6-12

Parents/guardians must sign campers in and out. No before and after-care or supervised lunch breaks provided. This outdoor program is subject to safe weather conditions. Additional fees for non-residents. Some exceptions apply.

Spaces are limited. Visit oakville.ca to register.

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

Leo Racioppo

leo@mediaclassified.ca

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

John Racioppo

john@mediaclassified.ca

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mary Racioppo

EDITOR

Amanda Pereira

ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Gina Pappas gina.pappas@mediaclassified.ca

Orli Gorokhovsky orli.gorokhovsky@mediaclassified.ca

GROUP SALES MANAGER

Randi Segal

MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES & SERVICE

Marilyn Watling marilyn@mediaclassified.ca

DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA

Lauren Reid-Sachs

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER

Alicesa Pullan

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Johannah Lorenzo, Yvonne Poon, Mike Terentiev

ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES accountingteam@mediaclassified.ca

CIRCULATION INQUIRIES distributionteam@mediaclassified.ca

All submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the editor at editorial@mediaclassified.ca

HOME OFFICE

610 Applewood Cres., Suite 401 Vaughan, ON Phone: 905.761.3313 press 4

Toll Free: +1.888.761.3313 press 4 | Fax: 905.761.5038

cityparent.com

MediaClassified

@MediaClassified

Please recycle this magazine!

Media Classified Corporation participates in the Partners in Growth Reforestation Program through St. Joseph Communications. To date, Partners in Growth has planted over 2.5 million trees in parks, recreation and conservation areas, and other public spaces across Canada. Established in 1990, this program was started with Scouts Canada to help replenish the environment.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE All copyright and other intellectual property rights in the contents hereof are the property of CityParent.ca, and not that of the individual client. The customer has purchased the right of reproduction in CityParent.ca and does not have the right to reproduce the ad or photo in any other place or publication without the previous written consent of CityParent.ca. Contents of this publication, in hard copy format as well as online, are covered by copyright law, and offenders will be prosecuted. The publisher assumes no financial liability for typographical errors or omissions. All claims of error shall be made by Wednesday 5 p.m. prior to the next week’s publication and if not made, shall not be considered. No claims will be allowed for errors not affecting the advertisement’s value. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction, storage in a retrieval system or transmission, in any form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical or otherwise, in whole or in part, without prior written permission of CityParent.ca is strictly prohibited.

STEP INTO SPRING

Signs of spring inspire thoughts of spring cleaning. It’s the time of year when most of us do our major cleaning; however, for me, it is the last thing I would like to do.

Easter is the first official gathering of the year, a celebration of family, chocolate, and warmer weather to come!

The term “spring” comes from the Old English word “springan,” which means “to leap up” or “to burst forth”, referring to the way that plants and flowers start to grow and bloom during this season. Overall, spring is a time of hope, optimism, and the promise of new opportunities.

One of my favourite sights is seeing puddles on a sunny day instead of mountains of snow on a cold day. It’s time to end heavy winter clothing, like boots and especially winter coats. Fresh cut grass smells better than the sight of dirty snowbanks left by snowplows.

My favourite thing about spring is spending most of my time outdoors, walks and seeing the faces of those who have hibernated. I know my dog Harley enjoys spring as she gets more time outside and loves to bask in the sun

and doesn’t have to wear her awkward walking boots to keep her paws from freezing. Some are digging out the golf clubs and dusting off their bag. Others are wiping down their bikes or hosing down the driveway, and most of us are planting our gardens knee-high in the dirt.

For me, it’s the lake house and watching the ice melt back into water. Boats slowly drift into the marina, returning to their rightful docks. Birds are flocking home. Long weekends and people enjoying a cool drink on the pier and listening to the band playing. The lake is buzzing. A breath of fresh air and more energy await me when I hear the word spring. Since everyone loves Dad’s burgers and hot dogs, I’m eager to bring out the deck furniture and fire up the barbecue. The anticipation of warmer days ahead: family gatherings, fireside chats, laughs and beautiful sunsets.

This is a sign that more sunny days will follow, and it feels as if the world, including myself, is waking up. These are the signs, sounds and sights that summer is near.

Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent

for baby PETIT LEM

The Petit Lem Layette Collection has a compilation of must-haves and basics for your baby’s every day wardrobe. 4 adorable collections to choose fromThe Bears, Bunny, Counting Sheep and Elephant. These collections include swaddles, bath sets, cozy sleepers, milestone blanket set and so much more. Petit Lem creates premium quality products that are gentle, soft on the skin and durable. Made from 100% organically grown cotton, free of chemicals and toxic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Available from preemies to 12 months. $14.00 – 38.00 NB to 24 mo. petitlem.com

Dusty Rose Pants Two Pack $24. Dot Print Headband in Dusty Rose Two Pack $14.

Baby Bunny 3 Pack Bodysuits $28.

Safari & Elephant Bibs 6 Pack bundle 2 hats, 2 mittens, 2 bibs assorted designs to choose from. $38.

Dusty Rose Tip Socks 4 Pack $16

Safari 2 Pack Muslin Swaddles $32

Cub with Honey Print on Off-White Sleeper $22.00

Little Lamb on a Pebble TakeMe HomeSet $28

Elephant Hooded Towelwith Washcloths Set (4 pcs) $38

$38.00.

breaking stereotypes

SPEED CUBER CHAMP MAX PARK IS BREAKING RECORDS AND STEREOTYPES

WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY

Max Park is an inspiring young man who is not only breaking multiple world records in speed cubing, but he is also breaking stereotypes about people with disabilities.

Max was born with autism, a neurodevelopment disorder. Individuals with autism often have difficulty interacting with others socially, developing relationships, communicating, making eye contact and facial expressions. They can also have difficulties sharing interests with others, developing motor skills like pointing and can have restrictive or repetitive routines.

After Max was diagnosed with autism, his parents, Schwan and Miki Park looked for different activities and toys that would engage Max and encourage parallel play. One day, his mom pulled out a Rubik’s Cube they had tucked away. After watching a video on how to solve the puzzle, she showed Max. Max showed immediate interest in the cube and enjoyed playing with it daily.

To encourage and foster that interest, his mom searched for Rubik’s Cube activities online. She found an upcoming speed cubing competition in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles and signed Max up. Speed cubing is a competitive sport where cubers compete to see who can solve a Rubik’s Cube the fastest. Initially, the competitions were seen as a great opportunity to incorporate a learning lesson for Max about social interactions and patience while further developing his motor skills.

Little did the Parks’ know how much this sport would help Max

excel as a person and competitor. What years of therapy couldn’t teach, Max was learning naturally at the competitions. During the first event, Max surprised his parents by pointing at different competitors he recognized. This was a major milestone for Max.

Another milestone moment happened in 2016, when Max won his first international championship event in Paris, France. After looking at how the other winners on the stage were holding their certificates and awards, he mimicked their behaviour by readjusting his own award, so he was holding them the same way his peers were.

The speed cubing world is a naturally inclusive, supportive and encouraging community. Surrounded by his peers, Max has become a record-breaking champion, respected and fierce competitor, a friend and fan favourite to competitors and audience members, and an inspirational mentor to up-and-coming Rubik’s Cubers.

Since his first competition at the age of 10, Max has won over 400 speed cubing titles and is in the Guinness Book of World records as the fastest speed cuber in the world. Max has broken several records for solving the iconic 3x3 cube as well as 4x4, 5x5, 6x6 and 7x7 cubes and single and double handed solves in the fastest time. He won his first world championship in 2016. He helped popularize the trend AO100, average over 100 solves.

Through his sponsorships with Rubik’s Cube and Cubicle, Max

and his family have travelled all over the world including Alaska, Paris, Australia, Moscow, and Taiwan to participate in speed cubing competitions. He tied for the world record for solving an average of five 3x3 cubes in 4.86 seconds in February of this year.

When reflecting on Max’s success, his mom Miki commented, “You don’t know where the gems are hidden. Don’t say ‘no’ to anything, be open. Gems could come from anywhere”.

If there is one thing Miki and Schwan would like other parents who have children with neurodivergence understand it’s, “don’t underestimate your kids. Assume your kids are much smarter than what you think. The information is all there”.

When asked what advice he has for anyone interested in cubing, Max says, “Cubers should learn as much as you can.”

SUNDAY, APRIL 30TH – 9:30AM-4:30PM WYCHWOOD BARNS

Don’t

SPONSORED

april

COOL THINGS: SPRING IS IN THE AIR

Shark Stratos Cordless Vacuum

Reduce vacuuming time and kick off spring cleaning. Designed with technology that detects clean floors and automatically boosts performance when needed. This helps prevent dirt you can’t see. It is designed to be light and space-saving. Suitable for those living in condos and looking to conserve space. $499.99 CAD available at sharkclean.ca

Sunnies – Sunglasses for Kids

Children’s eyes are especially vulnerable to UV harmful rays since they receive three times more sun exposure than adults do. You’ll love the fun, durable styles made by moms just for kids: polarized sunglasses that protect their eyes from harmful UV rays. Polarized lenses, 100% UVA and UVB protection, reflective lenses, durable frames, anti-slip material. For kids 4-10 years old. Includes a microfibre carrying pouch for easy care and storage. Bundle and save – Buy 3 Sunnies and get $15 off with code SUNNIES3. $25.00 & up available on amazon and website sunniesshades.com

Fujifilm Instax Mini Link 2 Smartphone Printer

Instax Mini Link 2 smartphone printer makes it simple to capture every milestone and memory with real, tangible photos. With the Mini Link 2, you can customize frames and image colour modes. With its InstaxAiR feature, you can draw “in the air” and apply effects directly to the printed image, taking interactivity and personalization to a whole new level. The perfect smartphone printer for families to create scrapbooks of previous memories or to capture the fun of family moments! $129.99 CAD available at amazon.ca, bestbuy.ca, & indigo.ca

Hilary Duff x Carter’s Collection

Chief Mom Officer Hilary Duff unveils the second Hilary Duff x Carter’s Spring LimitedEdition Collection ranging in sizes 0-24M and priced from $10-$22. Duff’s latest Carter’s collection reflects her sense of style and parenting expertise. As the weather gets warmer, the lightweight fabrics provide comfort for babies in the collection that is style forward, practical, and affordable in neutral tones. $10-$22 sizes 0-24 mo. Available for a limited time on carters.com/hilaryduff

The North Face Cypress Bucket Hat

The Cyprus Bucket Hat features wind-resistant fabric, a water-repellent coating, and FlashDry™ sweatband. Not only does it look stylish, but it also keeps you dry and comfortable in almost any weather. $44.99 available at thenorthface.com

The Women’s ‘86 Low-Fi Hi-Tek Mountain Short Jacket features a throwback ‘80s aesthetic, a cropped silhouette, water-repellent cotton, and technical WindWall™ fabrics. The original dome tent was the inspiration for this colour-blocked design. Features a relaxed fit with a cropped silhouette, highly wind-resistant WindWall™ fabric, woven overlay on yoke, embossed-logo lining, hood with a drawcord and cord locks for adjustability, draft flap covers the center front half zip, hidden chest pocket on left, two top-entry, billowed welt front pockets and side-entry hand pockets, adjustable hook-and-loop cuff tabs, internal drawcord with cord locks at hem for adjustability, embroidered oversize logo on left chest and logo on back-right shoulder.

$299.99 available at thenorthface.com

The North Face Women’s ’86 Low-Fi Hi-Tek Mountain Short Jacket

LEARNING WITHOUT BOUNDARIES

ENGLISH, WRITING SCIENCE

Every Saturday, one hour virtual classes from 9am-4pm, September to June, we can draw the line from pass to success.

Every Saturday, one hour in class and virtual classes from 9am-4pm, September to June, we can draw the line from pass to success.

When kids know better, they do better. Whether your child needs to catch up, keep up or excel, our team works to improve your child grades, self-discipline, and confidence.

When kids know better, they do better. Whether your child needs to catch up, keep up or excel, our team works to improve your

Summer e-Bootcamp now open for registration. 6-week program, one hour every day Monday-Friday per subject. Come and discover the difference.

*NEW! CODING FOR KIDS

JUNIOR KINDERGARTEN THROUGH GRADE 11

ONE HOUR PER SUBJECT IN A CLASSROOM SETTING

647-725-3938

647-725-3938

WEEKLY HOMEWORK AND PERIODIC TESTS

www.reidmountdiscovery.ca

www.reidmountdiscovery.ca

REIDMOUNT

DISCOVERY SCHOOL

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

For more information, email: info@reidmountdiscovery.ca BRAMPTON Secondary School

MISSISSAUGA Homelands Senior School

BRAMPTON Secondary School

MARKHAM Milliken Mills High School

Dearcroft Lakeshore Dearcroft Trafalgar Crossing Dearcroft Rebecca

Three locations in Oakville offering exceptional Montessori Programs:

family fun

SPRING FLING IN MUSKOKA: MUSKOKA MAPLE TRAIL

WORDS BY ANDREW HIND

Set the clocks forward… spring has arrived. The warmer days bring with them not only excitement for pleasant days ahead, but also the onset of maple season. And there is no place that embraces the season better than Muskoka.

In years past, settlers depended on the harvest of maple sap to provide an alternative to expensive imported sugar. It boiled down (if you pardon the pun) to making the most of the resources of the land, adapting agesold techniques learned from First Nations.

Today, maple season is pure pleasure. Embark on the Muskoka Maple Trail (muskokamaple.com) to learn, taste and experience all things maple.

Stay

Luxury and warm hospitality unite at JW Marriott The Rosseau Resort in Minett (marriott.com). Overlooking

Lake Rosseau, and with first-rate amenities for the entire family, its a prime weekended destination. Enjoy a maple cinnamon latte on the deck and gaze out at the water below where the receding ice heralds the arrival of spring.

You don’t have to venture far to get to the business of enjoying Muskoka’s maple offerings. The resort offers seasonal enrichment programming, including maple-themed campfire treats (April 1, 8, 15, 22), luxuriant offerings at the Hydrospa Muskoka.

Dine

The Rosseau covers all the mapledining bases with maple butternut squash, maple BBQ chicken wings, and divine maple cheesecake. But, of course, there are other venues across Muskoka offering up seasonal eats. More than a dozen, in fact.

Who doesn’t love ice cream, right?

Affogato Café + Gelato in Huntsville (72 Main Street E., affogatomuskoka. com) is offering Maple Oat sorbetto - a creamy gelato made in house with Maple Lodge maple syrup – by the scoop or in take-home tubs. Just down the street, Beavertails Huntsville (69 Main Street E, beavertails.com) dress their already mouth-watering beavertails with maple flavoured spread and maple sugar crunch).

While in Huntsville, take dinner at Three Guys and a Stove (143 Highway 60 E., 3guysandastove.com) and dive into charred pork back ribs with Muskoka Maple Molasses BBQ sauce – at hit at the Muskoka Maple Festival. Purchase a bottle to bring home.

Experience

Returning from Huntsville, be certain to drop in at Sugarbush Hill Maple Farm (2389 Muskoka District Rd. 10 West, sugarbushhill.com) Muskoka’s largest sugarbush operation with 3200 tapped trees, Sugarbush Hill provides The Rosseau with all it’s spring sweetness. Trek along the Sugarbush Hiking Trail to see the network of tubing carrying sap to the sugarhouse for processing, browse the Maple Shop, and drop into the Maple Heritage Cabin and its collection of antique maple harvest tools, including kettle boiling display that reminds us how far the art of maple syrup making has come in the last two centuries. Attend April 1-2 for family fun-filled Maple Weekend.

When?

Or, perhaps better yet, time your sweet getaway to take in the culmination of maple season in the region, the Muskoka Maple Festival (April 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., muskokamaple.com/maple-festival) on Main Street in Huntsville. Come hungry; fill yourself with fluffy flat jacks at the Rotary Pancake Breakfast (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and then indulge in any number of maple-inspired dishes from local restaurants.

The festivities include live music, buskers, shopping at the Maple Market Place, amazing demonstrations by the Great Canadian Lumberjack Show, and interactive activities for all ages.

WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH

My Baba’s Garden

By Jordan Scott

Jordan Scott’s inspired by memories of his childhood. It tells the story of a child spending time with their baba (grandmother), with a particular focus on the time she spent tending her garden, finding worms to keep it thriving. Each day he finds her hidden in the steam of boiling potatoes. She hums like a night full of bugs when she cooks, holding a beet with one hand, opening cupboards with another, closing the fridge with her elbow.

Ages: 4-8. Published by: Neal Porter Books. Pages: 32. Price: $24.99

Are You My Father

By Tyler Barnett

Riley learns valuable life lessons from different community members and discovers that family can come in many forms. He learns about safety from Mr. Thompson, the bus driver, from Mr. Johnson, the music teacher, to Coach Bear, who encourages physical activity and teamwork, and from Officer Bear, who instills responsibility and integrity. “Are You My Father?” is a touching heartwarming story and reminder of the meaning of family and the bonds that bring us together. Ages: All. Published by: Independently published. Pages: 26. Price: $8.15

The Crayons’ Book of Feelings

By Drew Daywalt & Oliver Jeffers

It’s no secret that crayons enjoy colouring, but did you know they also have feelings? There are times when they feel happy and then there are times when they feel blue. A fun board book to help young readers understand and express their feelings. It comes from the creative minds behind The Day the Crayons Quit and The Day the Crayons Came Home.

Ages: 1-3. Published by: Philomel Books. Pages: 22. . Price: $11.99

Jitterbug

by Kai Luftner and Illustrated by Wiebke Rauers

There’s something so sweet about ladybugs. They’re small, they fly gently, and they’re cute. The opposite is true of “Jitterbug”-Lady B. Marie! It is rock ‘n’ roll that beats in her heart. While her hands are firmly gripped on the electric guitar, her voice belts out melodies, and she sings and grooves wildly. Papa, Mrs. Snail, and Grasshopper are less enthusiastic about the music and soon the other meadow dwellers leave the scene. Is this Jitterbug giving up? No! On the tranquil meadow, she sings alone. This was more than just glitz and glam. It was a declaration: “Here I am!”

Ages – 4-8. Published: NorthSouth Books. Pages:. 32. Price: $26.95

Sherlock Homes: The Final Problem

By Hannes Binder,

Based on the story by Arthur Conan Doyle

A graphic novel of Sherlock Holmes’ most famous adventure. The most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, is famed for his hunting hat, his smoking pipe, and his turned-up collar. In most cases, he investigates from London’s Baker Street. However, Holmes’ most spectacular case takes him across the continent to the Swiss Alps in a fast-paced chase. The roaring Reichenbach Falls becomes the setting for the epic battle between Holmes and Professor Moriarty. Is good going to win this battle against evil?

Ages – 10+. Published: NorthSouth Books. Pages: 56. Price: $26.95

The Forest Keeper: The True Story of Jadav Payend

By Rina Singh and Illustrated by Ishita Jain

In the face of global environmental ruin, what can one person do? Indian Jadav Payeng proved that we can all make a difference. During his childhood, he planted trees on a sandbank in Assam. He was never expected to succeed in this endeavor. Yet, since 1979, a forest the size of Central Park has emerged, providing shelter for countless animals and plants. Only in 2007 did a photographer accidentally discover Payeng Forest and made it known to the world. Young Jadav’s story is sensitively told by Rina Singh. Ishita Jain creates a stunning habitat in her picture book debut as illustrator, which evokes the feeling of being immersed in a miracle. Ages: 4-8. Publisher: NorthSouth Books. Pages:. 40. Prices: $25.95

get comfy

THIS IS J

Produced and made in Canada since 2003. T his is J introduces the Space D ye Collection in 16 st yles for men, women, and children. T his 80s throwback design utilizes yarn dyed pigments applied to strands of yarn then knitted together. Comfortable and luxurious, this collection will transport you into outer space and let you dream among the stars. In mauve-y pink, and electric blue. Whether you buy them for yourself, your family or that special someone, you won’t go wrong with these bamboo jammers. Prices vary by product and st yle available at thisisj.com

1. Kids Long Sleeve + Lounge Pant PJ set Dye Rosy Mauve. $69.

2. Kids Long Sleeve + Lounge Pant PJ set Electric Blue. $65.

3. His & Hers. $146. and 165.

4. Ladies Oversized Tee Pajama Set - Space Dye Rosy Mauve. $165.

5. Men’s Pajama Set: T-shirt + Pajama Pant in Electric Blue + Kids sets. $146.

learning STRATEGIES THAT CAN IMPROVE READING COMPREHENSION

Strong reading comprehension skills are one of the foundations of a successful academic career. According to the Institute of Reading Development, students with strong reading comprehension skills get a big boost in all subjects, including math and science.

Though the benefits of reading comprehension are well documented, many students are struggling in this area of their academics. Officials with the National Center for Education Statistics note that, over the last decade, students have made no progress in reading performance. That likely comes as no surprise to seasoned educators, as data indicates students are reading less outside of school than they have in years past. Data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress indicates the percentage of publicschool students who said they read 30 minutes or more a day declined by 4 per cent between 2017 and 2019, dipping below 50 per cent overall in the latter year.

There’s likely a multitude of reasons why students now read

less than they used to. Parents concerned about their children’s reading comprehension can try these strategies to bolster this highly valuable skill.

Let kids read what they like.

The tutoring professionals at Oxford Learning® report that 73 per cent of students indicate they would read more if they found books they liked.

Parents can address this issue by taking children to their local libraries and letting them choose which books to check out. The more practice

kids get with reading, the more their comprehension skills develop. Read aloud to children.

Various studies have found that reading aloud to children significantly benefits literacy development. One study from the National Association for the Education of Young Children found that listening to others read helps children develop key understanding and skills, including how stories are written. In addition, the Reading Rockets project, which aspires to bring reading research

to life in the hopes of helping young children develop into strong, confident readers, notes that children can listen on a higher language level than they can read. That makes complex ideas more accessible.

Ask questions when reading to children.

When reading to children, parents can compound the benefits of this activity by asking youngsters questions about the book. Asking what, when, where, why, and how can encourage children to look for answers to these questions while they’re being read to. As students advance and then read more on their own, parents can encourage them to ask these questions of themselves (if they’re not already doing so on their own). Asking and answering these questions is a great way to strengthen reading comprehension skills.

Strong reading comprehension skills can help students reach their academic potential. Parents can employ various strategies to help children bolster those skills.

– Metro Creative

WHY CHOOSE PICKERING COLLEGE?

“It is a supportive community that while encouraging the pursuit of academic excellence it strives to ensure our youth develop social responsibility, strong character, leadership skills, empathy, compassion and provides tools they will need to be valuable contributors to society.” – Current PC parent

Visit us online to learn more: www.pickeringcollege.on.ca/cityparent

REGGAE ROOTS

TORONTO SYMPHONY O RCHESTRA

APRIL 15, 2023

2:00 PM

Performing Arts Brampton and Toronto Symphony Orchestra present Reggae Roots. This concert for all ages explores the people, sounds, and stories music around the globe. Featuring Jamaican-born, Halifax-based vocalist Jah’Mila with Barrett Principal Education Conductor and Community Ambassador Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser and the TSO.

BOOK TICKETS

Dany Sabraoui and Steve Ndikumana are changing how and when upand-coming parents find out the biological sex of their unborn baby. As co-founders of EarlyReveal, they have helped develop a genetic test that can let you know the sex of your unborn baby as early as seven weeks gestation.

WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY

Until recently, soon-to-be parents would have to wait until the second trimester before they could find out the sex of their fetus. At 18 to 21 weeks gestation, a routine ultrasound is usually scheduled. The images of the baby seen in the non-invasive test can show if the baby is male or female. Some blood tests can be done starting at 11 to 12 weeks but neither method of testing is fully accurate.

The EarlyReveal at Home Baby Gender Detection Test has a 99% accuracy rate in the over 2,000 clients who have purchased and used the test to predict their fetus’ biological sex before birth.

In 2015, a team of doctors from Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts surveyed over 1340 females and their partners to find out how many wanted to learn the sex of their baby before the infant’s birth. Of all the respondents that answered, 58% of both maternal and paternal parents stated they wanted to know the sex of their baby prenatally. There are many reasons why individuals and couples want to know the sex of their unborn baby and every reason is very personal.

The kit has everything you need to collect a blood sample and ship it to the lab quickly and safely including the device needed to take and collect the sample, a prepaid expedited shipping label and clear instructions on how to complete the test. Video call support to help during the sample collection will soon be offered as well.

It takes two to three days to ship the specimen to the lab from anywhere in Canada. Once the lab receives the blood sample, qualified technicians test the genetic makeup to determine the baby’s sex. Results are provided as quickly as 72 hours.

An unborn baby’s sex is determined at the time of conception

when the sperm contributes either a Y chromosome or an X chromosome. When analyzing the blood, the technicians are looking for the presence of a Y chromosome. If it is present, the embryo is male, if the Y chromosome is not present, the embryo is female.

Once you purchase your kit, you can register on the website using the unique ID number found in the kit. This registration ensures the right results are sent to the right person. Clients can also choose who you want the results sent to.

Sabraoui and Ndikumana started this business after discovering a gap in current genetic services. They spent a year researching all genetic testing options available to the public. Using this information, they developed the EarlyReveal at

Home Baby Gender Detection Test.

“It’s important that the client follow the instructions,” states Dany. “If the woman doesn’t provide a blood sample exactly as instructed, it can affect the test.”

The EarlyReveal at Home Baby Gender Detection Test kit has been on the market over a year. It is the only gender prediction at-home genetic test with labs in Canada that targets the Y chromosome to determine the baby’s biological sex. EarlyReveal is also the only athome gender detection company that holds a Health Canada Medical Device Establishment Licence.

Kits can be purchased online or at any one of 30 clinics across Canada that sells them. To learn more, visit the company’s website: earlyreveal.com.

EARLYREVEAL’S GENETIC TEST : CHANGING HOW AND WHEN AN UNBORN BABY’S SEX IS PREDICTED

AN UNBORN BABY’S SEX IS DETERMINED AT THE TIME OF CONCEPTION WHEN THE SPERM CONTRIBUTES EITHER A Y CHROMOSOME OR AN X CHROMOSOME.

A baby friendly play date for moms

Enjoy the newest Hollywood movies inababy-friendly environment NOW

Perfect outing for moms with babies 0-12 months ofage

• Watch the movie with your little one in a car seat beside youorsnuggled in acarrier

Dads, grandparents and friends welcome.

easter

GIFT GUIDE

THE EASTER BUNNY CAN BRING MORE THAN CHOCOLATE

BRIO My First Railway Light Up Rainbow Set

Follow the lights and make the rainbow shine with the Brio Light Up Rainbow Set. This interactive toy train set introduces toddlers to basic sequencing and “cause and effect” patterns in a fun and engaging way. Ages 18 mo+ $99.99 available on amazon.ca

The NBA Kids Club kit

Canada’s youngest sports fans will enjoy the NBA Kids Club kit. A collection of youth merchandise designed to inspire and engage youth both on and off the court. WHAT’S IN THE BOX: NBA-branded water bottle, bracelet tin, including five unique NBA-branded bracelets, NBA logo drawstring bag, NBA logo/ basketball double-sided zipper pull, pencil crayons with sharpener, NBA-branded youth knit toque. Ages 5-9 – Price: $52.50 CAD (plus shipping; one-time purchase) available online at nbastore.ca

Ravensburger Cupid and Psyche in Love

Puzzles never get old and it’s a great activity to enjoy with others, or simply indulge in some relaxing “me” time. 1000 pieces to put together a beautiful puzzle creation. Ages 14+ $29.99 available on amazon.ca

Bluey’s Caravan Adventures

Bluey’s Caravan Adventures Playset is loaded with features and things to do as you take a caravan vacation! There’s room for the whole family in this transforming playset. Whether you’re off to the campgrounds, in the backyard, on a family road trip or playing pretend at home, kids will love using Bluey’s Caravan Adventures to recreate some of the most memorable moments from the show or make up new adventures with their Bluey toys! Ages 3+ $44.99 Available at all major toy retailers

Feltman Brothers Daisy Collection

The classic vintage inspired collection of garments features hand smocking and delicate daisy embroidery and available in different styles. imported, machine washable, 65% polyester, 35% cotton. The Daisy collection includes the Classic Daisy Dress, Cardigan, Romper, Bonnet, and Booties

NB to 8y $44.69 + available at feltmanbrothers.com

Scruff-A-Luvs Cutie Cuts

Scruff-A-Luv’s Cutie Cuts! Unbox a salon full of surprises and transform your Scruff-A-Luv from a scruffy pup to a pampered one. Which puppy will you reveal? Will it be a Yorkie, or a Frenchie hiding in your box? Your puppy arrives scruffy. Shave off the scruff with special clippers that really clip off the fur! Place the clipped, leftover fur into the pillow cover to make a comfy cushion for your pup.

Ages 5+ – $39.99 CAD Available at Amazon, Toys R Us, Walmart

L.O.L. Surprise

The sweetest collection. L.O.L Surprise has partnered up with iconic brands just in time for Easter. Peeps, Hershey’s Kisses, Reese’s Pieces, Icee, Fun Sweets, Airheads, Mentos, and Jelly Belly. Collect all 9. Ages 4+ available at Amazon, Indigo, Toys R Us, and Walmart

L.O.L. Surprise Loves Mini Sweets Series 2 dolls! $15.99

L.O.L. Surprise! Loves Mini Sweets Surprise-O-Matic Series 2 Dolls – each doll has a unique style that’s tastier than ever to match each treat! $22.99

L.O.L. Surprise! Loves Mini Sweets Deluxe Series 2 – Deluxe pack includes 4 limited-edition dolls to match 4 Jelly Belly flavours! $49.99

arts & crafts

6 EASTER EGG COLOURING TIPS

Colouring Easter eggs is a timehonored tradition dating back more than 2,500 years. There is evidence that people living in the ancient settlement of Trypillia dyed eggs. Ancient Persians also were believed to paint eggs for Nowruz (Persian New Year).

Christians adopted similar traditions to symbolize aspects of the Easter story. Originally Christians dyed eggs red to represent the blood of Jesus Christ that was shed on the cross, according to Chase Oaks Church. Good Housekeeping reports early Christian missionaries adapted the dyeing tradition to include more egg colours to represent different aspects of the Easter story. Yellow represented the resurrection, blue represented love and red remained a symbol of Christ’s blood.

Whether families dye eggs to symbolize the Easter miracle or simply for fun, the following are some colouring tips to enhance the process.

1. Prevent cracked eggs. Most coloured eggs are hard-boiled. To prevent cracking during the boiling process, add a teaspoon of

vinegar and a tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. Additional anticracking measures include rubbing half a lemon on each shell before boiling.

2. Boil eggs and cool completely. It takes roughly 10 minutes to hardboil an egg. Fill a pot with enough water to submerge the eggs, then bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Gently lower the eggs into the water with a slotted spoon. Cover, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes. Drain the eggs

and cool in a bowl of water or run under cold tap water.

3. Don’t forget the vinegar. Whether you use coloured dye tablets or drops of food colouring from the pantry, use a mix of water and vinegar in the colouring solution. According to Education. com, food colouring is an acid dye and bonds using hydrogen. This chemical process only works in an acidic environment. Vinegar is added to water to make it more acidic and help the dyes adhere

more strongly to the eggs and produce brighter colours.

4. Stick to white eggs. Stores sell both brown and white eggs. The species of chicken determines whether the eggs will be white or brown. When colouring eggs, it might be better to purchase white eggs, as the dyes will show up more vividly on the white shells.

5. Create distinctive designs. By covering portions of the bare eggs before dipping into colour, people can create unique designs. Things like masking tape, rubber bands, wax (or crayons), and even twine can be used. The dye will only take on the uncovered areas, leaving white behind.

6. Dyes are not the only way to colour eggs. Everything from watercolour paint to acrylics to decoupage can be used to cover eggs in vivid colours. Egg decorators also can use coloured yarns, fabric, or stickers. Search for creative materials to set Easter eggs apart this year. Colouring eggs is a popular Easter tradition, and there are many ways to ensure this beloved activity produces beautiful results. – Metro Creative

AGA KHAN MUSEUM Summer Camps are back at the Aga Khan Museum, one of Toronto’s top cultural landmarks located in the heart of North York. At North America’s first museum exclusively dedicated to Muslim arts and culture, kids can get creative with an exciting program filled with art and exploration while making new friends all summer long! Inspired by the Museum’s upcoming exhibition Rumi that celebrates one of history’s most famous poets, kids aged 6–12 will embark on creative adventures, engaging with the exhibition and fueling their imagination. Campers will experiment with various artistic mediums to create their own masterpieces and reflect on different aspects of love and selfexpression through the arts. They will explore who Rumi was, the significance of his work, and how we can apply his teachings of love and unity to our everyday lives. agakhanmuseum.org/summercamp2023 learn@agakhanmuseum.org | agakhanmuseum.org

CAMP BIG CANOE an experience like no other! Join us in beautiful Muskoka on our private lake and experience a welcoming community that focuses on building relationships with each other and the environment. You will experience decision making as a unit and as an individual each day. All campers participate in an out-trip which may be on or off-site. We have over 50 years of overnight camping experience in this location for 6–16-year-old children and offer high school credit leadership programs for 15–16-yearolds. We also offer PeeWee camp for our younger campers (6-8 years) and a Family Camp for all ages! Our families can attest campers come home more confident, responsible, and excited for next summer! admin@campbigcanoe.ca | campbigcanoe.ca

CAMP WABIKON For over 75 years, Camp Wabikon has provided youth from around the world with an exceptional overnight summer camp experience. Located on an island in beautiful Temagami, Ontario, our site adds to the magic of your child’s stay. Our qualified, dynamic staff team leads a safe, fun and educational program. Campers love the freedom of being able to choose their activities each day using our personal choice sign-up system. We also offer an outstanding 6-week Counsellor In Training (CIT) program for 16 and 17 year olds. We are a family-owned and operated business that takes great pride in the work we do. By limiting camper enrolment to 150, everyone at Wabikon feels like part of the family. Join us for a summer you’ll never forget! facebook.com/CampWabikon | instagram.com/campwabikon | youtube. com/user/WabikonCamp | wabikon.com

416.646.4677 learn@agakhanmuseum.org agakhanmuseum.org

416.722.3625 campbigcanoe.ca

226.214.2050 FEATURED | CAMPS

campsteam.ca

416-483-3172 wabikon.com

DEARCROFT MONTESSORI Founded in 1968, Dearcroft is Oakville’s original Montessori School. Now celebrating over 55 years, Dearcroft is excited to grow in the community and offer three locations in Oakville. Our experienced staff takes great pride in offering a warm and engaging environment for students. We are pleased to offer new families our exceptional Montessori educational programs, where the curriculum is tailored to meet the needs of each student. Dearcroft Montessori School offers programs for Toddlers (18 months-3 years), Casa (2.5 years- 6 years), Junior Elementary (grades 1-3), Senior Elementary (grades 4-6), and Junior High (grades 7&8).

info@dearcroftmontessori.com | info@dearcroftrebecca.com

info@dearcroftmontessoritc.com | dearcroftmontessori.com

905.844.2114

THE OAKVILLE SOCCER CLUB has been providing a positive soccer experience to the community of Oakville since 1972. The Club delivers year-round soccer programming for all ages and skill levels, starting with our youngest soccer stars (2 years-old), and progressing all the way to Adult League (ages 18+). Along their soccer journey, players can enjoy recreational or competitive levels of the game following OSC’s Player Pathway! Currently, registration is open for Youth Summer Soccer (Ages 2-18) and Summer Camps! Spaces are filling quickly! Sign up today to lock in your spot for a summer of fun! oakvillesoccer.ca | info@oakvillesoccer.ca

OAKVILLE SWIM ACADEMY Keep your kids active and happy this summer while learning such an important life skill: Swimming. Oakville Swim Academy Full-day camps are for children ages 6-10 years old. Each day will include two swimming lessons (one in the morning, one in the afternoon) and special camp activities, such as games, crafts, and more, led by our fantastic camp staff. Campers will spend the day building life skills, swimming, and life-long friendships with their co-campers! Swimming classes are 5:1 ratio, arranged based on ability. Drop-off time is 8:00 AM, and pick-up time is 4:00 PM each day. Before and after care is available at an additional cost. To register, get in-touch with our Customer Service team. Swim@theswimacademy.org | theswimacademy.org

POWER

info@powersoccer.ca

416.425.6062 powersoccer.ca

SOCCER

ONTARIO TECH UNIVERSITY Ontario Tech University’s 2023 Summer Camps program provides campers with fun, hands-on opportunities to learn and explore their curiosity in a positive and safe educational environment. Our mission is to inspire kids to see STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) everywhere in the world around them. Hands-on activities and curriculum-based learning in robotics, coding, gaming, and much more, provide an experience that is both educational and fun! We succeed when our campers leave camp thinking that STEM is exciting and within their reach – that it could be part of their future. Counsellors are university staff, industry experts, Faculty of Education students, graduates, or members of the Ontario College of Teachers. In-person, virtual and family camps are available! Camps run weekly from July 4 through August 25. Supervised extended care is available for an additional fee.

summercamps@ontariotechu.ca | ontariotechu.ca/camps

PHOENIX VOLLEYBALL offers weekly beach volleyball camps and afterschool beach clinics at Ashbridges Bay in the Beaches. Full and half day camps are available. The afterschool programs run from 4:306:15 p.m. or 6:30-8 p.m. The program content will focus on developing basic technical skills, motor skill development and team play in a fun

programming is sanctioned with the Ontario Volleyball Association. phoenixvolleyball.ca | katrine.ivey@phoenixvolleyball.ca

ontariotechu.ca

REIDMOUNT DISCOVERY SCHOOLS Since 1994, Reidmount Discovery Schools has dedicated its enrichment program to elevate student knowledge every Saturday. With nine locations across Southern Ontario, Reidmount Discovery Schools will be able to help improve your child’s grades, self-discipline and confidence. We provide the knowledge, skills and values required to thrive in a rapidly changing world, and prepare our students for higher education with qualities of confidence, discipline, eagerness and empathy. We offer English, Writing, Mathematics, Semester Math, Science, Drawing and Coding to students from kindergarten to Grade 12, virtually and in person. All new students will sit for an assessment and be placed according to their capability. Students can accelerate upon the recommendation from their teachers. Our curriculum follows the guideline from the Ministry of Education and is slightly advanced. Like all good schools, academics are our fundamental priority. It is our goal to make education an uplifting experience. info@reidmountdiscovery.ca | reidmountdiscovery.ca

THE ROYAL CITY SOCCER CLUB is celebrating our 30th annual summer camps this July and August as the #1 grassroots soccer day camp in Canada. Our program is designed to offer a soccer focus in the morning with a leisure swim and camp activities in the afternoons. All children aged 5 to 13 are encouraged to register for full day or morning sessions at any of our locations across Toronto, York, Peel, Durham, Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville and Milton. We offer early drop off and late pickup times with additional extended care times available($). Our camps operate during for 9 weeks in July and August. To register or for more information call 1-800-427-0536 or visit us at info@royalsoccer.com | royalsoccer.com

416.710.3349 phoenixvolleyball.ca

1.800.427.0536 info@royalsoccer.com royalsoccer.com

KIDS COMEDY SUMMER DAY CAMPS Campers will uncover their unique voices with these energetic and collaborative day camps in Leslieville, Toronto! This Laugh More! Worry Less! program focuses on exploring selfexpression and building confidence through fun, improv comedy exercises and activities with guidance from our trained, industry comedian coaches to help each camper develop and present their own stand-up comedy routine. The camp week culminates in a show hosted by the coaches where campers can perform for family and friends! Brought to you by Stand UP for Student Well-Being. A limited number of assisted funding spaces are available for each week.

SueStephenson@suswb.ca | suswb.ca

THE STUDY ACADEMY The Study Academy (TSA ) is offering a day camp!

The camp will run Monday to Friday from June 19-July 28, 2023, on its campus in Davisville at 20 Glebe Rd. E., Toronto, Ontario. Each week will feature games, activities, arts and crafts, challenges, and field trips designed around a connecting theme. Choose from STEM, art, cooking, animals, sports, and coding for kids ages 9-13. With low camper-to-counsellor ratios, campers will receive all the dedicated and individualized care the Study Academy is known for in a fun and safe day camp environment! daycamp@thestudyacademy.ca | thestudyacademy.ca/after-school

416.929.1630 ext. 1

TORONTO KIDZ offers a wide range of camps at 8 locations in Toronto for kids ages 5-12. Our KIDZ Camp for our younger campers follows a weekly theme such as pirates, dinosaurs, animals, etc. – while our JUNIOR Camp for 9–12-year-olds, focuses on topics such as leadership, survival, wacky science, and more. All our programs include a weekly field trip to one of Toronto’s attractions and a full day park day. Our programming consists of the perfect mix of indoor and outdoor time. We spend time outdoors each day exploring nearby parks and splash pads. Additionally, we explore the city on our field trips! Indoors, we play games, get creative with arts & crafts, and learn exciting new things related to the weekly theme! We truly care about each camper’s experience and build long-lasting relationships with our camp families.

Campers@torontokidz.ca | torontokidz.ca

cityparent.com

For advertising information please contact info@mediaclassified.ca

647.400.2801 suswb.ca

647 629 2020 torontokidz.ca