CityParent – Greater Toronto Area: Includes Halton, Peel, York and Durham – July 2024

Puppe – Sumatran orangutan at the Zoo since 1974

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Mary Racioppo

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Stay

Pool patrol owner advocates for

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TERMS AND INDEMNIFICATION

Empowerment: The “Mom Puberty” campaign by Listen B*tch

Girl power:

Barbie celebrates role model athletes FEATURED Stuff Miles the Label –Summer Collection

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up front

A NEW CHAPTER AS A BABA (GRANDMOTHER): TO MY FIRST GRANDSON, ARES LEO

It is with immense joy and pride that I share a personal milestone with you all. Recently, I embarked on one of the most beautiful journeys life has to offer – I became a Baba (grandmother) for the first time to a precious baby boy.

This new role has brought an indescribable sense of fulfillment and a fresh perspective on life. The arrival of my grandson has brightened my world in ways I never imagined, filling it with renewed love, hope, and excitement for the future.

Becoming a Baba has reminded me of the enduring cycle of life and the timeless connections that bind us across generations. It is a privilege to witness the beginning of my grandson’s life journey and to be a part of his story from the very start. Helping with his delivery was an extraordinary experience. Having had three Caesarean sections myself, I was deeply moved to support my daughter through this miraculous process. Witnessing his birth was both humbling and aweinspiring, reminding me of the strength and resilience that runs through our family.

A Letter to Our First Grandson, Ares Leo

Our precious boy,

From the moment we laid eyes on you, our hearts expanded with a love we never knew was possible. As we held you in our arms for the first time, we were overwhelmed with joy, gratitude, and a profound sense of wonder. You brought back the intense and emotional feelings we experienced when we first became parents. You are a miracle, a gift, and the beginning of a beautiful new chapter in our family’s story.

May your life be filled with happiness, health, and endless possibilities. We promise to always be here for you – to support you, to cheer you on, and to offer our wisdom and warmth whenever you need it. Your presence has already brought so much light into our lives, and we can’t wait to watch you grow, learn, and discover the world. Know that you are loved deeply and unconditionally. We are honoured and blessed to be your Baba (grandmother) and Nonno (grandfather). We look forward to every moment we will share together. With all our love, Baba and Nonno

Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent

breakingsilencethe

CONFRONTING BREASTFEEDING SHAMING

Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial act that has been practiced for centuries, fostering empowerment and bonding between mothers and infants. However, in many societies, it has become a controversial topic associated with stigma, judgment, and shame. The shame associated with breastfeeding remains a significant issue that limits women’s autonomy and obstructs efforts to encourage breastfeeding as the standard practice.

At its core, breastfeeding shaming encompasses a range of behaviors and attitudes that seek to undermine or belittle a woman’s choice to breastfeed her child. This can manifest in various forms, from disapproving stares and comments in public spaces to outright condemnation on social media platforms. The underlying message is clear: breastfeeding in public is indecent, inappropriate, and should be relegated to the privacy of one’s home.

Breastfeeding shaming is a complex issue influenced by societal

norms and the hyper sexualization of the female body. The stigma surrounding breastfeeding in public reflects deep-rooted attitudes towards women’s bodies and motherhood that need to be challenged.

This shame unreasonably affects ostracized communities, worsening healthcare discrepancies and support services. Women of colour, low-income women, and LGBTQ+ individuals face cultural insensitivity, limited lactation support, and increased stigma, hindering maternal and infant health and continuing poverty and inequality.

Moreover, breastfeeding shaming has tangible consequences for maternal mental health and wellbeing. The relentless pressure to breastfeed exclusively, coupled with judgment and criticism from others, can lead to feelings of inadequacy, guilt, and shame among new mothers. This, in turn, can contribute to postpartum depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues, further

exacerbating the challenges of early motherhood.

Addressing breastfeeding shame requires a multifaceted approach that challenges societal norms, promotes education and awareness, and provides meaningful support to breastfeeding mothers. First and foremost, we must work to dismantle the pervasive myths and misconceptions surrounding breastfeeding, including the false dichotomy between breast and bottle feeding. Breastfeeding is not a zerosum game, and all parents deserve access to accurate information and support to make informed feeding choices that best meet their needs and preferences.

Additionally, we must advocate for policies and practices that protect and support breastfeeding mothers, including workplace accommodations, lactation support services, and breastfeeding-inclusive public spaces. This includes challenging discriminatory practices that penalize breastfeeding mothers

in the workplace or fail to provide adequate accommodations for breastfeeding and pumping.

Finally, we must foster a culture of empathy, respect, and support for breastfeeding mothers, both online and offline. This means calling out instances of breastfeeding shaming when we see them, amplifying the voices of breastfeeding advocates and allies, and creating inclusive communities where all parents feel valued and supported in their feeding journeys.

This is a pervasive problem that undermines women’s autonomy, continues harmful stereotypes, and hinders efforts to promote breastfeeding as the norm. By confronting breastfeeding shaming head-on and working to create a culture of empathy, respect, and support for breastfeeding mothers, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society where all parents feel empowered to feed their children in the way that best suits their needs and preferences.

2024 CAMPS SUMMER

Explore your curiosity at our Summer Camps! Choose from coding, STEM, robotics, and more. Virtual and in-person options available. Ages 6-17 welcome. ontariotechu.ca/summercamps

Scan here for more info

GET THE POPCORN OUT! JULY 2024 CLASSICS AND MODERN HITS

Madeline (1998) TriStar Pictures

In the bustling city of Paris, a clever and resourceful young girl named Madeline hatches a plan to rescue her beloved boarding school from the clutches of Lord Covington. This orphaned schoolgirl knows that her home is in danger of being sold, but she refuses to let that happen. With the recent passing of Lord Covington’s kind-hearted wife, the situation has become even more dire.

Dennis The Menace Strikes Again (1998) Warner Brothers Dennis, the mischievous little rascal, is once again causing trouble for his patient neighbor, Mr. Wilson. As Dennis pulls off yet another prank, he unknowingly makes Mr. Wilson feel even older on his birthday. Frustrated and desperate for a solution, the grumpy Wilson falls into the trap of a deceitful con artist named Sylvester, who promises him a magical youth potion. However, the potion turns out to be nothing but a scam, leaving Mr. Wilson feeling even more defeated. Determined not to be fooled any further and to protect his neighbor, Dennis joins forces with Mr. Wilson to outsmart the cunning crooks and turn the tables on them.

The Parent Trap (1998) By Walt Disney Pictures

In this modern adaptation of a classic 1961 film, two young girls named Annie and Hallie find themselves brought together by a twist of fate. Despite being complete strangers, they soon discover that they are long-lost twins. Their parents, Nick and Elizabeth, have been living separate lives on different continents since their divorce. However, when Hallie from America and Annie from Britain meet at a summer camp, they come up with a daring plan to switch places.

Mary Poppins (1964)

Walt Disney Pictures

As the children of the well-to-do and strict Banks family, Jane and Michael never expected their lives to take a magical turn when a new nanny arrived. But when Mary Poppins, with her enchanting presence, stepped into their lives, everything changed.

july

Smartmi

COOL THINGS

Brita Hub Compact

Introducing the Brita Hub Compact: a sleek countertop water filtration device by Hamilton Beach. Its innovative design saves space and revolutionizes home water filtration sustainably this summer and beyond. Available at Walmart.ca.

NASA Collection by Stomp Rocket – STEM-based toys

Ignite your cosmic curiosity: run, jump, stomp, and blast off into space with Stomp Rocket’s all-new Space Collection. This set includes one SLS Rocket, one Space Shuttle Atlantis, one Saturn V Rocket, and an adjustable launch stand. Hours of active fun, learn through play. Easy to assemble. The Space Collection is 100% kid-powered—no batteries, cords, or plugs required. - $39.99, ages 5 and up. Available on amazon.ca

Spring brings pet shedding season, where furry friends shed their winter coats as days lengthen and temperatures rise. Excessive shedding can worsen indoor air quality, leading to allergies and asthma. Smartmi Air Purifiers with HEPA 13 filters capture 99.97% of airborne particles like fur and dander, ensuring cleaner air in minutes. Protect your home from shedding season’s effects with Smartmi. - $279.99 and $499.99 available at bestbuy.ca

The North Face – Sunproof Apparel

Have you ever experienced severe sunburn despite applying sunscreen? The key is to pair sunscreen with clothing that features “Ultraviolet Protection Factor” (UPF). The North Face offers an ideal solution through its LIGHTRANGE collection. This line features a fabric finish that combines UPF protection and moisture management to keep you comfortable and shielded from harmful UV rays. Choose from short or long sleeve tees, layer with a hoodie, and top it off with a cap for a complete outdoor ensemble.

LIGHTRANGE Women’s Summer Short-Sleeve: $89.99 | Women’s Summer Hoodie: $109.99 | Summer Run Hat: $54.99 | Summer Bucket Hat: $69.99 | Men’s Summer Short-Sleeve: $89.99 | Men’s Shadow Long-Sleeve: $69.99 Available on thenorthface.com

FISHER PRICE WOODEN

Fisher-Price Wooden offers an assorted range of toys catering to numerous play styles, from puzzles and blocks to imaginative role-playing and musical exploration. This collection presents a modern approach to playtime, aiming to foster creativity and support healthy child development for kids six months to five-years-old. Exclusively available at Walmart, both in-store and online, Fisher-Price Wooden toys are crafted for durability, ensuring they can be cherished and passed down through generations. Made from responsibly sourced materials, including FSC Certified Wood, these toys align with sustainability goals. Their introduction comes at a time when wooden toys are gaining popularity globally.

Mandala Puzzle

Colourful mandala puzzle design encourages the development of fine motor skills, free-play cognitive thinking, and imagination.

$ 24.97 3+ Years

4

1

Pound and Tap Bench Xylophone

Pop the balls and hear the sounds. Develops free play, teaches cause and effect and auditory skills.

$34.97 18+ Months

Stack and Sort Animals

3

Cultivates hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, tactile sensory processing, and cognitive thinking.

$14.97 12+ Months

2

Stacking Shape Sorter

Geometrical stackable shapes including rings, octagons, and twopart rectangles. This triple stacking toy helps build shape, colour, size differentiation skills, and fine motor skills.

$29.97 18+ Months

empowerment EMBRACING THE AWKWARD: THE “MOM PUBERTY” CAMPAIGN BY LISTEN B*TCH

With billboards around the Greater Toronto Area, founders of Listen B*tch, Daniela and Michelle, have created a digital platform that’s shaking things up in a world flooded with glossy portrayals of motherhood, Instagram feeds filled with pictureperfect moments, and flawless snapshots of familial bliss. Listen B*tch is a refreshing voice amidst the callousness of curated content. Their latest campaign, “Mom Puberty”, is turning heads and sparking conversations about the realities of motherhood that are often left unspoken. Although they are not mothers themselves, they have hit the nail on the head.

Motherhood is often portrayed as a journey marked by pure joy and fulfillment. The truth, however, is far more complex. From sleepless nights to endless diaper changes, from navigating tantrums to juggling multiple responsibilities, the journey of motherhood is riddled with challenges and transformations. Yet, amidst these challenges, a fact remains largely unaddressed — “Mom Puberty”.

WORDS BY CITY PARENT

self while navigating the new territory of motherhood.

So, what exactly is “Mom Puberty”?

It’s the term created by Listen B*tch to describe the numerous changes women undergo physically, emotionally, and psychologically after becoming mothers. It’s a transition period marked by hormonal fluctuations, identity shifts, and a rollercoaster of emotions. It’s about coping with the loss of one’s former

The Mom Puberty campaign by Listen B*tch seeks to shine a spotlight on these oftenoverlooked aspects of motherhood. Through a series of candid interviews, personal essays, and thought-provoking content, the campaign aims to destigmatize the struggles that mothers face and foster a sense of solidarity among women.

One of the campaign’s central themes is identity loss. Becoming a mother entails a profound shift in one’s sense of self. The woman who once defined herself by her career, her hobbies, and her social life suddenly finds herself thrust into a

role where her identity is now that of a mother. This loss can be disorienting and isolating, yet it’s a reality that many mothers silently deal with.

The Mom Puberty campaign digs into the physical transformations that accompany motherhood including stretch marks, sagging skin, postpartum hair loss, and changes in breast size and shape all while tackling the taboo surrounding the female body post-pregnancy. By celebrating these changes as badges of honour rather than flaws to be hidden, Listen B*tch is empowering women to embrace their bodies in all their postpartum glory.

Perhaps the most important aspect of the Mom Puberty campaign is the spotlight it shines on the emotional and mental toll brought on by motherhood. From the baby blues to

postpartum depression and anxiety, the relentless pressure to be the perfect mother, to the guilt and self-doubt that inevitably creeps in – the campaign acknowledges the full spectrum of emotions that mothers experience.

Ultimately, the Mom Puberty campaign by Listen B*tch is about validating the experiences of mothers and challenging the myth of maternal perfection. It aims to create a safe space where women can share their stories, support one another, and redefine the narrative surrounding motherhood, while embracing the awkward, celebrating the messy, and honouring the profound transformation of Mom Puberty.

In the end, it’s not about striving for perfection but embracing the beautiful chaos of motherhood in all of its imperfect glory. listenbitch.ca

Kids Summer Pottery Camp 2024

MAGIC BAG & SUPPORO

For more than three decades, Magic Bag has been a trusted ally, catering to families’ hot and cold compress requirements. Discover natural comfort for aches, stress, fatigue, and pains, all in an environmentally responsible manner. They are dedicated to manufacturing items that embrace natural pain relief. As the top-rated compression line in Canada, Supporo offers a comprehensive range of compression products to suit every aspect of life, catering to all preferences and requirements. Supporo provides the ideal compression socks that seamlessly blend functionality, comfort, and style, ensuring a perfect fit for you.

Magic Bag Sport Gel 2-in-1 Wrap Belt with 2 Gel Packs

This sports wrap is crafted to provide optimal contact, aiding in the soothing of inflammation, reduction of swelling, and acceleration of recovery. It includes a unisex belt along with two gel packs, delivering intense cold for swift relief from pain and inflammation. Offering efficient hot and cold therapy, it is reusable and designed to fit most individuals with its adjustable straps. –$26.99

Supporo Unisex Compression Sports Socks in Black and Blue

This season, Supporo’s new Sports collection offers stylish, comfortable sports socks that enhance performance and aid post-workout recovery. With proven weaving technology and quality fabrics, Supporo supports fitness buffs and athletes, boosting endurance and performance. – $32.99

Magic Bag Sport Gel 2-in-1 Wrap with Gel Pack

Designed for knees or shoulders, two common sites of sports injuries, this gel pack offers a snug fit with its 10.6’’ / 26.9 cm width. The adjustable straps allow for easy self-application. A nylon liner protects skin and promotes moist therapy, while the innovative gel formula prevents messy condensation. It includes a removable gel pack for customizable cold or hot therapy, ensuring maximum contact for optimal results. Registered with Health Canada as a medical device. – $26.99 For more information visit: magicbag.com or supporo.com

Magic Bag Sport Gel Medium Wrap with Gel Pack

The sport wrap is crafted to optimize contact, aiming to alleviate inflammation, diminish swelling, and hasten the recovery process. Insulated wrap with non-toxic gel pack, intense cold, fast recovery, reusable, efficient hot and cold. – $22.99

MILES THE LABEL

SUMMER COLLECTION

Welcome to Miles, where we craft comfy, playful clothes inspired by the vibrant streets of Montreal. Since 2017, we’ve been dedicated to making kids’ lives more fun. Now, we’re stepping up our game. It’s not just about looking cool anymore; we’re embracing sustainability and conscious fashion. Our values are playful, cool, comfortable, friendly, and sustainable. Our clothes are designed in Montreal, tough enough to keep up with active kids, and made to last so you can pass them down. Plus, we’re committed to supporting local communities. When you shop with us or our Miles Neighbourhood Shops, you’re not just getting great clothes but also investing in your neighbourhood and reducing your carbon footprint. Thanks for being part of the Miles family! `

1 2 3 4 5 6

1. Chambray Woven Shorts and Matching s/s Shirt – $28 & $48

2. Striped Linen Blend Smocked Tank Dress – $46

Canary Beachcomber Print Sleeveless Girls’ Sweatshirt – $34

Canary Beachcomber Print Girls’ Terry Shorts – $28

3. Navy and Seafoam Yarn-Dyed Stripe Rugby Top with Navy Knit Mesh Shorts – $38 & 28

4. Short-Sleeve Striped Linen Blend Shirt & Shorts – $48 & $36

5. Star Spangled Print on Bronze Girls’ Sleeveless Sweatshirt and Terry Shorts – $34 & $28

6. Chambray Sleeveless Front-Button Dress – $42

Fireworks Print on Crème Racer Back Jersey Dress – $42

Peaches Print on Peachy Sleeveless Empire Top with Chambray Girls’ Shorts – $32

stay protected

POOL PATROL OWNER ADVOCATES FOR POOL SAFETY AND DROWNING PREVENTION IN CHILDREN

It’s that time of year again when more people are enjoying their favourite summer pastimes, swimming and other water-related activities. Sadly, it’s also the time of year when people, especially children, are at the highest risk of drowning. In Canada, 73 per cent of all drowning accidents happen between May and September. Over 56 per cent of all drowning accidents happen in residential pools. The highest rate of drownings occurs in young children aged one to four years, with children between five and nine years being the second-highest age group.

Drowning accidents happen quickly. Contrary to what’s portrayed on TV, children don’t splash around or make a lot of noise when they are drowning. Instead, they are silent and appear to be struggling to keep their head above water. Toddlers, in particular, don’t make any noise or show signs of distress when they are drowning. They slip underwater and sink to the bottom of a pool or body of water within a few seconds.

Allan Horwood, owner of Pool Patrol, an installation company in British Columbia, is a longtime advocate of retractable pool safety covers, child water safety and drowning prevention. He strongly believes in taking a proactive, multilayered and preventative approach to safety. His recommendations include:

• Add fencing around pools that children can’t climb over or get through.

• Install locks on gates that are high enough that children can’t reach or easily open.

WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY

• Use bells or other alarm devices on doors and gates so parents are alerted if the door leading to the pool has been opened.

• Cover the pool with a certified retractable pool safety cover installed by a professional service like Pool Patrol. Their covers can easily support a small child’s weight.

• Inspect your safety cover regularly or call the installation company for routine inspections to make sure it’s in good working condition.

• Keep toys and other flotation devices out of the pool when it’s not in use so children aren’t tempted by them.

• Put life jackets or other flotation vests on your children anytime they’re near water.

• Always assign an adult to supervise children near water and have them wear a bright shirt or vest so

everyone knows who is in charge of watching the children.

• If you’re having a pool party, hire a lifeguard or designate adults to watch the children so there is always someone supervising the swimmers. If more than one adult will be supervising, create a schedule that is available to everyone.

• Young children should never be in the pool without an adult. Always keep children within arm’s reach and eye view while in the water.

• Keep a first aid kit and other emergency supplies by the pool and make sure they are in good working order.

• Take a first aid and CPR course so you are prepared for any emergency. Take swimming lessons. You can reduce the risk of drowning by 88 per cent when children and adults learn to swim.

Other measures adults can take to ensure children remain safe around pools, tubs and other bodies of water include putting devices like phones, tablets, laptops and other handheld devices away to minimize distractions. Regularly inspect your pool, including the drain covers, to make sure everything is in good working condition. Book an appointment with your pool company for regular inspections and fix or replace anything that is broken or past its lifespan.

Swimming pools and water activities are fun for the whole family but can also be dangerous, especially for young children. Incorporating several preventative safety measures around your home and pool will decrease your family’s risk of drowning accidents.

girl power

BARBIE CELEBRATES ROLE MODEL ATHLETES WHO HAVE BROKEN BOUNDARIES TO ENCOURAGE GIRLS TO STAY

IN SPORTS AND RECOGNIZE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL

On May 22, 2024, Mattel, Inc. announced that in celebration of Barbie’s 65th anniversary, the brand will honour nine athletes from around the world, including Canadian soccer star Christine Sinclair, with one-of-akind role model dolls made in their likeness. Studies show that girls involved in team sports are more likely to believe in their abilities, aspire to leadership roles, and have higher self-confidence. By showcasing these inspiring athletes, Barbie aims to demonstrate that girls can achieve anything through the relentless pursuit of their passions.

Christine Sinclair is a Canadian soccer player, a three-time Olympic medallist, and has been named Canadian Player of the Year 14 times. She has scored more international and Olympic goals than any other player in the world and is recognized as the most successful soccer player in Canadian history. Christine has led the Canadian women’s team to three World Cups and four Olympic Summer Games. A strong supporter of women in sports, Christine champions successes on and off the field. She has emphasized the importance of being a role model for young girls and, in 2020, partnered with the Canadian Women’s Foundation to raise funds for girls impacted by the pandemic.

“Barbie is thrilled to continue the brand’s 65th-anniversary celebration by recognizing the impact of sports in fostering self-confidence, ambition, and empowerment among the next generation,” said Krista Berger, Senior Vice-President of Barbie and Global

Head of Dolls, Mattel. “We are proud to welcome these nine athletes as our newest role models. The sports role model dolls embody our shared values of passion, empowerment, and individuality. By highlighting these inspirational athletes and their stories, we hope to champion the belief that every young girl deserves the opportunity to pursue her passions and achieve her dreams.”

“As an athlete, it was never a thought in my wildest dreams that I’d be immortalized with an iconic doll,” said Barbie Role Model and Canadian Soccer Player Christine Sinclair. “I am so honoured to be recognized as a Barbie Role Model during Barbie’s 65th anniversary celebrations alongside so many incredible individuals. This aligns with my hope of inspiring young girls to never give up on the sport they love or any goal they wish to achieve. By sharing the stories of women in sports, we can pave the way for future generations of athletes.”

By honouring athletes who have broken barriers for women in sports, Barbie is not just creating dolls but symbols of empowerment. The Barbie brand remains committed to empowering girls to explore their interests in sports, encouraging them to believe in their limitless possibilities. The nine trailblazing women athletes recognized with one-of-a-kind role model dolls include Venus Williams (United States) Tennis Player; Mary Fowler (Australia) Football Player; Estelle Mossely (France) Boxer; Alexa Moreno (Mexico) Gymnast; Susan Rodriguez (Spain) Paratriathlon Athlete; Federica Pellegrini (Italy) Swimmer; and Ewa Swoboda (Poland) Track and Field Sprinter. These dolls are not just toys but representations of the strength, resilience, and ambition that girls can aspire to.

Barbie’s initiative celebrates the accomplishments of these athletes and seeks to inspire young girls to participate in sports and develop qualities such as teamwork, leadership, and resilience. By sharing the stories of these women, Barbie aims to create role models for future generations, encouraging them to chase their dreams both on and off the field.

family fun

OLD RAILWAY BIKE TRAIL, ALGONQUIN PARK

There’s more to Algonquin Park than meets the eye. Most families are familiar with the popular (and often crowded) Highway 60 corridor, featuring the welcome centre, Loggers Museum, and roadside campgrounds. More adventurous types may associate the park with hiking trails and paddling on any one of countless lakes.

But Algonquin isn’t all about camping, canoeing, and hiking. Few people realize that Algonquin Park is also an excellent biking destination, ideal for riders of all ages and experience levels.

As its name implies, Algonquin Park’s Old Railway Bike Trail follows the bed of the historic Ottawa, Arnprior and Parry Sound Railway (OA&PSR), built by 19thcentury logging magnate J.R. Booth to access his expansive timber limits in the park and connect with grain-bearing steamers on Lake Huron. The railway ran from Ottawa to Georgian Bay, where Booth built his own port and town (Depot Harbour) near Parry Sound.

WORDS BY ANDREW HIND

The line closed in 1959 and the rails have long since been lifted, but Booth’s legacy is a perfectly smooth and straight biking path that offers 34 kilometres of scenic views and wildlife viewing.

Because of its level, wellmaintained, hard-packed surface, the trail is ideal for even novice riders,

children included. It’s also quite scenic, passing through a mixture of forests and wetlands, along the shores of two lakes, and even past a large meadow that was once an airfield. Watch for interpretive plaques along the route that share details on various aspects of Algonquin Park’s human and natural history.

While the trail is one-way, there are access points at several

campgrounds (Mew Lake, Kearney, Pog Lake, Raccoon Lake, and Rock Lake), allowing you to tailor the excursion to your own interests and ability. You can bring your own bike, of course, or rent one – your choice of fat bike, mountain bike, tandem bike, or cruiser – from Algonquin Outfitters through

The ride is peaceful, the wilderness around you hushed and pristine. It’s hard, but exciting nonetheless, to imagine that a century ago, several dozen trains would have clattered along the same route.

The railway’s demise is the recreational biker’s gain.

JUST THE FACTS

For more information: algonquinoutfitters.com/daytrip/old-railway-bike-trail Old Railway Bike Trail | Algonquin Provincial Park | The Friends of Algonquin Park

their Two Rivers Store on Highway 60. All bike rentals come with a fitted helmet.

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Fed is Best

EMPOWERS PARENTS TO MAKE THE BEST FEEDING DECISIONS FOR THEIR NEWBORNS

For decades, women have been told that exclusively feeding their newborns breast milk is the best and only way to ensure their babies grow and develop healthily. Other feeding options like formula or supplemental feeding alternatives are often shunned and promoted as harmful to a baby’s development.

But breast is only best if the mother can produce enough milk to adequately feed her infant. For those who can’t, the stress and pressure can be overwhelming and difficult. Up to 10 per cent of new mothers can’t breastfeed, and 15 to 33 per cent of new mothers are unable to produce enough milk to provide their newborns with the nourishment they need.

On average, 22 per cent of infants are hospitalized globally every year from malnutrition. In Canada, one in three newborns will be admitted to hospital for malnutrition. Infants who don’t get enough to eat can suffer from a slew of health issues like jaundice, caloric deprivation, hypoglycemia, brain injury and even death. Despite showing signs of starvation, most new parents aren’t told their infants aren’t getting enough to eat until after they’ve been admitted to hospital.

Dr. Christie del Castillo-Hegyi and registered nurse B. Jody SegraveDaly are determined to change the societal narrative by providing parents with accurate information about infant feeding options. The two professionals met several years ago on a social media group where Castillo-Hegyi shared her own emotional story of the harm her first newborn son experienced from the unsafe advice she received

about breastfeeding. The two connected immediately and began communicating regularly.

During this time, Dr. Castillo-Hegyi also started a Facebook group called Breast is Best if You Have Enough Breast Milk. The group quickly gained a large following of other mothers who were facing the same struggles and pressures breastfeeding their newborns. Castillo-Hegyi and

Segrave-Daly knew they eventually wanted to write a book about myths and misinformation around breastfeeding.

They founded Fed Is Best eight years ago, an organization that provides new parents with sciencebased information about infant feeding and nutritional needs in a compassionate, supportive and nonjudgmental environment.

The two recently collaborated with Lynnette Hafken, a hospital and private practice lactation consultant, to write their much-anticipated book, also called Fed is Best. The book reveals the truth behind different breastfeeding myths and covers everything new parents and healthcare professionals need to know about different types of feeding options. Fed is Best also highlights the dangers of insufficient feeding and teaches the reader how to recognize the signs of starvation in their infants so they can act before their baby needs to be hospitalized.

Fed is Best isn’t anti-breastfeeding, nor does it shun parents who exclusively breastfeed newborns. It provides invaluable, factual information based on years of research so parents are empowered with the knowledge they need to make the best feeding decisions for their infants.

The book, along with their website fedisbest.org, fills in the gaps in the sea of information by providing science-backed content about healthy feeding and covering the unintended harms that can occur in newborns if they don’t receive enough food. Through their shared passion for this topic, CastilloHegyi and Segrave-Daly use their experiences and knowledge to advocate for parents to make the best feeding decisions for their newborns.

While breast is best if a mother can provide enough milk to meet their newborns’ developmental needs, not all new mothers can exclusively breastfeed their infants. Regardless of how a parent chooses to feed their newborn, the priority should always be fed is best.

The book will be available June 25.

WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH

Sea Dog Boats

By Astrid Sheckels

If you want to know about boats, trust a sea dog to set you on course. Filled with boats (and sea dogs) from all over the world and told in whimsical rhyme, children will discover vessels from airboats to rafts and coracles to schooners.

Ages: 3-5 Publisher: Down East Books Pages: 32 Price: CAD $25.95

Twelve Days of Summer

By Sherri Maret

This delightful sequel to Twelve Days of Winter offers another enchanting tale for children to read or sing along to, taking us on a journey through the vibrant summer season where wildlife thrives. Can you spot a curious chipmunk observing the other animals as they enjoy summer?

Ages: 3-8 Publisher: Muddy Boots Pages: 32 Price: CAD $21.95

Crows: An Egg-To-Sky Story

By Margaret Peot

Crows are fascinating creatures with complex behaviours in their daily lives, from meeting and mating to raising their young and learning to fly.

Ages: 6-9 Publisher: Muddy Boots Pages: 40 Price: CAD $25.55

Franklin’s Trees

By A.J. Schenkman

Explore President Franklin Roosevelt’s love for nature and tree farming. This book details his childhood adventures in Hyde Park, N.Y., and his planting of more than a million trees on his estate. It also highlights the creation of the Civilian Conservation Corps, known as “Roosevelt’s Tree Army,” during the Great Depression, and his gesture of giving a Norway spruce to Winston Churchill. Ages: 6-10 Publishers: Muddy Boots Pages: 40 Price: CAD $25.95

Fairy Day Games

By Mari Sherkin

Embark on a whimsical journey with Mari Sherkin, a talented children’s author, as she unveils the hidden realm where mystical beings gather to make merry preparations for the grandest Fairy Day celebration of the year.

Ages: 4-8 Publisher: Mascot Kids Pages: 38 Price: CAD $26.95

The Amazing Power of Girls

By Maria Marianayagam

Did you know that scientific forces are all around you, even though you can’t see them? It’s true! But how can you be sure they exist? Be inspired as girls celebrate the power of science and the incredible role that they play in it. This STEM-focused picture book is not only educational but also a beautiful celebration of girl power.

Ages: 4-8 Publisher: Sourcebooks Explorer Pages: 40 Pages Price: CAD $28.99

get gardening

THREE FUN AND EDUCATIONAL ECO ACTIVITIES TO PREVENT SUMMER LEARNING LOSS

WORDS BY JOE MCMAHAN

Summer break is traditionally known as a chance for kids to get outside, enjoy the sunshine, and keep active. But have you ever thought about keeping their brains stimulated? Students can lose 25 to 50 per cent of school-year learning gains during the summer months, so it’s important to keep them engaged with fun, interactive activities.

According to a recent survey, 90 per cent of parents feel they have a responsibility to teach their kids how to be eco-friendly.

To support this, Maple Leaf Foods and the kids’ conservation organization Earth Rangers have teamed up to provide activity ideas that will inspire kids to live more sustainably while protecting against learning loss:

Create a DIY Compost

Nearly half (47 per cent) of Canadians want to learn how to build their own compost, and that’s great news for the planet! Composting is a natural process where organic materials such as food scraps, yard waste, and paper products decompose over time, creating a nutrient-rich soil called compost. All you need to get started is a cardboard box, tape, peat-free soil, newspapers, and compostable materials like vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells. By composting, we can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, kick-

our garden with nutrient-rich soil, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.

Conduct a pH-Level Investigation

Healthy soil stores carbon and increases biodiversity both above and below ground. It impacts the quality of our food, protects nature, and even cleanses the air we breathe!

Determine if your soil has enough good nutrients by conducting a pH-level investigation. Dig up a small portion of dry soil from your DIY compost and put it into a mason jar.

Add a few drops of vinegar and a pinch of baking soda to your soil; if it fizzes, the soil is basic/alkaline and may be lacking nutrients. Mixing in mulch and compost is a great way to strengthen your soil.

Make a Rain Gauge

The flowers in our garden and the green grass at the park love to soak up rainwater. Rainwater contains more nitrogen and oxygen compared to regular tap water. Make a rain gauge to see how much water plants and grass receive when it rains. Grab a

clear plastic container and place a ruler on one side of the container. Place the container outdoors where it can easily catch rain. Check the container each day and record how much rain your gauge collects. If you record about 2-3 centimetres of rainwater, your plants are hydrated and ready to grow!

For full details and instructions on how to take part at home, visit EarthRangers.com.

Joe McMahan is the Vice-President of Sustainability at Maple Leaf Foods, where he leads the company’s environmental sustainability initiatives. Maple Leaf Foods is the world’s first major carbon-neutral food company and sets bold, science-based targets to reduce carbon emissions. About this Study: These findings are from a survey conducted by Maple Leaf Foods from April 8 to 10, 2024, among a representative sample of 1,500 online Canadians who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. The survey was conducted in English and French. For comparison purposes only, a probability sample of this size would carry a margin of error of +/-2.53 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

start

A baby friendly play date for moms

A fr pla fo r moms

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

Dads, grandparents and friends welcome. Enjoy the newest Hollywood movies in a baby-friendly environment

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

CAMBRIDGE BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY Discover thousands of free-flying butterflies in our 10,000-square-foot indoor tropical garden. Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory also hosts a variety of tropical plants, birds, and animals, along with several water features. Witness butterflies emerge from their chrysalises and take their first flight, tour our mounted and live-insect galleries, shop at our gift store, and enjoy our café to complete your visit. The conservatory also houses over a dozen bird species, including quail, finches, and canaries, along with various insects, such as the giant African land snail, tarantulas, and scorpions. Our new playground is now open (closed during the winter months). Access is granted with regular admission. 2024 Summer (July 1-Sept. 2). Open 7 days/week; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Timed tickets are required. Secure your spot – Buy now! cambridgebutterfly.com

CONSERVATION HALTON PARKS Get outside this summer at Conservation Halton Parks! The perfect day trip destination, each of our eight parks offer unique experiences so there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy! Make memories with some of our family-friendly activities like hiking to the waterfall at Hilton Falls, visiting the animal barn and Raptors Centre at Mountsberg, go back in time and experience the 15th Century Longhouse Village at Crawford Lake or spend the day at the beach at Kelso. visitorservices@hrca.on.ca | conservationhalton.ca/parks

905.878.5011

DEARCROFT MONTESSORI West Wind Junior High is a two-year program that provides an interdisciplinary, experience-based curriculum designed to motivate and inspire students’ creativity and intellectual development. We offer a low student-teacher ratio, allowing for individualized learning. As an academically rigorous program, students are challenged through authentic, purposeful work projects. To learn more about how we prepare our students for high school, please visit dearcroftmontessori.com and come for a tour of our school. Discover the Magic of Montessori in the Early Years Are you curious about Montessori education and how it can positively shape your child’s early development? We invite you to our open house at Dearcroft Montessori, where you can explore our vibrant Montessori community and learn more about our enriching educational approach. We are now accepting registrations for toddler full- and half-day spots. info@dearcroftmontessori.com | info@dearcroftrebecca.com

DEARCROFT MONTESSORI Newly Opened in 2023, our North campus delivers exceptional Montessori programs for children ages Toddler to Grade 6. Book a Tour and learn about our Introductory offer for our New Montessori Elementary Program. For more information, please email info@dearcroftmontessoritc.com | dearcroft-montessori.com 905.257.3200

FLYING SQUIRREL TRAMPOLINE PARK Embark on an electrifying adventure of boundless joy and excitement at Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park, proudly catering to the thrill-seekers of Whitby and Hamilton. Immerse yourself in an unparalleled experience that transcends age boundaries, where interconnected trampolines beckon you to defy gravity and soar to new heights. Brace yourself for endless leaps, laughter that resonates without limits, and the exhilaration of gravity-defying slam dunks. Whether you’re seeking an everyday escape or planning a special celebration, Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park is the ultimate destination. Our committed staff ensures a seamless and safe experience, turning every birthday bash into a resounding success. Feel the contagious joy of bouncing, the symphony of laughter, and the creation of lasting memories at Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park in Whitby and Hamilton. facebook.com/FlyingSquirrelWhitby | facebook.com/flyingsquirrelhamilton

OAKVILLE CENTRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts is in the heart of downtown Oakville located in Centennial Square (130 Navy St.), nestled in by the Sixteen Mile River and picturesque Lake Ontario. With 497 seats, the Oakville Centre is an intimate theatre presenting multi-disciplinary artists in music, comedy, drama, dance, spoken word and film. The Centre is also home to outstanding community artists such as the Oakville Symphony, Burl-Oak Players, West End Studio Theatre and many more! For tickets, memberships, or further information, please visit our website. boxoffice@oakville.ca | oakvillecentre.ca

Hamilton

289-309-5332

Whitby 289-732-5327

flyingsquirrelsports.ca

OAKVILLE SWIM ACADEMY has remained the premier swimming instructional facility in Southern Ontario for the past 15 years. Small class sizes, warm saltwater pool, and a learning-centred instructional approach are just some of the things that separate Oakville Swim Academy from other swim schools. With an unwavering emphasis on technical success, we approach swimming lessons biomechanically, ensuring that swimmers get from point A to point B safer, quicker, and more efficiently. We offer semi-private and private lessons, parent & tot, adult lessons, leadership programs, and more!

No matter your skill set, age, or aquatic aspirations, we have a high-quality program ready for you! Spring and Summer Programs are now available! Contact us for a free assessment. swim@theswimacademy.org | theswimacademy.ca

SPIRIT OF MATH Spirit of Math summer camps are the perfect preSeptember boost! These fun-filled sessions for kids in Grades 2 to 9 are offered online through our Fibonacci Virtual Campus or in-person at many different Spirit of Math campuses in Ontario and British Columbia. Best of all, you don’t need to be an existing Spirit of Math customer to register! Try before you buy! Think of our camps as a free food sample - you can test your taste buds with a bite-sized Spirit of Math experience and see if our unique approach to mathematical education is right for your child. At our weeklong August summer camps, your child will be introduced to many applicable real world mathematical topics such as probability, pattern recognition, and dilations. They won’t be able to resist falling back in love with math!

info@spiritofmath.com | spiritofmath.com

905.339.3000

407 Speers Rd, Unit 8-10, Oakville theswimacademy.ca

416.223.1985

info@spiritofmath.com spiritofmath.com