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

PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER

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John Racioppo

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mary Racioppo

EDITOR

Amanda Pereira

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GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

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up front SUMMER VACATIONS

Have you ever considered taking your kids to Europe? Summer break is the most ideal time with more time to explore.

Travelling to Europe with your kids can be a wonderful experience for the whole family. Not only does it provide an opportunity to explore new cultures and languages, but it can also be an enjoyable way to bond with your children.

One of the biggest benefits of European travel with kids is the exposure to different cultures. Children can learn about history, art, and architecture by visiting museums and historical sites. They can also try new foods and experience different customs, which can broaden their horizons and help them become more open-minded individuals.

Another advantage of travelling with kids is the opportunity to create lasting memories. Whether it’s taking a family photo in front of the Eiffel Tower or enjoying gelato in Italy, these experiences can bring families closer together. They can also create a shared sense of adventure.

One of our most memorable trips and experiences was visiting Santorini. A beautiful island located in the Aegean Sea. One of the most popular tourist attractions on the island is the donkey rides to the top. Donkeys transport visitors up a steep hill to the town of Fira. It’s a unique and traditional way to experience island culture.

Donkey rides are not for everyone, as they can be challenging and uncomfortable for some. It was a hit with my kids, but not so much for Mom! Our kids were very excited, and my daughter got separated from us as we got on the donkeys. As our donkeys began their trip up the slope, she was placed with another group of people. I was in a state of frantic panic. Donkeys don’t listen well, or as I thought, they only understood Greek, and so they couldn’t understand this hysterical mother trotting up the hill that even the guide ignored. All the way up the slope, I watched my teeny-weeny little girl become smaller and smaller from my view, thinking how scared she must be. We made it to the top safely and I paced while her brothers talked about how to descend the slope the same way they came up. When my daughter’s group arrived, there was no fear or tears in her eyes, only excitement and chatter.

However, for those who can handle it, the ride is unforgettable. The views from the top of the hill are breathtaking and worth the effort.

Overall, if you ever plan a trip to Santorini, Greece, consider taking a donkey ride to the top. It’s a fun and unique way to experience the island’s culture and enjoy the breathtaking views. It’s an experience your kids will never forget.

Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent

personal space

CHRISTINE BABINEC’S BOOK WANT A HUG?

HELPS CHILDREN LEARN ABOUT BOUNDARIES

WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY

Learning about personal boundaries and how and when to ask for permission before touching another person or their belongings is an important milestone in a child’s development and the foundation of healthy relationship building.

Christine Babinec’s picture book Want a Hug? helps children learn these important lessons in a positive and naturally respectful way. The book helps children understand their own and the boundaries of others and highlights the need to ask for consent first before moving into someone’s personal space.

Want a Hug? focuses on the importance of getting and giving consent by covering a variety of situations from holding hands to hugging, playing with another’s toys, sharing school materials and other familiar interactions through colourful illustrations. The book highlights how comfort levels differ from one person to the next. It also illustrates how quickly children and adults can change their minds when it comes to personal boundaries and touching.

The book normalizes asking questions first and demonstrates to the reader that it is OK to say no without hurting someone’s feelings or feeling bad themselves. It also teaches children that not only should they ask first, but others should ask them first as well. The story has many relatable scenarios to help children learn how to express and understand personal boundaries without feeling bad about themselves and

others. Throughout the pages, the message is always positive. The story consistently reinforces acceptance and respect of yes and no answers. It is written for school age children between kindergarten to grade 6 levels.

The book gives tools to handle situations and helps readers problem solve different scenarios and forms of touching. It also has a one-page write-up at the end of the story that explains the importance of consent in everyday interactions. It is educational and helps readers understand

the importance of getting and giving consent while encouraging conversation.

Since its publication and debut last October, Want a Hug? has been well received throughout the US. It recently won the Children’s Book Council award under their 2023 Children’s Favourites Awards, 3rd-5th Grade.

The author, Christine Babinec, is a Licensed Professional Counsellor and National Board Certified Counsellor with her own clinical practice in Oregon, USA. She has over 20 years

experience working with children and treating all types of traumas. Babinec wrote this book because she wanted to create an engaging and entertaining resource that not only teaches the reader, but also encourages conversation between children and their parents, educators, and caregivers.

Through her experiences, Babinec noticed that books written about consent and boundaries often lack positive messaging, take a blaming or prescriptive stance, and do not encourage the reader to ask questions or explore their feelings and relationships. She wants all kids to know if boundaries or consent is not honored, it’s not their fault. Want a Hug? is a polished, easy-to-read, story that teaches children that a no response is not a negative response but rather the person’s natural feelings and comfort level towards personal boundaries.

Babinec has also written blogs and newsletters. She has been a guest speaker on podcasts and several TV shows.

Want a Hug? was published by Familius, a husband and wifefounded publishing company in California. Familius has been in business for 12 years. It publishes an average of 40 high quality books per year. They have a diverse list of book types for different ages, genres, and interests.

Want a Hug? is a great addition to home and school libraries. It is currently available in stores, on Amazon, and on the Familius web page.

The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES WITH ART

Connecting children with a deeper understanding of art and the world around them, The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery offers free exhibitions and family programming throughout the calendar year.

“Kids are intelligent, intense, playful, and extremely creative. The Power Kids workshops make a connecting path between their amazing abilities and understanding of contemporary art,” says Nilou Salimi, Toronto-based visual artist and Power Kids and Outreach Coordinator at The Power Plant. “The children come here, they explore the exhibitions, they create artworks with different materials, and they make good memories with their families. It makes me think of the day when they will come back as adults to this gallery with a deep connection to arts and culture.”

Located on the waterfront in downtown Toronto, The Power Plant is free to visit, and has three exhibition seasons each year, showcasing the best contemporary art from Canada and the world. The exhibitions are accompanied by a dynamic program of talks, workshops, and events, which are also free to attend.

Children ages 7–12 and their families are invited to participate in Power Kids – a series of free creative workshops led by skilled and dynamic artist-educators and inspired by the gallery’s current exhibitions. Power Kids takes place on select Sundays throughout the exhibition seasons and includes a guided tour in the gallery followed by a short creative activity. Each engaging workshop is different, so kids can return throughout the season and be inspired every time. Recent creative activities include using ink and water

to create colourful monoprints of the natural habitat; using clay to construct model versions of a room at home; weaving paper to create designs inspired by Shibipo-Konibo technique of kené; and decorating masks made from fall leaves.

During regular opening hours, families can explore the gallery with a copy of the Family Guide that features questions and activities that

can be done throughout the gallery. Don’t miss the new Power Kids Creative Hub located on the second floor, which features relevant books, colouring cards, and a place to rest during your visit.

July through September, The Power Plant will present a series of exciting exhibition-inspired workshops that include activities like drawing, sculpting and printmaking.

Coming up on July 16 at 3 PM is a workshop called News and Paper, in which kids will get to explore various printmaking techniques and drawing materials to create the first page of a fictional newspaper.

Be part of the fun and register for this and many other upcoming free kids workshops today via thepowerplant.org and @ThePowerPlantTO!

SUMMER FASHION FOR KIDS

Sequoia Kids Co

A gender-neutral baby and children sustainable clothing line that can be passed down and around. However, that’s not all that is great with this product line. Made in Canada and free from chemicals made from Tencel Lyocell – a wood pulp that is dissolved in a non-toxic organic solvent, which absorbs moisture better than cotton, is hypoallergenic, breathable, cool, and stronger than other fabrics. $ varies per product and style available at SequoiaKidsCo.com

Petite Revery

Children’s clothing brand Petite Revery is created by Nest Designs to create beautiful, high-quality, functional, long-lasting clothes for toddlers and children. Designed for parents who want classic, timeless, and gender-inclusive pieces for their children, so they can explore and play comfortably and in style. Currently available in sizes 12M-10Y. Like Nest Designs, Petite Revery continues to innovate to find new eco-friendly materials to use in its products. $ pricing vary per product and style available at petiterevery.com

Miles the Label

Whether kids are heading to the water or the playground, Miles the Label is ready! Everyone likes cool drips like this, not just for the look, but to keep the kids cool on hot days. This collection of swimwear and day clothes combines breathable, eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, soft jersey, lightweight linen, and 100% recycled polyester with UPF50+ sun protection. Check out Mile’s first swimwear collection, as well as its summer capsules including À La Mode and Rink and Roll. $ pricing vary by product and styles. Available on milesthelabel.com, The Bay, Nordstrom, and local kids’ boutiques across North America.

Now Accepting Registrations

Three locations in Oakville offering exceptional Montessori Programs:

GARDEN SQUARE Friday Night Live

Come together and celebrate the sweet sounds of summer nights in Garden Square with FREE outdoor concerts throughout July and August! Experience a new genre of music and vibe each week performed by emerging talent, as well as established headliners from across the GTA. Start every weekend with FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE!

JULY 7: Kirk Diamond and The Movement of Ahryel Featuring Jônelle

JULY 14: Rock Star Live - Live Band Karaoke with Canada’s Best Interactive Live Music Experience!

JULY 28: The RoseBowl Curated by TCspades

AUGUST 4: East Coast Kitchen Party featuring Eclectic Revival and Screeched Inn

AUGUST 11: Mazaa Curated by Hasheel

AUGUST 18: Stomp N’ Stampede Hosted by DJ Johnny Rivex, featuring Headliner Rob Watts

AUGUST 25: Wannabe - A Spice Girls Tribute

SEPTEMBER 1: Mimi O’Bonsawin with headliner

Adrian Sutherland Presented in Partnership with The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund

MOVIES BY

R l Fun For the Wh e F y!

Every Wednesday at 8:00pm from June 28 to August 30, bring a blanket and chair to Garden Square to cuddle up and enjoy a FREE familyfriendly movie. Stay tuned to Garden Square’s social media channels for movie announcements and pre-movie activities starting at 7:00pm!

Dearcroft Lakeshore Dearcroft Trafalgar Crossing Dearcroft Rebecca

physical activity

LIONHEART FITNESS KIDS

WORDS BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM

According to NBA Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen, “Some of the best lessons I have learned were through great coaches. They were life lessons, not just game strategies or tactics. Lionheart Fitness Kids provides valuable moments and memories from some of the most inspiring coaches I have ever met.”

“Great coaches don’t teach. They inspire.”

For John Skoryna, president and CEO of Lionheart Fitness Kids Inc., his father instilled in him the importance of “play” while teaching him the fundamentals of sports. Growing up just outside of Ottawa, along with his eight siblings, athletics played an important role in John’s life, and his passion for coaching kids stemmed from the inspiration he received from great coaches like his father. As a result, he has dedicated his life to empowering kids through sports and fitness.

Now residing in Los Angeles, Skoryna has dedicated his life to empowering kids through sport by creating programs that teach sports and imaginative play to the

pre-school-age children of A-list celebrities, NBA players and film studio executives.

Lionheart also provides sports programming to onsite childcare facilities for some of the largest corporations worldwide, including Paramount, Sony and Universal Studios, Pixar, the YMCA, NASA, and more. Whether it’s a Live or a Virtual experience like the ones offered at Lionheartfitnessadventures.com, Skoryna has created an international

network of Lionheart coaches that have instilled a positive impact on millions of children, teaching them they can achieve anything they can put their minds to.

“All great athletes first learned to love the game.”

At Lionheart Fitness Kids, Skoryna says it’s about creating great programming and always putting the children first. But you can’t do that without equipping your coaches with the right tools. That’s why coaches are certified through the Lionheart Coach Certification program. Experts in early childhood development have helped design the program the coaches follow. “The fundamentals are hidden within the imaginative games creating positive habits around sports and fitness they’ll take well into adulthood.”

So, why Lionheart?

What’s the secret?

“Our unique sports classes are designed to bring out the best in our students in a fun, non-competitive environment. Positive reinforcement and encouragement are our most

powerful teaching tools. Our structured program teaches the necessary fundamentals of sports in a stress-free environment.”

Lionheart’s road to character development.

At the core of Lionheart are the 12 pillars of sportsmanship which are incorporated monthly as a theme into all games and practices. Confidence, respect, kindness, responsibility, the power of words, determination, positive thinking, gratefulness, loyalty, honesty, leadership, and generosity.

At Lionheart, they will discover that a true athlete treats others with kindness and has self- and peer respect. “We believe that the physical aspect of a Lionheart class is just as important as teaching these values at a young age,” points out Skoryna.

Last word to aspiring coaches, “Give 100 per cent of your heart to every class – aim to make every class experience memorable.”

For more information visit: Lionheartfitnesskids.com

Lionheartfitnessadventures.com

Lionheartcoachlife.com

Recreational Summer

2023

Camp Session Dates

Week

Week

Extended Day Care Available: Advance booking required and paid registration fee

Every Saturday, one hour virtual classes from 9am-4pm, September to June, we can draw the line from pass to success. 647-725-3938 www.reidmountdiscovery.ca

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

julyCOOL THINGS

Diaper Genie

Dirty diapers are a fact of parenthood, but smelly rooms don’t have to be! Featuring odour-locking clamps and a foot pedal for hands-free operation, Diaper Genie’s new Signature Pail assists in preventing odours from escaping. It comes with 1 refill and holds almost 50 newborn diapers and uses 70% less cartridge plastic. The refills are long-lasting, and easy to tear with a durable multi-layer film to help keep odors from escaping. $69.99 available at walmart.ca and babiesrus.ca

FurZapper Laundry and Pet Glove

We all love our pets however not their hair that ends up everywhere. The magic in the FurZapper™ is that it has a super tacky and flexible soft surface. This allows small objects like fur, hair, dust, and debris to cling to it. Simply toss the FurZapper™ in the dryer with your laundry. In the dryer, FurZapper® gathers pet fur from cracks and crevices of clothing and blows it into the lint trap as it tumbles between laundry. Despite extreme cold or heat, the device remains elastic and pliable, making it durable and easy to clean. Just wash it with water and dish soap to remove all pet hairs. It’s easy and inexpensive to remove pet hair with this solution. $13.99 and $25.00 available at walmart.ca, and amazon.ca

Ready Set Jet

It’s no better time than now to fill your makeup bag and beauty regime with Ready Set Jet’s easy-to-pack and compact options. No matter where you go, Ready Set Jet has temperature-proof makeup formulas that easily fit into carry-on or overnight luggage (a.k.a. no melting or cracking due to heat). Make your own Beauty Baton or two with the items you need most. They feature waterless cleanser, primer, multipurpose balm, lip and cheek stain, bronzer, and contour. It has everything you could possibly need for a hassle-free beauty routine while away from home.

$44.00 Beauty Baton add on for $25.00 and $17.00 Colour Stack available at readysetjet.com

Q for Quinn

Little Life Box

A mother and daughter duo are the creators of the Little Life Box. Self-Care = Self Love. Health-based subscription boxes are not only filled with snacks or cosmetics but share products that provide healthier choices and alternatives to the things we all consume every day. They believe in taking one healthy step at a time, making decisions we can all live with and feel good about making. No pressure, no fads. Changing one old habit at a time, making changes when we can. $49.99 pay as you go or 1 Year subscription $179.99 available at littllifebox.com

Kobo Clara 2E is lightweight and made of 85% recycled plastic and 10% oceanbound plastic. It also features Bluetooth® wireless technology, is waterproof and has 16GB storage space which is equivalent to 2000 eBooks or 75 Kobo Audiobooks. The Clara 2E also has the latest eco-conscious SleepCover, with a back case made with 97 per cent recycled plastic. $159.99 available at rakutenkobo.com

You can find something for everyone in your family in this beautiful spun product line. GOTS certified organic cotton or responsibly sourced merino wool and produced in OEKO-Tex-100 certified facilities to ensure absence of harmful chemicals and toxins. Clothing made with the highest quality natural, organic materials without sacrificing fit, comfort, or longevity. Prices vary from product to product available at qforquinn.com

Kobo Clara 2E

family fun

AWAY FROM THE LAKE: SUMMER EVENTS IN COTTAGE COUNTRY

WORDS BY ANDREW HIND

Summer days at the cottage, resort, or camp are blissful. But there are times when you want to, you know, do something. Thankfully, there are plenty of family-friendly summer events throughout cottage country.

SWS Water Ski Shows (Windsor Park, Bala)

Grab a lawn chair or blanket and head to Windsor Park in Bala any Tuesday night throughout the summer to experience a Muskoka tradition. For six decades SWS, Canada’s largest watersports company, has been wowing audiences with their water ski shows that blend athleticism, skill, and humor. Best of all, it’s free.

Canada Day at Muskoka

Heritage Place

(July 1, Muskoka Heritage Place, Huntsville)

With more than a dozen heritage buildings hailing from across the region, the recreated pioneer village at Muskoka Heritage Place is one of my favourite places on any day. But it really comes alive on Canada Day with live music, a strawberry social, pioneer demonstrations by costumed interpreters (the blacksmith hammering in his forge always draws

a crowd), lots of hands-on activities to engage young minds, and rides aboard the Portage Flyer train. Admission from 9-11 a.m. is free.

Loggers Day

(July 29, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Algonquin Park)

Many people are surprised to learn of Algonquin Park’s long history of logging, dating back nearly two centuries.

Loggers Day is a fun and immersive event that brings to vivid life this aspect of Algonquin’s past through demonstrations (square logging and cross-saw cutting), live shanty music, and the opportunity to sample an old-time loggers’ lunch (12:00 to 2:00pm, while quantities last, $10 per person). It’s a great excuse to explore the Algonquin Logging Museum, which includes a recreated shanty, log chutes, old stables, a blacksmith shop, and a rare steam-powered ‘alligator’ (a tug that could portage across land between lakes and river).

Midnight Madness Bracebridge (Aug. 4; Bracebridge; downtownbracebridge.com)

Muskoka’s premier summer street festival returns to downtown Bracebridge. So, here’s the plan:

spend the day at Santa’s Village, just outside of town, and the spend the evening (6-11 p.m.) enjoying all that Midnight Madness has to offer. There’s a lot: with live entertainment by local artists, delicious food, great shopping with special sales, and the Memorial Park Kids Zone to entertain young ones ($5 per child).

Ships and Sails (Aug. 19-20, Nancy Island Historic Site, Wasaga Beach)

Few recall that there was a small but significant battle at Wasaga

Beach during the War of 1812, during which ship HMS Nancy was burned to the waterline and sank. The vessel’s fire-blackened hull serves as the centrepiece of Nancy Island Historic Site, which is transported back to that era every summer for two days the Ships and Sails event. Experience the life of a sailor in 1812 and discover what life was like on a ship. Watch cannon and musketry demonstrations. Ride in voyageur canoes. Try your hand at any number of children’s activities and games. Admission by donation.

Ships and SailsSWS Water Ski Shows

Midnight Madness Bracebridge

SWS Water Ski Shows

GET READY FOR SUMMER WITH CUISIPRO

Snap-Fit Pop Mold Sets

Who said you couldn’t please everyone? Not so, with Cuisipro’s Snap-Fit Pop Molds, which enable you to create multi-flavoured, customizable ice pops in no time. Easily snap together these molds to create up to six pop molds at a time, allowing the whole family to enjoy these delicious treats. The reusable sticks and protective drip guards allow you to enjoy your homemade, healthy treats without the mess. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack after a day at the pool or a refreshing dessert after a family barbecue, Cuisipro’s Snap-Fit Pop Molds are sure to hit the spot! $19.99 for a set of 6 in circle or square.

Mini Ice Cream sandwich makers

Would you like to create delicious and fun treats for your family that don’t require much effort?

You won’t be disappointed with the Cuisipro Mini Ice Cream Sandwich Maker! You don’t need any special baking skills or experience to look like a pro. This easy-to-use gadget requires no special skills or baking experience - simply add your favourite ingredients, cut, and scoop, and enjoy! The Mini Ice Cream Sandwich Maker features a BPA-free design and dishwasher-safe construction for creating new and exciting treats every time. $19.99

Ice Cream Scoop and Stack

Donvier Ice Cream Maker

Using the Cuisipro Donvier Ice Cream Maker, you can make homemade ice cream quickly and easily. Chillfast’s unique non-electric design uses no salt, ice, or electricity to make ice cream - simply freeze the cylinder overnight, add your favourite ingredients, and turn the handle! Featuring doublewalled insulation, the Chillfast cylinder and freezer cylinder holder ensure your frozen treats stay cold. You can make enough ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, or frozen drinks for the entire family with the 1 quart/1 L capacity. Easy to use and easy to clean, the Donvier Ice Cream Maker is a musthave for any ice cream lover. $99.99

and easy to clean , the Do have for ice cream lov

It’s a fun way to serve ice cream or anything else that stacks. Using the Cuisipro Scoop and Stack, you can make colourful and creative cylinder blocks of ice cream, mashed potatoes, cakes, stacked on cones or decorated with waffle cups, crackers, etc. Twist-and-lift action and push button to release, ergonomic scooper effortlessly cuts through the hardest ice cream. $29.99

Cuisipro Pop Up Molds

This Retro Popsicle Mold is perfect for creating refreshing and delicious treats for the whole family to enjoy. Featuring a nostalgic design, these are the perfect summer party or backyard BBQ addition. With Cuisipro Retro Popsicle Molds, you can create delicious frozen treats that everyone will enjoy. Set of 6 pop molds and base with stainless steel tray. Dishwasher safe on top rack. $29.99

health

Hearing loss is often associated with aging, and understandably so. Individuals from all walks of life undoubtedly have an aging friend or relative who has experienced some degree of hearing loss, and millions of seniors across the globe would admit to having some difficulty with their hearing. But hearing loss also can affect children and, if undiagnosed, it can have an adverse effect on nearly all aspects of their lives.

The World Health Organization estimates that, as of 2021, approximately 34 million children present with hearing loss that requires rehabilitation. Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that hearing loss in children can be present at birth or develop later in childhood. Hearing loss that develops later in childhood is known as acquired hearing loss, and parents can look for various signs that kids could be losing their hearing. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association notes that the signs of hearing loss in children may include:

• Delayed speech and/or language development

• Speech sound disorder: The ASHA notes that speech sound disorders include any difficulty or combination of difficulties with perception, motor production, or phonological representation of speech sounds and speech segments

• Difficulty in following or understanding instructions

• Frequent requests for repetition

• Use of increased volume on devices,

including televisions, personal music players and tablets

• Difficulty effectively expressing themselves: Children can exhibit difficulty expressing themselves verbally and/or via written language

• Frustration with communication breakdowns

• Feeling of exhaustion at the end of a school day

• Difficulties at school: Children with hearing loss may experience

academic, behavioural, or social difficulties in the classroom and on campus

What causes acquired hearing loss in children?

The causes of hearing loss in children can be as simple as cerumen (ear wax) or as complex as damage to middle or inner structures after suffering trauma to the head.

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta notes that over-the-counter ear wax removal drops can effectively clean ears and restore kids’ hearing, though such drops may need to be part of routine preventive health care measures. Ear infections, encephalitis, excessive noise exposure, meningitis, the presence of a foreign body in the ear, and viral infections like measles or mumps also can contribute to hearing loss in kids. Physicians can direct treatment of hearing loss based on the cause of kids’ hearing loss, but it’s worth noting that some hearing loss may require long-term use of hearing aids, surgery, or medication.

– Metro Creative

SIGNS KIDS COULD BE HARD OF HEARING

WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH

When You’re Older

By Sofie Laguna, and Illustrated by Judy Watson

In this stunning picture book, an older brother discusses the amazing experiences he expects to share with his new baby brother when he grows up. The bond between brothers is exquisitely illustrated and deeply joyful in this beautifully illustrated book. Embark on a journey with them as they explore this awe-inspiring and wild world side by side.

Learn by Sticker - Beginning Phonics & Addition and Subtraction

By

Workman Publishing

A fun way to keep learning through the summer. Learn by Sticker is a brand-new product from the creators of Brain Quest. Bright and colourful workbooks. Discover a fun new way to practice phonics: stickers! Kids will have fun creating ten friendly monster images while practicing basic phonics. A new way for kids to practice key learning skills.

By

Adrian

Zoe and the I Can’t Monkey

Lortie, and Illustrated by Natalia Peña

Zoe notices all her friends no longer use their training wheels to ride their bikes. So, one day Zoe takes her training wheels off to be just like them except she has a monkey on her back that whispers, “I can’t” which only made riding more difficult for her. She soon learns from her parents that when she hears “I can’t” in her head, that she should answer by saying “I can.” A wonderful book on self-talk and the power of positive thinking.

Ages: 4-8

Publisher: IPG Publishers Group Pages: 32 Price: $24.99 CAD

Ages 5+ Published by: Workman Publishing Pages: 44 Price: $15.99 each

Ages: 4+ Publisher: Tellwell Talent Pages: 36 Price: $14.99

Growing Feelings – A Kids’ Guide to Dealing with Emotions about Friends and Other Kids

By Eileen Kennedy-Moore and Christine McLaughlin

A must have book. Friends and other kids often trigger children’s biggest emotions. In childhood friendships, all emotions, including painful ones, are useful. First-ofits-kind in children’s books, Growing Feelings helps kids cope and understand feelings. Dr. Eileen KennedyMoore and parenting and health writer Christine McLaughlin teaches kids healthy ways to manage and communicate feelings about their friendships, with kid-friendly cartoons, research-based coping strategies, and silly observations from a cat and a dog with their own (questionable) ideas about what might help.

The House on Sunrise Lagoon –Sam Makes a Splash

By Nicole Melleby

By Nancy Rose

Real squirrels, real photos! A playful counting book featuring Oakley the squirrel and his friends on a camping trip helps you learn your numbers. As Oakley experiences the fun of camping, he teaches readers how to count. Real squirrels are featured on every page! Photographer Nancy Rose lures squirrels into her photo frame using strategically placed peanuts, so they appear in squirrel-sized sets that replicate human life, complete with tents, s’mores, campfires, and more.

Ages: Baby – 4yrs. Published by: Workman Publishing Company Pages: 30 Price: 12.99

Ages: 6-10

Published by: Beyond Words Publishing Pages: 208 Price: $22.99 CDA

Here are three things you need to know about elevenyear-old Samantha Ali-O’Connor: she is one of five adopted siblings, who share two moms, a big dog, and only her name is not inspired by the ocean. She and Harbor always compete to be the best oldest sibling. She aims to prove herself as a true Ali-O’Connor by taking over the family business of repairing and charting boats. There’s just one problem: her mothers have been talking about selling the business before the end of the summer! The clock is ticking, and Sam needs a plan, quick, before Harbor finds out. Sam can’t lose her chance to inherit the business and be an AliO’Connor forever. Ages: 8-12 Published by: Algonquin Young Readers Pages: 224 Price: $22.99

Oakley the Squirrel: 1, 2, 3!

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.

safety CYBERBULLYING ONLINE GAMING – KIDAS

WORDS BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM

Cyberbullying is a significant societal issue, and eradicating it isn’t easy. All the more reason why parents need to keep on top of what their children are doing online; they need to take into account the many settings of their children’s online interactions on various platforms used to communicate, learn and socialize with their friends.

Did you know that 70 per cent of children who play online video games experience harassment or safety threats?

Since COVID, kids have gravitated more and more to their online devices, finding avenues to interact

with their friends. Parents thought they were just playing video games; instead, kids latched onto various apps and free platforms like Roblox, providing a highly interactive environment for kids to socialize, including visiting chat rooms.

For Toronto resident and mom of four kids between the ages of nine and 14, Jenna Greenspoon learned firsthand what it’s like to have her children scammed and bullied online. Her son is an avid gamer, but Greenspoon grew concerned about the in-game communications she observed over time and decided to tackle it head-on.

“Gaming is a tricky space, especially for parents who are not gamers. The language and interactions are very different. So, I spent a lot of time researching and educating myself about some of the risks. I came across Kidas (getkidas. com), a leading platform for child online safety and guidance, which ultimately triggered an alert that my son was being cyberbullied and extorted for Robux, a virtual currency used on the online gaming platform Roblox.”

ProtectMe is the software that Greenspoon downloaded onto her son’s PC. It uses AI and machine

learning to monitor voice and text chats in more than 200 of the most popular PC games. It runs silently in the background of their computer,

FOR GREENSPOON, KIDAS’ PROTECTME OPENED A LINE OF COMMUNICATION WITH HER SON AND AN OPPORTUNITY FOR HER TO HELP OTHER PARENTS SAFEGUARD THEIR CHILDREN. GREENSPOON JOINED KIDAS AS HEAD OF PARENTING, A TITLE AND ROLE SHE DOESN’T TAKE LIGHTLY.

so it doesn’t interrupt their gaming. Still, it alerts parents with real-time SMS text messages of the most concerning and dangerous threats, including privacy violations. At a nominal fee of $6/month or $60/ year, parents receive weekly reports highlighting any dangers their children were exposed to over the week, plus lots of gaming insights and, most importantly, provides the peace of mind to help parents navigate the online gaming world.

Kidas is the brainchild of CEO Ron Kerbs. An avid gamer, Kerbs appreciates the positive cognitive, social and entertainment value video games bring players, but unfortunately, harmful scenarios exist. As Kerbs points out, “Due to the anonymity of gaming, children are

particularly vulnerable to negative interactions where cybercriminals/ cyberbullies can freely prey on and harass other players with virtually no accountability.” Kerbs heard about a girl who was a victim of sextortion. She was being threatened by an online predator to share nude or explicit images. “It struck a chord, and I immediately started to work on a solution – ProtectMe.”

For Greenspoon, Kidas’ ProtectMe opened a line of communication with her son and an opportunity for her to help other parents safeguard their children. Greenspoon joined Kidas as Head of Parenting, a title and role she doesn’t take lightly.

“I think the most important thing that parents can do is to educate themselves about online gaming, and there is no better place to start than

checking out the Kidas website and our blogs. We have many resources about the different types of threats your children could be exposed to, comparisons of other games, etc. But if there is a piece of advice I’d like to share from my own experience, keep those lines of communication with your children open. Listen and look out for signs, whether it’s bullying at school or cyberbullying. Explain to them what to do when

they experience it, and also what it means to be an upstander – how to stand up for others when they witness cyberbullying.”

After all, when it’s not in your child’s control, says Greenspoon, you want your kids to feel free to come to you should they ever encounter cyberbullying.

To learn more, visit getkidas. com and download a free trial of ProtectMe.

COOKSMART Do you have a little chef in your house? Let them put an apron on and get cooking at COOKSMART Multi-Camp this summer! With five locations in Mississauga and Oakville, beginner cooks and bakers aged 5-12 stay busy and creative while learning important life skills. These in-person camps and virtual classes for children and teens get everyone cooking nutritious snacks and tasty meals their way. What to expect from COOKSMART: Small groups each week. 1:5 Staff: Camper ratios. Age-appropriate activities for older and younger children. Always nut-free. Allergy-friendly. We understand and accommodate food allergies, sensitives and intolerances. Vegetarian menu. Halal friendly. We encourage trying new foods, understanding what our body needs and making your own plate. Safe environment with qualified instructors who educate not just babysit your child. Outdoor time learning about the garden, composting to teach kids the importance of their food and where it comes from cooksmart.ca/summer-camp cooksmart.ca/summer-camp

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

647.894.2086

info@cooksmart.ca cooksmart.ca

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

PICKERING MUSEUM VILLAGE Think History is boring? Think again!

Nestled on the banks of Duffins Creek, Pickering Museum Village is the largest community museum in Durham region. Discover interactive, hands-on exhibits in our heritage buildings, such as the Greenwood Blacksmith Shop or Fun on the Farm Combination Barn. Explore the museum on your own or learn a skill in one of our unique heritage programs. Test your knowledge with an Escape Room, or be thrilled with one of our Ghost Walks. Pickering Museum Village is fun for the whole family. Find us on social media: @pickeringmuse museum@pickering.ca | pickeringmuseumvillage.ca

905.683.8401

PORTPREP ART PORTFOLIO PREPARATION: Does your teen love drawing or sketching? Let PortPrep turn that hobby into a career with our art portfolio camps and courses, available online and off. We specialize in providing a strong foundation in animation, illustration and architecture art classes. We have upcoming summer camps available for a variety of age groups (11-15 and 15-26) with overnight and meal options available for the students. Invest in your teen’s future career with our art programs; we have a number of online camps and classes available year-round for those serious about attending college or university and continuing to be a professional animator, illustrator, game artist, architect, interior or industrial designer. We foster an encouraging learning environment, offering programs at a variety of price points. We aim to help your teen to feel empowered to follow their creative goals and dreams.

PortPrep.com | PortPrep1@gmail.com

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

RITMIKA’S RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS SUMMER CAMP Ritmika’s Rhythmic Gymnastics Summer Camp is a fun-filled camp young girls would love. Our summer campers will enjoy learning rhythmic gymnastics as well as dance, acro, in-house movies, crafts, and games. Participants of the summer camp will also receive a Certificate of Participation. We have Open House every Friday including performances by your talented kids. Our Coaches are NCCP certified, and the summer camp program is designed to provide safe and effective learning in a supportive and fun environment. The program is ideal for girls ages 5 to teen. We have both recreational and competitive gymnastics summer camp programs. You can choose between full days or half days, weekly or daily. ritmika.ca/gymnastics-summer-camp

519.803.2539 PortPrep1@gmail.com

SAFARI NIAGARA Adventure awaits at Safari Niagara! Enjoy quality time with your family and friends at our 150 acre adventure park with over 1,000 animals, birds and reptiles! Connect with nature and explore the park’s open green spaces and shady forest trails. Learn more about our animals and how they communicate in one of our daily interactive and educational Keeper Talks and Shows. Take a ride on the Gator Express Tram, challenge yourself on the ropes course, cool off at the splash pad, hang out at the Adventure Zone, ride the paddle boats, and jump around on our bounce pillows. Get up close to our animals with our exclusive giraffe feeding, hippo feeding and budgie feeding experiences. Enjoy a picnic lunch, grab a cold treat, celebrate anything – and do it all right here! There’s never a dull moment at Safari Niagara! info@safariniagara.com | safariniagara.com

647.725.3938

905.660.9535 ritmika@ritmika.ca ritmika.ca/us

905.382.9669 info@safariniagara.com safariniagara.com

ST. GABRIEL CHILD CARE CENTRES Come learn, share, laugh and grow with us at St. Gabriel Child Care Centres, where we celebrate the child. It has been our pleasure and privilege to have provided quality early learning and care in Woodbridge for over 32 years and we look forward to where our journey will take us next. Our curriculum and philosophy are based on the four foundations of learning: well-being, expression, engagement and belonging. We believe that all children are naturally curious and capable learners who are worthy of our trust and support. Our programs focus on the individual needs of the child, in a warm and positive environment. We follow the child’s interests, inquiries and are collaborators in learning and play with your child. We encourage children to express their feelings, expand their learning by asking open ended questions and support their problem-solving skills and self-regulation development with guidance and modelling. info@ stgabrielchildcare.com | stgabrielchildcare.com

Summer memories start here!

There’s so much to see and do at your Toronto Zoo! Join us this summer for face painting, cool off at Splash Island, go behind-the-scenes on a Wild Encounter, and get up-close with over 3,000 animals from around the world, including Sumtran orangutans in their NEW Outdoor Habitat!

Plan your visit at torontozoo.com