SCHOOL CURRICULUM COMPANION
INSPIRING STUDENTS IN THE CLASSROOM AND BEYOND!
With state-of-the-art facilities and specialized instructors, the Town of Oakville offers unique, fun, and creative curriculum-based experiences to suit any interest. Our educational offerings in recreation, culture, and more complement teacher lesson plans and spark the curiosity that growing minds need.
Learn more: oakville.ca/school-programs schoolprograms@oakville.ca
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FEATURE
Talented Kids: Have you ever thought about breaking a world record –specifically, a Guinness World
FEATURE
Nutrition:
Upcoming allergy prevention book will help parents introduce food to their baby
For your spooktacular fall decor
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up front HALLOWEEN SAFETY
Halloween is an exciting time of the year when people all over the world celebrate by engaging in various activities. There are plenty of things to do during this festive season, ranging from attending parties to participating in traditional customs. Let’s explore some of the key aspects of Halloween, including its origins and popular ways to celebrate.
One of the main highlights of Halloween are the parties that take place. These gatherings are an opportunity for people to dress up in costumes, showcasing their creativity and imagination. Whether it’s a spooky costume or a funny one, Halloween parties provide a chance to socialize and have a great time with friends and family. Decorations such as jack-o’-lanterns, cobwebs, and eerie lighting create an atmospheric ambiance that adds to the overall excitement of the event.
In modern times, Halloween has evolved into a celebration that incorporates elements from various cultures and traditions. In addition to attending parties, people often engage in activities such as trick-or-treating, where children go from house to house, dressed in costumes, and collect candy. Haunted houses, corn mazes, and pumpkin carving are also popular activities that add to the Halloween spirit.
Halloween has become a global phenomenon, with people from different countries embracing the festivities. While the traditions may vary, the essence of Halloween remains the same – a time for fun, creativity, and a touch of spookiness. Whether you choose to attend a Halloween
party, explore haunted attractions, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, Halloween offers a range of exciting activities for people of all ages.
During Halloween night, it is imperative to take several safety precautions to ensure a fun and safe experience for everyone involved. First and foremost, it is crucial to always accompany young children while trick-or-treating. This prevents them from getting lost or encountering any potential dangers. Additionally, it is advisable to stick to well-lit areas and avoid dark or secluded streets. This reduces the risk of accidents and ensures better visibility for both pedestrians and drivers. Furthermore, it is essential to wear reflective clothing or accessories to increase visibility, especially when walking near or crossing roads. It is also recommended to use flashlights or glow sticks to further enhance visibility.
Another important safety measure is to carefully inspect all treats before consuming them. This helps to identify any potential hazards or tampering. Lastly, it is crucial to follow all traffic rules and regulations, such as using crosswalks and obeying traffic signals. By following these safety precautions, everyone can enjoy a fun and safe Halloween night.
Halloween is a time to celebrate and indulge in various activities. From attending parties and wearing costumes to exploring the origins of this festive occasion, there is no shortage of things to do during this time of the year. Embrace the spirit of Halloween and enjoy the festivities that come with it.
Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent
nutrition
UPCOMING
ALLERGY
PREVENTION
BOOK WILL HELP PARENTS INTRODUCE FOOD’S
TO THEIR BABY SAFELY WHILE
REDUCING THE RISK OF DEVELOPING FOOD ALLERGIES
WORDS
BY LORRAINE PELLEY
Food allergies are the second most common type of allergy, and while they can occur at any age, they are most common in infants and children. There is no known cure for food allergies. The best way to avoid a reaction is by avoiding certain foods or products that contain the food allergen. The top food allergies include peanuts, eggs, cow’s milk, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy and sesame.
For parents, food allergies are often a highly stressful and expensive medical condition that requires careful planning and meal preparation. On average, food allergies in children cost families thousands of dollars more annually on allergen-free products and medications.
Many food allergies in children can be prevented by safely introducing the foods into a baby’s diet early and often. In fact, a comprehensive study done in 2015 showed that giving babies peanut-friendly foods frequently, starting between four and six months of age, reduced the risk of them developing an allergy by 86 per cent.
While there is some information about food safety and allergy
prevention available, it’s almost impossible to find. Malina Malkani, a pediatric registered dietitian and expert in infant feeding, is changing that with her new book Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention: A Baby-Led Guide to Starting Solids and Introducing Top Allergens with 80 Family-Friendly Recipes. The book, which comes out this November, covers everything parents need to know about baby-led feeding and food allergies, including risks, prevention and safe practices for introducing allergens into a baby’s diet.
Throughout the book, Malkani gives parents practical tips and advice
about a baby-led feeding approach to safely introducing foods into an infant’s diet. She also provides valuable information on nutrition and baby development, helping parents understand how safe selffeeding practices develop an infant’s adventurous palate while improving their motor skills.
Malkani explains the narrow window parents have in a baby’s development to expose them to different types of foods, so they learn to enjoy a variety of tastes and textures while reducing their risk of developing allergies. For example, developing protection against peanut allergies is most effective when a baby is between four and six months old. Every month parents delay introducing peanuts after six months can increase the risk of a peanut allergy by up to 30 per cent. On average, it takes repeated exposure—15 times or more—for infants to like a food. Repeated exposure also makes babies less likely to become fussy eaters as they grow.
All the information in Malkani’s book is based on scientific, evidencebased research. Along with a wealth of valuable information, Malkani
into a baby’s diet and over 80 recipes of baby-friendly foods that the whole family can enjoy.
Along with her book, Malkani, a single parent to three daughters, is a highly acclaimed public speaker, best-selling author and social media influencer. She has a website at malinamalkani.com, and TikTok and Instagram channels, @healthy.mom. healthy.kids, where she provides parents with advice and tips for feeding their babies. Her baby-led approach to introducing foods is reshaping dietary habits and eating behaviours by offering parents opportunities to help their children develop a healthy relationship with food, starting in infancy.
Malkani’s book, Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention: A BabyLed Guide to Starting Solids and Introducing Top Allergens with 80 Family-Friendly Recipes, will be available this November online and at select bookstores. Parents looking for information now about allergy prevention and baby-led feeding can visit her website or social media pages for news, tips and recipes.
trick or treat
PETIT LEM
MOST SPINE-CHILLING COLLECTION YET, THE TRICK OR TREAT LINE!
This Halloween-themed collection features delightfully spooky, glow-in-the-dark pyjamas and sleepers, available in matching sizes for adults – perfect for family trick-or-treating or a frightful movie night. Each item is crafted from incredibly soft organic cotton, ensuring a cosy experience for everyone during this haunting season. Petit Lem products are available at Hudson’s Bay, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and petitlem.com.
• Footed sleepers (NB–24M): $30
• 2-piece sets (12–24M): $36
• 2-piece sets (2–7Y): $42
• 2-piece sets (8–14Y): $44
• Adults (Ladies XS–XXL): $78
• Adults (Men’s M–XXL): $80
3 6 1 5
2
1. Knitted Ghost Blanket : $80
2. Doggy Asphalt Footed Sleeper : $30
3. Café Crème Pumpkin Footed Sleeper : $30
4. Purple Velvet Candy 2-piece set: $36
5. Café Crème 2-piece set: $36
6. Purple Velvet Candy Footed Sleeper : $30
7. Doggy Asphalt 2-piece set: $36
creativity
AWESOME LEGO CREATIONS WITH BRICKS YOU ALREADY HAVE
WORDS BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM
There isn’t a parent in the world who hasn’t experienced the excruciating pain of stepping on one of those colourful LEGO bricks in the middle of the night. Ouch! But parents also know that LEGO fosters creativity and imagination. What if your kids have tubs of LEGO bricks and want to explore beyond the traditional LEGO sets, using all of their colourful bricks in new ways?
That’s exactly what Sarah Dees’ first book, Awesome LEGO Creations with Bricks You Already Have, offers.
“It’s easy for kids to get stuck building the set from the instructions and then never doing anything else with it,” says Dees. “I wanted to create a book with a wide variety of creative building ideas, complete with instructions to help kids actually assemble them on their own.
“At the time of writing, I had no idea whether kids would really want instructions for projects that they may or may not have the bricks for. Well, the book was a huge success, and it just made sense to update and
I WANTED TO CREATE A BOOK WITH A WIDE VARIETY OF CREATIVE BUILDING IDEAS, COMPLETE WITH INSTRUCTIONS TO HELP KIDS ACTUALLY ASSEMBLE THEM ON THEIR OWN.
expand it for the next generation of LEGO builders!”
What differences will parents and kids notice in this book?
This new oversized and expanded edition of Awesome LEGO Creations with Bricks You Already Have is filled with building and imaginative play ideas. “They’ll build robots and also create a workshop with engineers and tools to repair the robots. They can make a swimming pool scene, a car repair shop, or create an adventure with knights and dragons, and more. Plus, there are 16 pages of new projects. I’m especially excited about the modular spaceships that kids can build with whatever bricks they have.”
How should parents and kids use this book?
Kids eight and older will have no problems reading the instructions,
but younger ones might need a hand. Along with building instructions, the book includes parts lists, which will make it easy to figure out exactly what you need.
And, parents, you’re in for a blast too! After all, LEGO is ageless and brings out the kid in everyone.
With Halloween just around the corner, why not have your kids build this candy dispenser using LEGO bricks for all those treats?
This book will surely inspire kids of every age. If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas gift, look no further than this inspiring book! Packed with fun and creativity, it promises hours of entertainment and is a fantastic way to nurture young minds. It’s the ideal gift to ignite their imagination and make this holiday season extra special.
MILES THE LABEL
HOMECOMING COLLECTION
As autumn approaches, it’s the perfect time to embrace the excitement of homecoming! Miles the Label has everything parents need to let their children’s team spirit shine with the Homecoming Collection. These stylish and comfortable outfits will have kids ready for game day in no time. The Homecoming Collection offers varsity jackets, matching sets, and versatile layering options with football designs, ensuring kids stand out in the bleachers!
1 2 6 7 8 9 3 4 5
1. Roses Print on Heather Grey Sweatshirt : $44 Roses Print on Heather Grey Leggings: $26 Rose Magenta Sweatshirt : $44. Magenta Leggings: $26. Confetti
Print on Burgundy Top: $34. Confetti Print on Burgundy Leggings: $26 | 2. Royal Blue Boys’ Varsity Jacket : $88 | 3. Magenta Ottoman Dress: $48 | 4. Helmet
Print on Royal Blue Sweatshirt : $42. Royal Blue Joggers: $36 | 5. Magenta Girls’ Varsity Jacket : $88 | 6. Football Print on Heather Grey Sweatshirt : $42 Copper Ottoman Joggers: $44 | 7. All-Star Colour Block Hooded Sweatshirt : $48. Royal Blue Joggers: $36 | 8. Copper Plaid Shacket: $84 | 9. Cheer Pom Poms Print on Heather Grey Sweatshirt Dress: $46
family fun
HAUNTED THRILLS IN NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE
In Niagara-on-the-Lake, there are numerous locations where the fabric between our world and the afterlife seems to fray. In these places, ghosts and the living are said to mingle.
Niagara-on-the-Lake is the perfect destination for a Halloween-season escape.
“We can’t promise you’ll have an otherworldly encounter, but they seem to happen frequently at this time of year,” says Kyle Upton, who runs Niagara Ghost Tours (tickets available at friendsoffortgeorge.ca/ ghost-tours/) and, for the past two decades, has escorted wide-eyed tourists through darkened Fort George with only lanterns to guide their way. “There’s an unusual amount of ghostly activity both at the fort and in the town itself.”
Fort George, which was the scene of fighting and devastation during the War of 1812, is said to be haunted by dozens of ghosts. The most famous, according to Upton, is a young girl named Sarah Anne. “She takes an active interest in tours, following us from building to building, playing peek-a-boo with visitors, making eye contact, and playing mischievous
WORDS BY ANDREW HIND
pranks. She really connects with people.”
Ghosts are hardly confined to Fort George, however. Spirits cling to the historic buildings of Niagara-on-theLake like vines to mortar.
The Ghost Walks (ghostwalks.com) host lantern-lit guided tours through Niagara-on-the-Lake’s darkened and quiet streets, weaving entertaining tales of history and haunts over the course of 90 minutes. Merely standing before a 200-year-old building, with shadows creeping upon you and hearing tales of murder, tragic death, and unearthly hauntings, is chillingly captivating.
One of the most popular stops is The Olde Angel Inn (oldeangelinn.
com), said to be haunted by British officer Capt. Colin Swayze, who was stationed in Niagara-on-the-Lake during the War of 1812. According to legend, he was bayoneted by American soldiers in the Inn’s basement, and his spirit has haunted the building ever since.
“The ghosts seem to be unusually active in October,” says The Ghost Walks owner Daniel Cumerlato. “We can’t guarantee you’ll see a ghost, but unusual things do happen during many of our tours.”
As one of the authors of Ghosts of Niagara-on-the-Lake, I’m often asked which are my favourite spooky spots in town. Here are two family-friendly choices:
NIAGARA-ONTHE-LAKE IS THE PERFECT DESTINATION FOR A HALLOWEENSEASON ESCAPE.
Pillar and Post (vintage-hotels. com): A wonderful place to stay, and the onsite restaurant, The Cannery (named because the building was once a fruit cannery), is top-notch. A spectral girl is said to make appearances before startled diners.
Fort Mississauga (223 Queen Street): You may have to dodge some golf balls as it’s in the middle of a golf course, and no, it hasn’t been restored like neighbouring Fort George, but Fort Mississauga is special nonetheless. Go there on a dark night and see if you don’t believe in ghosts. And it’s free!
WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH
Wacky Witches and Their Peculiar Familiars
By April Suddenorf
Meet modern witches with unique animal companions like monkeys and parrots. These diverse women bring joyful magic to their daily lives. Choose which witch you’d want to be!
Ages: 4-8
Publisher: NorthSouth Books Pages: 48
Price: CAD $26.95
Goth Moth – Out September 3, 2024
By Kai Luftner
Walter, a timid moth and secret drummer, takes the stage at a Jitterbug concert. This tale by Kai Lüftner and Wiebke Rauers celebrates individuality and music. Join Walter and become a Goth Moth enthusiast!
Ages: 4-8
Publisher: NorthSouth Books Pages: 32
Price: CAD $19.95
Worm’s Lost & Found
By Jule Wellerdiek
Worm is an expert at finding things but can’t locate his own hat. Seal, his forgetful friend, suggests a quirky pancake plan. Will this idea help Worm find his cherished hat?
Ages: 4-8 Publisher: NorthSouth Books Pages: 32 Price: CAD $26.95
Recipe Book For Kids: Master Chef Jr. Worthy
By Lloyd Collins
Aspiring MasterChefs, elevate your cooking skills with this guide. Learn techniques and create visually stunning dishes. Designed for young chefs, it covers essential tools and safe practices to build confidence and culinary skills.
Ages: 6-10
Publisher: Independently Published Pages: 175 Price: CAD $46.09
Let’s Get Festive: Celebrations Around the World
By Joanna Konczak
Explore global festivals with vibrant artwork and rich details. Immerse yourself in the aromas, flavours, and customs of celebrations year-round. A journey you won’t want to miss!
Ages: 4+ Publisher: NorthSouth Books Pages: 184 Price: CAD $27.95
My Friend Pink Bear in The Dark
By Catherine Swartz Illustrated by Alexandria Swartz
Catherine Swartz’s story explores fear, friendship, and overcoming challenges. Michael helps his younger brother Jimmy face a thunderstorm using their teddy bear as a symbol of safety and comfort.
Ages: 3+ Publisher: A C Crown Publishing House Ltd. Pages: 40 Price: CAD $24.99
RONA FOR YOUR SPOOKTACULAR FALL DECOR
HALLOWEEN DECOR BY CELEBRATIONS BY
LANDON&CO
Gemmy Animated Skeleton Playing Banjo
This animated skeleton, dressed in a tan vest, blue trousers, and a farmer’s hat, plays a unique banjo melody with glowing orange eyes for an eerie touch. $84.99
Gemmy Blow Mold Black Illuminated
Jack-O’-Lantern – 9 in.
Create the perfect pumpkin display with this illuminated blow mold jack-o’-lantern. Featuring a sleek black exterior, vibrant red interior, and spooky smile, it emits a warm red glow. $16.99
Animated Rubber Crawling Hand
This chilling prop glides ominously to haunting music, sending shivers down your guests’ spines. $24.99
Gemmy Life-Sized Animated Witch with Stick - 6 ft.
This life-size animated witch nods, cackles, and speaks eerie phrases with glowing red eyes. Dressed in black with a classic witch hat, she collapses for easy storage. $119.00
Gemmy Halloween Animated Grand Radio with Skeleton and Disco Lights
Halloween Scary Candy Bowl Animated Pumpkin
Store your treats in this spooky pumpkin candy bowl with a motion sensor! When you reach for candy, a hidden hand pops out, eyes glow, and it roars! $36.99
Famous Inflatables
Comical DJ Dave from the afterlife sets the perfect eerie vibe as the retro radio lights up in vibrant disco colours. Ideal for a fun night with friends or trick-or-treaters. $44.99
Universal Pictures Halloween Cat Minion Inflatable LED - 3.22 ft. x 2.66 ft. $39.99
Nickelodeon Paw Patrol
Illuminated Airblown Inflatable Chase with Jack-O'-Lantern $39.99
10 ft. Posable Halloween Skeleton
Create countless eerie poses with this 10 ft. skeleton. Made from realistic molded plastic, it features a full rib cage, spine, movable jaw, and adjustable limbs. A sturdy metal stand provides support. $299.00
talented kids
HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT BREAKING A WORLD RECORD – SPECIFICALLY, A GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS TITLE?
WORDS BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM
When it comes to the authority on record-breaking, look no further than the 2025 Guinness World Records (GWR25) edition. Craig Glenday, editor-in-chief of Guinness World Records, says the 2025 edition celebrates 70 years of out-of-thisworld talent. “Year after year, we review thousands of applications, uncovering unique, inspiring, and jaw-dropping stories from around the world. We are thrilled to continue celebrating these iconic accomplishments and know our readers will be blown away by the legendary feats in this year’s book.”
The new edition is updated with more than 1,000 images and doesn’t disappoint. You’ll even learn how both Taylor Swift and LeBron James have been anointed platinum-grade ICON status. The book is filled with thousands of awe-inspiring and mindblowing achievements designed for the whole family to enjoy and may
even tempt you to pursue something extraordinary.
Breaking a Guinness World Records title is one way to attain global recognition and personal satisfaction. The motivations vary widely; some seek to test their limits, others want to bring attention to a cause, and some may pursue it for the thrill of the challenge or to leave a mark in history.
Consider the latest roster of GWR Young Achievers, which includes a few from Canada, including Cydnee Abbott from Oakville, Ont. Best known for her appearance on Canada’s Got Talent in 2023, she captivated audiences at the age of 11, leaving them in awe of her flexibility. This past January, Abbott was invited to Italy to attempt to break the GWR for most full-body rotations while in a backbend position in one minute. It was a dizzying display. Abbott beat the previous record by nine revolutions, completing 28 fullbody revolutions in one minute. Now, that’s what we’d call bending over backwards.
spectrum and is another notable Young Achiever and GWR title holder. He’s known for collecting and recycling 6.2 million aluminum can tabs in 2023. For Weber, it was all about helping someone purchase a wheelchair. His charitable drive hasn’t stopped. He’s now working towards raising money to help fund an accessible playground for his school in Walkerton, Ont., recycling one aluminum can tab at a time—and who knows, maybe another GWR title.
70th-anniversary edition the perfect gift for the holidays. It’s sure to be a conversation starter, and who knows, maybe it will provide the launching pad for next year’s GWR Young Achiever.
Tempted?
“The advice I would give kids,” says Abbott, “is not to worry about comparing yourself to others. If you have a goal or a dream, work hard to achieve your personal best. I was so happy with my GWR experience because I trained as hard as I could, and then I went out and beat my personal best.”
GWR is also about raising awareness for important issues, adding a layer of purpose beyond personal achievement. Jace Weber, from Mildmay, Ont., is on the autism
Of course, the 2025 GWR edition is filled with zany and quirky records from around the world, and there are many categories to discover. That’s what makes this celebrated
So, what are you waiting for?
Put the 2025 GWR edition on your reading list and become a part of this record-breaking community.
Visit: guinnessworldrecords.com
Photo: Guinness World Records
Photo: Guinness World Records
Photo: Guinness World Records
KAMIK FOOTWEAR
Sustainability is key for outdoor enthusiasts. Kamik’s footwear, made in North America with Canadian and imported materials, minimizes shipping distances and reduces carbon footprint. Their North American facilities aim for zero waste, with the Ontario factory achieving this in 2017.
Looking for family boots to handle autumn chills and slushy winters? Kamik’s new Tundra Collection has you covered, available at kamik.com and select stores. Choose from Fossil, Khaki, and Black. Children’s boots are $64.99, and adults’ are $99.99.
What sets these boots apart?
• Made in Canada with local and imported materials.
• 100% waterproof synthetic rubber keeps feet dry.
• Nylon collar for extra moisture protection and adjustable fit.
• Deep sole for stability on all terrains.
• Warm to -40°C with removable 8 mm Thermal Guard lining made from 100 per cent recycled content, ideal for both cold and mild days.
CONSERVATION HALTON PARKS Experience the beautiful changing leaves at Conservation Halton parks while taking part in some of our Fall into Nature programming! Visitors can choose from a variety of autumn adventures, including chairlift rides up the escarpment, fall trails, tours and lookouts, live magic and lumberjack shows, animal programs, as well as craft and photo stations. Spooktacular Halloween will also be running at Mountsberg throughout October, offering family-friendly spooky fun! visitorservices@hrca.on.ca | conservationhalton.ca/parks
FLYING
SQUIRREL TRAMPOLINE PARK Embark on an exhilarating journey of fun and excitement at Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park, proudly serving Whitby and Hamilton. These two fantastic destinations offer an unforgettable experience for all ages. Explore a world of interconnected trampolines, boundless leaps, and laughter that knows no limits. Dive into foam pits, engage in friendly dodgeball battles, and experience the thrill of slam dunks in gravitydefying zones. Looking to celebrate a special occasion? Look no further! Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park is the perfect venue for unforgettable birthday parties. You can host an action-packed celebration that your child and their friends will talk about for years to come. With attentive staff, a vibrant atmosphere, and a commitment to safety, these parks ensure that every birthday party is a smashing success. Experience the joy of bouncing, laughter, and shared memories at Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park in Whitby and Hamilton. facebook.com/FlyingSquirrelWhitby | facebook.com/flyingsquirrelhamilton
PEGASUS DANCE STUDIOS was started with the philosophy that creative expression is an essential part of childhood development. From our preschool to our highest-level dancers, our first priority is to create a positive space where children are able to explore, create, and express their inborn creative spirit through the arts. We pride ourselves on being what social scientists call a “third place”– a place where lifetime friendships are made, confidence is created, and creativity is nurtured. Founded in 1986 by the mother-and-daughter team of Lynda Johnson and Jane Davis-Munro, the studio has expanded from its original storefront location to the current studio near Coxwell and Danforth as one of East Toronto’s largest dance schools. We offer ballet, jazz, tap, modern, hip hop, acro, musical theatre, preschool, and art classes. pegasusdancestudios.com
POWER SOCCER offers dynamic and enjoyable soccer camps and programs that since 1996 are completely focused on player development. Soccer programs are available for players of all skill levels from beginner to advanced/ competitive players. We offer year-round co-ed programs, as well as girls only classes for children ages 4 to 15 years old. Register for our weekly soccer schools, Winter Break, March Break, summer, and PA day camps. In our programs, players will work on shooting, passing, receiving, dribbling, movement with and without the ball, positioning and more! Plus at our Summer Camps, we have a Power Soccer “Olympics” and “World Cup” each week! Participants at our camps will also receive a “Power Pack” (jersey and hat), plus a Player Report detailing their progress, strengths, and areas to improve on. Camp registration is available for full days, half day mornings or afternoons. We also offer extended care with early drop-off and late pickup. info@powersoccer.ca | powersoccer.ca
Hamilton
289-309-5332
Whitby
289-732-5327
flyingsquirrelsports.ca
416.469.2799
416.425.6062 powersoccer.ca
STUDIO PAVAS is a private school of the arts offering high quality, yearround, educational instruction in the performing and visual arts for students of all ages. Enjoy learning with professional instructors in a positive, relaxed, and friendly setting. Students choose from a complete arts program, including visual arts, music, drama, and dance, for individuals and families through private, semi-private and small group classes. Explore and expand creativity and performance skills with a mixed Arts Day Camp in Dance and Art. There are advanced specialty camps in art, broadway, acro, contemporary, theatre and band. As a full day student, students may participate in six different classes, such as jazz, musical theatre, hip hop, acro, lyrical, and mixed media art. Studio PAVAS is now in its 27th year! info@studiopavas.com | studiopavas.com
WILLOWGROVE
FARM Looking for a family-friendly apple-picking experience in the GTA this fall? Visit Willowgrove’s 100-acre greenbelt farm, conveniently located between Markham and Stouffville, just 10 minutes from Highway 404. Pick from a variety of fresh apples, including Honeycrisp, McIntosh, Cortland, and Empire, in our 900-tree orchard. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you stroll through the property, explore walking trails, relax by the creek, or let the kids play in the many playgrounds. Willowgrove Farm offers the perfect weekend escape for apple-picking and outdoor fun. Admission is free. A 10-lb bag of apples is $15, with additional bags for $10 each. Prefer pre-picked apples? Try Willowgrove’s Honeycrisp for $25 per 10-lb bag. Be sure to visit our market stand for fresh cider, honey, garlic, and more local products. Your visit also supports Willowgrove’s charitable educational and recreational programs. Open every weekend through Oct. 27, including Thanksgiving Monday. willowgrove.ca/events/apples | farm@willowgrove.ca | willowgrove.ca
905.403.9435
2301 Royal Windsor Dr. Unit 1, Mississauga info@studiopavas.com studiopavas.com
647.819.2655 farm@willowgrove.ca willowgrove.ca
october
COOL THINGS
Let’s Bake by Gail Sweeny
This collection features over 100 recipes for cakes, cookies, pastries, and pies. Perfect for any occasion, “Let’s Bake” offers delicious treats like Date Night Chocolate Praline Tart and Burnt Basque Cheesecake. With stunning photography and tips, it’s the ultimate guide to sweet gifting. $30.00, Hardcover, amazon.ca
Flourish – Limited Edition
Pumpkin Spice
Flourish Protein Pancake & Waffle Mix in Pumpkin Spice offers 23g of protein and 7g of fibre per serving. Made in Canada with whole grains and monk fruit, just add water for healthy breakfasts like waffles or muffins. $11.99, available in Canadian grocery stores or online at flourishpancakes.com
This is J – New Varsity Collection
This is J, a Canadian brand, offers sustainable, locally made bamboo sleepwear and loungewear. Known for quality and comfort, the brand emphasizes slow fashion, creating eco-friendly, luxurious pieces that support local manufacturing. Prices vary, available at thisisj.com
Masdel Magic Bag Warmy – New Pets
Magic Bag Warmy introduces cosy, microwaveable plush companions filled with natural grains. Made in Canada, these soothing animals – Sam the Cat, Theo the Rabbit, and Noa the Bear – are perfect for comfort or relieving aches. $16.99–$24.99, available at magicbag.com
Yoto
Yoto is a screen-free audio platform for kids, offering stories, songs, and activities that encourage creative play. Inspired by Montessori principles, Yoto Players are safe and ad-free. Content includes original works and collaborations with Disney, Sony, and Scholastic. $99.99–$149.99, available at ca.yotoplay.com
Flik Flak
The new Swiss watch collection for kids includes seven designs inspired by museum wonders like gemstones and dinosaurs. Made from biosourced materials, they’re machinewashable and playful, making time-telling a fun adventure while sparking curiosity about history. $55–$65 CAD, available online at swatch.com and Swatch Stores
Photo: Julia Koichopolos
Nanit
Bringing you peace of mind
Sound + Light Machine –$149.99
A must-have for a smart nursery, this device combines a sound machine with a night light to assist children in falling asleep, staying asleep longer, and establishing healthy sleep habits
Travel Case – $39.99
The Travel Case is designed to keep your Pro Camera and Flex Stand safe and secure in a compact package that easily fits into most diaper bags. Now you can bring Nanit with you on playdates, trips, or when visiting other caregivers’ homes.
The Nanit Pro Camera is a hightech baby monitor offering comprehensive features for monitoring your baby’s well-being. The Nanit Pro Camera is the No. 1 baby monitor in the U.S., according to Circana/Retail Tracking Service. Now available in Canada, it is quickly gaining a dedicated following.
Key Features:
1. 1080p HD Video Quality: Sharp, clear live streaming with zoom capabilities.
2. Night Vision: Infrared technology for clear visibility in the dark.
3. Two-Way Audio: Allows you to hear and speak to your baby via the mobile app.
4. Sleep Tracking: Analyzes and tracks sleep patterns, providing insights and tips.
5. Breathing Motion Monitoring: Uses special breathing wear to monitor breathing motion without electronic contact.
6. Temperature and Humidity Sensors: Monitors room conditions for comfort.
7. Sound and Motion Alerts: Notifies you of significant sounds or movements.
8. Secure Data Encryption: Ensures privacy and security of your streams.
9. Mobile App Integration: Allows remote monitoring and access to data.
10. Multi-User Access: Enables multiple caregivers to stay connected.
Benefits:
1. Peace of Mind: Real-time monitoring and alerts for your baby’s safety.
2. Enhanced Parenting: Sleep insights and tips, plus two-way communication.
3. Convenience: Monitor from anywhere with the mobile app; multiuser access.
4. Comfort: Temperature and humidity monitoring ensures a cosy environment.
Inclusions:
1. Nanit Pro Camera Unit: Main camera for baby monitoring.
2. Breathing Wear: For monitoring breathing motion.
3. Wall Mount and Stand: Options for placement.
4. Power Cables and Adapters: For setup and power.
5. User Manual: Instructions and guidelines.
6. Mobile App Access: Information on app usage. $329.99$499.99 BG
The Nanit Pro Camera Baby Monitor
The Postpartum Nutrition Cookbook: A Postpartum Recovery Resource
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
Awoman’s body undergoes incredible changes during pregnancy and delivery, so it’s only natural that it needs time and healthy nutrients to fully recover. While there is a lot of information available about pregnancy and delivery, there is very little about the postpartum recovery period. What is available often isn’t helpful, evidence-based, or easily accessible. It also tends to focus more on the baby’s needs than the mother’s.
As new mothers themselves, friends and Registered Dietitians Diana Licalzi and Ashley Reaver discovered just how limited the information was while they were going through their own postpartum periods and constantly looking for information about postpartum recovery and nutritional needs.
parents with factual, detailed, and evidence-based information about the stages of pregnancy and postpregnancy recovery.
The first two chapters cover everything moms need to know about the changes their bodies go through during the pregnancy, labour and delivery, lactation, and postpartum periods as well as their body’s nutritional needs during each period. Their book provides detailed content about the postpartum period that is rarely found in other resources.
Through their ongoing searches and chats, they knew they needed to do something about the lack of information and decided to create a comprehensive resource so other new moms could easily access all the information they needed about the postpartum period and their body’s nutritional needs.
Their upcoming book, The Postpartum Nutrition Cookbook, is a comprehensive resource that provides
The Postpartum Nutrition Cookbook covers the acute postpartum stage, which occurs within the first six weeks postdelivery, and the four distinct phases of healing during this stage. It also clearly discusses the short-term postpartum recovery, or the fourth trimester, which is 12 weeks post-delivery, and the long-term postpartum recovery period, which can take 18 to 24 months.
In part two of the book, Licalzi and Reaver discuss pantry and kitchen essentials that new moms need to help make meal preparation much easier. They also provide valuable tips on meal planning and stocking the freezer.
Part three has over 100 delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make recipes. All the recipes come from Licalzi and Reaver and their families. Throughout the pages, parents will find simple, nutrient-dense, and delicious recipes for all three meals of the day as well as recipes for tasty snacks and desserts.
The authors include helpful tips and modification options with each recipe along with the nutritional information of each meal. The recipes are great for the whole family and were chosen by Licalzi and Reaver with long-term health goals in mind. The recipes were chosen so parents can continue to use the cookbook as their families grow and evolve.
As new moms who know how tiring the postpartum period is and how limited a parent’s time is, Licalzi and Reaver designed their book so that
the content flows easily throughout the different sections so parents can easily navigate through the sections to find the information they’re looking for quickly.
All of the content is broken down into identifiable sections and is laid out in a consistent and easy-to-follow format. Parents can read the whole book or go right to a particular section or topic to find the information they are looking for.
The Postpartum Nutrition Cookbook will be available in September. The two are also developing an online course for new moms to complement the information in their book, which will come out at the same time the book is launched.
For more information about healthy eating and postpartum recovery, parents can visit Licalzi and Reaver’s website, postpartumdieticians.com BG
Color Me Pregnant: A
refreshingly funny activity book for expectant moms
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
Pregnancy can be an exciting time, but it’s often filled with many unknowns. Each week brings new changes in the body, as the baby develops and expectant mothers experience a range of symptoms, some subtle and others not so subtle. While many changes are widely known, others can come as a surprise.
Rachel Hastings, a Los Angelesbased writer, discovered this firsthand when she was pregnant with her son two years ago. Throughout her pregnancy, Hastings was fortunate to have a close network of friends who had already experienced pregnancy and parenthood, providing her with answers and support.
After her baby was born, Hastings wanted to share what she had learned with other expectant moms. This inspired her to write Color Me Pregnant, a 96-page activity book filled with fun, easy-to-understand information and helpful tips for moms-to-be. The book includes colouring pages, word searches, word scrambles, fill-inthe-blanks, mazes, quizzes, memory games, spot-the-difference challenges, and more.
Each section covers a different topic, helping moms transition from one trimester to the next while preparing for their baby’s arrival. Topics range from “What All the Pregnancy Test Symbols Mean” and “Lesser-Known Pregnancy Symptoms” to “How Big the Baby Feels Week by Week,” “Your Maternity Look,” and “Remember Sleep?” The book includes an answer key at the back, allowing readers to check their answers.
Color Me Pregnant also features personalized pages, such as a scrapbook section for attaching personal photos and a “You and Your Pregnancy” page where expectant moms can document their unique pregnancy journey. These pages emphasize the individual experiences of each mom and allow the book to become a cherished keepsake.
Whether it’s a first pregnancy or one of many, Color Me Pregnant offers valuable information in a humorous, stress-free format. While many pregnancy books cater to both parents, Hastings’ book focuses spe-
cifically on moms-to-be, addressing questions they may already have and introducing new insights.
This activity book is a perfect com panion for passing the time while wait ing for a medical appointment, relax ing after a long day, or simply reducing stress with some light-hearted fun. Al though Color Me Pregnant provides useful information, it is not intended to replace medical advice. Read ers are encouraged to consult their obstetrician, doula, mid wife, or other medical profes sionals regarding their health and pregnancy.
WHETHER IT’S A FIRST PREGNANCY OR ONE OF MANY, COLOR ME PREGNANT OFFERS VALUABLE INFORMATION IN A HUMOROUS, STRESS-FREE FORMAT.
Color Me Pregnant makes an ideal holiday, birthday, or baby shower gift for expectant moms. The book will be available on November 12 at major retail outlets, and is available for preorder now on amazon.ca and the Indigo-Chapters website.
About the Author:
Rachel Hastings was born and raised in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. She has written for various television series, including Bob’s Burgers, The Fungies, Praise Petey, and Central Park, and has contributed to Bob’s Burgers comic books.
Tskin care
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
Sunscreen isn’t just for summer: Why developing sun safety routines with children should be year-round
he skin is our largest and most important organ, so it’s essential to develop healthy skincare and sun safety routines that aren’t driven by the weather or season.
We tend to focus on sun safety during the hot summer months or when travelling to warm climate destinations. While UV rays are generally strongest in the spring, summer and early fall, they can fluctuate during colder months. As the climate continues to change, the UV index is becoming less predictable, meaning cooler days can still have strong UV rays. In winter, the reflection of UV rays off snow can double UV exposure, increasing the risk of sunburn.
Children’s skin is especially vulnerable to damage caused by UV rays and other external factors. At birth, a baby’s skin is three to five times thinner than an adult’s and is made of smaller cells, making it more sus-
ceptible to harm. It takes several years for a child’s skin to fully develop, so establishing regular healthy skincare routines is essential for their overall skin health.
Severe sunburns are not only painful but can also affect a child’s sleep patterns and daily routines. There is also a correlation between sunburns in early childhood and skin cancer. People who have had one or more severe sunburns as a child or teenager are at greater risk of developing skin cancer.
According to the Canadian Skin Cancer Foundation, about 90 per cent of skin cancers are caused by UV rays. Teaching children the importance of daily skincare and sun safety early on can help lower the number of people developing skin cancer over time.
Dr. Marissa Joseph, a pediatrician and dermatologist in Toronto, educates parents on the importance of
developing healthy skincare and sun safety habits with their children. She says teaching kids to moisturize and apply sunscreen daily is just as important as teaching them to brush their teeth, wash themselves, and dress for the weather. She suggests parents make a game out of the learning process so children can have fun while developing these habits. Simple steps like wearing hats and sunglasses, using sunscreen, checking the UV index, and seeking out shady areas help protect skin from harmful UV rays.
Because their skin is so sensitive, sunscreen should be used on infants over six months of age or applied only to limited exposed areas on babies over two months of age. The best way to protect your baby from damaging UV rays is to shield them from the sun and avoid going outside during the late morning and afternoon when UV rays are strongest.
A variety of products on the market are designed specifically for children’s skin, including Aveeno products. Dr. Joseph recommends parents talk to their doctor about skincare products and routines for their infants and small children to ensure their skin is protected year-round.
Other measures parents can take to promote healthy skin in their children include feeding them a healthy diet, ensuring they drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, and teaching them to wash and moisturize daily. While water is important for hydration, moisturizers are also necessary for skin hydration, as moisturizing cream creates a protective barrier that prevents trans-epidermal water loss from the skin’s surface.
Skincare and sun safety should be a year-round routine, incorporated into daily hygiene habits to protect and promote good skin health in infants and children. BG
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