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

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Mary Racioppo

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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

67 Ellesmere, Lower level Parkway Mall 416-447-1761

www.parkway-bowl.com

CHILDREN'S BIRTHDAY PARTIES

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Ages 4 to 19

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End of season party with awards

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‘BPAC Presents’ 23/24 Season

Over 50 Performances!

$19.95 per person, includes 1 hour bowling 1 hour in party room, including food and beverage /

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Member: $30.00 - $50.00

Box Office: 905.681.6000

PET THEATER

Sponsored by:

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SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS

Fri Dec 1, 2023 at 7pm

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Regular: $ 69.50 - $89:50

Member: $64.50 - $84.50

Sponsored by:

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Building Bright Futures:

CHILDVENTURES’ ACADEMIC APPROACH CULTIVATES LIFELONG LOVE OF LEARNING

There is a palpable sense of energy at the Meadowvale campus of Childventures Early Learning Academy. Centre Director, Madelyn Parent, is all smiles as she greets families and her team as they start their day. The fact that Ontario’s childcare industry is currently going through a fundamental change is not something that is evident at this bright, spacious facility.

Like healthcare, the childcare industry was hit hard during the pandemic, as many educators exited the field due to burnout. And yet, since the 2022 launch of the CanadaWide Early Learning and Child Care program, more families can afford care as the government is subsidizing tuition. These two forces are working against each other as childcare spaces across the province have become increasingly difficult to find.

Through it all, the Childventures team steadfastly continued to provide the level of care it has become known for over the last two decades, most notably its approach to academics. With a mission to instill a lifelong love of learning, the company is driven by the idea that children are born with an inherent love of learning and that 0-5 years represent a critical phase of cognitive development. “Rich experiences produce rich brains” is how Parent describes it. The team recently revamped its curriculum approach with Parent playing a key role in its development.

It’s clear to see that Parent is one of those people who is exactly where she should be as she passionately describes how she and her team tackle the important task of educating the 100+ children in their care each day. While the curriculum outlines

learning objectives for each age group, it allows educators to unleash their creativity and meet children where they are at, cognitively but also on a personal level. For example, if

a child shows an interest in cars, a CV educator can use a toy car as a method to demonstrate the concept of measurement.

“Pick your hard is how I like to describe it,” says Parent. “If you develop creative and fun activities for the children, they will be engaged. It definitely involves pre-planning, but you can’t engage children when you have to manage them. We want to educate our children, not babysit them.”

While the Childventures program targets children and their families, it’s evident that its educators also benefit from the approach. Parent describes a system in each centre that allows for personal growth of its educators whether it be individualized growth plans or

support roles that allow educators the time to develop activities to facilitate learning. “Personal growth allows you to strengthen your abilities as an educator. And a stronger educator makes for a better experience for our children and their families.”

As the morning rush starts to subside, Parent walks around the centre ensuring classrooms are running smoothly. There’s lots of laughter to be heard along with the occasional wail from the centre’s smallest inhabitants. Children are being cared for, minds are being stimulated and Parent couldn’t be more satisfied as she knows that the Early Childhood Educators at Childventures play a critical role that is felt from the classroom to home.

WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH

Banana Dream

By Hasan Namir & Illustrated by Daby Zainab Faidhi

As a child growing up in Iraq after the Gulf War, Mooz had a hard time accepting the name he was given, which meant “banana”. Despite his classmates teasing him about it, he is extremely proud of himself when he learns the story behind it. There is only one thing he wishes for now, and that is to taste a banana – an unlikely dream in a time when many countries are not trading with Iraq, where bananas are not a common sight. Ages: 4-8

Published by: Neal Porter Books Pages: 32 Price: $24.99 HC

Ten Dragon Eggs – A book about Count Down

By Lynda Graham-Barber

& Illustrated by Jeffery

Ebbeler

Ten colourful eggs are waiting to hatch in Mama Dragon’s nest, and she needs our help! Shimshim-shimmy shout! It’s time for the baby draglings to emerge! Join Mama Dragon as each of her draglings jiggles, thumps, and KER-ACKS their way into existence. Taking a closer look at each little dragling as they hatch will delight young readers. With plenty of personality and humor, this book is ideal for celebrating families. Ages: 2-5 Published by: Peachtree. Pages: 40. Price: $24.99 HC

BOOM!

By Paul Meisel..

Thunderstorms, panicky dogs, and a nonchalant cat. A peaceful night is interrupted by a BOOM! Thunderstorm hits. While Cat plays with toys, Dog frantically searches for the perfect hiding place. A silly nighttime adventures. Easy-to-read text, energetic, cartoon-style artwork make for an engaging story filled with personality and visual humor. Comics lovers can now share the fun with their kids, students, siblings, and younger friends who are learning to read! Age: 4-8. Published by: Holiday House. Pages: 40. Price: $19.99 HC

The Double Trouble Society

By Carrie Hope Fletcher & Illustrated by Davide Ortu.

A haunted house, a witch’s curse, and two best friends. It is said that children born on Friday 13th are immune to evil spirits. Despite believing that was true, Ivy and Maggie checked under their bed every night for monsters. Ivy and Maggie have been best friends since they were born at the same minute twelve years earlier. Crowood Peak is officially the most boring town in the world. That is, until children mysteriously start disappearing, and no adults seem to notice. All the evidence points to the old mansion next door with strange green lights in the windows. Can the Double Trouble Society (Ivy and Maggie) solve the mystery? Ages: 9-10

Pages: 260 Price: $20.75 HC

Published by: Puffin

The Unofficial Hocus Pocus Cookbook for Kids

By Bridget Thoreson

Get ready for Halloween with this kid-friendly follow-up to the USA Today best-selling Hocus Pocus Cookbook. The Sanderson Sisters invite you to create your own “torture chamber” and prepare some spellbinding treats in this first Hocus Pocus cookbook for kids. Featuring over 50 easy-tofollow recipes inspired by the two movies, these kid-friendly recipes are perfect for All Hallow’s Eve, Salem Scare Fest, or any occasion. With the help of a parent, young witches and wizards will learn to brew meals such as, Magical “Mac”-xima n’ Cheese, Harvest Vegetable Pizza, “A Good Zombie” Toast, Life Potion Punch, Fully Charged Crystal Candy and more! Ages: 10+ Published by: Bloom Books for Young. Readers Pages: 128. Price: 24.95

The Unofficial Wednesday Cookbook

By Iphigenia Jones

66 deliciously dark and twisted recipes inspired by the hit Netflix show. The wonderful, weird world of Wednesday awaits you. Wednesday Addams’s double braids and murderous ways have captured the hearts of millions since 1938. With the first-ever unofficial Wednesday cookbook created by fans for fans, you can embark on her latest adventure. You’ll find delicious recipes inspired by your favourite goth girl’s quirky family, macabre adventures, gothic authors, and murderous schemes. Here are some frightfully fantastic recipes: Taxidermied Mushrooms, Gorgonzola and Pear Salad, Spaghetti al Nero, Death by Chocolate Birthday Cake, and more! Ages: All Published by: Ulysses Press Page: 144 Price: $26.95

COOL THINGS

Adventure Pack Blanket by Cascade Mountain Tech

The Cascade Mountain Tech camp blanket keeps you warm and cosy whether you are camping, watching a sporting event, or relaxing at home. Its compact size and storage stuff sack makes it easy to store in your car for easy access at a moment’s notice.

All Cascade Mountain Tech Camp Bedding products come with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty. Features include a water-resistant coating, durable ripstop nylon, integrated thumb loops, reflective piping, carry stuff sack. Machine washable, the Adventure Pack Blanket is perfect for camping or stadium use. $49.99 available at cascademountaintech.com

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Mutant

Mayhem

Turtle Power like never before? In time for the release of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Funrise Toys has launched their new line of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles remote-controlled vehicles. Remotecontrolled vehicles capture the essence of Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael like never before. Using advanced technology, you can control their every move, guiding them through epic battles and daring missions. Ages 3+ The Mutant Ninja Turtles Half Pipe Remote $34.97. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Switch Kick Skaters $7.97 and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Micro Shell Racers RC $22.97 Collect all 4 characters available at walmart.ca

Disney Collection by Bicycle Play Cards: Celebrating 100 years. 2 styles to choose from

Bicycle x Disney Black and Gold Inspired Mickey Mouse Featuring the classic Mickey Mouse, these black and gold Disney Mickey Mouse decks are beautifully designed with intricate foil. His iconic silhouette is hidden throughout every card, adding a touch of wonder to every game. $12.99 Bicycle x Disney Princesses (available in pink and blue colours) Embark on an enchanting journey with Disney Princesses, where dreams come to life and empowered heroines capture hearts. The Princesses deck is a treasure that will inspire and enlighten the princesses in your life about their potential and how they can reach it. It will ignite their imagination and motivate them when it comes to reaching their full potential. $9.99 Available at Walmart and Amazon

Petit lem

On spot with the fashion trends, Petit Lem has dropped their spookiest glow-in-the-dark sleepers and PJ’s. This collection ranges from Newborns to 24 months and 2T -14T so families can match in spooky style. Petit Lem makes premium quality products that are gentle, soft, yet durable. Petit Lem offers comfortable, functional, and seasonally chic newborn, baby, and toddler essentials across North America. Available at petitlem.com, The Bay, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, and Saks Fifth Avenue

spooktacular adventures HARVEST

AND HALLOWEEN EVENTS

WORDS BY ANDREW HIND

Some lament the passage of summer, but children – and the young at heart – know that the crisp air brings fresh new energy and a range of exciting events to experience. Here are three of the best family-friendly harvest and Halloween happenings near Toronto.

Fall Festival at Black Creek Pioneer Village

We’ve dug out our sweaters and autumn leaves are in full brilliance. It’s harvest season. Black Creek Pioneer Village in Toronto embraces the season with its annual Fall Festival.

Adults and children immerse themselves in the joys of oldfashioned fall festivities. Costumed interpreters demonstrate butter churning, quilting, and candle dipping. Sample fall goodies in cosy kitchens. Participate as judges in a pumpkin and squash competition. Try your hand at autumn crafts.

Fall Festival includes live entertainment as well. A travelling carnival man performs mind-boggling magic tricks and little ones will enjoy Cousin Molly, a children’s folk music performer.

Dates: Saturday Sept 23 & Sunday Sept 24, 2023

Hours: 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Web: blackcreek.ca

Fall Fest, Murphy’s Farm Market and Bakery

Murphy’s Farm Market and Bakery, near Alliston, embraces the season as tightly as a child holding a trick-or-treat bag.

Visitors enjoy a plethora of fun activities. Hop aboard a wagon for the short ride out into fields dotted with plump pumpkins and strangling vines. Little hands will want to pluck the very best. Pumpkins are also stacked high around the property, including two pumpkin walls that serve as a perfect backdrop for family photos.

Children race enthusiastically into a massive corn maze and play in the Fun Farmyard, with its sandboxes, playground, and obstacle course. Follow your nose to the bakery, full of indulgences, all made from scratch. Most of all, enjoy a rural farm setting where the best of nature is on display.

Dates: Sept. 23 to Oct. 31, Thursday through Sundays

Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Web: murphysfarmmarket.com

Camp Spooky at Canada’s Wonderland

Every October, Canada’s Wonderland swings open its doors for Camp Spooky, a family-friendly daytime event running every weekend till Oct. 31. It’s the perfect outing for little ones, filled with tiny terrors and more fun than you can shake a witch’s broom at.

Kids can trick-or-treat at various stations, filling pails and bags with

loot. Since kids are presumably dressed up, they can participate in the Peanuts Costume Party. Children can meet all sorts of friendly Halloween characters, like witches, pirates, and wizards.

The park is enlivened by all kinds of live music and even a magic show Oh. And there’s pumpkin decorating. Pick a plump gourd, bring it to life, and take it home with you.

Dates: Sept. 23 to Oct. 29

Hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Web: canadaswonderland.com/ events/camp-spook

CLOUD G LUX WITH SENSORSAFE BY CYBEX

On Monday, Aug. 21, CYBEX Canada hosted their second annual Car Seat Safety Summit to address the importance of child passenger safety and help parents understand how to consider all key criteria on picking the right car seat for their child to ensure the best protection. This year’s summit invited industry experts including, President for Child Passenger Safety Association of Canada (CPSAC) Katherine Hutka, Senior Policy Advisor for Transport Canada, Natalie Fraser, Manager for Transport Canada, Zuzanna Strom. Special guest safety advocate, Eran Jones, a New Brunswick mother whose life had been transformed after two of her children and another family member were killed in a car collision caused by a reckless driver. Despite the unbearable pain of her loss, Eran has found hope in her quest to raise awareness for better regulation and legislation for car seats and booster seats in Canada.

The CYBEX Cloud G Lux Comfort Extend infant car seat has 45 per

$699.96

cent more recline position, an extending leg rest for a comfortable and ergonomic position when used outside the vehicle, and air ventilation channels to help prevent heat from building up, keeping baby cool and comfortable.

• SensorBuilt-in Smart Technology sends alerts to your smartphone if the child unbuckles themselves, if the temperature gets too hot or cold, or if the child is left alone in the car.

• The Cloud G Lux base combines an anti-rebound bar with a load leg to absorb energy and reduce crash forces on the child by up to 30 per cent, while the linear side-impact protection reduces impact forces by up to 30 per cent in the event of a side collision.

From the very first ride home, CYBEX Canada makes safety their priority. Earning more than 450 awards for design, safety and innovation, CYBEX is constantly creating leading edge products to ensure they provide users with peace of mind from the start.

HOW TEENS ARE USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO BUY DRUGS

WORDS BY THE EXPERTS AT BEDROCK RECOVERY CENTER

Officials and healthcare professionals are concerned about a growing trend of teens buying drugs online, such as counterfeit pills.

According to federal data, while teen drug use is down, teen overdose deaths are rising at an alarming rate –a trend attributed in part to fentanyllaced drugs.

Buying drugs from a drug dealer through social media platforms can be dangerous. It can also be a sign of a mental health problem, substance abuse, or addiction.

If you’re a concerned parent or other loved one, here’s what you should know about this trend in digital drug sales.

A guide from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) shows how young people in the US and Canada may use certain emojis, lingo, hashtags, or shorthand to refer to illicit/prescription drugs.

Examples include:

• Xanax: a pill, candy bar, and bus

• OxyContin/Percocet: a pill, blue dot, parking sign emoji, and banana

• heroin: a brown heart and dragon emoji

• Adderall: a pill, ‘A,’ and train emoji Code, or slang terms, are also used to refer to other details about drug purchases, such as drug potency, or the drug batch.

From sites like Facebook, adolescents may move to more clandestine applications (apps), with messages that are deleted after they’re sent – like Snapchat, Wickr, and TikTok.

What are the risks of buying drugs on social media?

Social media and e-commerce platforms are becoming an increasingly common site of purchase for fake prescription pills, which can be highly dangerous to take.

A high concentration of counterfeit pills, sold as prescription drugs, contain drugs like fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid driving the nation’s overdose crisis.

Fentanyl is 50 times more powerful than heroin, on average, and can be deadly in small doses when ingested by people who do not have opioid tolerance.

Fentanyl has been identified in batches of cocaine, counterfeit pills (including drugs sold as Xanax or Adderall), as well as in marijuana, and other illegal drugs.

Overdose on certain substances, such as heroin or alcohol overdose, can be fatal if left untreated.

Illicit drugs may affect mood, movement, your ability to make rational decisions, as well as increase your risk of becoming a victim of violence, or getting into a serious accident.

Drug addiction

Chronic drug abuse can also lead to physical dependence and substance use disorder – a disease that may require professional treatment to overcome.

How are teens buying drugs on social media?

According to law enforcement officials, social media applications, like Facebook and Instagram, are generally the starting point for teen drug transactions.

This can be dangerous for several reasons:

Teen overdose

The biggest risk of taking illicit drugs, including prescription pills bought illegally, is accidental fentanyl overdose, due to the widespread availability of the illicit drug market.

Overdose deaths among teens are on the rise. A recent study published in JAMA found that the number of teens who died from fentanyl more than tripled from 253 in 2019 to 884 in 2021.

Side effects of drugs

Beyond overdose, illicit drugs –including counterfeit pills laced with opioids or meth – can also have mild to severe adverse side effects.

Getting help for a teen who’s using drugs

Buying drugs on social media, or through other secretive measures, can be a sign of a serious substance abuse problem and can pose serious risks to health and well-being.

If you, a friend, or a family member is buying illegal substances on social media, it may be time to consult a professional for a drug abuse assessment.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND E-COMMERCE PLATFORMS ARE BECOMING AN INCREASINGLY COMMON SITE OF PURCHASE FOR FAKE PRESCRIPTION PILLS, WHICH CAN BE HIGHLY DANGEROUS

fall fashion

BY MILES THE LABEL

Designed in Montreal, one of Canada’s fashion capitals, Miles values are playful, cool, comfortable, friendly, and sustainable.

Miles creates fun, comfortable clothing for kids inspired by the vibrant and diverse communities that line Montreal’s Main Street. You can expect soft, nostalgic pieces, playful designs and unique styles that celebrate the unique personalities of each kid.

With Miles, we focus on creating the best clothes that are made for kid life, but it’s time to move past just looking good. In addition to creating good products for children, we want to focus on doing good as well. While we will continue making clothing they love, we have become more aware of the impact our work has on the environment. Our goal is to enhance environmental sustainability and introduce a more conscious approach to fashion to the next generation.

2 3 3

1. Lasso Heart Print on Dijon Terry Dress $42 | Filly Print on Orchid Sweatshirt $38 | Filly Print on Orchid Leggings $24

2. Sunflower Print on Dijon Hooded Packable $75 | T-Rex Print on Black Hooded Packable $75 | Navy Colour Block Hooded Packable $75 | Heart Print on Orchid Hooded Packable $75

1 4 18 CITY PARENT | October 2023 cityparent.com

3. Miles Rex Light Grey Mix $32 | Tri Fossil Chenille Embroidered Sweatshirt $42

For those starting their first year at university, it can be a mix of excitement and overwhelm. It may also be their first time away from home and facing a campus environment. While students may remember to pack their laptops, books, and cell phones, they may not always be thinking about prioritizing their personal safety and security both on and off campus.

That’s why TELUS SmartWear Security offers an easy-to-use solution for students to take control of their safety, a tool parents and students should consider.

“When I learned about SmartWear Security, I instantly bought it for my kids. My daughter is at college, and my son travels to school alone. As a parent, knowing they have SmartWear with them to keep them safe allows me to worry a little less.” – Sam, TELUS SmartWear Security customer and mother.

TELUS SmartWear Security is a line of discreet, personal safety devices, disguised as a keychain, necklace, bracelet or fitness band. Users can send their GPS location to up to five emergency contacts or contact the TELUS monitoring team 24/7 by simply double-clicking a button. The security agents are trained to take immediate action and call for emergency services if required.

It’s important to point out that the TELUS SmartWear isn’t connected

hidden safety

TELUS SMARTWEAR SECURITY

WORDS BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM

directly to 911 emergency services.

“It’s designed to provide an additional layer of protection and peace of mind,” says TELUS spokesperson.

“Our trained monitoring agents will try to contact users by phone or text (whichever is set in their preferences).

If users cannot use their phone to call emergency services, our

discreet devices provide a quick and accessible way to call for help through our trained monitoring team, who can then dispatch emergency services to the user’s location.”

Users can choose to share their location with emergency contacts for a maximum of four hours using the activity tracking feature of the app. If users fail to stop the tracking before the timer runs out, the security agents will notify law enforcement and emergency contacts.

In the rare case of false alerts, users can cancel any false alerts through the app with their PIN or confirm if they require assistance when contacted by the security

agent, guaranteeing that essential 911 services are accessible for actual emergencies, and minimizing unintentional 911 calls.

While TELUS SmartWear Security is a helpful tool, it’s important to remember that it’s not a substitute for personal awareness and control.

Whether studying late at the library or heading to your car after a day of classes, staying aware of your surroundings is always important. Additionally, check your university’s website for tips on personal safety. Remember, taking precautions and being vigilant can go a long way in keeping yourself safe and providing your parents peace of mind.

telus.com/en/smartwear-security

Rona SPOOKY | STUFF

PUTS THE BOO IN HALLOWEEN

From adorable to creepy, RONA has Halloween decor ideas that will haunt you. We have selected some top sellers that will provide your home with a spooktacular appeal and leave your guests and trick-or-treaters spellbound. Products available at stores or online at rona.ca

Trembling Witch

There is nothing like this shaking animated witch to leave trick-or-treaters, passersby and guests trembling on Halloween. Grounded by metal rods and supports – and powered by three included AAA batteries – the witch’s hands can be positioned to achieve a desired look. $129

Skelton Busts

Make your home extra spooky this Halloween season with one of these 16-inch skeleton busts on a pedestal with LED eyes that is sure to frighten your guests. $59.99

Stuart

the Minion Devil

This Stuart from Despicable Me dressed as a devil will appeal to your playful children and visitors! Self-inflates in seconds and comes with everything you need to set it up outdoors. Simply plug it in and watch the magic unfold as it illuminates your space with bright, energy-efficient LEDs. Once the celebrations are over, you can quickly deflate it for easy storage. $49.99

LED Pumpkin

Skip the carving and mess and opt for this spook-tacular option – a 9-inch LED pumpkin that can be used year after year. $16.99

Hanging Reaper in Chains

Holiday Living’s 6-foot Hanging Reaper is draped in black, with two chains perfectly placed. Ghostly reaper features moving arms, flashing red eyes, spooky sound effects, and scary phrases. Includes LED lights and three AA batteries. $59.99

Hanging Pumpkin Ghoul

No one has ever been hurt by adding some terror—said no one ever. This Hanging Pumpkin Ghoul by Holiday Living is draped in orange fabric and speaks spooky phrases. 5’9” ft., decoration is sound, and motion activated, with flashing red eyes. LED lights and three AA batteries are included. $29.99

Animated Chucky Decoration

Kick up the fright factor with a life-size, 2.1-foot Chucky animated figure. Sound and motion activated, this animated Halloween animatronic doll speaks 17 phrases, raises his knife, and moves for a terrifying effect. Suitable for ages 17+, Chucky comes with everything you need for setup including four AA batteries. Collapses for easy storage.

$99.99

Inflatable Happy Ghost

This indoor/outdoor Gemmy cheerful ghost will be a bootiful addition to your Halloween decor. Inflatable and weather resistant, this decoration selfinflates in seconds and uses LEDs to illuminate your space. Easily deflates for storage. $34.99

Tombstone Inflatable

If scare factor is what you’re looking for, shock and delight passersby with this 6’5” ft. tombstone inflatable with LED lights and arms that move up and down. Simple to inflate, deflate, and store until next year’s spooky season. $229

A ba by fr ien dl y pl ay d at e fo r mo ms

A f p fo r m o m s

Enjoy the newest Hollywood movies in a baby-friendly environment

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

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

Dads, grandparents and friends welcome.

NOW PLAYING AT YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD CINEMA

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

Essentia

THE PERFECT COMPLEMENT TO ANY NURSERY: SAFE & NON-TOXIC BEYOND LATEX™ CERTIFIED ORGANIC FOAM

As parents, we want to avoid exposing our kids to as many allergens and toxins as possible. Your little one needs quality and healthy sleep most of all. Toxic chemicals and allergens should be avoided during their crucial development stages to prevent stimulation of the central nervous system and impede growth.

Mattress

The creator of the world’s healthiest crib mattress brings you the LaLa natural foam crib mattress.

The LaLa natural memory foam crib mattress is made from the highest quality natural and organic ingredients to ensure that your baby is sleeping on the safest, purest, and most hygienic surface possible. Small accidents on the LaLa aren’t an issue thanks to the food-grade waterproofing integrated into the cover. This pressure-relieving, breathable crib mattress supports and cradles your baby unlike any other, yet still meets all standards for firm crib mattresses. In a critical stage of the infant’s life when sleep is so crucial, LaLa crib mattresses offer the healthiest start possible. This is why the LaLa natural latex crib mattress is designed to ensure that your baby has

It is inevitable that accidents will occur. By using the Stinky Pad, you will be able to take control and get back to sleep quickly and easily. Unlike conventional plasticized crib mattresses and baby mattress protectors, the Stinky Pad provides a natural alternative. Features include waterproof mattress protectors made with unbleached organic cotton and a food-grade waterproof liner. Hypoallergenic and dust mite friendly. Easily removable and is machine washable. Hand-stitched by Essentia moms, this organic cotton mattress protector is composed of 2 layers. $135.00

Crossword puzzle

ANSWER: DEEP-DISH PIZZA

BURLINGTON PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE Set your scene at The Burlington Performing Arts Centre – just steps from Lake Ontario on Burlington’s beautiful waterfront. The Burlington Performing Arts Centre (BPAC) is a charitable, not-for-profit organization. It is a vibrant, Gold LEED Certified venue, a presenter, a cultural developer, an educator, and a community hub. The facility features a 720-seat Main Stage; a 165-seat Community Studio Theatre; a bright and spacious Family Lobby and an outdoor Plaza. BPAC presents a diverse season of professional entertainment, featuring over 70 performances each year in every genre, as well an Education Series, festivals, workshops, and community engagement events. Box Office: 440 Locust Street, Burlington, ON L7S 1T7. Open: Tue.-Sat. from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., and 1-hour prior to a performance. bpacboxoffice@burlington.ca | burlingtonpac.ca

CONSERVATION HALTON PARKS Through science-based programs and services, recreation, and special events, Conservation Halton creates opportunities to connect with nature. The annual Hops and Harvest Festival (Oct. 13th-15th at Area 8 Conservation Area), brings the community together to celebrate the beauty of the parks’ fall colours and the importance of supporting local businesses. Mountsberg’s Spooktacular Halloween (Friday to Sunday evenings Oct. 6th-29th) is another great way to enjoy autumn and learn about Conservation Halton’s resident animals and invasive species that lurk in the natural environment. Fall Into Nature this season at one of Conservation Halton’s special events or visit a park to explore the unique fall attractions like chairlift rides, disc golf, and fall hiking trails with spectacular lookout points! Conservation Halton is a community based environmental agency that protects, restores, and manages natural resources across the Niagara Escarpment watershed. visitorservices@hrca.on.ca | conservationhalton.ca/parks

DEARCROFT MONTESSORI Join us at our Fall Open House for a school tour to learn more about Montessori education and discover why Dearcroft Montessori School is your natural choice. Established in 1968, Dearcroft is Oakville’s original Montessori school offering programs from Toddler through to Junior High, now with three campuses in Oakville delivering exceptional Montessori programs. Sat., Oct. 21st between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information about our campuses please email: Lakeshore Campus: info@dearcrofmontessori.com (Toddler to Grade

8) North Campus info@dearcroftmontessoritc.com (Toddler to Grade 6) South-West Campus info@dearcroftrebecca.com (Toddler & Casa) dearcroft-montessori.com

905.681.6000 burlingtonpac.ca

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

T: 905.336.1158

F: 905.336.7014 2596 Britannia Rd. W. Burlington, ON L7P 0G3

PARKWAY BOWL Parkway Bowl is located in Toronto, on the border of Scarborough and North York, at Victoria Park and Ellesmere Rd., just south of Highway 401 (Victoria Park Exit). Easily accessible from all of Toronto. We are in the lower level of Parkway Mall. We are equipped with the top-of-the-line scoring system from ProScore. We offer bumper bowling, glow in the dark, and a top-notch computerized sound system. All of which will make your next corporate event, fundraiser, or birthday party at Parkway Bowl that much more enjoyable. This is the time to sign up for a bowling club. We have youth, mens, ladies, and mixed clubs, as well as some great programs for those with special needs. These clubs meet once a week to bowl and have fun.

info@parkway-bowl.com | parkway-bowl.com

416.447.1761 67 Ellesmere Rd., lower-level Parkway Mall info@parkway-bowl.com parkway-bowl.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

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at the

October 21,22 & 28,29

Enjoy 50% OFF Zoo Admission for kids (12 & under)!

Purchase your tickets at torontozoo.com with promo code boo2023 for discount, valid only on Boo at the Zoo weekends. Come dressed in your Halloween costumes and enjoy fall decor, fun photo ops and more! Visit torontozoo.com for details.