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TERMS AND INDEMNIFICATION
FEATURE Stuff
Miles the Label
Merry Milesmas & Mountain Peak Collection
FEATURE
Real life heroes: A Stray Dog for Christmas is an inspirational children’s story based on true events
FEATURE Stuff Petit lem
Holiday jammers the familymatching holiday collection
FEATURE Stuff Yoto: Holiday gifts
FEATURE Stargazing:
John Read’s new book provides everything young enthusiasts need to know about stargazing
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Enjoy these deliciously chewy Black Forest Crinkle Cookies at all of your holiday celebrations. getcracking.ca
up front THAT’S A WRAP: A HOLIDAY WISH WITH A DASH OF HUMOUR
Another year has flown by faster than Santa’s sleigh on turbo mode, and here we are, about to dive headfirst into the holiday season (where stretchy pants are a must). We want to take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you.
Your support, engagement, and encouragement over the past year have meant so much, and it’s been a true pleasure to share this journey with you. Whether you’ve been following City Parent for a while or have just joined recently, we’re thankful for the time we’ve spent together and the conversations we’ve had.
Whether 2024 was smooth sailing or felt more like navigating a gingerbread house in a hurricane, the holiday season is a wonderful time to reflect on the year that’s passed—its challenges, successes, and the moments that have brought pure joy. It’s also a time to look forward with hope and optimism for what’s to come. No matter where
you are or how you celebrate, I hope this season brings you moments of peace, happiness, and the warmth of loved ones.
As we head into 2025 (most likely at full speed), here’s to new beginnings, big dreams, and all the exciting opportunities that await. On behalf of all of us at City Parent, we are wishing you prosperity, good health, and the kind of joy that comes from realizing you don’t have to set another New Year’s resolution—unless you really want to (no judgment here!).
So, raise a glass (or a mug of hot cocoa—don’t forget the marshmallows) to the memories we’ve made and the good times ahead. Thanks for being part of the City Parent community, and I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together in the new year!
Wishing you all the best this holiday season and a fabulous 2025!
Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent
real life heroes A STRAY DOG FOR CHRISTMAS IS AN INSPIRATIONAL CHILDREN’S STORY BASED ON TRUE EVENTS
What would you do if a stray dog wandered into your house one cold night and made herself comfortable in the warm safety of your home?
Jack Jokinen and his wife found themselves in this very situation one wintry night in 2019.
Two weeks before Christmas, Suzy, a nine-year-old underweight dog with severely infected paws, was looking for a warm place when she spotted the Jokinens’ front door open as a result of strong winds. She quietly walked in and settled for the night while the family slept.
After the shock of finding a stray dog in their home the next morning, the couple was faced with the dilemma of what to do. Should they keep her or drop her off at the nearest animal shelter? The couple, who already had a dog named George and a one-month-old baby, wasn’t looking to adopt another dog, but after some time and discussion, they decided to keep Suzy and took her to the vet.
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
Jokinen, a tech expert and podcaster, posted a video online about their story later that morning. The video quickly went viral and made the daytime news. To pay for her vet bills, Jokinen started an online fundraising campaign. Within the first 36 hours, people from all over donated to Suzy’s fund. Jokinen knew they would still have a lot of money left over after Suzy’s vet bills were paid, so realising that this heartwarming story created a unique opportunity to promote pet adoption, he used the remaining funds and their social platforms to raise awareness. Jokinen created the “A Life a Day for
a Year” adoption campaign, with the goal of seeing 366 dogs adopted in Suzy’s first year with them – a goal he achieved.
During their first year together, the Jokinens focused on Suzy’s health, caring for their baby, and protecting the family from COVID-19. Although people would comment that their experience would make a great Christmas story, Jokinen never thought about or imagined writing a children’s book at the time.
After the pandemic, Jokinen was participating in a question-andanswer session on Instagram when the subject of writing a book came
up. One of the listeners wrote to him, saying they knew an agent he could pitch a book idea to. Jokinen faced several hurdles along the way, including recommendations that he use a ghostwriter.
After his second daughter was born, Jokinen decided to write the first draft of the book himself while he was on paternity leave. He sent his manuscript to his agent, and after several months, he received an offer from Source Books. A Stray Dog for Christmas was published in September and is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Indigo, Google Play, and at other major retailers and websites.
Through every step and challenge, Jokinen and his wife never took shortcuts or compromised their values. Every decision they’ve made is based on what their daughters would think, now and in the future.
Jokinen’s book is a genuinely heartwarming story that adults and children will enjoy. The beautiful illustrations by Wendy Tan add to the charm of Jokinen’s book.
Today, Suzy is a healthy and happy member of the Jokinen family. She and her fur sibling George are a bonded pair who are living their best life with their human family. Suzy’s tale of finding her forever home highlights the importance and goodness of animal adoption and rescue.
Jokinen remains busy working fulltime for a tech company, caring for his family, promoting A Stray Dog for Christmas, and running for civic office.
LIGHT UP THE DARK
December 27–29
Brighten up the holidays with a dazzling spectacle of art and light as the Museum comes alive with mesmerizing projections inspired by our Collections.
Celebrate the season with:
• A dazzling light show.
• Creative workshops, from metal embossing to lantern making.
• Free performances and activities for the whole family.
• Extended hours and free admission to our Museum Collections Gallery from 6–9 pm.
• Warm chai and delicious food.
Visit agakhanmuseum.org/lutd for more information
holiday reads
INDIGO PICKS
BY CANADIAN AUTHORS
Wrap yourself in a warm blanket with a cup of hot chocolate and a roaring fire and you have the perfect setting for a great read. Indigo embraces the season with heartwarming holiday stories by Canadian authors – a book is always a good idea. indigo.com
CHILDREN BOOKS
ADULT BOOKS
It Happened One Christmas by Chantel Guertin – $22.00
The Holiday Honeymoon Switch by Julia McKay – $22.95
Mistletoe Mystery by Nita Prose – $28.00
Three Holidays and a Wedding by Uzma Jalaluddin & Marissa Stapley – $13.50
The Christmas Countdown by Holly Cassidy – $22.95
1. Scaredy Squirrel Gets Festive by Melanie Watt – $11.99 2. An Anishinaabe Christmas by Wab Kinew – $24.99
Santa’s First Christmas by Mac Barnett – $24.99
YOTO HOLIDAY GIFTS
Looking for the perfect gift to spark imagination this holiday season? Meet Yoto – the screen-free audio player that brings festive cheer and endless fun to kids of all ages! With Yoto, children can dive into a magical world of holiday stories, songs, and learning adventures, all while developing essential listening skills. Safe, simple, and designed for independent play, Yoto is the ultimate holiday gift that keeps on giving, inspiring creativity and joy long after the decorations come down. Make this season unforgettable with the gift of Yoto! Visit ca.yotoplay.com for more stories and accessories. Ages 0+.
A Charlie Brown Christmas – $15.99
Yoto Case – $39.99
Yoto – $149.99 and Yoto Mini Harry Potter Complete Collection –$314.99
Holiday Stories
MILES THE LABEL
MERRY MILESMAS & MOUNTAIN PEAK COLLECTION
Introducing Miles the Label, a cosy and stylish kids’ clothing collection for winter and the holiday season! From soft, warm layers to festive outfits perfect for holiday celebrations, this collection combines comfort and charm. Whether they’re bundling up for outdoor fun or dressing up for family gatherings, our winter collection has something special for every little one. Visit milesthelabel.com for more.
1 4 3 2 12 11 9 8 6
1. Dasher and Dancer on Rose Sweater – $64
2. Snowy Pine Print on Dress Blue Sweatshirt – $42
5. Sleighing It Print on Tinsel Green Playsuit – $40 | 6. Reindeer Games on Rose Leggings – $24
7. Reindeer Games on Rose Sweatshirt – $40 | 8. Zip Mock Top Jogger Set – $58 | 9. Navy Plaid Tweed Boys’ Shirt – $54 | 10. Navy Plaid Tweed Boys’ Pants – $55 | 11. Merry Mistletoe on Ribbon Red Jacquard Sweater – $64 | 12. Elderberry Argyle Print Fleece Dress – $44
stargazing
JOHN READ’S NEW BOOK PROVIDES EVERYTHING YOUNG ENTHUSIASTS NEED TO KNOW ABOUT STARGAZING
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
There’s nothing more fascinating than looking up at the night sky to see all the wonders that lie beyond our world. Whether you’re wishing upon a star or gazing at the moon, the night sky is a vast and mysterious place filled with stars, planets, constellations, the moon, and more.
Children are often captivated by the beauty of the night sky. With the right book and information, parents can help their youngsters develop a lifelong interest in astronomy and stargazing. John Read, an astrophysicist and bestselling author, has a new book out to help children learn more about stargazing: A Kid’s Guide to the Night Sky: Simple Ways to Explore the Universe.
His easy-to-follow book is filled with fact-based information about everything children might want to know about stargazing. Each chapter and section is organized to guide children step by step as they learn to look for planets, meteor showers, stars, and constellations.
According to Read, the sky changes every three to four months,
bringing new stars, constellations, and other out-of-this-world mysteries.
In A Kid’s Guide to the Night Sky: Simple Ways to Explore the Universe, he dedicates a section to each season with Winter Constellations, Spring Constellations, Summer Constellations, and Autumn Constellations chapters. His book also covers circumpolar and Southern Hemisphere constellations, the moon, astronomical events, the sky’s movement, and our solar system.
Beautiful graphics, maps, and images complement each page.
Read also encourages parents to look for opportunities to help their children in their stargazing adventures, such as getting out
of the city when possible, letting campfire embers die down naturally to see more stars, and finding special planetary and solar events that will engage and inspire children to develop a lifelong passion for space.
He believes stargazing is the gateway to science and can lead to many career opportunities and adventures. He is a strong believer that kids and adults should follow their dreams, and he encourages anyone interested in becoming an astronomer, astronaut, or aerospace engineer to pursue it.
Read embodies his own philosophy of following your dreams. His interest in astronomy started when he bought an inexpensive
telescope on a whim while shopping at a pharmacy and saw Saturn’s rings for the first time. He left his financial career in 2016 to pursue his passion, graduating from Saint Mary’s University in 2020 with an undergraduate degree in astrophysics. He is currently completing his master’s degree.
Read is a member of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada and works part-time as a telescope operator at the Burke-Gaffney Observatory, where he teaches students how to use the university’s telescopes.
He moved from the United States to Halifax, N.S., in 2020 and founded Stellar Publishing. Along with this newest book, Read has published 19 other books about astronomy for adults and children. He also maintains several social media pages and a popular YouTube channel called Learn to Stargaze, where he posts regular family-friendly videos. In addition to his bestselling books, Read’s Learn to Stargaze content is available on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter).
Read’s website and social pages provide ample information about stargazing, astronomy, and what parents need to know about choosing the right telescope for their children. His fact-based explanations and recommendations help parents select telescopes that actually work, rather than toy versions designed to be decorative.
A Kid’s Guide to the Night Sky: Simple Ways to Explore the Universe is available on his website, Amazon, and at Barnes & Noble.
gift guide
–
& Disney: Cinderella’s Castle
$89.99 | Available at Playmobil.ca, Walmart, Toys “R” Us, and amazon.ca
PERFECT GIFTS FOR EVERYONE
$99.99 | Available at Playmobil.ca, Walmart, Toys “R” Us, and amazon.ca
9900
$499.99 | Available at amazon.ca and philips.ca
$99.99 | Available at amazon.ca and philips.ca
Hugg-a-Planet
Starting at $24.95 USD | Available at huggaplanet.com
Check our online Gift Guide for additional details on these products.
$99.99 | Available at bestbuy.ca
Ravensburger GraviTrax Starter Kit (27597)
$87.99 | Available at staples.ca
MAGNA-TILES Space 32-Piece
Magnetic Construction Set
$69.99 | Available at staples.ca
$29.97 | Ages 4+ | Available at walmart.ca
Sort & Discover Activity
$29.97 | Ages 1 to 3 | Available at walmart.ca
Coffee
$15.00 | Whole Bean Bags (340 g/12 oz), Ground Coffee (300 g/10 oz), SingleServe Packets (18-pack box)Available at Balzac’s cafés, balzacs.com, amazon.ca, and retail shelves across Canada
$379.00 | Available at staples.ca
$29.97 | Ages 18+ | Available at walmart.ca
$34.97 | Ages 3+ | Available at walmart.ca
$39.97 | Ages 3+ | Available at walmart.ca
Yummiland Lip Gloss Truck
Bartesian Duet Cocktail Machine by Hamilton Beach
VTech
Wagon
Balzac’s
Maxx Action 3-N-1 Recycler Garbage Truck
Bose Ultra Open Earbuds – White Smoke
Toy Dyson Cordless Vacuum
Barbie Mini BarbieLand DreamHouse & 2-Vehicle Playset
gift guide
Pixie Cruiser Doodle
Customizable Remote-Control Car
$39.97 | Ages 6+ | Available at walmart.ca
LEGO Botanical Garden Set
$429.99 | Ages 18+ | Available at lego.ca
Little People Hot Wheels Spiral Stunt Speedway Toddler Racetrack Playset
$49.97 | Ages 1 to 5 | Available at walmart.ca
Smartwool Men’s Classic
Thermal Merino Base Layer Crew
$140.00 | Boxed Marmalade Joviansphere
Campsite with Campfire –playmobil Family Fun
$37.99 | Available at Playmobil.ca, Walmart, Toys “R” Us, and amazon.ca
Hamilton Beach FlexBrew® 5-in-1
Advanced Coffee Maker (Hot or Cold)
$149.98 | Available at walmart.ca
GIFTS FOR EVERYONE
Monster Jam Supercharge Speedway Playset
$49.97 | Ages 3+ | Available at walmart.ca
Monster High Dolls with Pets
$39.97 | Ages 4+ | Available at walmart.ca
Fisher-Price Little People Barbie Little Dreamcamper RV Playset
$49.97 | Ages 1 to 5 | Available at walmart.ca
Tranquil Turtle Rechargeable
$77.63 | Ages 1+ | Available at cloudb.com
Hamilton Beach Sure-Crisp® Air Fryer Toaster Oven
$129.99 | Available at homehardware.ca
Hub® Compact
$119.64 | Available at walmart.ca
Brita
PETIT LEM
HOLIDAY JAMMERS THE FAMILYMATCHING HOLIDAY COLLECTION
Get ready for cosy nights and festive fun with Petit Lem’s Family Matching Jammers collection!
These super-soft pajamas are perfect for the whole family, featuring seven unique, charming, coordinated designs that add extra warmth to your winter and holiday moments.
Waiting for Santa
14. Scarlet Plaid Sets in All Sizes – $30, $34, $78, and $80
15. Gingerbread Print on Silver Peony Sleeper – $30
Flannel
Scarlet Holiday Plush
Hooded Robe – $44
Scarlet Flannel PJ Set –
All sizes $58, $88, $90
Trimming the Tree
Festive Cars Print on Off-White
Sleeper – $30
Bright Baubles on Crème PJ Set – $34
Festive Firs Fair Isle Print on Evergreen PJ Set – $30, $34, $78, and $80
Comfort and Joy
Santa Baby on Crème Fleece Playsuit – $40
Little Reindeer on Taupe Fleece – Sweatshirt $48, Playsuit $40
Let It Snow
Frosty Festivities Print on Crème Sleeper – $30
Christmas Tree Print on Off-White –
Women’s Set $78, Baby Sleeper $30
Hot Cocoa Print on Scarlet Sleeper – $30
Hanukkah
5. Hanukkah Fair
Isle Print – Sleeper $30, PJ Set $34
Nutcracker
Starlight Spirals on Dress
Blue Sleeper – $30
Sugar Plum Fairy Print on Ice
Blue PJ Set – $34
GET THE POPCORN OUT! FROM OLD CLASSICS TO MODERN DAY HITS
Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genuis (2001) By Paramount Pictures
Jimmy is constantly coming up with new gadgets to add excitement to his life in Retroville. As a young genius, he experiences all the ups and downs of being a regular kid. Every now and then, he daydreams about what it would be like to have complete independence. However, when a group of extraterrestrial beings abducts the parents of Retroville’s residents, Jimmy realizes that life without them is far from ideal.
The Emperor’s New Groove (2000) By Walt Disney Pictures
In a twist of fate, the conceited Emperor Kuzco finds himself turned into a llama by his scheming and power-hungry advisor, the cunning diva Yzma. Left stranded in the heart of the jungle, Kuzco’s only hope of returning to his luxurious life lies in the hands of a kind-hearted peasant named Pacha. United by a common goal, they embark on a daring journey to restore Kuzco to his rightful place on the throne before Yzma hunts them down and puts an end to his reign for good.
The Santa Claus (1994) By Walt Disney Pictures Scott, a divorced father, finds himself in an unexpected situation on Christmas Eve. While spending time with his son, he unintentionally causes the death of a man dressed as Santa Claus. To his astonishment, they are suddenly whisked away to the enchanting North Pole. Here, an elf reveals that Scott must assume the role of Santa before the next Christmas rolls around.
It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) By Paramount Pictures
George Bailey is facing a multitude of challenges that have pushed him to the brink, and ironically, it’s the festive season of Christmas. While celestial beings deliberate on George’s fate, we are transported back in time to witness the pivotal moments of his life. Just as George contemplates taking a leap from a bridge, fate intervenes.
Established
Extensive
RONA
HOLIDAY DECOR: THREE FESTIVE TRENDS TO BRIGHTEN YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON
DISCOVER CELEBRATIONS BY L&CO
Retro Fun
This vibrant collection adds joy to holiday decorations for the whole family. Inspired by fairy tales and nature, it features a nostalgic palette of bubblegum pink, baby blue, bright green, and classic red. With cosy wool and shiny satin ornaments, it creates a stunning display that lifts your spirits.
Mr. Christmas Indoor Animated Santa Claus Kickers Stuck in Christmas Tree – 16 in., $39.99
Decorative Red Truck with Lighted Tree – 4.75 in., $24.99
Mr. Christmas Jukebox LED, 8-Song – 10.32 in. x 6.93 in., $59.99
Vintage Elegance
Enchanted Forest
For a cosy vibe blending rustic charm and chic elegance, explore the Enchanted Forest collection. It embodies quiet luxury and nature’s beauty, featuring stylish textures and refined, shimmering decorations that add colour and personality against a neutral palette of light wood and burlap.
Christmas Tree Festive Tree Collar with White Snowflakes – 26 in., $24.99
White Metal Lantern with LED Candle – 13.2 in., $24.99
The Vintage Elegance collection combines nostalgic charm and classic style with stylish ornaments in deep burgundy, navy, and antique green. Textured pieces featuring velvety and pearly finishes, accented by gold and glitter, create a moody yet chic atmosphere, perfect for showcasing your holiday outfits.
Gold Mistletoe Shaped Garland – 6 ft., $24.99
Nutcracker – 15 in., Navy Blue and Gold, $29.99
Set of Assorted Ornaments – Red, Copper, Purple, and Green, Pack of 110, $69.99
FELTMAN BROTHERS
HOLIDAY COLLECTION
Feltman Brothers, founded in 1916 in New York City, is celebrated for its high-quality, classic children’s clothing. Known for hand-embroidered designs, the brand quickly became popular for its timeless styles and meticulous craftsmanship. Despite changing fashion trends, Feltman Brothers has stayed true to its vintage-inspired roots, remaining family-owned and committed to quality. Today, the brand continues to thrive, blending its heritage with modern retail methods. Feltman Brothers clothing remains a symbol of tradition and elegance, cherished across generations for over a century. Available in sizes newborn to 8T, made from 100 per cent cotton.
Pricing varies available at feltmanbrothers.com. Visit their website to see more from their collections.
WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH
Fritz the Farting Reindeer: A Story About a Reindeer Who Farts By Humor Heals Us
Fritz is a fantastic reindeer, but he has one tiny issue: he suffers from gas. As Santa prepares for the BIG day, he needs to select his Christmas crew. Will Fritz be part of the team?
Experience holiday traditions, parenting challenges, sibling bonds, and cosy pajamas in this delightful picture book. Join Ruthie as she proudly wears her pajamakkahs for eight nights of Hanukkah, determined to keep them clean despite the messes. Full of laughter, love, and imaginative storytelling, Hanukkah Pajamakkahs is the perfect read-aloud for celebrating the holiday season.
Ages: 4-8. Published by: Sourcebooks Kids. Pages. 40. Price: $28.99
By Thomas Meyer
Alex, the tiny Christmas tree, is teased for being the smallest in the nursery but still shines brightly. He worries no family will pick him. Selma, the smallest rabbit, finds him and her family brings Alex home. They all celebrate, proving even the smallest tree can have a big holiday spirit!
Bestselling illustrator, Jane Chapman, puts a unique twist on the traditional Christmas story by replacing the usual characters with a charming group of animals. As the bear family was getting ready to sleep on Christmas Eve, Papa Bear heard a noise that stirred him from his slumber. The arrival of Santa Claus, riding in a sleigh pulled by dog-deer, brought excitement and happiness to this beloved holiday narrative.
Ages: 4-8. Published by: Sourcebooks Kids. Pages: 40. Price: $28.99
By Isabel Michaels,
Illustrations by Barry
Goldberg
Happy Kwanzaa! Gabrielle and Tamir are excited to celebrate their African American heritage, and Elmo is eager to learn about this special holiday. From lighting the kinara to exploring the seven principles and enjoying a festive meal!
Ages: 0-3. Published by: Random House Books for Young Readers Pages:26 Price: $14.99
Nine Days to Christmas: A story of Mexico
By Marie Hall Ets and Aurora Labastida
A charming children’s storybook that captures the essence of the Mexican holiday tradition of Las Posadas. The tale follows Ceci, a young girl excited for her first Christmas posada, where joyful processions reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before Jesus’ birth. Tasked with choosing a piñata for the celebration, Ceci learns important values of generosity, happiness, and community. Ages: 6-10. Published by: Dover Publications. Pages: 48. Price: $21.75
The Little Christmas Tree
Happy Kwanzaa
PORTAGE FLYER
CHRISTMAS TRAIN RIDE WITH SANTA
Date: Dec. 21
Cost: $5 per person. muskokaheritageplace.ca
family fun
ALL ABOARD, THE PORTAGE FLYER CHRISTMAS TRAIN RIDE WITH SANTA
WORDS BY ANDREW HIND
Telling the story of a young boy aboard a magical train bound for the North Pole, the Polar Express has become a holiday classic.
The experience isn’t confined to film. You can board an enchanted holiday train as well, in Huntsville, aboard the Portage Flyer Christmas Train Ride with Santa.
There’s something magical about the Portage Flyer at any time of year. From 1903 to 1958, the historic train operated along the world’s shortest commercial railway, a mere one mile in length, linking Lake of Bays to Peninsula Lake. But Christmas magic is a special kind of magic, and on the weekend before The Big Day the train comes alive with holiday cheer.
The excitement is palpable. Crowds gather at the rail station, moods buoyant. Smiles stretch cross little
faces as they nibble on cookies and sip hot chocolate. Some sing along to carols playing from loudspeakers.
Carrying upon the breeze, like the jingle of sleighbells, comes the clang of a bell and the blast of a horn. Anticipation builds.
Then, the Portage Flyer chugs into view, her open cars decked out with thousands of twinkling lights. She looks like a scaled-up version of the little trains that circle under a children’s Christmas tree – festive, cheerful, promising a ride to some special destination.
Everyone clambers aboard, nestling up close to loved ones. The train gently, slowly, pulls ahead. The frozen Muskoka River slides past. Ten minutes later, the destination, the purser’s cabin, comes into view. And it is special, indeed. For inside, Santa awaits.
Children jump into the Jolly Old Elf’s lap, whispering wishes, perhaps pleading their case to be added to the Nice List. Mom and Dad snap a few photos.
Then, back aboard the train for the return trip, the evening chill warded off by the warm glow of Christmas spirit.
Other Festiva Fare in Muskoka Yuletide cheer isn’t reserved for the Portage Flyer.
Shop: If you’re looking for something to make your home merry and bright, Christmas Tyme, located in Huntsville at the intersection of Main & Brunel, is the place to go. It’s a one-stop shop for Christmas décor. Don’t forget to transform your purchase from merely a decoration to a special keepsake by getting it personalized. Christmastyme.ca
Stay: Deerhurst Resort, just a snowball throw east of Huntsville, is the perfect place to spend a winter weekend. Nestled into grounds that become a winter wonderland once the ground is blanketed in thick mounds of white, the resort offers comfort and class, with plenty of amenities and activities for the entire family. From Dec. 20 to Jan. 4 Deerhurst is further enlivened with sleighloads of special holiday events. deerhurstresort.com
See: Santa makes additional appearances at SantaFest, a celebration of everything holly and jolly at Santa’s Village, in Bracebridge. Rides, a Christmas market, more lights than you can shake a candy cane at, fireside hot chocolate – it’s all here. santasvillage.ca
DEARCROFT MONTESSORI New! State-of-the-art Montessori Elementary Classroom (Grades 1-6). Discover our 4,000-square-foot classroom, complete with a live green wall, floor-to-ceiling windows, a Music and Art Studio, a Science Discovery Area, and an outdoor balcony with greenspace for lunch and work. Enjoy a quiet mezzanine workspace with a library. We believe that the best way to understand what makes our school unique is to experience it firsthand. That’s why we’re excited to invite you to come for a tour, where you can get a glimpse into the world of Montessori education. Please email to book a private tour: info@dearcroftmontessoritc.com | dearcroft-montessori.com
905.257.3200
LEARNING TREE TUTORS is an award-winning tutoring institution that services the Toronto and GTA area, providing 1-on-1 tutoring for Grades JK to 12, college and university. We offer the best certified teachers and academic specialist tutors at affordable rates. Online tutoring (for all locations) and In-Home (central Toronto only) available. Accredited by Better Business Bureau/Ontario. Subject Areas We Cover: English, Reading, Writing Skills, Essay Writing; French and French Immersion; Math – including Calculus and Functions; Social Sciences; Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics; Computer Science and Coding; Study Skills and Academic Coaching. Our tutors develop flexible, personalized learning plans that consider each individual student’s strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. We focus on optimizing student achievement and building a child’s self-confidence. Contact info@learningtreetutors.com | learningtreetutors.com
416.783.5815
RUSSIAN SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS RSM is an award-winning, after-school math program for K-12 students. Recently named “among the top schools in the world” by the Johns Hopkins CTY, we help children of all levels excel in mathematics. At RSM, we believe all children are capable of developing a solid foundation in math if taught correctly. RSM Math School has two branches in Toronto Midtown and Richmond Hill. Enrollment is open for a 6-week Summer math program. Classes start on June 27 and end on Aug. 4, 2022. Our SK–10 summer math program offers in person and online classes. It’s time to start thinking about 2022/2023 academic year. We are pleased to offer accelerated, advanced and honours-level classes for the upcoming year. Please schedule an evaluation today to learn more at mathschool.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. Visit us at our new Thornhill location, Little Angels Early Learning Centre. info@stgabrielchildcare.com | stgabrielchildcare.com
905.850.3358
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
905.403.9435
2301 Royal Windsor Dr. Unit 1, Mississauga info@studiopavas.com studiopavas.com
THEATRE BURLINGTON Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town (Soon). While we don’t want to rush the season, Christmas is just a few months away! To help get you into the spirit, Theatre Burlington invites you to our annual holiday show, Santa the Panto.This one-hour production, in the style of an English pantomime, is the perfect way to introduce the young (and young at heart) to the magic of live theatre. Beatrix the Bad hates Christmas and will do whatever it takes to stop it, including kidnapping Santa. It’s up to Mrs. Claus, Barbie, Ken, and the Elf on the Shelf to rescue Santa and save Christmas. There will be lots of music, dancing, and audience participation. Show dates: November 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, and 30 (two shows on Saturdays and Sundays; November 22 is an evening performance).Tickets: $15. On sale now. theatreburlington.on.ca
905.639.7700
UFLY SIMULATOR INC. Fly our state of the art 777 with a 180* fi eld of vision. Experience a 737 with big screens and 8 Cessnas simulators with a total of 10 simulators with professional instructors. Your child will have so much fun while learning the basics of a flight. An exclusive, unique, and unforgettable experience for young minds to discover and interact with pilots and feel what it’s like to be a pilot while flying in the sky and performing landings. Doors are closed during this time and no one else will have access to our facility unless direct by parents. Come and fly with us. Let’s fly! ufly@uflysimulator.ca
416.777.2261
905.565.0197 uflysimulator.ca
WOODVIEW MENTAL HEALTH AND AUTISM SERVICES has inspired hope and strengthened lives for over 60 years! Our Halton Autism Services supports children and youth up to 18 years, collaborating with families to foster growth and independence. We offer customized Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) therapy, including centre-based programs, preschool, family skill development, skills groups, webinars, and MCCSS-funded programs such as entry-to-school, caregiver coaching, and foundational family services. Our compassionate and skilled team understands that each child is unique, ensuring personalized care that meets your child’s and family goals. Discover how Woodview can support your child’s journey to a brighter future! @WoodviewMHAS | haltonautismservices@woodview.ca | woodview.ca
289.208.2336 woodview.ca
Developing confidence is one of the many reasons Havergal College is at the heart of progress. It’s more than state-of-the-art resources and a future-ready curriculum. It’s a commitment to open-mindedness. It’s leading and serving with purpose. Most of all, it’s preparing and empowering young women to make a difference. Not just in Toronto, but on a global scale.
Guided by integrity, inquiry, compassion and courage, Havergal College is a leading school for girls from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12.
Learn more at: havergal.on.ca/ virtual-admission-centre
guardians of wild
Open year-round, your Toronto Zoo is always a great place to visit, with something for everyone to explore, learn and enjoy! Fall in love with some of your favourite animals surrounded by picturesque scenery, situated in the heart of the beautiful Rouge National Urban Park.
All winter long you can explore the Zoo with 10km of walking trails and 3,000 animals, including adorable, playful snow leopard cubs. Grab a hot chocolate or visit one of our five indoor tropical pavilions to warm up!
Join us as we celebrate our 50th year of saving and protecting wildlife and wild spaces. Plan your visit today at torontozoo.com
