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TERMS AND INDEMNIFICATION
FEATURE
Creative kids: Ripple Foundation’s Annual Kids Write 4 Kids Contest now open to aspiring young writers
FEATURE
Holistic parenting: Elina Furman’s 101 Baby Hacks and Kahlmi Baby Massager treats common infant issues
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up front
CELEBRATING NATIONAL POLAR BEAR PLUNGE DAY!
Brrrr! It’s that time of year again when we trade our cosy blankets and steaming cups of cocoa for swimsuits and a brisk dip into frigid waters. Yes, folks, National Polar Bear Plunge Day is the perfect excuse for a little winter madness! This annual tradition, celebrated on January 1st, is not for the faint of heart – or for those who have just polished off a holiday feast.
Imagine a group of enthusiastic individuals, dressed in wacky costumes – or not – gather on the icy shores around the world. The countdown begins, the excitement is intense. You can almost hear the collective gasp as they contemplate the brisk waters that lie before them. But hey, it’s all in the name of charity, right?
The Polar Bear Plunge is more than just an opportunity to unleash your inner daredevil; it’s a chance to raise funds for worthy causes. From local charities to health organizations, the plunge pulls together communities, encourages solidarity, and offers a delightful dose of insanity.
Nothing says, “I care” quite like leaping into a freezing cold lake while your friends and family hoot and holler from the safety of dry land! (That would be me.)
Now, let’s be real, submerging yourself in icy waters isn’t everyone’s idea of a good time. Not for me, anyways. But for those brave souls willing to take the plunge, the
thrill of a polar bear dip is unmatched. Just be prepared for the initial shock that feels like an avalanche of ice cubes crashing into your body. At least, that’s how I imagine it. Your brain will immediately start firing survival signals, screaming, “What were you thinking?! Get out! Get out!” But once you resurface, adrenaline comes rushing back in an exhilarated wave. You’ll be left wondering if cold water therapy does actually work, and if you can justify this madness on your new year’s resolution list.
Don’t forget the after-party often features hot chocolate, bonfires, and maybe even a few food trucks serving warm and tasty treats. You’ll want to bulk up on those calories after your icy escapade, right? Nothing screams balance like a frosty plunge followed by a greasy burger – just don’t ask me about the math on that one.
As you gather your courage, and possibly your friends to dive into the cold, remember the spirit of the day! Whether you’re plunging solo or as part of a wacky team, embrace the fun, capture those ridiculous photos, and celebrate the bravery (or sheer silliness) of everyone involved. (I’ll be the photographer, thank you very much.)
So, are you ready to bear the chill and take the plunge? On National Polar Bear Plunge Day, dive into the cold –because nothing says, “Happy New Year” quite like a good, old-fashioned icy soak!
Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent
holistic parenting
ELINA
FURMAN’S 101 BABY HACKS AND KAHLMI BABY MASSAGER TREATS COMMON INFANT ISSUES
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
Baby massage is a natural therapy that provides numerous proven health and developmental benefits to infants. While this ancient practice has been around for centuries in the eastern world, North American parents have only started learning about these holistic techniques in the last 50 years.
Elina Furman, a well-known author and entrepreneur, is helping new parents learn how to provide hands-on, holistic treatments to their babies with her new book 101 Baby Hacks. This beautifully illustrated guide teaches parents different massage, acupressure, and reflexology techniques that are proven to ease discomfort and nurture infants through gentle touch.
101 Baby Hacks covers almost every issue babies can experience. The easy-to-follow, step-by-step approaches outlined in the book help parents and guardians identify their infant’s needs and provide comfort using gentle, hands-on natural therapies.
Human touch is essential for healthy infant development. Baby massage helps infants feel safer, more secure, and cared for. Along with easing discomfort, baby massage, acupressure, and reflexology therapies help babies thrive and create authentic opportunities for parents to connect with and form a deeper bond with their infants. It also provides rich sensory stimulation and helps soothe fussy or upset babies.
101 Baby Hacks is divided by each issue, so parents can refer to a specific section to learn how to address their baby’s ailment or read the entire book from start to finish. Simple illustrations are incorporated throughout the pages to help parents easily learn how to perform each therapeutic technique to comfort their infant. According to Furman, for optimal results and health, parents should massage their babies twice a day. However, even giving a massage three to four times a week provides
lifelong benefits to a baby’s development and overall health. Parents in Africa, India, New Zealand, and the Caribbean have used these holistic therapies for thousands of years to soothe their infants and treat different conditions. Over the centuries, parents have passed the techniques down from generation to generation because they are highly revered and seen as an essential part of infant development and nurturing.
As more Western parents look for natural options to soothe infants and promote health, Furman’s book provides the perfect holistic solutions to promote optimal health.
101 Baby Hacks shows parents how they can perform various massage, acupressure, or reflexology techniques on their infants using their hands or with Furman’s Kahlmi Baby Massager. This pediatricianapproved device is the world’s first baby massager. Its smooth, rounded shape provides a natural way to soothe babies and helps alleviate common ailments including colic, gas, teething, stomach upset, time and schedule
Elina Furman is a Certified Infant Massage Instructor who has been educating parents on the benefits of baby massage for over 15 years. She is a successful entrepreneur and author living in Connecticut. She has written and co-written more than 20 books on various health and wellness topics.
change disruptions, and general restlessness. The Kahlmi Baby Massager is specifically designed for babies’ sensitive skin and developing bodies. The antimicrobial, food-grade soft silicone is completely safe and water-resistant. The portable device uses rechargeable batteries.
The Kahlmi Baby Massager is whisper-quiet and has three lowlevel vibration settings. It comes with massage head tools: Acu-Touch, Daily Soothe, and Bathtime Bliss. The Kahlmi Baby Massager is available on the Kahlmi website and at Target stores.
101 Baby Hacks is available in hard copy and e-book formats at, Amazon, Indigo - Chapters, Penguin Random House, Google Play and the Kahlmi website.
DAPPLE BABY
ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING SOLUTIONS FOR FAMILIES
Dapple Baby is a top choice for families seeking eco-friendly cleaning without harsh chemicals. With 68 per cent of Canadian adults open to switching to sustainable options, Dapple Baby meets this demand with a plant-based line designed for baby messes – like milk residue and sticky spills. Products such as the Foaming Bottle & Dish Spray and AllPurpose Cleaning Wipes are free from parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances, offering safe, hypoallergenic cleaning for little ones. For families wanting safe and effective options, Dapple Baby’s eco-friendly products make cleaning baby gear both easy and green.
The shortage of primary care physicians persists, leaving many families struggling to find a family doctor. In fact, a 2023 study by the Canadian Institute for Health Information revealed that only 26 per cent of Canadians with a primary care provider could get same-day or nextday appointments to see a doctor or nurse. That’s down 46 per cent from 2016.
The pandemic further highlighted the disparities. COVID-19 impacted in-person contact, and many offices closed their doors, making it challenging for some patients to access regular services. However, the pandemic also accelerated the development and adoption of new technologies and proved that they can be a valuable part of the healthcare system.
Now imagine a clinic, a first of its kind in Canada, that offers pediatric care and also provides support for child psychiatry, physiotherapy, sports medicine, sleep therapy, and more—all under one roof. With the support of technology, Dr. Dina Kulik, merged traditional in-office visits with virtual care, establishing a muchneeded multidisciplinary clinic. She is the Founder and Director of Kidcrew Medical and Dental, a pediatric clinic with locations in Toronto’s midtown and North York.
Kidcrew has access to over 100 physicians and complementary healthcare professionals, offering one-stop care for children’s health. Kidcrew also has an After-Hours Crew with pediatricians who are available 7 days a week, with same-day visits. For non-emergency care, Kidcrew Urgent Care is focused on treating conditions
health KIDCREW MEDICAL
WORDS BY MARYLENE VESTERGOM
that require prompt attention but that are not severe enough to warrant an ER visit, like minor cuts, mild respiratory symptoms, infections, and common pediatric ailments.
According to Kulik, “Our holistic approach, which combines primary, specialized and complementary services, offers streamlined, (usually) same-day appointments to address non-emergency situations quickly and effectively. With our pediatric team and state-of-the-art facilities, we ensure your child receives the best possible care without the long waits typically associated with walk-in clinics and emergency rooms.”
Teamwork is at the core of Kidcrew. “Our model is unique in that it promotes the free exchange of ideas and knowledge across different areas of expertise. Pediatricians, nurses, complementary health professionals, administrative staff, and even our
patients’ families are involved in shared decision-making, ensuring a comprehensive and holistic approach to patient care,” says Kulik.
Consider the case study Kulik shared on the Kidcrew.com website of a multi-faceted approach to allergy management.
A young patient with severe food allergies requires a skilled team including a pediatrician, dietitian, nurse, and allergist. Kidcrew developed and provided a comprehensive care plan addressing nutrition and mental well-being, resulting in significant improvements in the child’s health and quality of life.
Kulik and her team at Kidcrew reduce the impact on emergency rooms, currently facing eight to 22-hour wait times, and addresses the 27.7-week average wait for specialists across Canada. Just one of the benefits of Kidcrew’s multidisciplinary approach.
In 2021, the Ontario Medical Association Luminary Awards recognized Dr. Dina Kulik’s leadership in using digital health tools to improve patient care. Technology allows Kulik and her team to offer same-day appointments, provide efficient scheduling, and ensure clinicians have the flexibility for urgent matters while also ensuring patients wait no more than 10 minutes for their appointments to start and are given sufficient time to address their medical needs.
“Superior patient care and satisfaction is the highest priority” for founder Dr. Dina Kulik and her team of over 100 specialized clinicians, who serve 100,000 patients through two brick-and-mortar clinics and through virtual appointments.
For more information see: Kidcrew.com, drdina.ca, telus.com/standwithowners
PETIT LEM
PLAY DATE COLLECTION
Petit Lem has launched their Play Date collection, featuring ultra-soft pajamas in playful themes like baking, arts and crafts, princesses, dragons, hockey, basketball, and football. With cosy sleepers for newborns, and matching PJ sets for older kids, these organic cotton sets promise sweet dreams and cheerful mornings. Petit Lem, available across North America, offers essentials for all ages – newborns, toddlers, and adults – all made without harmful chemicals or pesticides.
Sleepers are available in sizes NB-24M. –$30.00
PJ sets are available in sizes 12M-14Y. – $34.00
Basketball Player Print on Heather Grey PJ Set
Baking Print on Off-White Sleeper
Fire-Breathing Dragon Print on Navy Blue Arts and Crafts Print on Vintage Rose PJ Set
Princesses Print on Merlot PJ Set
Hockey Gear Print on Cadet PJ Set
Football Print on Agave Green Sleeper
creative kids
RIPPLE FOUNDATION’S ANNUAL KIDS WRITE 4 KIDS CONTEST NOW OPEN TO ASPIRING YOUNG WRITERS
The Ripple Foundation, a literacybased charity based in Toronto, Ontario, focuses on teaching kids how to grow and express themselves through creative literacy programs. The foundation’s free programs and services are available virtually to students across Canada in grades 4 to 12.
Ripple Foundation is once again hosting its annual Kids Write 4 Kids (KW4K) writing challenge. The contest is now open to all aspiring writers in grades 4 to 8. To enter, students must submit an original story. All entries will be judged by a panel of literary experts, reading enthusiasts, and previous year’s contest winners. The winning stories will be professionally published in paperback and eBook formats and sold on platforms such as Amazon, iBookstore, Apple, Google Play, and OverDrive. All proceeds from the book sales will go to the winner’s charity of choice. The deadline for submissions is March 31, 2025.
The 2024 winners are Alina Xiao from Oakville, Ontario, and Myah Rathi Litteljohn from East York, Ontario.
Xiao’s book, A Piece of Me, is a poetry collection reflecting her personal experiences as a student with cancer. Litteljohn’s book, Path of Thorns, is a fantasy story about family and friendship. The 2023 winners are New Brunswick’s Taym Saffar and Yukon’s Roy Osborne. Sales from all 2023 published stories raised $750.98 for the Canadian Cancer Society. All books by current and past winners are available on the Ripple Foundation website.
WORDS BY LORRAINE PELLEY
Ripple Foundation’s programs are designed to promote and develop students’ literacy skills. In addition to the writing contest, the charitable organization also hosts free weekly Write It Workshops. These virtual sessions, held Saturdays from 1 to 2 p.m. for students in grades 4 to 8, aim to help students improve their writing skills, express themselves creatively, and format engaging story ideas. Each series consists of five workshops, run by volunteers who are committed to helping students reach their potential.
Wave Blog is a positive, safe, and bully-free space where students in grades 8 to 12 can share their views and interests, express themselves, and connect with peers. To be published in the weekly Wave
Blog, students must complete the online application found on the Ripple Foundation website, upload an original content piece, and undergo an interview process. Past submissions have included movie and book reviews, hobbies, immigrating to Canada, diet and nutrition, and gender identity.
The foundation’s Express, Inspire, Connect Youth Conference is a half-day virtual event held annually. Coordinated and led by high school students, the conference offers participants the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge, engage in meaningful discussions, connect with peers, brainstorm ideas, and network with industry experts.
Ripple Foundation has also recently introduced youth
volunteer opportunities for high school students. This exclusively virtual opportunity allows students to improve their writing and leadership skills while earning volunteer hours.
Additionally, Ripple Foundation operates the Ripple Shop, where people can purchase merchandise. All proceeds from the sale of merchandise support the foundation’s programs.
Ivy Wong founded the organization in 2012 to teach children how to grow personally and develop essential leadership, confidence, and social skills through creative literacy.
To add a school or child care centre to the mailing list or learn more about the Ripple Foundation, visit ripplefoundation.ca
RONA
TILLEY TUFF WORKWEAR: DURABLE, AFFORDABLE, AND READY FOR ANY JOB
RONA introduced Tilley Tuff, a new line of affordable workwear crafted with Canadian home improvement projects in mind. Developed with Tilley, this collection offers durable, flexible options for both pros and DIYers. Tilley Tuff features over 60 items, including hats, hoodies, and pants, made from a tough polyester-nylon blend with wind and water resistance, sun protection, and quick-drying fabrics. “Our goal is to provide Canadians with comfortable, highquality workwear,” said Doug Young, Chief Merchandising Officer at RONA inc. Available exclusively at RONA+ and RONA stores, Tilley Tuff is built to handle every project and look good while doing it. rona.ca
1. Tilley Tuff Quilted Work Jacket for Men – in Sage Nylon. – $79.99
2. Tilley Tuff Legacy Men's T-Shirt with Pocket – in Sand Cotton. – $24.99
3. Tilley Tuff Utility Pant in Cotton for Men – in Black. – $59.99
4. Tilley Tuff Flannel Button-Down Work Shirt for Men - in Brown Plaid. – $39.99
5. Tilley Tuff Lined Sleeveless Vest for Men – in Sand Cotton. – $69.99
6. Tilley Tuff Tech Shield Pant in Soft Shell Fabric for Men – in Grey. – $79.99
family fun ALTON MILL FIRE AND ICE
WORDS BY ANDREW HIND
The holidays are over, but a dash of magic yet remains in winter. Bundle up and head to historic Alton Mill Arts Center in rural Caledon to be enchanted by Alton Mill Fire & Ice (Jan. 25th-26th).
“The Christmas lights are put away, the celebrations are over, but the cold lingers, and people are feeling kind of tired of winter,” says Bri Wilson, marketing coordinator for the Alton Mill. “Fire & Ice is intended to enliven this lull period with a family-friendly event that highlights our artistic community and attracts visitors during the shoulder season after the holidays.”
During the day, talented ice sculptors will transform blocks of ice into frosty masterpieces using chisels and chainsaws. Watching the artists work and learning about the art of ice sculpting is a memorable experience for young and old alike. “It’s a fusion of winter fun with art, which is aligned with our mandate as an arts centre,” says Wilson
After dusk on Saturday evening, a fire sculpture is unveiled, crafted by local artist Brian Oates. It’s a stunning spectacle, and anticipation builds as
the flames burn away to reveal the artistry beneath.
Children will find plenty else to capture their attention, including ice skating and pond hockey (weather permitting), the “the super snow slide” down a big hill, axe throwing, and more. Two food trucks will be on site to provide fuel to head back out on the hill and pond.
Warm up by heading inside. Festivalgoers are invited to explore
galleries in the restored heritage site, meet the Mill’s resident artists in their working studios, and shop the extensive vendors’ market. Built in 1881 and listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places, the formed woollen mill is an attraction in its own right. When it closed in 1982, it was the longest-running waterpowered mill on the upper Credit River system. The imposing building has since been reimaged with a
Admission: Pay-What-You-Can, with a suggested donation of $10 per adult, $5 per child, or $25 per family.
Parking: Free parking is offered at offsite parking lots with a shuttle bus operating from the Alton Legion.
Web: altonmill.ca
unique blend of studios, galleries, and shops.
Closing out the Saturday is an after-hours, ticketed, 19+ event in the Mills’ Hot Stove Lounge that includes a comedy show, food, cash bar, and music by local bluegrass band Stony Lonesome.
For two days, Fire & Ice chases away the winter blahs. Soak it all in because spring is still several months away.
healthy bonds
WHAT IS ATTACHMENT PARENTING?
Many parents aspire to develop close emotional bonds with their children. Children who understand that their parents are nearby and will respond to their needs effectively begin to develop trust in those around them. This nurturing can extend to being well-rounded and emotionally secure into adulthood.
Parents may subscribe to various parenting models as they look to bond with their children. One such approach is attachment parenting. Proponents of this type of parenting include the well-known pediatrician William Sears, M.D., an author who coined the term “attachment parenting”. Attachment parenting promotes methods that aim to build attachments between parent and infant by responsiveness and through continuous bodily closeness and touch.
Components of attachment parenting include bonding with the baby before and directly after birth,
CHILDREN WHO UNDERSTAND THAT THEIR PARENTS ARE NEARBY AND WILL RESPOND TO THEIR NEEDS EFFECTIVELY BEGIN TO DEVELOP TRUST IN THOSE AROUND THEM.
breastfeeding, bedding close to the child, and wearing the baby as much as possible.
Attachment parenting may have evolved from anthropological studies of indigenous childrearing practices that put an emphasis on emotional responsiveness, according to Greater Good Magazine.
Another core component of attachment parenting, according to the organization Attachment Parenting International, is responding with sensitivity. API notes that babies communicate their needs through body movements, facial expressions and crying, and that infants learn to trust when their needs are met with consistency and sensitivity. It’s only after consistent and repeated responsiveness in a sensitive manner that babies will learn to soothe themselves as they get older. These sensitivity strategies should be carried through as a child becomes a toddler or a school-aged child.
Proponents of attachment parenting also advocate against childcare for more than 20 hours a week for babies younger than 30 months old, says WebMD. At this
early developmental stage, the nearly constant presence of a parent is recommended.
One potentially controversial aspect of attachment parenting is co-sleeping. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against sleeping with a young child in the same bed, as it may increase the risk for SIDS. However, workarounds, including having a baby in a separate cradle or co-sleeper very close to a parent’s bed so children can be touched and soothed through the night, are options.
Expecting parents who want to learn more about the philosophy behind attachment parenting and its techniques can visit attachmentparenting.org.
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THE NORTH FACE
The North Face has you covered this winter with gear built to withstand the coldest conditions. From insulated jackets and cosy fleeces to weather-resistant boots and accessories, their products combine warmth, durability, and iconic style. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or exploring the city, The North Face is your go-to for reliable winter protection.
Women’s Osito Beanie – $46.99
Montana Puffer Mitts – $79.99
Women’s Cold Spell Cropped Down Jacket – $599.99
Women’s Yukiona Mid Boots – $199.99
Women’s First Turn Down Jacket – $479.99
Women’s Oh Mega Set – $109.99
Women’s ThermoBall Lace Up Luxe Waterproof Boots – $199.99
Women’s Arctic Parka – $459.99
Work is often cited as the primary cause of stress. Indeed, work-related stress is a global issue. According to the Global Organization for Stress, workers in countries as different as the United States, Australia and China all report confronting considerable work-related stress. But framing stress as an issue primarily affecting workers overlooks how it affects kids.
The Global Organization for Stress reports that stress is the number one health concern for high school students. Kids dealing with stress experience many of the same symptoms as adults, which the Mayo Clinic reports include headaches, chest pain, anxiety, and mood swings, among others. But stress triggers differ for kids and adults, and parents concerned about stress affecting their children can learn about potential stressors so they can be better prepared to help children get through stressful experiences.
The Boys and Girls Club of America notes that stressors change as children grow up. Parents can keep that in mind but also recognize that certain events can contribute to stress regardless of how old a child is.
mental health
POTENTIAL STRESSORS FOR KIDS
General stressors
The BGCA notes that kids of all ages may be stressed by incidents or experiences that can affect kids whether they’re in elementary school or approaching high school graduation. Such stressors include:
• Conflicts with friends
• Bullying
• Peer pressure
• Academic struggles, including poor performance and difficulties with the curriculum
• Problems socializing
• Disappointing parents
• Parents’ divorce or separation
• Family financial struggles
• Unsafe or precarious living situation
Stressors for children
New experiences are among the stressors that affect children. Such experiences can include being away from home and performing in front of others, whether it’s in a sport, school play or other public forum. Children also may feel stress if or when they are picked last for a sports team. Perceived dangers, even when there’s no imminent threat, also can be stressors for young children. Such
dangers may include kidnapping, fires and natural disasters, among others.
Stress for preteens and teens
The bodily changes associated with puberty are among the potential stressors for kids in this age group. The changes children undergo at this stage in life also can lead to issues with self-esteem and other negative thoughts, and that can be a stressor for some kids. The specter of college
and the uncertainty that life after high school can spark are another potential stressor for kids in this age group. Older kids who begin dating also may find that this causes stress. Stress is often caused by work, but adults are not the only ones vulnerable to stress. Various life events can trigger stress in kids. Parents can do their best to recognize potential stressors and help kids manage stress in a healthy, safe way.
GET THE POPCORN OUT! FROM OLD TO MODERN DAY CLASSICS
Bonus short !
Happy New Year Charlie Brown (1986)
In this heartwarming animated special, Charlie Brown is excited as the New Year approaches. He eagerly anticipates attending a New Year’s Eve party, where he hopes to finally impress his crush, the Little Red-Haired Girl. However, things take a turn when he finds himself stuck at home with a pile of reading to do for school.
The Jungle Book (1967)
Set in the lush jungles of India, “The Jungle Book” follows the story of Mowgli, a young boy raised by a pack of wolves after being orphaned. As he grows up, Mowgli learns the ways of the jungle under the guidance of his animal friends, including the wise panther Bagheera and the carefree bear Baloo. However, his peaceful life is threatened by the fearsome tiger Shere Khan, who is determined to hunt Mowgli down.
A Peanuts Special - A Boy Named Charlie Brown (1969)
In this animated film based on Charles Schulz’s beloved “Peanuts” comic strip, Charlie Brown faces the trials of childhood as he embarks on a journey filled with obstacles and self-discovery. Despite his many insecurities and frequent feelings of failure, Charlie’s determination shines through when he decides to participate in the school spelling bee.
Tuck Everlasting (2002)
Winnie Foster is yearning for adventure beyond her constricting life in a strict household. One day, she encounters Jesse Tuck, a boy from a family that has discovered the secret to eternal life after drinking from a magical spring. As Winnie is drawn into the Tuck family’s world, she learns about the joys and burdens of immortality. However, their peaceful existence is threatened when a mysterious stranger seeks to exploit the spring’s magic.
Back to the Future (1985)
In the 1980s, teen Marty McFly accidentally travels back in time to 1955 using a time machine built by eccentric scientist Doc Brown. While in the past, Marty inadvertently disrupts his parents’ first meeting, threatening his own existence.
WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH
Too Many Acorns
By Susannah Crispe
After a big loss, Patrick finds comfort in collecting acorns, but soon his life becomes overwhelmed by them. With his dad’s help, they learn to cope with their shared grief, rediscovering happiness while holding memories close. Beautifully illustrated, this touching tale gently explores big emotions, offering comfort to young readers facing loss or emotional challenges.
Published by: EK Books. Pages: 32.. Ages: 4-8.. Price: 27.50 HC
The Mosaic
By Deborah Kelly & Illustrated by Nicky Johnston
A sensitive and hopeful story about family separation, centred on Frankie, who discovers that beauty can emerge from broken pieces. When her parents separate and her Nana comes to stay, Frankie feels lost and upset—just like her mom’s broken vase. But through Nana’s creative idea, they embark on a journey of healing and inspiration, showing that even in sad times, happiness can be found.
Published by: EK Books.. Pages: 32. Ages: 4-8.. Price: 24.99 HC
D is for Dogs!
By Greg Prapocki
Explore the alphabet with your toddler while learning about different dog breeds and their funny behaviours. This charming BabyLit board book features Greg Paprocki’s retro art and showcases adorable dogs in various playful scenarios—napping, playing, and snacking.
Published by: Baby Lit. Pages: 32. Ages: Baby – 3yrs. Price: 19.99 Board book
The Animal People Choose a Leader
By Richard Wagamese & Illustrated by Bridget George
In a time when all animals shared a common language, they gather to choose a leader. After hearing the contenders’ boasts—Horse’s speed, Buffalo’s stamina, Cougar’s patience, Wolverine’s stealth—they decide to hold a race around a mountain lake. Among the challengers is the unlikely and humble rabbit, Waabooz, deemed a long shot.
Published by: Douglas & McIntyre. Pages: 32. Ages: 9-12.. Price: $24.95
january COOL THINGS
Vaseline Pro VitaB3 Serum-Burst lotion - Luminous Glow
Crafted by a French perfumer, Pro VitaB3 Serum-Burst Lotion
Luminous Glow delivers more than hydration. It opens with juicy tangerine and peach, blends into freesia and rose, and settles with warm cedarwood and musk, leaving skin with a dewy, radiant glow.
Inspired by the cheerful warmth of a fresh bellini, Pro VitaB3 Serum-Burst Lotion
Supple & Soft envelops your skin in a lively blend of citrus, apple, red berries, and creamy vanilla. This nourishing lotion leaves skin velvety-soft and deeply hydrated, with a scent that adds a splash of brightness, even on the chilliest days.
Feltman Brothers Sweater Weather fashion
Feltman Brothers creates timeless, heirloom-quality children’s clothing, known for its classic designs and intricate hand-embroidered details. Founded in 1916, the brand combines old-world craftsmanship with soft, premium fabrics, making each piece perfect for special occasions or everyday elegance. From $55.00 and up. Visit feltmanbrothers.com for more styles and colour.
$10.99 each available at Shoppers Drug Mart, Loblaws, Walmart, amazon.ca & Pharmaprix
Sunbeam Throw, Arctic Plush Eco – Electric Heated Blanket
The Sunbeam Eco-Throw, made from 25% recycled polyester, offers cosy warmth on chilly evenings with its luxurious arctic plush fabric. Available in stylish shades like slate, poison, and taupe, this 50” x 60” heated throw complements any decor. It features a user-friendly push button controller with four heat settings, a 4-hour auto shut-off, and overheat protection for safety. For easy maintenance, simply detach the controller and machine wash and dry the throw to keep it soft and fresh.
$29.97 available at walmart.ca
PowerXL 7.5qt StirMax Multi-Cooker
Enjoy delicious meals with loved ones while saving time in the kitchen with the PowerXL™ StirMax™ Multi-Cooker. Its innovative StirMax™ Technology features a 360° Automatic Paddle and pre-set cooking programs, cooking up to 60% faster. The BraiseMax Smart Preset allows for searing before simmering at the push of a button. With nine cooking options in a compact 7.5QT size, this cooker can handle nearly any dish. Its durable nonstick ceramic-coated surface makes cooking and cleanup easy, giving you more time to enjoy meals with family and friends. $139.98 available at walmart.ca
WINTER FUN FACTS
SPELLING SCRAMBLE
Snow isn’t white! It’s translucent, but the light reflecting off it makes it appear white.
Bears, bats, chipmunks, groundhogs, wood frogs and snakes are some of the North American animals that enter hibernation (or a similar state) during winter.
FOR MORE THAN 75 YEARS , Camp Kandalore has offered a unique overnight camp for ages 6 to 16, blending canoe tripping with diverse camp activities. Located in the Algonquin Highlands, Kandalore is renowned for developing camping and recreational skills. With up to 30 activities, campers find their passion. The camp provides an unparalleled canoetripping experience, introducing new skills and challenges as campers age. Adventures range from a single overnight to a 12-day whitewater trip. Campers and staff form a warm, inclusive community celebrating fun, nature, and learning. Kandalore also runs an Outdoor Education Centre from September to June for schools and groups. operates an Outdoor Education Centre (OEC) from September to June, offering outdoor experiences to schools and groups. camp@kandalore.com | kandalore.com
THE CARTIER PLACE SUITE HOTEL offers the perfect central location to visit many sites. We are located one block from the picturesque Rideau Canal and trendy boutique area of Elgin Street. Our pet-friendly suite hotel features an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and exercise, games, and playroom. Each spacious suite has a private balcony, full kitchen, combined dining/living area and separate bedrooms. For the outdoor enthusiast, the Rideau Canal Skate Way –weather permitting – is open January to the end of February. We are also located one block from the Rink of Dreams in front of the Ottawa City Hall. Take part in the fun activities for all ages during Ottawa’s largest outdoor winter festival. Winterlude Jan 31–Feb 17. For nature lovers, the many crosscountry trails of Gatineau Park offers stunning vistas of the Ottawa area. Book now for March Break special discount. suitedreams.com.
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 gravity-defying 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 actionpacked 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.comflyingsquirrelhamilton
SCARBOROUGH BASKETBALL ASSOCIATION Formed in 1996 as a non-profit organization, the Scarborough Basketball Association has a simple game plan – to provide boys and girls in and around the Scarborough area with the opportunity to grow and enjoy life through the sport of basketball. For some of our youth, the SBA will be a launching pad for a successful basketball career in college or university. Some may even go on to become professional players, based on the fundamentals that we helped them develop. However, for most, the SBA and its basketball programs are simply a means of building character, developing friendships and having a whole lot of fun. We offer a variety of programs for boys and girls ages 5-19, from beginners to our rep programs for elite players. Registration is now open for our 2025 Winter House League, SmallBall Learn to Play and SBA League programs. sbabasketball.ca
