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up front
ST. PATRICK’S DAY HISTORY
St. Patrick’s Day celebrated annually on March 17, is that fun time of year when everyone suddenly becomes a little bit Irish, donning green attire and searching for four-leaf clovers like they’re on a treasure hunt. It’s a day filled with shamrocks, leprechauns, and the kind of cheerfulness that makes you question how many pints of Guinness are too many?
St. Patrick’s Day is a vibrant cultural and religious holiday honouring the patron saint of Ireland, Saint Patrick. What began as a solemn feast day in the 17th century has evolved into a worldwide celebration of Irish heritage, complete with parades, music, food, and, of course, plenty of green. You might find yourself in a pub, surrounded by friends, singing off-key to traditional Irish tunes while trying to remember if you actually know the words or just making them up as you go along.
The holiday is a perfect excuse to indulge, on Irish food and drink. Classic dishes like corned beef and cabbage, Irish soda bread, and shepherd’s pie take center stage at gatherings. Meanwhile, pubs brim with revelers enjoying traditional Irish beers, whiskeys, and festive cocktails. All green of course.
Let’s be honest, it’s probably the only time most of us will ever eat it. And who can forget the parades? They’re a colourful spectacle of floats, bagpipers, and the occasional confused tourist wondering why everyone is so obsessed with a tiny green hat. (In Waterloo, Ontario, it’s a parade of young university kids that flock there from all corners of other universities)
The day’s signature green theme symbolizes the lush landscapes of Ireland, often referred to as the ‘Emerald Isle’. People around the globe embrace the colour by wearing green clothing, decorating with shamrocks, and even baking green-themed treats. Pinching those who forget to wear green has become a playful tradition, adding to the holiday’s spirited fun.
St. Patrick’s Day is more than a celebration of Irish pride; it’s a day that unites people of all backgrounds in the joy of shared culture and festivity. Whether through raising a glass, enjoying a parade, or learning a bit of Irish history, the holiday offers everyone a chance to feel a little Irish for the day.
As the day winds down, you might find yourself reflecting on the true meaning of St. Patrick’s Day, which is, of course, to celebrate Irish culture and heritage – while also enjoying a good laugh and perhaps a few too many drinks. Saint Patrick, who lived during the 5th century, is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. According to legend, he used the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity to Irish pagans, making the three-leaf clover one of the most recognizable symbols of the day. The holiday marks the anniversary of his death, blending religious traditions with festive cultural expressions.
So, raise a glass, share a joke, and remember everyone is a little Irish on March 17th, especially after a few rounds! And Happy Birthday to my favourite leprechaun and lucky charm – H.L.R.
Mary Racioppo Editor-In-Chief, City Parent
stay active
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS WHO ARE NOT INTO COMPETITIVE SPORTS
Competitive sports provide a wonderful opportunity for children to be physically active. That’s a notable benefit and one that could help to confront a growing problem of overweight and obesity among modern youths.
Data from the World Health Organization indicates 37 million children under the age of five were overweight in 2022, while more than 390 million youngsters between the ages of five and 19 were overweight or obese in that same year. In addition, the percentage of children and adolescents across the globe who qualified as obese in 2022 had grown considerably since 1990, increasing from 2 to 5 per cent during that span.
Sports can definitely help to remedy the overweight and obesity epidemic among youths across the globe, but what about children who are not into competitive athletics? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all children and adolescents, including non-athletes, get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day. That might sound difficult for parents of non-athletes,
but there are a number of physical activities beyond organized athletics that can ensure kids get all the exercise they need.
Dancing:
The National Institutes of Health notes that dancing is both an exciting and effective workout that benefits the body in myriad ways. Dancing is a versatile form of exercise that encompasses everything from ballroom dancing to salsa. The NIH notes that dancing is a great cardiovascular exercise that also helps to build strong bones and muscles and improve balance. Dancing also is a social activity, which means it can provide many of the same benefits related to social interactions that are often attributed to team sports.
Hiking:
Hiking is another physical activity that can provide great exercise for youngsters who are not into competitive sports. According to Piedmont Health, hiking is a wholebody exercise that gets the heart pumping, making it a wonderful cardiovascular activity. Cardiovascular exercise has been linked to a number
DATA FROM THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION INDICATES 37 MILLION CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF FIVE WERE OVERWEIGHT IN 2022, WHILE MORE THAN 390 MILLION YOUNGSTERS BETWEEN THE AGES OF FIVE AND 19 WERE OVERWEIGHT OR OBESE IN THAT SAME YEAR.
of benefits, including a lower risk for conditions such as heart disease, stroke and high cholesterol. Hiking also is considered a weight-bearing exercise that helps to build muscle mass.
Skateboarding:
Skateboarding has come a long way since modern parents were children. Though skateboarding might once have been frowned upon due to skateboarders’ penchant for practicing in places that were off limits, the perception of skateboarding has now changed dramatically, and the activity is touted as great exercise. A 2018 study published in the journal Gait & Posture found that skateboarding helps participants develop a strong sense of balance. The motions required to ride a skateboard also help to increase
heart rate, which can provide a boost to cardiovascular health.
Cycling:
Many young children love riding their bikes, and it’s worth noting that an afternoon of cycling provides an incredible full-body workout. The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health notes that the health benefits associated with cycling include improved cardiovascular fitness, stronger muscles, greater coordination and general mobility, and reduced body fat. Cycling also has been linked to improved mental health, as riding a bike releases feel-good endorphins that can reduce stress.
Children and adolescents who are not into competitive sports can choose from an array of physical activities that provide a host of health benefits.
MARCH BREAK CAMPS
in the kitchen MAKE BAKING FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY
Family fun can entail many things, but producing delicious food in the kitchen is a popular way for adults and children to get together and let loose. Teaching kids how to follow a recipe and produce a finished meal imparts important lessons in everything from measuring to math to science. Cooking also shows kids that followthrough can lead to delicious results. Any recipe will do when cooking with kids. However, baking desserts may be particularly enticing to youngsters who won’t want to wait to dig into a sweet treat. Plenty of things can enhance the enjoyment factor of baking for children. Families can explore these ideas to make baking more fun.
Accept the mess
Expecting baking to be a tidy process is setting yourself up for failure. Kids, particularly younger children, may not have the dexterity needed to keep everything neat and clean. Prepare for spills, flour trails on counters, poorly cracked eggs, and sticky situations. Keep a damp cloth nearby and go with the flow. Dress baking
participants in clothes that can get soiled or invest in matching aprons.
Assign age-appropriate tasks
Young kids will want to get in on the action, so figure out which tasks they can safely handle. These include measuring ingredients, mixing with a spoon, scooping batter into pans or tins, and adding chips or sprinkles to items. Adults should man electrical equipment and knives and handle tasks that involve a stove.
Let kids choose flavours and colours
Cater the recipe to the kids’ likes and tastes. They will be more likely to participate fully if the end result features flavours, they enjoy.
Explore the sensory experience
Enable kids to feel the different textures of the ingredients, from the coarse sugar to the silky flour. Talk about how ingredients change in texture when they are blended together and baked. Let kids watch
baking soda bubble when an acid is added to it.
Try smaller tools
Invest in a set of kid-sized baking tools, such as spoons and spatulas, to make them easier to maneuver with small hands.
Encourage creativity
Let children come up with funny names for their creations, and don’t cringe if they combine food colours or shapes that might not turn out so pretty. Be encouraging of the process and the results so kids want to continue baking in the future.
Listen to upbeat music
Music can help set the tone of the baking experience. Have children pick some of their favorite songs and let that playlist run in the background. Bounce and dance along while ingredients are being combined. Baking is an activity that family members of all ages can take part in. The process is more fun for children with some planning.
Magician
AVÈNE EAU THERMALE
Did you know over time, skin cells in the dermis and epidermis lose vitality, leading to reduced elasticity, sagging skin, and altered facial contours. The youthful “triangle of youth” inverts, creating a tired appearance. Skin also becomes thinner, drier, uneven in tone, and prone to dark spots.
Redensifying Day Cream
50ml – $62.00
With its luxurious, lightweight, and melting texture, this day cream enhances skin density and restores facial contours.
Intensive Resculpting Night
Cream 40ml – $79.00
Boosts cell renewal and collagen with:
• 2% Pro-Ceramides: Strengthens the epidermis.
• 2% Niacinamide: Evens tone and renews cells.
• 1% Bakuchiol: Promotes collagen synthesis.
Use nightly or as a 10-minute mask 1–3 times weekly.
Filler Eye Contour Cream 15ml tube – $60.00
Featuring a massaging applicator and a unique hydranourishing formula, smooths wrinkles and refreshes the entire eye contour area for a more youthful look.
Concentrated Resculpting
Serum 30ml – $77.00
Blends the lightweight feel of a serum with the soothing richness of an oil. It’s deeply nourishing yet non-greasy, leaving your skin plumped and revitalized.
The DERMABSOLU Solution
Avène Dermatological Laboratories proudly presents DERMABSOLU, a groundbreaking anti-aging range. In just one month, the “triangle of youth” is visibly resculpted. DERMABSOLU enhances skin density, redefines facial contours, and delivers deep, nourishing care.
OUTDOOR SOCCER
MIMAR
A female-founded, made-inCanada skincare brand unveils its latest innovation: Ultra Vit C Concentrate. This science-backed formula delivers a potent 15% stable Vitamin C to brighten skin, target hyperpigmentation, and reduce wrinkles. Part of Mimar’s luxurious skincare lineup, Ultra Vit C Concentrate reflects the brand’s commitment to blending nature with biotechnology. Since 2021, founder Mona Ebrahimi has championed high-performance, accessible skincare that redefines luxury. “Our goal is to make indulgent, resultsdriven skincare available to all,” says Ebrahimi. mimarskin.com
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Mimar’s collection includes:
1. Ultra Vit C Concentrate – Clinically proven to fade dark spots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation. – $68.00
2. Ultra Hydrating Serum – Deep hydration with Red Algae. – $55.00
Marc Anthony – Grow Long AntiFrizz Shield Ultimate Blowout Spray
Transform your hair with this innovative spray, designed to leave it sleek, glossy, and free of frizz. It reduces blow-dry time, shields your strands from heat damage, and ensures lasting smoothness and radiant shine. $13.99 available at amazon.ca, Shoppers Drug Mart/Pharmaprix and Walmart
Dove – Crème Serum Collection
Marc Anthony – Strictly Curls Strength & Shine Supreme Oil
This premium curl oil deeply nourishes and fortifies your hair, restoring moisture for stronger, smoother, shinier, and healthier curls with less breakage. Enriched with castor, coconut, and jojoba oils, along with rosemary and biotin, its lightweight, non-greasy formula hydrates, tames frizz, and supports scalp health. Ideal for curls and coils, it boosts definition and shine without leaving any residue or weight. $12.99 available at amazon.ca, Shoppers Drug Mart/Pharmaprix and Walmart
Dove introduces the NEW Crème Serum Collection – a breakthrough in body care, developed with dermatologists and tested by real women. While facial skincare dominates routines, the other 94.5% of your skin deserves the same care. Infused with powerhouse ingredients like niacinamide, collagen peptides, and pro-retinol, these six body serums deliver transformative results beyond basic hydration. $17.99 each available at amazon.ca & major grocery and health retailers
Ann Clark Ltd. – The Vault Collection
Ann Clark’s Vault Collection debuts January through May, featuring a surprise limitededition cookie cutter each month. “This celebrates our legacy and fans’ creativity,” says CEO Ben Clark. The first release, a Pair of Hearts cutter, is available now online and in select shops. January 9th - A Pair of Hearts – launched, February 6th, the Puzzle Piece – launched, March 6th ,the Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis spp.) Flower, while supplies last. $2.99 each. April 3rd ?? and May 1st ?? Visit Ann Clark’s website for details. annclark.com
how cute is this?
PETIT LEM 2025 LAYETTE COLLECTION
THE IRRESISTIBLE 2025 PETIT LEM LAYETTE COLLECTION WHERE COMFORT MEETS TIMELESS CHARM.
Designed for your little ones, this collection features ultra-soft, sustainable fabrics and adorable, seasonally inspired styles. Perfect for snuggles and everyday adventures, each piece combines quality and functionality, ensuring your baby feels cosy and looks adorable all year round. The layette collection has many themed patterns to choose from, including: Bunnies & Bloom, Petit Posy Print, Bouquet on Cherry Blossom, Fresh Floral, Little Ducklings, Baby Bunny, Baby Cub, Little Lion, Night Sky and On the Ark. Available online at Petit lem at petitlem.com or The Hudson’s Bay, & local children’s boutiques across North America.
Little Lions Print 4-pack Socks (Recommended 3-5 pairs)
Little Cub Print Kimono l/s Bodysuits
On the Ark 4-pack Preemie Set (Recommended 2-3)
Bouquet Print on Cherry Blossom Pink Sleeper (Recommended 6-8)
Little Ducklings & Fresh Floral s/s Bodysuits (Recommended 6-8)
Petite Posy Print on Off-White Sleeper
Little Cub Print on Navy Take Me Home Set (2-3)
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
WHAT’S UNDER THE COVERS THIS MONTH
The Bears and the Magic Masks
Written
By Joseph Dandurand & Illustrations by Elinor
Atkins
In an enchanted forest, a family of bears discovers magical masks granting incredible powers. But when the youngest bear awakens a fearsome guardian, they must prove their worth to protect their home. Through courage, teamwork, and love, the bears learn that true magic lies not in the masks, but within themselves.
Published by: Nightwood Editions. Pages: 32. Ages: 6-8. Price: $15.95
Brady Brady and the Teammate Turnaround
Written by Mary Shaw & Illustrations by Chuck Temple
It’s time to sort things out! Brady and his best friend Chester are excited, but things take a turn when Chester is placed on a different team, separated from the Ice Hogs and Brady. Heartbroken, he decides to quit, leaving his goalie gear outside the arena. Can Brady convince Chester to keep playing, even on a different team?
Published by Scholastic Canada. Pages: 32. Ages: 4-8. . Price: $7.99
Aaron’s Hair (Revised Edition)
Written
by
Robert Munsch
Aaron lets his hair grow long to resemble his dad. When it begins to bother him, he exclaims, “I can’t stand you, hair!” Suddenly, the hair leaps off his head and takes off. As Aaron chases after it in a panic, the hair clings to nearly everyone and everything in sight, causing a massive traffic jam.
Written by Robert Munsch & Illustrations by Michael Martchenko
On their way home from school, Ruth takes a tumble and scrapes her knee. Luckily, an ambulance picks her up, with Barbara tagging along. But once they arrive at the hospital, the waiting begins… and never seems to end! Bored and restless, the girls start exploring and discover a hospital bed full of mysterious buttons. Question: what do they all do?
Published by: Scholastic Canada. Pages 32. Ages: 3-7. Price: $8.99
Pig the Pug
Written by Aaron Blabey
Meet Pig, the world’s greediest pug! Grumpy, selfish, and downright rude, Pig refuses to share his toys with his housemate, Trevor, the sausage dog. No matter how nicely Trevor asks, Pig only has one answer, “They’re mine. GO AWAY!” Determined to keep everything for himself, Pig piles his toys high and climbs to the very top. But his greed soon leads to a hilarious downfall!
When Kayla invites Piper over to play, she can’t stop smiling – especially when Piper asks her to visit her house, too! But there’s one problem: Piper’s house has a front step, and Kayla can only visit on weekends when her dad can help her inside. As the girls share new adventures in each other’s homes, their friendship grows. Wanting to make things easier for Kayla, Piper puts her creativity to work and comes up with a special surprise – one that will ensure Kayla can visit anytime!
Published by: Scholastic Canada. Pages 24. Ages: 3-7. Price: $8.99 Board book
KLORANE
Achieve glassy, hydrated hair with Klorane’s first-ever prickly pear hair care line! Inspired by the medicinal Prickly pear’s ability to thrive in dry conditions, this range delivers 72 hours of hydration and shine to revive dull, dehydrated hair. Made with 100% organic, fair-trade prickly pear extract sourced from a family farm in Puebla, Mexico, it’s packed with moisture-regulating properties. With 99% natural-origin ingredients, no silicones, sulfates, or mineral oils, and eco-friendly packaging made from recycled plastic, this clinically proven line cares for your hair, scalp, and the planet. Available at Shoppers Drug Mart.
Plumping Mask 250ml – $32.50
Get soft, bouncy hair in just five minutes with the Plumping Mask! Its high-tech formula, infused with liquid crystals, boosts hydration and re-plumps your hair for a luxurious, ultra-sensory experience.
Quenching Conditioner
200ml – $24.50
Lock in hydration with the Quenching Conditioner! It detangles your hair while sealing the cuticles to protect the fibres, leaving your locks smooth, nourished, and perfectly hydrated.
Quenching Shampoo
400ml –$24.50
The ultimate hydration boost! Quenching Shampoo delivers up to 72 hours of lasting hydration and doubles your hair’s shine without weighing it down. Its gentle, plantbased cleansing formula ensures a thorough clean while protecting your hair fibres for healthier, radiant locks.
MILES THE LABEL
Say farewell to the cold and hello to sunny escapes with Miles the Label’s brand-new swimwear collection, designed with UPF 50+ sun protection!
Crafted from recycled nylon and polyester, these eco-friendly swimsuits are as kind to the planet as they are to your little one’s skin. The collection has everything they need for a stylish splash – rash guard tees, long-sleeve tops, swim trunks, two-piece sets, and one-pieces, all featuring playful, sunshine-ready prints.
Whether you’re gearing up for a winter getaway or getting a head start on summer, these vibrant swimsuits let kids soak up the sun safely – so they can focus on riding the waves! milesthelabel.com
4. Canal Blue Polo Rash guard – $44.00 & Flamingo Print on Canal Blue Swim Trunks – $40.00
5. Striped Bluejay & White Swim Trunks – $40.00
6. Flamingo Print on Canal Blue Long-Sleeve Swimsuit – $50.00
7. Pineapple Print on Birch Swimsuit – $44.00
8. Palm Tree Viscose Blend Camp Shirt – $48.00 & Palm Tree Print on Birch Swim Trunks – $40.00
9. Hibiscus Print on Golden Hour Plush Swimsuit – $46.00
10. Embossed Seashell Print on Ribbed Coral Long-Sleeve Rash guard Swim Set – $55.00
11. Birch Terry Cloth Polo – $40.00 & Pineapple Print on Black Swim Trunks – $40.00
family fun
ADVENTURES IN TIME TRAVEL AT ST. MARIE AMONG THE HURONS
WORDS BY ANDREW HIND
It’s March. The kids are off for a week and are itching for some excitement. What greater adventure could there be than to travel back to the 17th century? The past is closer than you think. No time travelling DeLorean automobile required. Just an hour drive from Toronto, destination St. Marie among the Hurons in Midland.
Every March Break the historic site welcomes youngsters for Adventures in Time Travel.
St. Marie among the Hurons, recreating a Jesuit mission that was the first European settlement in what is now Ontario, shakes off the snow for a week of engaging activities and historic interpretation designed to feed curious minds.
Stepping through the gates of the palisaded community, you are transported back in time to 1639 Wendake, the historic name for this region that was Wendat (Huron) called home. The mission was a
fusion of two cultures, and you’ll meet both in the form of European donnes (laypeople) and First Nations individuals. Similarly, activities are a blend of the two.
Children will have the opportunity to make traditional Wendat cornhusk dolls and play Indigenous games. They can also plant the ‘three sisters’corn, beans, and squash, all staples of the Wendat diet - and then bring them home to start their own home garden plot. Elsewhere, they can try their
hands at making clay pots and watch as skilled hands weave a birchbark basket.
The mission consists of more than a dozen buildings, ranging from a tailor’s shop (try on historical costumes and become a donne) and sleeping quarters to a barn, church, and blacksmith’s workshop where the artisan works at his forge.
As you explore these buildings on a self-guided tour, engage in a scavenger hunt by looking for a series of historical objects. If the weather is inclement or if little legs aren’t up for the walk, there’s also an indoor scavenger hunt.
Timed historical presentations run throughout the day. These include listening to Indigenous stories and sampling historic teas in the longhouse, learning traditional means of starting fires in the 17th century, and cooking bannock (a type of bread fired in a pan) over a fire.
St. Marie ultimately had a tragic end: it was destroyed in 1649 during wars with the Iroquois and its inhabitants fled. Thankfully, our time at the mission ends before this sad event. As the sun begins to dip and the air cools, we say goodbye to the 17th century and travel back to the future.
Best of all, we can always return next year.
JUST THE FACTS
Tickets for Adventures in Time Travel are $12 (tax included). Children 5 and under are free. Ontario Teachers, Members of the Canadian Military, and Indigenous peoples are eligible for free admission with valid ID Mon., March 10 to Fri., March 14 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca
MARCH 2025 MOVIE PICKS FROM OLD TO MODERN DAY CLASSICS
The Goonies (1985) Warner Brothers
The Goonies is an adventurous tale about a group of misfit kids from the Goon Docks neighborhood who stumble upon an ancient treasure map. Desperate to save their homes from foreclosure, their friends embark on a thrilling quest to find the long-lost treasure of the legendary pirate One-Eyed Willy. As they navigate treacherous caves filled with booby traps and rival treasure hunters, they face challenges that test their courage and friendship.
Yours, Mine and Ours (1968) & (2005) Paramount Pictures, MGM, and Nickelodeon
A comedic family film that follows the story of Frank Beardsley, a widower with eight children, and Helen North, a widowed mother of ten. When the two meet and fall in love, they decide to marry and blend their large families together. The chaos that ensues is both humorous and heartwarming as the children from both sides struggle to adjust to their new living situation.
Herbie Goes Bananas (1980) Walt Disney
The lovable, humanlike Volkswagen Beetle Herbie finds himself in a tropical paradise, where he teams up with a young boy named Pete and a charming but hapless race car driver, who are both caught up in a plot involving a group of thieves. As Herbie showcases his unique abilities, hilarity ensues when he helps his friends thwart the criminals and navigate outrageous challenges, all while proving that friendship and teamwork can conquer all obstacles.
Daddy Day Care (2003) Columbia Pictures
Gus (1976) Walt Disney Productions
A family comedy that centres around a lovable but clumsy donkey who has a unique talent for kicking field goals. When the financially struggling California Atoms football team discovers Gus’s extraordinary ability, they decide to sign him as their secret weapon. With the help of the team’s quirky players and coaches, Gus becomes an unexpected star, bringing hope and excitement to the down-and-out team.
Charlie and Phil, two recently laidoff fathers, decide to start a daycare centre at home to make ends meet. As they navigate the challenges of taking care of rambunctious young children, they face chaos that pushes their parenting skills to the limit. With their unconventional methods and a lot of heart, they learn valuable lessons about fatherhood, creativity, and the importance of nurturing a fun and loving environment. As their daycare gains popularity, the dads prove that they can handle the challenges of childcare while also fostering meaningful connections with their kids.
How do you know if a leprechaun likes your jokes? He’ll be Dublin over with laughter!
Where do leprechauns hang out on sunny days?
The Paddy-o!
Why did the leprechaun lose the race?
He jigged instead of jogging!
LEPRECHAUN LAUGHS
AGA KHAN MUSEUM Ignite your young artist’s imagination with a brilliant journey of creativity at the Aga Khan Museum’s March Break Camp. From March 10 to 14, children aged 6 to 12 will explore the boundless inspiration of light through hands-on activities, creative storytelling, and interactive art projects. Inspired by the Museum’s Collections and the current exhibition Light: Visionary Perspectives, campers will create their own masterpieces while discovering the cultural significance of light in art and architecture. learn@agakhanmuseum.org | agakhanmuseum.org/marchbreakcamp
416.646.4677
77 Wynford Drive Toronto, ON agakhanmuseum.org
CONSERVATION HALTON It’s the sweetest time of the year! Maple Season returns to Mountsberg and Crawford Lake Conservation Areas from March 1 to April 6 on weekends, holidays, and March break. At Mountsberg’s Maple Town, explore the sugarbush, see 150-year-old maple trees tapped, and learn about traditional syrup-making. Enjoy syrup samples, hot pancakes, and maple taffy on snow, or grab maple treats from the Country Cabin. Activities include horse-drawn wagon rides, candle making, maple sugar making, and visiting barn animals and birds of prey. Kids can take on the new Sugar Ranger Challenge! Sweet Water Season at Crawford Lake: Discover Indigenous maple sugaring in a 15th-century Longhouse Village, taste maple and birch syrup, enjoy taffy on snow, and relax by the fire. conservationhalton.ca/mapleseason 905.208.0030
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 endless laughter. 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. 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.comflyingsquirrelhamilton
HAMILTON CONSERVATORY FOR THE ARTS Unlock a summer of creativity and fun for your child in Hamilton! Let your child’s imagination soar at our exciting summer day camps! From musical theatre to drama, visual arts, dance, and music, the Hamilton Conservatory for the Arts offers a diverse range of art experiences to inspire creativity and foster lifelong friendships. With a different theme each week, there’s endless excitement in store as students embark on new projects and explore their passions. Our camps run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with convenient before and aftercare options available. Registration for our 2025 Summer Camps is now open! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to allow your child to discover their talents and make lasting memories. Our popular camps fill up fast – be sure to secure your spot today!
info@hcarts.ca | HCArts.ca
905.528.4020
info@hcarts.ca HCArts.ca
THE OAKVILLE SOCCER CLUB has been providing a positive soccer experience to the community of Oakville since 1972. The Club delivers year-round soccer programming for all ages and skill levels, starting with our youngest soccer stars (2 years-old), and progressing all the way to Adult League (ages 18+). Along their soccer journey, players can enjoy recreational or competitive levels of the game following OSC’s Player Pathway! Currently, registration is open for Youth Summer Soccer (Ages 2 – 18) and Summer Camp! Spaces are filling quickly! Sign up today to lock in your spot for soccer fun! oakvillesoccer.ca | info@oakvillesoccer.ca
POWER SOCCER offers dynamic and enjoyable soccer camps and programs that since 1996 are completely focused on player development. Soccer programs are available for players of all skill levels from beginner to advanced/ competitive players. We offer year-round co-ed programs, as well as girls only classes for children ages 4 to 15 years old. Register for our weekly soccer schools, Winter Break, March Break, summer, and PA day camps. In our programs, players will work on shooting, passing, receiving, dribbling, movement with and without the ball, positioning and more! Plus at our Summer Camps, we have a Power Soccer “Olympics” and “World Cup” each week! Participants at our camps will also receive a “Power Pack” (jersey and hat), plus a Player Report detailing their progress, strengths, and areas to improve on. Camp registration is available for full days, half day mornings or afternoons. We also offer extended care with early drop-off and late pickup. info@powersoccer.ca | powersoccer.ca
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
416.425.6062 powersoccer.ca
905.403.9435
2301 Royal Windsor Dr. Unit 1, Mississauga info@studiopavas.com studiopavas.com
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
Join us this March Break, March 8th -16th, for the Ultimate Science Extravaganza! Don’t miss out on this exciting combination of science, edutainment, and discovery. Join us from 11am-2pm daily for a one-of-a-kind Science Show and event that will ignite your curiosity. Plan your visit today at torontozoo.com
