Central Education Guide - Winter 2013

EDUCATION AND CAMPS WINTER 2013

• Seeing things

Program helps students notice stuff others miss

• March is coming fast

Helping out Schools work to make their communities better

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It’s never too early to start thinking about Spring Break camps

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EDUCATION AND CAMPS WINTER 2013

LET’S MAKE ART: Branksome Hall’s Nev takes a short break from creating her plasticine masterpiece.

• Seeing things

Program helps students notice stuff others miss

• March is coming fast

It’s never too early to start thinking about Spring Break camps

ng out Helpi ls work to make their Schoo communities better

Another

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HELPING HANDS: Students from across the city find ways to make their communities better places to live.

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THE BIG CHOICE: Doing your homework could mean the difference between a wonderful educational experience for your child and getting ripped off.

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DID YOU SEE THAT? Teaching

students to notice the things that others miss.

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IMPORTANT TRAIT: Why being intellectually curious will stand you in good stead.

13–18

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from many of the exciting things that our schools and students have been up to.

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SPRING’S COMING: It’s never

too early to start planning for March Break.

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PEOPLE TO BE PROUD OF:

Three great folks share their inspiring tales.

Plus lots more!

WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE

Community partnerships

Reaching out Havergal College students bring their skills to those in need of help

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By Ann Ruppenstein

n 2009, a group of Havergal College students wanted to engage in community partnership through sports. After teaming with several schools around the city, the sporty days were so successful the students came up with the idea for a two-week long community sports camp.

“The coaches are national team and Olympic athletes so that’s really neat and that, in its first year, was really tiny and it’s now capping at 100 campers and it’s just got great traction,” says Havergal’s Ann Peel.

The Jumpstart Athletes in Motion Sport for Community Camp, which takes place at the school in August, is attended by students from schools like Derrydown Public School, Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute and Lawrence Heights Middle School and features camp counselors from Havergal, as well as their friends, and former campers who came back to volunteer after graduating.

“We’ve got kids from high schools all over the city really being [leaders in training] and camp counsellors as word spreads of this opportunity,” says Peel. “They’re volunteers, they just do it for fun but they get to play sports for two weeks with these kids and get to know them and then those kids can come back and be counsellors and [leaders in training] and it’s just a really virtuous circle of engagement and participation.”

As director of the Institute at Havergal College, Peel says its role is to bring the school’s mission to prepare young women to make a difference in the world to life. As part of the process, they focus on community partnerships but they also run other initiatives for students including international excursions and service projects.

“It’s essentially a vehicle for students to bring a change in the world in community partnerships,” Peel says. “We are mainly engaging in our own world in Toronto, they learn about different people and develop relationships with those people and become familiar with different ways of living.”

Most of the local community partnerships stem from students’ ideas and in the current school year include a partnership with Grenoble Public School, where they do homework and explore what it means to be Canadian with a group of grade 5 students, and an online radio show for Accessible Media Inc. called Teen Talk.

“Our students are working on a youth-oriented radio show for youth who are blind so the radio show is oriented towards entertainment

EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

Photo Courtesy Havergal College

RUN AND READ: Among their partnerships within the community, students from Havergal College work with students from Pauline Johnson Junior Public School where they help exercise both the students’ bodies and minds.

and they essentially review what’s been in print on youth entertainment and turn it into a radio show,” she says.

Havergal students also partner with students from Pauline Johnson Junior Public School to focus on running and reading in a program called Start2Finish.

“We run with kids for an hour and then we read with them for an hour building literacy and physical activity as well,” Peel says, adding that the program takes place once a week outside of school hours. “Then we have a relationship with Best Buddies, which is on more of an occasional basis where our girls buddy with kids with disabilities and they do things together throughout the year on a more occasional basis.”

Every year, the school also holds a Celebration Saturday, which includes a bake sale, auction, games and farmers market, in support of the school’s community partnerships. This year the event raised $54,755, which supports the projects.

“At our partnership with Lawrence Heights

Middle School, they are going to be supporting a video game design program that’s been made part of the after school programming that we’re doing,” Peel says. “Essentially the students decide with the partners what the proposal is for the funding, so we try to have it be so that the partnership can do something they otherwise wouldn’t be able to do.”

Through the experience, the biggest thing students takeaway is the relationships they build with other kids, she says.

“You only learn so much sitting in a classroom,” Peel says. “You can learn the theory of the world sitting in a classroom. It’s very important to get out and experience the world both in our own city and internationally we think to bring that knowledge of the world to life.”

“You can only learn so much sitting in a classroom.”

St. Clement’s students get a taste of what needs to be done

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By Paula Sanderson

ecked out in red T-shirts, 470 girls from St. Clement’s School headed out into the community and volunteered at 28 different charities on Dec.17.

From daycares to food banks, Clementines embraced the school’s second annual Community Service Day. “I think we’re so fortunate,� says grade 11 student Joanne Whyte. “I have an amazing family, I live in Toronto, and we’re so lucky to go to an amazing school. There are a lot of people who just aren’t as fortunate so to be able to give back and help them is very important to me.�

For her part, Whyte volunteered at St. Michael’s Day Care. “I love working with kids, so clearly coming to a day care was a good option,� says Whyte. “It’s really neat how the CONTINUED Page 7

paula sanderson/town crier

BUNDLE UP: A pair of St. Clement’s School students prepare to take a group of preschoolers out to play during the school’s annual Community Service Day.

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WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE

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Community partnerships

A day for charity

Community partnerships

Learning to help

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Commitment to a cause key for TFS students

By Tristan Carter

tories and smiles filled the room as a group of grade 8 students from TFS visited a nearby nursing home before the holidays.

There was a noticeable age gap between participants but few lulls in their conversations. The students seemed glad to be there, and the residents of the Salvation Army Isabel and Arthur Meighen Manor seemed to welcome the visit.

“They don’t really get to see a lot of young people so I think it made them happy to be able to talk to us and get to know us,” said TFS student Alyssa Kastner of the residents. “One of them, she knew my school when it was just a little house and her dad used to horseback ride around the school so I thought that was really cool.”

The inter-generational gathering was one of nine community events attended by TFS staff, students and parent volunteers on the morning of Dec. 6. Groups of students visited places such as the North York Women’s Shelter and Moorelands Community Centre. In all, 90 grade 8’s left their classrooms to lend a helping hand.

According to the school’s dean of student affairs, Kim English, a special emphasis is placed on volunteerism at TFS. “I think that there’s a lot that

tristan carter/town crier

HERE TO LISTEN: TFS student Alyssa Kastner, left, spent the morning of Dec. 6 talking to residents of Isabel and Arthur Meighen Manor, including Joan Mansfield, as part of her school’s community service day.

students can learn through these experiences,” English said. “People talk about educating the whole child and empathy is a huge part.”

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EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

For many of the students, it was their first taste of community service but they will have several more chances to help out in later grades.

All Ontario high school students are to give 40 hours of volunteer work to the community. The International Baccalaureate program provided at TFS also requires community service, but the school has taken it a step further, asking students to make a long term commitment to a non-profit organization.

“We’ve kind of taken that requirement and we’ve sort of put our TFS spin on it,” English said.

“It’s more meaningful for organizations and for the students to volunteer in the same place for a longer period of time because the students really get to know that organization and the issues that surround it.”

In grade 11, students are asked

to find time to volunteer at least once a week for several months, depending on what kind of work they are doing. In the past, young volunteers have spent time with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Lawyers Feed the Hungry and Out of the Cold as part of their long term service projects.

After her time at Meighen Manor, Kastner said she hopes to lend her time to help seniors.

“I really like working with the elderly so I’ll probably do something like that for my service project,” she said.

Next year, she and others in grades 9–11 will be eligible to take part in a community service trip outside of their own community — all the way in Ecuador.

Last March Break, students helped build a clean water irrigation ditch for a small village. This com-

others ing year they may be tasked with helping to construct a new school.

English, who has been on the trip herself, admitted it can be bittersweet for the students.

“They loved it,” she said. “I think they especially loved being with the kids from the community. But there’s a lot of malnutrition. It was sad in many ways.”

Students don’t have to leave school to give back. The school’s Outreach Club organizes events such as World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine as well as various food drives for North York Harvest Food Bank and toy drives for the six families the school sponsors through Moorelands.

“We’re caring. We want to help other people,” said Gianni Prenol who spent the day packing gifts at Moorelands. “We’re all equally important here, some are just less fortunate than others.”

English said she hopes the volunteer trips helped hammer home that message for all of the students. After returning to school, the separate groups spoke to the rest of their grade about what they had seen and done that day.

“It’s really nice because even though these students were here they still get to benefit from hearing about all the other experiences too,” English said. “So as they get older they can then kind of decide what organizations they might be interested in.

“We try to work with organizations that can use the help of our students,” she said. “If we can send students out once in a while to engage and be helpful then we need to do that. It’s our responsibility as citizens to participate in and support our communities.”

“We’re caring. We want to help other people.”

tristan carter/town crier

SANTA’S HELPERS: Gianni Prenol, left and Grace Donahue help load up a cart full of gifts destined for those in need at the Moorelands Community Centre.

Cont. from Page 5

whole school gets out and goes through out Toronto and makes a big difference.”

Fellow student Mimi Dacon agrees. Dacon missed last year’s Community Service Day because she was volunteering in Kenya but was happy to be at St. Michael’s Day Care this year.

“Volunteering is fun for me because I know I’m doing something good for the community and it’s a break from homework,” she says smiling.

Dacon explained that all students in grades 9–12 were able to choose where they go.

“You go into the lunch room and there are different sign up sheets and there was gift wrapping, can food drives, sorting gifts, sorting clothes for other Christmas-related activities and because I love working with kids I picked this one,” she explained.

All Ontario high school students have to complete 40 hours of community service, but for Dacon volunteering is more than that.

“It shouldn’t just be to fill those required hours you need to graduate,” says Dacon. “I know my community has done so much for me and contributed so much to me and my childhood. As a high school student you reciprocate all that love you were given as a child you give back to your community.”

Guidance counsellor Vanessa Wade says that a volunteer event, like the school’s Community Service Day, is very important for students to undertake.

“The opportunity to be outside of our direct community I think is a great learning opportunity for them,” she says. “It’s the spirit of giving.”

Student Quinlan Hickey, who spent her day cooking food for the Out of the Cold program at Glenview Presbyterian Church, says she was very satisfied with the whole experience.

“It was a lot of fun,” says Hickey. “This really felt like you were helping someone directly.”

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WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE

A question of credibility

Ages 1.5years - 12years.

Choose wisely

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photo courtesy our kids media

Do your homework when picking a school

By Christelle Agboka

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www.sunnybrookschool.ca EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

very year, well-intentioned parents seek out private school education for their children. For these families, benefits such as academic enrichment, increased parental involvement and a safe, caring community of students and teachers outweigh the costs, financial or otherwise.

Because there are innumerable approaches to education, finding a school that matches one’s own perspective can create a positive, productive academic experience for your child. Whether you prefer the student-directed learning method of Montessori, or the arts-based curriculum of a Waldorf school, choosing the right school will not only allow students to thrive in a supportive environment and build independence, but also gain unique skills that fit their learning style.

With options ranging from boarding schools to modern alternative curricula, there is almost certainly a school to suit each and every child.

But parents must take the time to find the best fit for their child and avoid schools of questionable reputation.

Many private and independent schools belong to provincial, national or international associations that either govern their curriculum or operations, or provide professional development and support for teachers. This accreditation can be an important factor, as it provides a third party reference and credibility for the school.

However, media reports on credit mills — schools boosting student marks and reducing course requirements for a cost — loose regulations around starting up a private school and private school teacher and principal qualifications may give parents pause.

To help ensure the credibility of your private school options consider taking the following steps: Â Seek out private schools within larger associations such as the Ontario Federation

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of Independent Schools, Canadian Accredited Independent Schools and the Conference of Independent Schools of Ontario. According to Conference of Independent Schools Ontario director Jan Campbell, groups such as hers have “rigorous membership criteria ensure that member schools are reputable, financially stable institutions with strong academic programming.�

Once you’ve selected a few target schools, start your research beginning online. A strong website will provide links to information including academic and extra-curricular programming, accreditation, history/longevity and financial backing. Campbell also suggests looking for schools with strong financial backing that funds scholarships and bursaries.

Visit the school to further investigate its personnel, standards and general environment. While there, ask questions about critical points including teacher and staff qualifications, school governance and leadership structure (e.g., a strong board of governors working hand-inhand with school administration), curriculum and academic standards, opportunities for student learning outside of class, and graduate outcomes.

While there, you may also request the names of parents of current students to speak with at a later date.

Leave no stone unturned in your investigation. External sites such as the Ontario Ministry of Education will also prove helpful. Some of the resources available include consumer tips and a list of schools where creditgranting authority has been revoked.

Remember, private school education is an investment. Take the time to make sure your investment is sound.

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Give your kids the best school experience this year. Find top schools across the country at www. ourkids.net/school.

Getting the timing right

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Just when is the best time for your kids to start at a private or independent school?

By Eric Emin Wood

ith Ontario’s high school teachers cancelling extracurricular activities, and elementary school teachers across the province participating in rotating strikes, parents might be wondering if it’s a good time to look into enrolling their children in private or independent school.

But will grade 1 students succeed if they attended kindergarten in public school? Is grade 4 too late? What about grade 10?

Just when is the best time to enrol kids in private education?

Many private and independent school’s say that timing should be a personal decision due to many factors, including finances, proximity to the school and whether the child has siblings.

However, Montcrest School’s director of admissions Michael Dilworth says students should get started as soon as they can in order to be successful.

“In the elementary years you’re building that foundation for learning,” he says. “The only disadvantage, quite frankly, is the cost.”

Royal St. George’s College’s Tom Stevens says the best time to begin schooling outside the public system, if not from the beginning, is grade 7, calling grades 7, 8 and 9 incredibly formative years for boys.

“Boys tend to learn by doing, not necessarily by hearing or by reading,” he says. “For example, today I was teaching grade 10 math. In the last 10 minutes of class we took a walk outside. We looked at car headlights and talked about how they’re parabolic mirrors described by a quadratic equation, and the actual light doesn’t face out towards the road — it faces towards the mirror.”

Wayne McKelvey, principal of Metropolitan Preparatory Academy, recommends enrolling kids in grade 9 at the latest.

“We get inundated for grades 10,

11 and 12,” he says. “If parents are going into the private sector, the earlier the better.”

Havergal College perfers students to enroll at established entry

Is grade 4 too late?

What about grade 10?

points of either junior kindergarten, grade 1, grade 4, grade 7 or grade 9.

“As part of our planning for those entry points, we have a very

solid transition program in place — not just for our girls, but for their parents as well,” says the school’s director of admissions Maggie Houston-White.

We will encourage him to chase his dreams. At Sterling Hall,

we know that boys are a different breed. We understand their needs and realize how vital the formative JK to Grade 8 years are, preparing them for the rest of their lives. We use tactile tools and theme-based programming that appeal to boys, as well as reading strategies and hands-on activities that are all designed specifically for them. What’s more, we have small class sizes, low student-to-teacher ratios, leadership opportunities and excellent teachers willing to take the time to celebrate your boy’s individuality and strengths.

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25 YEARS STRONG WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE

Eye-opening curriculum

It’s all how you see it

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Teaching students a whole new way to think

By Lori Connor

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The School of Thought

10 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

or Branksome Hall and Upper Canada College, solving the world’s problems begins with a few magic tricks.

Illusionist Ray Chance treated a gym full of grade 8 students to exercises in misdirection: guessing cards, emptying cups of water and cutting open a grapefruit to reveal a $10 bill.

For most schools, it would be an entertaining diversion. But this show had education in mind. “They had a good way to keep our attention,� says Branksome Hall student Annalisa Lowenstein. “They’re teaching us a bunch of stuff in ways that we wouldn’t usually see.�

The magic served as a introduction to the Rotman School of Management’s annual iThink initiative at Branksome Hall, a day-long class in what it calls integrative thinking.

The purpose of the program is to make students notice things they wouldn’t have noticed before, says Nogah Kornberg, who has spent three years developing integrative thinking at Rotman. “There is too much information in the world for our brains to take it all in,� Kornberg says. “Our brains have developed in a way that we remember what we think is most important. Once we realize we miss information, we can be better at seeking it out and we can be better at trying to find cool things in the world that we may have missed otherwise.�

And by understanding that one’s viewpoint is limited and that other people perceive the world differently, students can come up with new, comprehensive solutions to some of the world’s problems. “A magician is such a perfect way to start the day,� Kornberg says. “Magic works because there’s stuff we’re paying attention to, but the stuff we don’t pay attention to is what makes magic so magical.�

After the show, students broke off into groups to explore displays designed to make them secondguess what they perceive.

In one room, they viewed unlabelled photographs of people and tried to guess why the subjects are famous. One yearbook photo of a pudgy, bespectacled boy garnered guesses like “CEO� or “computer programmer� — when it was really television personality Ryan Seacrest.

Students walked a gallery of optical illusions, watched a video on stereotypes, participated in debates, and built structures from spaghetti noodles by borrowing each other’s ideas. “I think they’ve taken a much different approach than a lot of the teachers I’ve had in the past,� says Kimathi Muiruri, one of the boys visiting from Upper Canada College. “It’s extremely different, but different in a good way, as in it includes us. It’s not just a teacher telling us about learning. It’s a teacher helping us learn how we learn. I like that approach because it gives us a chance to discover us, opposed to a test or a survey telling us who we are.�

Lowenstein also finds it effective. “I find it really useful to do hands-on work

photo courtesy Juila Drake

IT’S A MARSHMALLOW LESSON: Students from Branksome Hall and Upper Canada College work together to build a structure with spaghetti noodles, tape, string, and a marshmallow to teach them different ways of thinking.

because it’s a lot more interactive than sitting at a desk or on your computer,� she says.

The iThink program began at Branksome Hall four years ago, was originally designed for Masters of Business Administration and company executives, Kornberg says. Rotman first brought it to Branksome as a 10-week after-school class for grade 10 girls. “They demonstrated the capacity of young people to think if given the tools and the support to do so,� Kornberg says.

She says Rotman plans to further modify the program for children as young as kindergarten, encouraging their inherent curiosity and fostering it as they grow. “The full-day program, like the one here, is unique to UCC and Branksome Hall,� Kornberg says. Rotman is looking into expanding the curriculum into grades 8 through 10 at the school. “I have students who are in grade 11, and they remember this program,� says Branksome Hall teacher Giles Pinto. “They get challenged. “The research shows us: if the kids don’t feel comfortable, secure, connected to other people, particularly girls, we will have problems with learning.

We have to go back to that step and make them feel like they have the tools.�

Muiruri says that being equipped with these tools helps integrative thinkers to become better people. “You become an individual,� he says. “You become your own. I believe that if everybody was the same, it would be an extremely boring world, so I think learning how you perceive is good.�

Technological solution

Bayview Glen on top

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Robotics team on to provincials

By Ann Ruppenstein

hen Derek Gaudet joined Bayview Glen three years ago he joked that the newly formed robotics team were expected to win.

Last year, the boys’ Ctrl-Z robotics team won big.

“I was teasing them and they went off and they won, and they won at the regional level and then they won at the provincial level and then they came in third in the world,” says the assistant head of the prep school. “I again made another joke that got me in trouble when I said that if they had done well at the world level then I would think about hosting the tournament.”

This September, he was approached by Dave Ellis, the head of Ontario’s Robotics League about holding the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Lego League Robotics East Championship Qualifier on Dec. 1. He agreed to host the day which saw students apply their math and science knowledge to research, design, build and program autonomous robots using Lego Mindstorms software.

The focus of the regional competition was on ways to improve the quality of life for seniors. Over 100 students from ages 9 to 14 participated from nearly a dozen schools in Ontario. Management from Thales Canada, the engineering firm who sponsored the competition, physicians and professors from the University of Toronto were on hand to judge the event.

“We had a wide variety of professionals that took on the roll of judges and when I was watching them do their deliberation and make their final decisions I was just amazed at how dedicated they were to the process,” Gaudet says. “When I talked to them afterwards, they said that they had seen how much hard work and dedication the students had put into it that they felt that they owed it to the kids to put in as much as they did.”

For their “senior solution,” Bayview Glen’s girls’ iGo robotics team, which consisted of Danielle Tse, Imaan Hirji, Megan Lai, Katherine Tom and Sophie Warlow, came up with an idea to help seniors go up and down flights of stairs.

“Basically it is a front cross bar that a senior can hold onto while going up and down the stairs with a metal track installed on the side on the walls with screws that will lock when you put any pressure on it,” Lai says.

The competition was divided into different parts, including robot design, core values and the overall project, how well a team demonstrated its solution for a real-world problem, and the research behind its solution.

After dueling it out all day, Bayview Glen’s iGo robotics team came out on top at and advanced to the provincials in January.

“On that day of the robotics competition we were all pretty jumpy and jittery,” Warlow says. “We were excited but nervous, confident and excited at the same time. We didn’t know what to think but in the end it turned out really well and we all worked really well as a team and it came together very well.”

Aside from Lai, this is the first time the girls on the team participated in robotics and they signed up for the extra-curricular activity after hearing about how much fun she had, they say.

“The great thing about robotics is that it’s a real world experience, it’s not something out of the textbook, it encompasses many things,” Gaudet says. “It’s problem solving, it’s team building, it’s creative thinking, it’s programming a computer, it’s building a robot, and it just encompasses so many different facets that I think the students walk away having challenged themselves to something they’d never get in the classroom.”

photo courtesy bayview glen

MINDSTORM: Katherine Tom, left, Imaan Hirji and Danielle Tse helped their team iGo to win the FIRST Lego League Robotics East Championship Qualifier.

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Open HOuse dates: sat., February 23, 2013 - 11:00 am to 2:00 pm sat., april 20, 2013 - 11:00 am to 2:00 pm WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 11

Insight from educators

Kindling the fire Curiosity is an important trait for academic success

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By Martha Perry

verywhere you turn, there are articles, blogs, and books about education and the urgent need to acknowledge that its delivery and setting need to change. We are preparing our learners for a very different future, which requires us to reflect on the tools and approaches we use to enable their learning. There is a call for a drastic overhaul of our approach.

As a school leader, I find myself amazed by the innumerable concepts and approaches — sometimes defined in multiple ways — currently being presented in the field of education.

We hear about 21st century learning, collaboration, reflection,

visible learning and teaching, mindfulness, digital literacy, technological integration, and authentic and balanced assessment, to name but a few. And while these ideas are not necessarily complex, the difficulty lies in keeping up with them all — as one idea fades, several others replace it.

I often wonder how those not familiar with the educational realm feel. Certainly it is important that these topics are all considered as we work to prepare students for a future that is dynamic and unpredictable. I find that when faced with a deluge of information, I often seek the common elements

Jan 29 Feb 20 Apr 17 May 13

12 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

9:30-11:30am 9:30-11:30am 9:30-11:30am 9:30-11:30am

and understanding that we know to be true if our students are to truly benefit from whatever it is that education provides us — whether it be in the 21st or the 25th century.

Several years ago, in my role as director of admissions at St. Clement’s School, I found that families going through the admission process would ask me to describe a “typical Clementine.” I always found this question interesting as I believe strongly that there is simply not one “type” of student at any school. While all our girls share the identity of being St. Clement’s students, they arrive as, and will remain, individuals: diverse in their personalities, their perspectives and in their approaches to learning.

However, considering the question has caused me to reflect on what, if anything, is common to our students. The trait that comes to mind, as I consistently explained to families, was that our students all possess intellectual curiosity.

While I share this insight through a St. Clement’s lens, I would suggest that intellectual curiosity is fundamental to ensuring that all students are able to learn and grow, regardless of their school or education.

There is much to be said for the need to recalibrate our education to ensure that we have updated tools and spaces, and dynamic approaches to education, but when I read about the people who have made, or are making, an impact in our world, and when I witness students and staff achieving success in their learning, it highlights clearly that it is the presence of intellectual curiosity — and the nurturing of it — that drives meaningful learning and prepares student for the future.

To learn, we need to have a desire to inquire. It’s intellectual curiosity that drives us to ask questions and to seek answers. It is curiosity that drives us to try new things, take risks and learn from our mistakes.

It is our responsibility as educators to encourage this curiosity

photo courtesy Caley Taylor

ST. CLEMENT’S SCHOOL principal Martha Perry.

— to ensure that learning incorporates inquiry and creates time and space for discovery and that we, as educators, model intellectual curiosity.

As a Roman historian and biographer Plutarch put it: “The mind is not a vessel to be filled, but a fire to be kindled.”

As 21st century educators, using best practices and approaches to facilitate learning for our students, we must encourage, celebrate, and guide them to many moments of curiosity and risk-taking in their learning. This timeless approach will foster tremendous growth and sustainable learning, regardless of the shape of the future for which we are preparing them.

It will serve to kindle the fires in our learners.

Martha Perry is the principal of St. Clement’s School

School happenings

photo courtesy bayview glen

WELCOME BACK: Bayview Glen families, staff, faculty and friends joined the Fall Fest 2012 organized by the school’s Parent Guild.

A year in pictures

photo courtesy bayview glen

BIRD IS THE WORD: Bayview Glen students in grades 2 and 7 took part in a creative storytelling workshop in December.

photo courtesy TMS

photo courtesy TMS

SPARE A PENNY? TMS students collected change to help provide fresh water to those around the world who don’t have it.

UN-TRASHING THE NEIGHBOURHOOD: Members of TMS’s Green Club took to the streets in October to help clean-up the area.

WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 13

photo courtesy Sunnybrook School

WELL DESERVED TREAT: Sunnybrook School students Grace, left, Callan and Stella enjoy popsicles after participating in their school’s Sept. 26 field day.

photo courtesy Sunnybrook School

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO US: Sunnybrook School celebrated its 60th anniversary on Nov. 7. Just before cutting the cake the school’s director Irene Davy, centre, asked the assembled students which one would like the piece with the number six on it. Not surprisingly, figuring out which student received the coveted slice was no piece of cake.

14 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

photo courtesy holy name of mary college school

ON A MISSION: Girls from the Holy Name of Mary College School spent Dec. 6 in the community at various social service organizations as part of the school’s Day of Hope.

photo courtesy appleby college

SHOWING OFF: Appleby College students performed evening of classic rock, pop, blues and some original compositions at this fall’s Appleby Rocks! concert.

photo courtesy appleby college

AWARD-WINNING TEAMWORK: This fall, 77 Appleby College students received the silver-level Duke of Edinburgh Award — which focuses on community service, fitness and experiencing the outdoors.

photo courtesy branksome hall

IF I ONLY HAD THE HEART: Branksome Hall staged the Wizard of Oz with a twist, replacing Dorothy with flyer Amelia Earhart, played by Alex McVittie, left. Joining her are Liza Hersh and Katie Mergelas.

photo courtesy branksome hall

GOING GLOBAL: In October, Branksome Hall opened a new campus on Jeju Island, South Korea. The school currently has about 300 students, but enrolment is expected to climb to about 1,200 within a few years.

WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 15

photo courtesy Children’s Garden Nursery School

photo courtesy children’s garden school

‘TIS THE SEASON: Students at Children’s Garden Nursery School had a giving tree outside each class and pupils were encouraged to bring in an unwrapped toy for under the tree.

DEMOCRACY IN ACTION: Children’s Garden School’s Jake Rockandel casts his vote in the 2012–2013 student government election. Since public speaking is an important part of the curriculum, government is seen as a great way to teach it.

photo courtesy children’s garden school

SELLING THEIR WARES: Members of the Principal’s Club at Children’s Garden School sold handmade items to raise funds for Children of Hope Uganda.

16 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

photo courtesy havergal College

SOLIDARITY: For Global Dignity Day, Havergal College Upper School students painted and signed a poster in support of Pakistani student activist Malala Yousafzai, who was attacked by the Taliban for her women’s education campaign.

photo courtesy havergal College

GOOD HARVEST: Havergal College’s junior school Harvest Festival collected School collected a total of 620 kilograms of non-perishable food items for the North York Harvest Food Bank.

photo courtesy havergal College

INTERNATIONAL VISIT: Havergal College students traveled to India to participate in the Modern School’s Community Development and Leadership Summit. photo courtesy metro prep

FLEET OF FOOT: Metro Prep’s cross country had much to celebrate with 12-year-old Daniel Thompson earning his way to the podium finished second out of 140 runners in the under14 age category.

WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 17

photo courtesy metro prep

GIRLS DAY OUT: Members of Metro Prep’s Connections Girls program spent a day at Horseshoe Valley working on team building and survival activities. Each team had to build a shelter, purify water and problem solve together.

photo courtesy UTS

SUMMIT TALKS: UTS was one of only six schools from Canada to participate in the UN Climate Change Conference: COP18 Under-18 National Virtual Conferencing and Summit. Students connected with each other via video to put together a white paper on behalf of the youth of Canada to be presented to a parliamentary group before being taken to the UN conference in Qatar.

18 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

photo courtesy metro prep

MY MACHINE: Metro Prep student Michael Thorogood drives the robotic car he created and programmed as part of a group of students who get together and tinker with robotic cars and other devices. As they’ve become more familiar with how these little machines work, they’ve started trying to fix and improve them.

Find your perfect school A directory of private and independent schools for students from preschool to grade 12 Bayview Glen Whole Child. Whole Life. Whole World.

Founded in 1962, Bayview Glen is a co-educational, multicultural, university preparatory day school.

Our programmes are enhanced to offer our students from age two to university entrance a highly challenging academic, athletic and character-building educational experience.

Bayview Glen is committed to fostering a sense of community that includes students, parents, faculty and staff. The goal

of the programme is to develop the whole child by nurturing self-esteem, leadership, academic excellence and independence within a secure and supportive learning environment.

Each day at Bayview Glen is filled with new experiences, and opportunities are provided for both challenge and success.

Our academic and Advanced Placement programmes are balanced by a strong music and arts programme, languages,

physical education, Duke of Edinburgh Awards, outdoor adventuring, Round Square, community involvement, and cocurricular activities.

Please visit www.bayviewglen.ca for details.

Our Public Open House dates for 20122013 are as follows: Sat., Oct. 27, 2012 @ 1:00-3:00PM Wed., Nov. 21, 2012 @ 6:30-8:00PM Sat., Feb. 2, 2013 @ 1:00-3:00PM

Central Montessori Schools Central Montessori Schools: Help children reach their full potential Central Montessori Schools (CMS) is a nondenominational, co-educational private school that offers a Montessori learning environment that enhances each child's unique learning style. The school operates in five convenient locations in Thornhill and Toronto.

Montessori education is internationally established as one of the most effective methods to help children "learn how to learn", thus gaining independence and self-confidence.

During various stages of our Casa program, emphasis gradually shifts from basic motor skills and languages to development

of concentration, coordination, independence and sense of order. This leads the child to grasp writing, reading and mathematical concepts much more quickly. In our Elementary classrooms, we introduce hands-on material to assist in understanding concepts before they are committed to memory. Physical education, arts, French and various extra curricular activities help our students to achieve a holistic higher standard of education.

The schools follow a high quality, accredited Montessori curriculum, which helps each child to reach their full potential. The daily

activities promote the development of social skills, cognitive ability, self-esteem, emotional and spiritual growth, and a love for learning.

Central Montessori Schools is pleased to add a new Casa French Program at our Willowdale Campus. This program, for children 3-6 years of age is offered fully in French, taught by a certified Montessori teacher and follows the Montessori philosophy. The CMS Casa French class offers five half days (a.m./ p.m.) of five full days.

For information please visit our website at www.cmschool.net.

Children’s Garden Nursery School Creating a love of learning!

In our original location since 1986, Children’s Garden Nursery School has been providing a vibrant, loving and nurturing environment where children are introduced to both academic and social life. The ultimate goal of the school is to enable young children to reach

their full potential in areas of independence, confidence, cooperation, respect and academic learning.

Bright and stimulating classrooms, small group ratios, exceptional teachers, specialty programs that include French (AIM Gesture

Program), Sportball, Music and Drama are just an example of what makes Children’s Garden Nursery School the perfect foundation for any toddler, nursery or kindergarten aged child.

Please contact us directly to set up an appointment for your personal tour.

WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 19

Your perfect school Crescent School Crescent School: A Unique Educational Experience for Boys A school for boys since 1913, Crescent is committed to implementing the most current research into how boys learn. With this goal at the forefront of its educational vision, Crescent has just completed a stateof-the-art Middle School facility to accommodate the needs of adolescent boys.

Crescent’s greatest strength is its facul-

ty, and in this new space, they will continue their exceptional work in open, light-filled collaborative learning spaces overlooking a magnificent ravine setting. Crescent faculty consider teaching boys their profession, and educating boys their responsibility—combining a challenging academic programme with a superior array of co-cur-

ricular opportunities allowing each boy to find and develop his unique abilities.

The School’s core values of respect, responsibility, honesty and compassion guide the actions of all, enabling each student to progress from a boy of promise to an emerging man of character. For more information, visit www.crescentschool.org

Crestwood School 30 Years of Challenging Young Minds Crestwood School practises the traditional art of teaching by challenging young minds to learn and by structuring experiences that make learning possible. The school’s philosophy is based on tried-and-true methods of teaching the basics, thus providing students with a solid foundation in the three Rs. Homework and development of stu-

dents’ organizational skills and good work/study habits are an integral part of the program.

At the same time, Crestwood School is concerned with the “whole child” — striving to maintain the balance of a child’s physical, social and emotional development. Each teacher is the key.

With a well-planned program, a positive

rapport with each and every student, and a sense of commitment and dedication, Crestwood School’s goals are met!

Crestwood is located in the beautiful wooded valley at Bayview Avenue and Lawrence Avenue.

For more information please call us at 416-444-5858 or visit www.crestwood.on.ca

Hudson College Dedicated to developing the whole child Looking for a new school? At Hudson, we offer a challenging, nurturing and rewarding learning environment that allows students to reach their maximum potential. We are a co-ed, multicultural day school from PK to university entrance.

Recognized for our excellence in delivering a balanced curriculum, our small class sizes and promise of a Total Personal Support system dedicated to developing the whole child - aca-

demically, socially, and emotionally – ensure that all students receive the kind of individual attention needed to develop their special skills, strengths and interests. Our dedicated and experienced faculty care deeply about our students and their education.

They share a true passion for teaching, participating in all aspects of school life as mentors, coaches and leaders.

Situated on a large, quiet, air-conditioned

campus in central Toronto, our modern facility features spacious classrooms, state-of-the-art computer and science labs, large gymnasium, music and fine arts rooms.

We also offer Advanced Placement courses in senior-level Math, English, Business and Science.

Our graduates leave us with a strong sense of character, dedication to community and leadership qualities.

Metropolitan Preparatory Academy Metro Prep Academy: A strong foundation for the future Metropolitan Preparatory Academy offers semestered, co-ed Middle School (grades 7-8) and High School (grades 9-12) programs in the DVP and Eglinton area.

Walking through the hallways of Metro Prep, you’ll quickly notice that it’s not an “oldfashioned” private institution.

The academics are structured and challenging, yet the environment is supportive and 20 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

nurturing. Faculty and administration doors are open, encouraging strong relationships with students and their families.

And, no uniforms are in sight, allowing young men and women to express their individuality.

In this comfortable setting, Metro Prep’s students are taught to trust their instincts, to think both critically and creatively, ask ques-

tions, and seek the help they need to succeed.

Extensive athletic and extracurricular opportunities foster the physical and social potential of each child.

For over 29 years, Metro Prep’s has been preparing children for the academics of university and the skills needed for life-long success.

Preparation begins NOW! Please visit www.metroprep.com.

Your perfect school Montcrest School Nuture your child’s love of learning.

Montcrest School is a co-educational, elementary day school, overlooking Riverdale Park in the Broadview and Danforth area of Toronto.

The challenging core curriculum is taught in a structured and nurturing environment.

Students receive individual attention and excellent instruction in small class sizes. The arts are an integral element of the curriculum.

Students benefit from the teaching expertise

and enthusiasm of specialists in art, drama, music, French, physical education and technology.

A dedicated faculty provides a caring environment that is conducive to a child’s growth and instills a love of learning by stimulating individual interests and imagination.

Students participate in a wide variety of cocurricular sports and clubs. Exposure to cultural

activities both within and outside the school community enrich the students’ experience.

Emphasis is placed on leadership, character education and community service.

Small classes for children with learning disabilities are offered from Grades 2 to 8.

For more information please call 416-469-2008 ext 224 or visit us at www.montcrest.on.ca.

they learn and grow.

For those first crucial eight years of your child’s education, that school is Sunnybrook.

Sunnybrook is a co-ed, inquiry-based school that provides all of the strengths of the International Baccalaureate PYP program as well as enriched Math, French and Arts

programs. It is a small, nurturing school with a rich, 60-year history of offering the best elementary education Toronto has to offer.

If you want to instil the will to learn, the courage to act and the confidence to succeed in your child, consider Sunnybrook – the small school that delivers big results.

Sunnybrook School Celebrating 60 years As parents, you want nothing but the best start in life for your children. As educators, we share that goal. Educationally, the best start means finding the right school, one that offers a nurturing environment, fosters children’s natural curiosity, and allows them to explore their world. A school that challenges them as

TFS - Canada’s International School A bilingual education and IB respected around the world.

TFS is bilingual, co-educational and delivers an enriched curriculum with an international perspective. Accredited since 1990 by the International Baccalaureate Organization, TFS offers programs leading to the IB diploma and unique IB bilingual diploma. Also a Primary Years Program (PYP) and Middle Years Program (MYP) candidate school, TFS is one of the few

full spectrum IB schools in the GTA. We are also accredited by the Ministry of Education of Ontario and the French Ministry of Education.

Our supportive learning environment focuses on the individual student.

Students require no prior knowledge of French up to and including Grade 7. Our Introductory Program is very successful at

integrating students with no background in French.

Our strong co-curricular program includes recreational and competitive sports, music, visual and dramatic arts. For more information, please contact Susan Markle at 416-484-6533 x 4247, email admissions@tfs.ca or visit us at www.tfs.ca.

Toronto and Mississauga campuses.

The Dunblaine School Focus on learning disabilities at Dunblaine School The Dunblaine School is a small independent school offering a curriculum designed to motivate and meet the needs of elementary school children with learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, as well as speech and language difficulties.

Through individualized programs and a low

student-to-teacher ratio, The Dunblaine School helps students realize their full potential.Direct Instruction methodology, individual tutorials, music, social skills and other professional services are emphasized features of our program.

We are accepting applications for the

2013-2014 school year. Please join us for our Open House on Feb. 21, 2013, and April 18, 2013 from 9:30am - 11:30am or 5:00pm - 7:00pm.

For more information, please contact the school at 416-483-9215 or visit us at www.dunblaineschool.com WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 21

Your perfect school The Linden School Where girls find their voice age and stage of development. Linden’s small classes allow our teachers to embrace the individual learning style of each student.

The strong relationships Linden girls develop with their teachers and peers generate a strong sense of belonging throughout the school community.

These connections stimulate our students

Since 1993, The Linden School has inspired girls to develop confidence in themselves through innovative teaching methods, empowering experiences, and meaningful connections to their peers and their community.

Our evidence-based approach to teaching is girl-centred, incorporating the most current research about how girls learn best at every

to take ownership of their education and to believe in their ability to impact the world around them. When a girl finds her voice at Linden, she knows it can make a meaningful difference.

To discover if Linden is the right fit for your daughter, visit www.lindenschool.ca or call us at 416-966-4406.

The Sterling Hall School The Sterling Hall School. You’ve come to the right place. recognized.

The Sterling Hall School is home to excellent academics, leadership opportunities and a stimulating array of extracurricular activities – all designed to create students who become today’s critical thinkers and tomorrow’s innovative leaders.

Our dynamic, accessible teachers are

At The Sterling Hall School we genuinely care for your boy. We have the lowest student to teacher ratio of any boy’s school in Toronto, with specialists on-hand in art, physical education, science and technology. Your son will receive the individualized attention he deserves in a small class setting where his voice will not just be heard, but

extraordinary mentors, truly committed to our guiding principle of providing an environment that nurtures your boy’s mind and spirit.

Founded in 1987, the school now has an enrollment of 310 boys. For further information, contact Claire Reed at 416.785-3410 ext. 238, email admissions@sterlinghall.com or visit us at www.sterlinghall.com.

Toronto Prep School Experienced faculty engages minds at Toronto Prep The Toronto Prep School is a new, independent, co-educational, university preparatory, day school for discerning students and parents.

We are dedicated to creating an academic and social environment designed to prepare students not just for admission to university, but for success - both in the post-secondary arena and in later life.Toronto Prep is built upon the

belief that a talented, experienced, dedicated, passionate, and well-prepared teaching staff is one of the most important ingredients for students’ success in school. Teachers’ knowledge and skill make a crucial difference in what students learn and how well they are prepared for the rigours of post-secondary school education.

We are committed to engaging each one

of our students and will provide them with the best learning environment. Let us help your child achieve and maintain academic success.

Consider our program if you are interested in an academically rigorous and structured environment dedicated to challenging and nurturing your child. Contact us at 416.545.1020 or ftsimikalis@torontoprepschool.com

Waldorf Academy Middle School Drop-in January 25th. www.waldorfacademy.org Childcare to Grade 8 Young adolescents need their learning experience to make sense, to be authentic, to be exciting and challenging, to lead them towards accomplishing something real, to answer the question, “Why am I learning this?” Our Middle School curriculum is designed to meet the adolescent’s highly charged emotions, burgeoning intellect and developing capacity for 22 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

logical thought.

Waldorf Academy offers a multi-disciplinary classical education enlivened by the arts, music and a challenging outdoor education. The city is used as an extension of the classroom; students read, In The Skin of the Lion, under the Bloor Viaduct, attend plays at Soulpepper or the Canadian Opera, order dumplings

in Mandarin in Chinatown and plant trees and maintain paths in parks and ravines. Our teachers are dedicated to understanding their unique gifts, challenging them beyond their comfort zones and preparing them for High School and beyond.

For information please call 416-962-6447 ext. 225 or visit: waldorfacademy.org

Open House Schedule for Private & Independent Schools SCHOOL

DATE

Bayview Glen Sat., Feb.2, 2013 www.bayviewglen.ca

TIME

CONTACT INFO SCHOOL DATE Thurs., Feb. 7, 2013 1:00pm - 3:00pm 416-443-1030 Sunnybrook School www.sunnybrookschool.ca Wed., Apr. 10, 2013

Central Montessori Schools Thurs. at all 5 locations 9:00am - 11:30am www.cmsschool.net 1:00pm - 3:30pm

416-250-1022

Children's Garden Nursery School Fri., Feb.8, 2013 www.childrensgarden.ca

416-488-4298

Crescent School www.crescentschool.org

5:00pm - 7:00pm

Please call for information

416-449-2556

TFS Canada’s International School www.tfs.ca

TIME CONTACT INFO 1:30pm - 3:00pm 416-487-5308 1:30pm - 3:00pm

Age 2 - Grade 1

416-484-6533 Wed., Jan. 16, 2013 9:30am - 11:30am ext. 4247 Junior School: (Grade 2 - Grade 5) Wed., Jan. 23, 2013 9:30am - 11:30am Senior School: (Grades 6 - Grade 12) Wed., Jan. 30, 2013 9:30am - 11:30am

Crestwood School Tues., Jan. 29, 2013 www.crestwood.on.ca Wed., Feb. 20, 2013

Wed., Apr. 17, 2013

Mon., May. 13, 2013

9:30am - 11:30am 9:30am - 11:30am 9:30am - 11:30am 9:30am - 11:30am

416-444-5858

The Dunblaine School Thurs., Feb. 21, 2013 www.dunblaineschool.com Thurs., Apr. 18, 2013

9:30am - 11:30am 5:00pm - 7:00pm 9:30am - 11:30am 5:00pm - 7:00pm

416-483-9215

Hudson College www.hudsoncollege.ca

12:00noon - 4:00pm 12:00noon - 4:00pm

416-631-0082

The Linden School www.lindenschool.ca

Fri., Feb. 15, 2013

9:00am - 12:00noon

416-966-4406

Metropolitan Preparatory Academy Thurs., Apr. 25, 2013 www.metroprep.com Thurs., May 30, 2013

3:00pm - 8:00pm 6:00pm - 8:00pm

416-285-0870

Montcrest School www.montcrest.on.ca

9:30am -11:30am

416-469-2008

The Sterling Hall School www.sterlinghall.com

Please call for a tour

Sat., Feb. 9, 2013 Sat., Feb. 23, 2013

Fri.. Jan. 18, 2013

Camp Expo Our Kids www.ourkids.net Toronto Sun., Feb. 24, 2013

Register online at www.campexpo.ca 12:00noon - 4:00pm

416-785-3410

Toronto Prep School Sat., Feb. 23, 2013 www.torontoprepschool.com Sat., Apr. 20, 2013

11:00am - 2:00pm 11:00am - 2:00pm

Waldorf Academy Middle School Drop-in www.waldorfacademy.org Fri., Jan. 25, 2013

10:00am - 11:30am 416-962-6447 ext225

416-545-1020

WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 23

Insight from educators

Finding kindness

How to foster a more compassionate community

W

By Karrie Weinstock

hile touring the new campus of Branksome Hall Asia, on Jeju Island, South Korea, in late October, I noticed the following message on a white board in a grade 3 classroom: Our goal is to be kind toward others … Use gentle voices.

Consider the feelings of others. Treat people nicely. Be helpful. Give compliments.

Say your “pleases” and “thank yous.”

I found it fascinating and comforting, that 11,000 kilometres away, in Toronto, girls at Branksome Hall Canada were reflecting on the exact same issues as they prepared for Bullying Awareness Week.

During the week, our student peer supporters led an outstanding assembly and launched their “Stand Up” initiative, which encourages students to stand up against bullying and for what they believe in.

Our school social worker, Joelle Therriault, described how our school community

We look at the behaviour we role model.

and parents can foster resiliency and help students handle conflict and relationship challenges. She summarized how, in partnership with students, parents and the school can make headway:

• We do this by listening — really listening — and validating what girls and young women are telling us about their relationships.

• We validate the totality of their relationship experiences — the pain, the joy, the discomfort, the tension, the laughter — and stand by ready to support them.

• We look at the behaviour that we role model.

• We avoid taking over in a situation. We convey that young people can get through challenging times and that we are available to provide proper support when necessary.

• We acknowledge that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. Young people are going to make mistakes, because they are in the process of building their conflict skills.

• We understand bullying to be a relationship problem that requires relationship solutions.

• We are clear that, following conflict and bullying,

24 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

photo courtesy Caley Taylor

A GENTLE VOICE: Karrie Weinstock, deputy principal of Branksome Hall, says that students need to find ways to handle conflict and relationship challenges as parents work to foster resilience in their children.

the desired outcome involves repair and restoration.

Erica Brown, a scholar who studies the phenomenon of regret, notes that few of us have regrets involving money or position. Most of our regrets are connected to our relationships.

Kindness in our daily lives is the antidote to regret, and repair is the way to bring about healing when we do make mistakes.

Amelia Earhart, the intrepid pioneer of flight and the first woman to fly solo across the

Atlantic, said: “No kind action ever stops with itself. One kind action leads to another. The greatest work that kindness does to others, is that it makes them kind themselves.”

Kindness, integrated into who we are, and how we choose to behave, helps us be our best selves. When we feel strong, we are resilient in facing life’s challenges. When we are resilient, we move forward positively.

Karrie Weinstock is deputy principal at Branksome Hall

KIDS CAMPS AND ACTIVITIES

Tame the tiger

Tonnes of camp ideas for March Break

• My special summer

Why writer spends her vacation volunteering at camp Photo Courtesy Pawsitively Pets

WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 25

Three A+ students.

You can't change the wind...but you can adjust the sails.

Achieving below potential?

Which one has ADD? Neurofeedback plus coaching in Learning Strategies can provide a lasting improvement in learning.

Research results are available.

Director: Dr. Lynda M. Thompson (416) 488-2233 Co-author with pediatrician Wm. Sears of The A.D.D. Book www.addcentre.com

Gerry Barker’s

Gift of fun

• Attention Span is Short • Distractibility • Difficulty Organizing & Completing Work • Impulsivity • Learning Difficulties • Asperger’s syndrome

North Toronto Basketball Camp Week 1: Tuesday July 2 - Friday July 5, 2013 Cost: $225.00 Week 2: Monday July 8 - Friday July 12, 2013 Cost: $275.00 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Northern Secondary School 851 Mount Pleasant Rd. Boys & Girls 8 - 15

Register online at www.barkerbasketball.ca or call 416-690-4587 gerry4barker@hotmail.com

FOREST HILL Figure Skating Club Learn to skate at any age!

• Quality skating programs taught

by Skate Canada-certified coaches • From pre-school to competitive

Register soon

www.fhfsc.ca

Classes commence in September

For more information, contact us at

416.481.7325

foresthill1@bellnet.ca

416-425-6062

26 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

Touching lives

I

Volunteering very rewarding

By Hilary Davidson

started volunteering for Camp Oochigeas or “Ooch”, as a counsellor, the summer of 2011, after hearing about its magical and positive environment from a friend. I was eager to spend my two-week vacation in the Muskokas at the residential camp with a dynamic group of volunteers and enthusiastic campers.

Let me tell you, my experience at Ooch was nothing short of incredible.

Ooch is a privately funded, volunteer-based organization that provides kids with cancer, and kids affected by childhood cancer, a chance to experience camp. It provides a unique opportunity for growth through challenging, fun and enriching experiences. Enjoying the outdoors and having fun are two integral parts of being a child and every child deserves to experience the wonder of camp. Activities like canoeing, archery, swimming and waterskiing allow children with cancer to challenge themselves in a safe environment and get back to what they need most — the chance to just be kids.

During the eight weeks of residential camp, Ooch will see nearly 800 campers between the ages of 6–19 and 320 volunteer counselors. There is also team of volunteer oncologists and nurses from Sick Kids Med Shed Team, so the children who need it can receive treatment at camp.

Ooch provides kids with cancer and kids affected by childhood cancer a chance to experience camp.

Photo courtesy Camp OOch

YES, IT IS AS FUN AS IT LOOKS: Every summer hundreds of volunteer counsellors head north to Camp Ooch to give kids dealing with cancer a chance to experience the wonders of camp.

at camp

In addition to summer residential camp, it provides year-round programs for children and families affected by childhood cancer at Sick Kids at Ooch Downtown, their urban camp facility.

Ooch provides a safe place for children, to just be themselves. They’re challenged to learn new skills, and try new activities. All victories are celebrated, whether it be climbing to the top of the rock wall, or getting in a canoe. The campers’ determination and courage inspire me to try new things, and overcome my fears. It is so encouraging to see campers cheering on their new friends as they tackle a new goal. Everyday after lunch, there is a time where the campers are able to stand up in front of the whole camp and give a friend a Step in the Right Direction who has met their goal, helped them with their goal or for just being a good friend. I loved seeing the children leave the camp, with more self-esteem and confidence. They had conquered so much by coming to camp, and they knew it.

I am so proud to be apart of such a passionate community of volunteers and staff that are so enthusiastic about bringing fun to these children. Campers, their families and the Ooch staff are always so appreciative of all our efforts, as volunteers. There is always a big smile or hug awaiting me when I walk in the door at Ooch.

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Twenty things to do

March madness

W

It’s never too early to look for spring break activities

By Paula Sanderson

ith the holidays over and done with, the countdown to March Break has begun. To keep the kids busy, happy and out of the house it’s time to find the best spring break camp for your kids.

There are countless options so here are a few ideas for many different types of kids.

For the Kid who does it all

Zodiac’s March Break camp is a classic try everything camp. From science to sports and everything in between, this camp has it all. Located at the Toronto French School, this camp offers two weeks of camp for both the public and private school student.

Located at Mooredale House in the heart of Rosedale, Mooredale’s March Break camp has been running for over 30 years. Each day has a different theme and campers get to try all sorts of activities including cooking classes, arts and crafts and sports.

For the artistic camper Why not send your budding Tina Fey’s and Mike Myers’ to The Second City’s March Break improv camps. These sessions cater to students from grades 2 to 12. They’ll learn how to think on their feet, work as a team and say “yes” to everything. At the end of their week at camp, campers will put on a show for friends and family at the John Candy Box Theatre.

Young People’s Theater offers drama-based March Break camps at their Front Street theatre. The camp is offered to students enrolled

photo courtesy Avenue Road Art School

PAINT ME A PICTURE: For the artistically inclined, there are several March break camp opportunities for your child to both hone their skills and have fun.

in JK through grade 6.

For the fine artist, Avenue Road Art School’s March Break programs will see campers painting, drawing and cartooning. After a week at this camp your fridge will never look better.

If they think they can dance or if they want to learn how to dance, send them to Conservatory of Dance and Music March Break camp.

Campers will dance their way through the week learning all sorts of different dance styles including ballet and jazz.

For the cultured child Head over to the Art Gallery of Ontario for a week of exciting art projects. Not only will you leave with priceless art projects — they even have pizza lunch Fridays.

The Royal Ontario Museum offers programming for all ages and all different interests.

Check out the Dungeons and Dragons camp where you can lean about monsters, weapons and legends. The half-day Critter Craft camp for 5-year-olds will have little campers exploring the animals at the ROM. For older campers there is a Museum 101 camp where campers can learn how the museum runs.

The Ontario Science Centre offers a camp for the young scientist in your family. Campers will get to check out the exhibits like Kids Park before the Science Centre opens to the public, then all afternoon campers will get to see different demos and try different science experiments. This year the camp is pirate themed.

28 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

Harbourfront Centre camps are full of cultural exploration. With camps for everyone from arts camps to cooking camps and even a circus camp, there’ll likely be something to tickle your child’s fancy.

For the Sporty Kid The University of Toronto March Break camps are great for the active kid in your family. From golf camp to gymnastics camp, there is a sport for everyone. For the lover of all sports, there is even a multi-sport camp.

Lace up your sneakers and head over to the Ontario Racquet Club for a variety of March Break camps. Participants can choose between tennis, fitness and squash camps. And you do not have to be a member of the club to join in on the fun.

photo courtesy Pawsitively pets

CRITTER CAMP: For kids who love animals Pawsitively Pets would be hands-on fun.

At Sunnybrook Stables, March Break is all about horses. Campers will ride twice a day and learn how to care for both the horses and stable.

Two downtown Toronto locations:

At Power Soccer your little David Beckhams and Christie Sinclairs will learn to love the beautiful game at this one-week, soccer-intensive camp.

Campers will be divided based on age and ability and will improve their ball control, passing, dribbling, defending and shooting skills. Goalkeeping specific camps are also available.

For the skater boy or girl in the family, Roarockit is the place to spend March Break. At campers actually make their own skateboard. They use Canadian Maple and help campers carve and design their own board.

Animals lovers of all shapes and sizes head to Pawsitively Pets in Leaside for a critter filled week of excitement. Learn how to care for animals ranging from pocket pets, dogs, and reptiles to birds, bugs and other exotic animals. For the older kids, Pawsitively Pets runs a Safari Camp where campers learn how to care for zoo animals at a private zoo.

Want to learn French but don’t want to go to France? Send your kids Alliance Francaise de Toronto March Break camp where students learn French in an immersion envi-

250 Davisville Ave (at Mt. Pleasant)

Outreach Program: Bishop Strachan School

416-972-1316

416-483-4325

Intensive pre-professional & recreational classes for ages 18 mos to adult

For the kid who wants something outside of the box If you want to come back from the Break with a new wardrobe, Sew Be it Girl is the place to start. Their March Break camp will have participants sewing up a storm to create their own designs. From dresses to boxers, they’ll help turn your fashionista into a one-of-a-kind designer.

INTERPLAY

photo courtesy Avenue Road Art School

LOOK WHAT I MADE: An Avenue Road Art School camper shows off the marionette she made.

ronment. Offered at four different locations, each camp takes on a different theme.

At the Toronto Botanical Garden, campers have a lot of different options to embrace their inner green thumbs.

Each day camp takes on a different theme. They’ll become Super Chefs and make their own ice cream, take part in Grossology and dissect owl pellets and use their skills by planting their very own take-home garden.

Evergreen’s Locavore Chef camp will see kids growing, harvesting, cooking, preserving and eating fresh, healthy, local food. Activities will happen at the Brick Works, but one day will be spent on an organic farm.

ballet (Cecchetti & RAD) pointe & classical repertoire contemporary jazz, hip hop, tap, acro musical theatre, lyrical dance company daytime children & adult programs

Call or visit our website for information www.interplay-dance.ca Karen Davies Thomas, Director

Cecchetti Ballet (Fellow), A.I.S.T.D. (National), A.I.S.T.D. (Modern) 5R\DO $FDGHP\ RI 'DQFH 7HDFKHUÂśV &HUWLÂżFDWH %)$ +RQRXUV 'HJUHH <RUN 8QLYHUVLW\ 1DWLRQDO %DOOHW 6FKRRO Teacherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Training Program WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 29

Camps and After School Activities ADD Centre New Year’s Resolution: Improve brain function

by Lynda Thompson, Ph.D., C.Psych.

Perhaps your child’s fall report card was not all you hoped for and you want him or her to do better in 2013. If one factor contributing to underachievement was difficulty with paying attention consistently, then training can be done to improve that skill. Just like you go to the gym to build up muscles, you can exercise the brain a couple of times a week and

strengthen the neural pathways that are activated when a person practices a calm, yet alert, mental state. This learning technique, called neurofeedback, involves a brain-computer interface that lets a person know instantly if their brainwave pattern (EEG) indicates calm focus or drifting attention. Research studies going back to 1976 have documented lasting improvements in behaviour and learning in

children with ADD/ADHD. Increasingly, these techniques are being used to give athletes and executives the mental edge, too.

To add to your child’s skill in paying attention, whether he has a diagnosis or even if he is just an energetic kid or a bright daydreamer, contact The ADD Centre at 416 488-2233. see www.addcentre.com for more information.

Barker Basketball Camps

Gerry Barker’s North Toronto Basketball Camp

Qualified instructor makes camp even more fun The Gerry Barker North Toronto Basketball Camp has been in existence for the past ten years. Our camp philosophy stresses equal participation for campers, skill development, and a positive atmosphere and above all make it fun. A typical day’s schedule includes a skill session, a guest instructor, two games, and 3 on 3, 1 on 1 games and shooting competitions.

Gerry is proud to welcome on board this year as a co-director his son Brad Barker. Brad has coached in the NTBA for the past five years

and is the site co-ordinator at Northern S.S. for the NTBA House league during the winter.

Brad brings enthousiasm and a love of teaching to the camp.

This year the camp will be held at Northern Secondary School and the permits have been confirmed for the summer. The camp runs for 2 weeks July 2 - July 5 and July 8 - 12 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Campers can come for one or two. Gerry Barker has been involved in Basketball for over 40 years, as a player and

a coach at all levels including university, high school and community. He was co-founder of the North Toronto Basketball Association and is still an active member of the association as coach and Director. This program involves over 800 boys and girls during the winter. Basketball is a great passion for Gerry and the opportunity to share that passion with young boys and girls is the driving force behind the camp. You can register online at www.barkerbasketball.com or please call 416-690-4587.

Forest Hill Figure Skating Club Forest Hill Figure Skating Club programs It’s never too early – or too late – to learn to skate! Forest Hill Figure Skating Club, located at Forest Hill Memorial Arena (340 Chaplin Crescent, two blocks north of Eglinton) offers an array of group and private lessons taught by a team of enthusiastic and skilled Skate Canada Certified Coaches.

30 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

Programs include Preschool and Mini-tot (age 2 and up), Start-Right, Hockey Skills, CanSkate, Junior Development, Double Digit (age 10-16), Intermediate, Advanced and Adult Learn-to-Skate programs. Register now for the upcoming season sessions. We also run half-day skating camps for all ages

and abilities during Christmas, March Break and Passover holidays.

Come skate with us! Earn badges and ribbons and have fun! For more information or to download registration forms, visit our website at www.fhfsc.ca or pick up a registration form at the arena.

Camps and After-School Activities Interplay School of Dance Interplay School of Dance - Two downtown locations The Interplay School of Dance, is under the direction of Karen Davies Thomas, located at 250 Davisville at Mt. Pleasant. Karen is a graduate of the National Ballet School and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours Degree from York University. Since its humble beginnings in 1983 when Interplay first opened its doors, the school has grown to over 300 students and continues to focus on teaching classical ballet in Cecchetti and Royal Academy of Dance methods. Interplay offers recreational and intensive classes forages 3 to adult in Creative Movement, Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Lyrical Hip-Hop, Acro, Tap, and Musical Theatre.

Among its finest dance teachers are John Ottman, Director of the Quinte Ballet School, Bretonie Burchell, Faye Rauw, Lucie Ward, Martine Lusignan, Christina Neves Tughan and Erin Poole.

Interplay offers intensive dance training for talented students who wish to pursue a professional career in dance or perform with our in-house dance company and competitive team.

Because of the excellent dance training provided at Interplay, many of our students are accepted at Canada’s most prestigious schools such as the National Ballet School of Canada, Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, Alvin

Ailey School, Boston Ballet and many others.

Our students are rewarded with high school credits, university scholarships, dance teacher’s qualifications and professional training.

Interplay also works in partnership with Bishop Strachan School, Branksome Hall, and Mooredale House to provide quality after-four dance programs.

Whether your child is the next prima ballerina or simply loves to dance, Interplay has a space for you.

If you would like more information on our school, please visit our website at www.interplay-dance.ca

Our Kids Camp Expo Find the right camp for your child at Canada’s largest Camp Expo!

Don’t miss your chance to meet with top March Break, Summer, and Holiday camps, as well as year-round programs, for kids and teens at Roy Thomson Hall on Sunday, February 24th, 2013 from 12:00PM to 4:00PM! In support of the Kids In Camp charity (www.kidsincamp.com), the Our Kids Camp Expo brings together families and camps for a

one-of-a-kind occasion.

This is a fun and informative event for anyone looking to save time and energy when searching for the best camps for their children. Take advantage of one-on-one conversations with camp and program administrators, families and alumni to discover programs and activities not found anywhere else.

Families also have a chance to win $500 toward a session with an exhibiting camp!

Pre-register online for free admission valid for a family of four here: www.ourkids.net/campexpo/ (Regular walk-in admission is $20, which goes directly to supporting Kids in Camp).

Pawsitively Pets Is your child crazy for animals?

Then Pawsitively Pets is the perfect camp for you! At Pawsitively Pets we understand a child’s love of animals and create an environment that provides an interactive and educational hands-on experience for children to explore pets and animals, build self-confidence and develop an understanding of all different types of animals. Camp programs

are available for kids from 3 to 15 years old.

Programs are developed based on age and learning level. Kids 10+ can take part in a variety of our specialty programs including Animal Care Camp, Junior Dog Trainer & Mini Vet Camp. Campers 3 to 9 years old can take part in our animal education camp where they can spend everyday working hands-on with

a variety of different animals ranging from pocket pets, reptiles, birds and exotic animals. Camps are available over March Break, Passover, PA Days, Summer Break and Winter Break. After-school, pre-school programs and birthday parties are available all year round.

For more information please visit our website at: www.PawsitivelyPetsKidsCamp.com

Power Soccer Power Soccer School – advanced technique training Power Soccer provides a comprehensive range of training programs from the beginner to the elite player.

We emphasize fair play, skill development and the maximization of each child’s potential. Our programs are presented through a creative age appropriate soccer training model.

We focus on giving players the opportunity to express their individuality while

providing clear feedback on how improvements in their game can be made.

Clinics and camps focus on ball control, movement with and without the ball, dribbling, shooting, defending and accurate passing.

Players experience soccer sessions which are rewarding and enjoyable. Power Soccer coaches conduct challenging sessions which provide an opportunity for

full participation for each player. We build player confidence through a program includes lots of game play.

Improved ability level and a marked increase in game enjoyment are the results of participation in Power Soccer programs. Please visit our web site at www.powersoccer.ca or call us at 416.425.6062 (local call) to learn more about the Power Soccer School.

WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 31

People to be proud of

A visible gift

O

By Ann Ruppenstein

n Oct. 9, St. Clement’s Alexis Gallagher looked into a mirror to see herself without hair for the first time.

As a teacher at the top fundraising school for the CIBC Run for the Cure for the last eight years, Gallagher decided to donate her hair if the school met their goal of raising $40,000.

After the team, which included 183 students, staff, parents and alumnae, beat their goal by raising $44,766, helping St. Clement’s School to maintain their fundraising title, the time came for Gallagher to part ways with her bust-length locks.

To capture a video she could later show during a school assembly, she invited her videographer and photographer best friend Tori Zimmerman over to her apartment to film the shaving process and to help with the haircut.

“I thought I’d be more nervous but I was actually really excited and I didn’t know the camera was on for the first part and I was just sort of getting prepared for it and that’s when I started getting a little bit nervous,” Gallagher says. “Then it wasn’t until she actually held up part of the [cut off] hair that it started becoming a bit more real to me.”

As shown in the video, which has over 10,000 views to date on YouTube, the process was actually done in stages: first her hair was cut

photos courtesy Tori Zimmerman and Alexis Gallagher

ALL IN: After her school raised $44,766 for the CIBC Run for the Cure, the most of any school in Canada, St. Clement’s teacher Alexis Gallagher shaved her head and donated her hair.

off in three ponytails, then it was shaved with an electric razor and finally with a hand razor by her husband. As a result, she was able to donate 28 centimetres of hair for Wigs for Kids.

“My favourite part was probably when my husband just shaved it all the way down and just feeling it after and then looking at the mirror at the end,” she says. “I think a lot of people that see the video don’t realize that I haven’t been seeing myself for the whole time it’s not until the end that I actually look in the mirror and then I think the biggest thing that shocked me was how white my head was.”

In addition to supporting breast cancer research Gallagher, as a health and phys-ed teacher, was also trying to be a role model for students through the experience, she says.

“In terms of societal pressure on physical appearance and confidence and self esteem with body image and that sort of thing I talk a lot

about in my classes and that was sort of a secondary kind of lesson I wanted to show, that no matter how you look from the outside you can just be confident in your appearance as well,” she says.

Gallagher, who admits she’d probably shave her head again for a good cause — although not likely in the near future — says the best part of the experience was the reactions it elicited.

“The support that I got from the students and the staff and just the families of the school and alumni who graduated and were sending me messages of support I didn’t really think it would be this big of a deal and get this much attention,” she says. “I think that was probably the greatest thing and just the awareness that I think it helps create.”

Gallagher’s hair had grown back to over half an inch at press time.

Other sports

B

By Lori Connor

photo courtesy Hockey Canada Images

GOLDEN ALUMNA: Olympic gold medal-winning hockey player Gillian Apps chose to attend Havergal College for high school.

32 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

efore she was winning Olympic hockey gold with Team Canada in Turin and Vancouver, Gillian Apps was learning the game at Havergal College.

Her brother, Syl, attended Upper Canada College and his example fuelled her decision as to what school to attend.

“When it was time for me to decide where I went to high school, I decided to choose the private school route, based on the great experience that he had,” Apps says. “When looking at all of the girls’ schools in the city, I think that Havergal just felt like the best fit for me.”

She soon began to make her mark on the athletics program, juggling soccer, basketball, and hockey along with her classes.

“I feel like challenging myself in other areas of athletics made me a better allaround athlete, which in turn made me a better hockey player,” Apps says. “If I had strictly devoted myself just to hockey, I probably would be burned out by now.”

An aptitude for the game runs in her family. Her grandfather, Syl Apps, won three Stanley Cups and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Her father, Syl Jr., retired in 1980 as the Pittsburgh Penguins’ career leader in assists.

Apps seems destined to continue that legacy. By grade 10, she was a member of

Thanks coach

S

By Perry King

itting in on a girls’ volleyball game between the St. Clement’s Penguins and Appleby College Blue Dogs, you can see and hear how Wendy Girvan coaches.

“Good decisions, girls!” shouts Girvan, as she encourages her squad in the best-of-five contest. The match is a marathon, but Girvan isn’t confrontational, she is even seen smiling throughout the game.

“When I was a player, I related very well to my coaches,” said Girvan, who, after 31 years as a teacher and coach at St. Clement’s decided to retire at the end of this school year.

“As a coach, I went back to what I valued the most in my coaches, and that was positive reinforcement all the time.”

Constructive feedback and supportive advice is Girvan’s mantra.

When an Appleby player gets injured during the game, Girvan is consoling her, giving her advice on treatment. During timeouts, Girvan brings a quiet confidence to her feedback, and never raises her voice.

“I don’t take kids out when they make mistakes,” said Girvan, who coaches basketball and volleyball at the school. “I’ve talked to the kids ahead of time philosophically, so they

know, going into the game, how I coach.”

The all-girls school currently fields seven volleyball teams starting in grade 5.

It’s this approach, to players, and even to the culture of sports at St. Clement’s, which she has refined over her years as a teacher, and then as director of athletics.

“What sticks out to me is that the school, in 30 years, has maintained the philosophy that it had when I got here, that every kid plays,” says Girvan.

Girvan’s impact has been profound for generations of girls. Before becoming the principal of St. Clement’s Martha Perry was coached by Girvan when she attended as a student.

“She’ll be a big loss for our school,” Perry said. “She really believes strongly in our philosophy, having everybody at the table, and building skills as opposed to winning at all costs.”

While St. Clement’s is known for its academics, Perry says the school has a weak reputation for its athletics.

“People sometimes misunderstand that our athletics and arts programs may not be as strong,” she says. “I

perry king/town crier

PEP TALK: After 31 years as a teacher and coach at St. Clement’s School, Wendy Girvan is hanging up her whistle.

would argue that they’re as strong, and the belief is that girls are doing this because of the love of participation. Coupled with that, they’re growing and learning as athletes or artists. “[The students] have a fierce pride, and they’re intensely competitive.”

Girvan, who became director of student life several years ago, has been broadening her imprint on the school beyond athletics, sharing her vast knowledge and encouraging the student body in a broader environment. It’s a role Girvan treasures.

And with her retirement to come this June, the school will feel the loss, but the St. Clement’s community will be able to adjust, continuing

her legacy.

“A lot of us have worked with her for so long,” says current director of athletics Beth Will who came under Girvan’s tutelage during teacher’s college. “She really has shared so much with us that ... she’s leaving, but she’s still here in a way because all of her ideas are with us.

Girvan has been a sports guru for St. Clement’s, documenting everything about how to play the game well. It is that legacy that gives Will and the faculty much comfort.

“We’ll miss her, but I think she knows that, having trained us in what we do, we’ll continue on and do quite well,” Will says.

kept hockey hero sharp the Beatrice Aeros in the Canadian Women’s Hockey League.

The next year, she was playing with Canada’s national team. An invitation to the 2002 Olympic squad meant that she had to fast-track her final year of high school.

“It was a last-minute decision,” she says. “The way that my classes were set up, I was lucky enough to be able to graduate a year early. Havergal was extremely helpful.”

Although she didn’t make the team, Apps says she was happy with her decision.

“The only way it affected my experience was essentially that I missed a year there,” she says.

She had been elected head girl for her final year, but had to forego the position to graduate early.

“I think at that time in my life I couldn’t turn down the opportunity that hockey was presenting me with,” Apps says. “The Havergal community was very supportive in allowing me to follow my athletic goals.”

Apps moved on to play at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, where she

was eventually named the team’s captain.

Along with her gold medals in Turin in 2006 and Vancouver in 2010, Apps has won gold in two International Ice Hockey Federation World Women’s Championships. She has also played in the annual Four Nations Cup since 2002, winning seven of them.

She now has her sights set on the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

“We are training right now, in hopes of defending our gold medal at the World Women’s Championships, which will happen in April 2013, and then at the Olympics in 2014,” Apps says. “We need to continue to work as a team to get better every single day.”

Since leaving Havergal, she’s returned to talk to students about her experiences.

“I am extremely grateful for my time at Havergal,” Apps says. “I feel like the staff and community there did a great job at preparing myself and my classmates to head into the next phase of our lives with balance and confidence.

“I think the school does a great job at providing their students the platform and foundation to grow into confident and intelligent women.”

WINTER 2013 Town Crier EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE 33

Insight from educators

What’s the message?

Teaching kids it’s important to read between the lines

T

By Paul Lacey

he holidays have past, and our students have survived the latest barrage of advertisements targeted specifically to them. I’ve learned the importance of looking at how I can prepare my students to think critically about the flood of media messages they see and hear, each aggressively vying for their attention. Just as we analyze books with our students, we must take the time to analyze media texts as well. Students need to practice putting on their “media glasses” in class to explore how companies make them want to buy their products.

Media literacy is a part of critical literacy — that is, actively asking questions about what we are reading.

Texts are not created neutral, and even innocent looking texts can raise some very interesting critical questions.

Two years ago, a colleague of mine was given a book called Meet Smurfette for her young daughter.

In it, the first female Smurf is made

by Gargamel to infiltrate the Smurf Village. The Smurfs are somewhat confused by this new creature, particularly noting her odd choice of house colour (no surprise — it’s pink). Although the evil Smurfette tries to do Gargamel’s bidding, the Smurfs pay her no mind, as she is pushy, aggressive, and not particularly good-looking.

Upset, Smurfette goes onto Plan B — flood Smurf Village by breaking the dam. She almost succeeds, but is swept away by the raging waters until Papa Smurf, who takes

Many students assume that books have positive morals and messages.

pity on her, saves her. He “smurfs” up a potion that turns Smurfette into the blonde, high-heeled Smurfette that we all know, and now all of the male Smurfs are all smitten with her. I presume they then live happily ever after.

Many students assume that books have positive morals and messages.

I’ve read this book to my students on a few occasions, and every time the supposed message is the same — it’s what is on the inside that counts.

However, in this case, the book is actually claiming the exact opposite.

The only thing that matters is what Smurfette looks like. Her change from evil to good is directly related to how she looks. How quickly these gender stereotypes are imparted to our children, and how easily they believe in the positive messages these characters are presumably giving to them.

I tell this story because it is directly related to how companies advertise their toys to children. A quick browse through the Toys R Us website gives us a plethora of fascinating and imaginative toys — all of them separated into their respective sections. My boys noted that the boys’ section is all blue. It includes toys such as tools, action figures, and superhero costumes. The girls section of the website is pink, and includes toys that will help young girls prepare for a future in the kitchen and playing dress-up. The language used in advertising is also very telling. Take a look at the “girls toys” and see how often you see words such as “powerful” or “amazing”. Come to think of it, that might make a very good class lesson.

There is more to critical media literacy than looking at genderbased stereotypes. We have all had the experience of waiting months for an amazing looking toy, only to find out that it did not perform nearly as well as it appeared to on television

34 EDUCATION & CAMPS GUIDE Town Crier WINTER 2013

Photo courtesy Children’s Garden School

THINK AS YOU READ: Teacher Paul Lacey says that children need to think critically when presented with any form of media to understand what is actually being taught to them.

or in print ads. For me, this experience came with those electric racetracks that propel the cars around a track. What is not shown is the amount of time spent stepping over the track to pick up the car that just derailed for the 11th time. Looking out for these tricks can become quite a fun classroom game, and once you put on your critical literacy media glasses, you can’t take them off.

We begin to realize that no, chances are we won’t be playing with those dinosaur action figures in an actual jungle like the kids on television.

That remote controlled racecar may look pretty cool going through that

rugged terrain, but will it look as exciting on the living room floor?

As media becomes more embedded in our culture, it becomes increasingly important that we teach our students not only to read texts, but to think critically about what the author wants us to think. This applies to written texts, but also applies to visual media.

Critical media literacy is an important part of my curriculum, and I hope my students will always wear their “glasses”.

Paul Lacey is a grade 2 teacher at Children’s Garden School

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