Success By Six Sprin\Summer 2012 by Nanaimo Bulletin

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith

Family

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith

Family Family

Table of Contents

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith / y

Family Family

The Greater er Nanaimo and Ladysmit Ladysmith Early Years Partnerships are pleased to present the 12th edition of the Greater Nanaimo Ladysmith Family. The magazine is a collaborative effort of both communities who have come together to create an awareness of the importance of the early years. It is with great appreciation that the partnerships acknowledge the funding and support provided by Success by 6, Children First and the Nanaimo Bulletin/ Black Press. A total of 40,000 copies of the Greater Nanaimo & Ladysmith Family Magazine will be distributed in Ladysmith and Nanaimo through the Ladysmith Chronicle and Nanaimo News Bulletin. Copies are also available at parks and recreation, health units, libraries, participating businesses and family agencies. The views expressed by the advertisers do not necessarily represent the opinions of the editorial committee of this magazine.

4 A Helpful Resource for all Families 5 Check out myreadingtree.com 6 Literacy in the Environment 7 Resiliency Resources for Parents 8 Selecting Quality Child Care 10 Aboriginal Early Childhood Development 12 The Early Development Instrument 13-15 Drop-in Activity Calendars 16 Early Years Resources 17 Are Amber Teething Necklaces Safe? 18 Colour and Play Page 19 How to Make and Erupt a Volcano 21 Getting Children Outside Triple P - Offers Simple Strategies 24 Planning and Patience Required 25 Eating out with Children 26 Is it Really Fruit?

Cover and inside photography by

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

The Family Magazine A Helpful Resource for all Families BY AMBER BRUNER The Greater Nanaimo and Ladysmith Early Years Partnerships who are supported and funded by Success By 6 are very pleased to present the 12th edition of the Family Magazine. This magazine is a collaborative effort of both communities to create awareness of the importance of the early years. It is proven that children thrive within healthy families and supportive communities and the goal of this magazine is to provide parents and caregivers with the tools to access such supports. We have created a centre pull-out of Free Family Drop-In Activities throughout Nanaimo and Ladysmith to help families identify services and programs available. There is also a helpful resource page which contains local contact numbers. All the articles in this Family Magazine are written by local professionals who recognize the importance of offering the most current and up to date information and may be contacted if needed.

Next to Centre Court

If you would like additional information about the Early Years Partnerships, please contact: Greater Nanaimo Early Years Partnership Elizabeth Pennell, Early Years Learning Coordinator, School District #68 epennell@sd68.bc.ca Ladysmith Early Years Partnership Anita Mcleod, Town of Ladysmith amcleod@ladysmith.ca Success By 6, Central Vancouver Island Shelley Anderson, Success By 6 Coordinator www.successby6@bc.ca shelleyanderson@shaw.ca Children First, Nanaimo and Ladysmith Amber Bruner, Children First Early Years Community Coordinator mthrgoos@telus.net

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6 5

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

Check out myreadingtree.com Are you familiar with MyReadingTree.com yet? MyReadingTree.com is our communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s virtual hub full of literacygeared programs, tools, resource and events to support you! The concept of literacy is not just limited to reading. On our site, we consider literacy to include many literacy topics such as financial, health, technology, numeracy the arts and more. Check out www.MyReadingTree.com. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find it fun, informational and easy to use. Search for kid friendly literacy topics easily and try out the text-to-speech function where the site will read to you. On MyReadingTree.com youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find: â&#x2014;&#x2020; Podcasts of childhood literary classics read aloud â&#x2014;&#x2020; Resources, Tools & Games to help support a variety of literacy topics â&#x2014;&#x2020; Story telling from neighbours living right here in our community â&#x2014;&#x2020; Programs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; when & where theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re happening (thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even a map to help you get there) â&#x2014;&#x2020; Events happening near you â&#x2014;&#x2020; Monthly newsletter highlighting latest news New content is uploaded monthly so be sure to check back often. Find us on Facebook â&#x20AC;&#x201C; search â&#x20AC;&#x153;My Reading Treeâ&#x20AC;? MyReadingTree.com is a Nanaimo-Ladysmith Literacy Council initiative funded in part by the provincial government and Legacies Now to support literacy for all ages in communities across the province. For more information contact Elizabeth Pennell at 250-740-3516. Nanaimo Literacy Council

ANAIMO O itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a

Live it throu gh parti cipation!

2012 Spring & Summer Activity Guide Tillicum Lelum Aboriginal Friendship Centre offers a holistic approach to programming and services which nurtures the various potentials of families and young children.

Pick up your copy starting Monday, March 5 at: t $JUZ 3FDSFBUJPO $FOUSFT t $JUZ )BMM t 2VBMJUZ 'PPET t 5ISJGUZ 'PPET t $PVOUSZ (SPDFS

We have a variety of Early Childhood Programming including Building Better Babies, Prenatal support, Creating Healthy Families, Island Treasure Boxes & Walking with Elders, Language and Literacy Programs wit a Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Babes Group Group, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wellness Program and much more! For more information about our programs, please contact the ECD Team at our Health Centre:

250-753-6578

PS WJFX POMJOF BU XXX OBOBJNP DB REGISTRATION BEGINS ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7. CITY OF NANAIMO T H E

H A R B O U R

C I T Y

PARKS, RECREATION & CULTURE

XXX OBOBJNP DB t JSFH OBOBJNP DB 250-756-5200

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

Literacy in the Environment

BY ELIZABETH PENNELL Can playgrounds and public spaces be designed to enhance early literacy as well as promote healthy bodies ? We think so. All areas of child development are enhanced through play, including language development. Printing words, signs, labels, messages, stories, and rhymes on playground equipment, in community gardens, and in the parks and recreational spaces, will ignite a preschooler’s natural curiosity. These reading discoveries could be as simple as finding the word ‘swing’ on the seat of a swing, or ‘up’ on the slide’s steps, or ‘round, round, round’ on the wheels of the playground bus. It could mean finding numbers or shapes on paving stones. Children will wonder and ask about the print, about what the words say and mean. The collaborative conversations that follow are crucial to a child’s literacy development. Over time children will develop the foundations of literacy. They will see that words have meaning, that words identify a picture, tell a story or give a message. They will notice that English print moves from left to right and top to bottom. With repeated experiences children will begin to read for themselves, predict the meaning of new words, and match words to the pictures on display. With rhymes and predictable

text, children will learn the rhythm of our language and the pattern of sentences. This ‘Literacy in the Environment’ or LITE will provide benefits for all children, but it will particularly assist those children with limited educational opportunities. It will help foster a child friendly environment and could also be used to promote socially responsible activities;

AWAKENING YOUR CHILD’S POTENTIAL IS JUST THE BEGINNING.

such as taking transit, biking, walking, keeping safe, protecting wildlife, recycling and celebrating diversity. Why do we believe in providing reading opportunities to children long before they start school? According to the Human Early Learning Partnership Study that tracked 140,000 children over a decade, over 25% of children starting Kindergarten in BC were considered vulnerable, lacking in literacy skills. Municipalities understand the importance of supporting emerging literacy and typically provide community spaces and grants to non-profit societies who organize wonderful literacy programs and events. Many of these are time specific, dependent upon adults, require registration, and substantial resources. LITE aims for universal accessibility for preschoolers. We call upon park planners, social planners, early childhood educators, librarians, and primary school teachers to collaborate on how LITE could be implemented in their neighbourhood public spaces and recreational facilities. Implementation plans could align with playground upgrading schedules and funding could be provided through parks budgets and community amenities contributions. LITE’s a bright idea! Developing healthy bodies and healthy minds at the same time.

Vancouver Island’s largest cloth diaper and baby carrier selection Wide variety of natural parenting supplies, organic skin care, wooden toys, amber teething necklaces, clothing items.

At Kumon, we do more than help your child gain a mastery of reading and math; we create a lifelong love of learning. Our specialized learning program is the catalyst for growth marked by self-confidence, motivation and an insatiable passion for learning.

Kumon Math & Reading of Nanaimo – Applecross

#5-6421 Applecross pp Road 250.390.2411

• Nursing bras & breast feeding supplies • Locally made items • Gift certiﬁcates • Gift registry • Cloth diaper trial program

12A-4376 Boban Dr., Nanaimo HOURS: Tues.-Sat. 10-2 Academic A d i EEnrichment i h t

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250-585-5552

info@huckleberrybabyshop.com www.huckleberrybabyshop.com

We believe in making gentle choices when considering infant care and diapering options....gentle choices for our children, our families and the environment. We support local, ethically run businesses.

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

Resiliency Resources for Parents APRIL DE VOY

work together to support resilience just like driving safely involves many things working together (driving skill, directions, roads, traffic lights, etc.). And just like a good driving instructor can help you become a better driver, caring relationships and positive role models help children develop their inner strengths. Sometimes parents don’t realize how essential they are in helping their children develop resilience. You are your child’s most important role model. “Resilient parents = Resilient kids” And, of course, learning how to help your child develop resilience helps you at the same time! This article has been excerpted, with permission, from “Intro to Resilience” a webpage from www.reachinginreachingout.com/parents, a website for parents created by Reaching IN… Reaching OUT. This site offers many free resources about building resilience including articles, posters, tip sheets, videos, a newsletter and more. April de Voy is a local Reaching IN...Reaching OUT skills training facilitator and can be reached at aprildevoy@gmail.com.

What is resilience and why is it important? If life were an easy journey none of us would need resilience. But we all know that the “Road of Life” is full of unexpected twists and turns, detours and roadblocks. Resilience is the ability to steer through these obstacles and keep going even when we feel like giving up. Resilience is not something we have or don’t have. It’s something we work on for our whole lives. Over the years, we’ve learned from research and our own work with children and families that there are certain things we need to develop our resilience and keep it up along the way. When we drive a car, there are many things that work together. We need keys to start the car, gas to fuel it, skills to steer it, and directions to find our way safely. Travelling the “Road of Life” with resilience is like this, too. Some of the things that help are inside us, like thinking skills and confidence. We call these inner strengths. Other things are outside us, like caring relationships, positive role models, and community supports. We call these outside supports. These inner strengths and outside supports

Funded by the government of BC

Promoting Quality Child Care PacificCARE assists parents in finding child care for children (newborn to 12 years of age) at no cost. Based on the parents’ specific needs, the computerized registry selects a list of providers for parents to choose from. In addition, parents have access to: • information and brochures pertinent to child development and child care selection • education opportunities such as workshops and printed information • information on child care subsidy and application forms • access to the Internet for child care-related business

Child Care Resource & Referral

Are you someone who: • • • •

Loves children? Is nurturing? Is interested in starting a home-based business? Is currently caring for children and would like some support?

Call PaciﬁcCARE Child Care Resource & Referral

We offer: • Support • Training • Access to low-cost business • Resources, Toys, Equipment liability insurance & Theme Packs • Referrals to parents who are • Access to enhanced Child looking for child care Care Subsidy payments

PH: 250-756-2022 or 1-888-480-CARE

www.paciﬁc-care.bc.ca

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

What to Look for When Selecting Quality Child Care Brain development research shows that quality care, educational experiences and enriched play have a positive impact on children’s development. Studies prove that the early introduction of these influences on children will enable them to develop social and learning skills that will benefit them into their adult years. Some indicators of quality care include: ◆ a caregiver who is warm, sensitive and responsive; ◆ a safe, healthy environment; ◆ activities that stimulate the child’s development; ◆ good communication between parent and provider; ◆ a child rearing philosophy that matches the parent’s philosophy, especially where discipline is concerned. It is important to carefully select the right child care arrangement that will work for you. Although a child care provider may be licensed and/or a member of your local Child Care

Resource and Referral Program (PacificCARE), you as a parent must make the final decision as to whether a child care arrangement is a good one. Meeting minimum standards does not guarantee high quality and there is a wide range of caregivers to choose from. Follow up on leads from other parents, check references and trust your instincts. Review brochures and booklets on selecting child care made available through the Government of British Columbia and our PacificCARE office. Once you are ready to start your child care search, PacificCARE Child Care Resource and Referral can provide you with a list of care providers in your area. Once you have obtained a list, you can do some of the selection process over the phone. Think about what your needs are: what hours do you require? What location works best for you? What fees can you afford? Are you eligible for a government subsidy? Will a group care setting or a family home setting best suit your needs? What qualifications do you want your provider to have? What is your parenting

philosophy? What type of care and activities you would like for your child? Some initial questions during the phone interview include: ◆ What are the hours of operation; fees; qualifications? ◆ What are the arrangements for illness and holidays? ◆ Are meals, diapers, etc. provided? ◆ What kind of programming happens? (i.e.: outdoor play, art/music, policy on TV watching, etc.) ◆ What other children are currently at this facility? (number, ages) Make sure to visit more than one facility to get a better sense of your options. Things to look for in a potential caregiver during the initial visits are: ◆ Do the children seem happy, secure, stimulated? ◆ Are parents welcome to visit? ◆ Is there a variety of play materials: table toys, manipulatives, dramatic play materials, etc ◆ Is the space clean, comfortable and safe? ◆ What is the daily schedule? Is there indoor/ out door time, quiet time/ free play time? ◆ Does the care provider have a parent package? If so, get a copy to read and become familiar with. ◆ Does the care provider have liability insurance? If they are a licensed facility, ask to see their

help your child get the best start

Kool Toys & Teaching Tools

Malaspina Child Development Society Non-Proﬁ ﬁt Offering Programs for the Whole Year

Preschool

Located at Fairview School grounds at 205 Howard Avenue. #1311746

Childcare Centre

Located at Vancouver Island University, this facility is open to the public year round for ages 2 1/2 to 5 years. #13112150

Afterschool Care Weekly Summer mm Camps

#102-2517 Bowen Road

250-585-1778

Educational toys for your child to make learning fun!

www.koolandchild.com “Putting Families First!”

Jill Dashwood

Available from 2:45 to 5:30 pm on Fairview School Grounds at 205 Howard Avenue. #1311746

*Arts *Crafts *Games *Field Trips Drop-ins welcome when space is available.

Call for registration ac package and full details on any program 250-753-6961

41 410 10 0A A 1s stt Avenue Av A Ave ve ven nue ue, Lady ue adysmi smith smi th, th h B. B C. C. Ofﬁc Ofﬁ ce e: 25 50 500-245 24 2 4 45 45-11 5--11 11 1111 1111 11 ext ex x . 30 06 6 C Ce ell: llll: l: 25 250 0-6 -6 -61661616 6-11 118 118 184 Ji l@ Jil l@i @s sla la andh nd dho d ome mes me sal a es. es e s com m www. w liv ww liiveva iv veva ev e va v anc nco n co ouve uv ve eris r slan la an ndbc dbc c.co .c co om Serrvin Ser viing C Cent en ent ntral rall Va Vanco c uve uverr Is sla and, n Cowic nd Cowic wicha ha han an Va an Valle lley, y, Island y, Isl s ands and nd ds and nd B Bey e on ond nd

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

licensing inspection reports, or check the Licensing website: www.viha.ca/mho/licensing/ If they are a LNR, are they registered with PacificCARE CCRR? Take notes and spend time watching the children play. If you can’t chat with the care provider during the visit, set up a time to call and discuss what you saw and any questions you may have. Searching for child care can be a labour intensive process, but it is definitely time well spent. Children and parents who are satisfied with their child care arrangements are less likely to feel stress in other parts of their lives. Children can build strong relationships with their caregivers, and develop and grow in a safe and loving

environment with their peers. Parents can relax knowing their child is well cared for in a safe, nurturing, educational environment. Clear, regular communication is essential and you will have an opportunity for this each time you drop off or pick up your child. A home/care communication book is often another helpful tool to keep lines of communication open. Let your caregiver know if there is something going on in your child’s life that may be affecting behaviour. If there are changes in your routine, such as someone different coming to pick up the child or a change in your location for the day, make sure you let your caregiver know. Be aware of the program policies, and honour

them. Respect drop-off and pick-up times, call if you are going to be late for any reason and follow health guidelines for admitting sick children. When you pick up your child, ask your caregiver how the day went. Leave the more indepth questions or issues you have to discuss for another time, perhaps over the phone or at an arranged time. It is important to monitor your child’s care on an ongoing basis and to work collaboratively with your care provider to ensure the placement is a good situation for both your child and your family. For more information on Registered LNR care programs, contact PacificCARE CCRR 250-7562022.

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CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

Aboriginal Early Childhood Development Working Together for our Communities A new position was established at Vancouver Island University (VIU) in September, 2010. Following a lengthy process this position (funded by both the provincial and federal governments) was approved by the Leading Edge Endowment Fund (LEEF) established in the early 2000s by the (then) new Liberal government. The position, the BC Regional Innovation Chair (BCRIC) in Aboriginal Early Childhood Development (AECD), has become a permanent position at VIU and therefore has exciting potential for leading edge work in AECD for many years to come. The primary purpose of the AECD Chair is to work together with the Aboriginal communities and organizations to strengthen educational opportunities in early childhood development for people working with Aboriginal children and their families. The current Chair is Linda McDonell. Linda has worked in the early childhood sector for many years. After seventeen years working directly with children and families she completed two degrees in

Child and Youth Care at the University of Victoria while working as an assistant researcher. In 1993, she began teaching at Malaspina University College. A central focus of Lindaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work at Malaspina (later to become VIU) was research and development of culturally relevant curriculum for Aboriginal students preparing to work with children and families. As well, she was the Canadian team leader in an international project developing ECD culturally relevant curriculum for Indonesian early childhood workers. Through the Fall of 2010 and 2011 one of Lindaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main activities has been to talk with parents and AECD professionals (in collaboration with First Nation communities and Aboriginal organizations in the region) about the kinds of experiences First Nation/Aboriginal families would like for their young children and for themselves. In two different projects Linda has asked families and practitioners questions that explore: â&#x2014;&#x2020; The kinds of services and programs they

are currently using; â&#x2014;&#x2020; The strengths and barriers of those services and programs; and â&#x2014;&#x2020; Their visions of excellent early childhood services and programs. These projects are presently still in process. While many comments parents have shared are typical of parents everywhere in Canada such as a wish for affordable, accessible, comprehensive and good quality early childhood services, some comments are more specific to the needs and interests of First Nation/Aboriginal parents and early childhood development workers. These comments speak to the importance of ensuring: Opportunities for First Nations/Aboriginal children to learn the language of their people. (In our area the Snuneymuxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;w (Nanaimo) Stzuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;minus (Chemainus) and Quwâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;utsun (Cowichan) people speak Hulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;qumiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;num). Opportunities provided in the First Nation communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s early childhood programs for

ANAIMO O itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a

Live it through pr eschool programs!

Engage! Explore! Discover! Bring your little one and participate in Nanaimoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parks, Recreation and Cultureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s preschool programs! Lead by experienced and dedicated staďŹ&#x20AC;, your child will learn how enjoyable learning can be through interactive play, physical ďŹ tness, stories, crafts and basic academic prep activities.

Help your preschooler develop skills that will last a lifetime!

Check out our Spring & Summer Activity Guide for lots of preschool options! CITY OF NANAIMO T H E

H A R B O U R

C I T Y

PARKS, RECREATION & CULTURE

XXX OBOBJNP DB t JSFH OBOBJNP DB 250-756-5200

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

children to learn about their culture, traditions and customs. That non-Aboriginal Health and Human Service workers understand and are respectful of and sensitive to the history and realities of the First Nations people in our region. These comments speak to the determined efforts of the First Nation/Aboriginal people in our local communities to ensure that their children carry on the language, culture and traditions of their people and promote a strong cultural identity and pride in their First Nation heritage. It will be the aim of programs at VIU, that prepare early childhood development practitioners, to enhance the knowledge and skill of First Nation/Aboriginal and mainstream graduates who will work with First Nation/Aboriginal children and their families. Doing so will promote best practice of all health and human service professional by strengthening their training and thus enhancing the quality of AECD services in the region. Parents or ECD practitioners wishing to comment or inquire about the AECD research and innovation undertaken at VIU can contact Linda McDonell: (Phone) 250-740-6267; (Email) linda.mcdonell@viu.ca.

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Parents of children between the ages of two and four years old are invited to a night out. This is a free event for adults only. School District 68 hosts three events in April: •

Tuesday, April 3 – Ladysmith Secondary School Power Up Parents: Body Smart, Right from the Start

•

Wednesday, April 4 – District Resource Seminar Room, 1115 Dufferin Crescent I Am the Future: Ecological Literacy for Young Children and Their Families

•

Wednesday, April 18 – District Resource Centre, 1115 Dufferin Crescent Merging and Emerging: The Stepfamily Journey

When Events are held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. (Power Up workshop runs until 8 p.m.) Dinner is included For more information Call 250-740-3516 Email epennell@sd68.bc.ca Registration is required Leah Pearson lpearson@sd68.bc.ca Hosted by The Early Years Program, School District 68 in partnership with the community

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

The Early Development Instrument and Children in Nanaimo What were the Kindergarten teachers thinking about in February? They were thinking about human development as it relates to the children in their class. The Human Early Learning Partnership at the University of British Columbia, in collaboration with school districts, is engaged in a population based study of young children for the province of British Columbia. What does a population based study mean? It means that it tells us about how groups of children are doing. No one child can be identified. All children are tracked according to their postal code. The results that are released give a picture of how children are doing in neighbourhoods not in schools. Schools were chosen to participate as it is the first place we have the majority of children together for the first time. The results of the EDI are distributed to each community in the fall of the year. Nanaimo will not be participating in the program this year. By participating in this study our community can see if we have sufficient services and programs to support families of young children prior to them entering school. We can see areas that require additional support for the families of young children and take action to change things for children. The goal of the research is to ensure all children are thriving and being given the best opportunities to achieve success. These are the five areas of human development that are considered: â&#x2014;&#x2020; Physical Health and Well Being â&#x2014;&#x2020; Social Competence â&#x2014;&#x2020; Emotional Maturity â&#x2014;&#x2020; Language and Cognitive Development â&#x2014;&#x2020; Communication Skills and General Knowledge

Each of the domains has subscales that are also analyzed through the information provided by teachers. The questions in the EDI are not evaluative for individual children nor are they used by the teacher for assessment. The results as mentioned are related to the population in a particular neighbourhood. The inset image and the final paragraph were taken from the H.E.L.P. website www.earlylearning.ubc.caâ&#x20AC;? www. earlylearning.ubc.ca The insert details some of the questions that are taken into consideration. REMEMBER this is in February of the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kindergarten year and is not an assessment of their learning. What we want to determine is whether or not the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s neighbourhood meets their needs. Support early learning initiatives and help us ensure all our children are thriving and ready for success. Early childhood coalitions, early child development workers, and school representatives use EDI data to inform their work with children and young families by identifying strengths and needs within their communities. A number of provincial ministries, including the Ministries of Children and Family Development, Education and Health, use EDI maps and data to plan early childhood investment, policy and program development. B.C. Ministries also use EDI data for program evaluation. Researchers at HELP use EDI data to address important questions about the genetic, biological, and social determinants of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health and development to inform policy and program development.

Experience this un nique summer camp that provides an opportunity for kids (4 - 6 yrs old) & parents (optional) to discoveer and enjoy different activities and sports that incorporate a variety of body movements!

ACTIVE STAR 2012 SUMMER CAMP DATES & LOCATIONS:

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41"$& *4 -*.*5&% t 3&(*45&3 50%": t DFEXBSET!QBDJĂśDTQPSU DPN XXX 1BDJĂśD4QPSU7* DPN

FREE

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

(free or low-cost)

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Ladysmith Primary StrongStart Centre (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon Ladysmith Primary School 250-740-3516 Ladysmith Family and Friends (LaFF) Family Resource Program Suggested donation $2.00/family 9:30 am - 12:00 noon (Drop-In) Aggie Hall 250-210-0870 Adventures in Early Literacy* (3 - 5 years) 9:45 am - 11:45 am Ladysmith Resource Centre Association 250-245-3079 Infant to School Age Immunization by Appointment (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm Ladysmith Community Health Centre 250-755-3342 to book appointment LaFF’s Family Frolic Drop-In Gym Time (Walking – 6yrs) Suggested donation $2.00/child 5:45 pm – 6:45 pm Frank Jameson Community Centre 250-245-6424

Ladysmith Family and Friends (LaFF) Family Resource Program Suggested donation $2.00/family 9:30 am - 12:00 noon (Drop-In) Aggie Hall 250-210-0870 Parent-Child Mother Goose* (6 mos - 30 mos) 9:45 am - 10:45 am Ladysmith Resource Centre Association 250-245-3079 LaFFternoon (LaFF) Family Resource Program (0 - 6 yrs) Suggested donation $2.00/family 12:15 pm - 1:45 pm (Drop-In) Aggie Hall 250-210-0870 Parent-Child Mother Goose Program* (Birth - 6 mos) 12:45 pm - 1:45 pm Ladysmith Resource Centre Association 250-245-3079 Infant to School Age Immunization by Appointment (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Ladysmith Community Health Centre 250-755-3342 to book appointment

Ladysmith Primary StrongStart Centre (Birth – 5 yrs) 9:00 am – 12:00 noon Ladysmith Primary School 250-740-3516 Ladysmith Family and Friends (LAFF) Family Resource Program Suggested donation $2.00/family 9:30 am – 12:00 noon (Drop-In) Aggie Hall 250-210-0870 Healthy Beginnings (Prenatal to 12 mos) 10:00 am – 11:30 am Ladysmith Community Health Centre 250-755-3388

* Parent Child Mother Goose Program®. This group experience for parents and their babies and young children focuses on the pleasure and power of using rhymes, songs and stories together.

Ladysmith Dads’ Group (Drop In breakfast for Dads & their children) 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Ladysmith Resources Centre Association 250-245-3079

* LRCA Volunteer Counselling Program. Please call 250-245-3079 for more information or to schedule an assessment. * LRCA Family & Youth Support Services. Please call 250-245-3079 for more information or to book an appointment. * Please also check with Ladysmith Parks & Recreation & Culture for additional recreational programs for parents and preschoolers. 250-245-6424 * Items marked with an asterisk (*) require pre-registration. Please telephone ﬁrst to conﬁrm times and locations of all drop-in programs or to register for those requiring preregistration.

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

FREE

Fairview StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 8:45 am - 11:45 am Fairview Community School 250-740-3516 Rutherford StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 8:45 am - 11:45 am Rutherford Elementary School 250-740-3516 McGirr StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 8:45 am - 11:45 am McGirr Elementary School 250-740-3516 Georgia Ave. StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon Georgia Ave. Community School 250-740-3516 Bayview StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:00 am - 12 noon Bayview Elementary School 250-740-3516 Infant to School Age Immunizations Drop-In (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 Family Place (Parent and Tot Drop-In) 9:30 am - 11:30 pm Lantzville Boys & Girls Club 250-390-4001 Bellies to Babies and Beyond* (Pregnant Women & Parents of Infants) 9:30 am - 12:00 noon Princess Royal Family Centre (childminding available) 250-753-7470 Woodbank StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:30 am - 12:30 pm Woodbank Primary School 250-740-3516 Healthy Beginnings (Prenatal - 12 mos) 10:00 am - 11:30 am Princess Royal Family Centre 250-755-3388 La Leche League Meeting (Breastfeeding Support) 10:00 am-12:00 noon (2nd Monday of the Month) Call for location 250-754-5853 (Bridget) Creating Healthy Families 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 Quarterway StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm Quarterway Elementary School 250-740-3516 Breastfeeding Centre Drop-In 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Nanaimo Health Unit 250-755-3388

Fairview StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 8:45 am - 11:45 am Fairview Community School 250-740-3516 McGirr StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 8:45 am - 11:45 am McGirr Elementary School 250-740-3516 Rutherford StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 8:45 am - 11:45 am Rutherford Elementary School 250-740-3516 Georgia Ave. StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon Georgia Ave. Community School 250-740-3516 Bayview StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon Bayview Elementary School 250-740-3516 Infant to School Age Immunizations Drop-In (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 9:00 am - 11:30 am Nanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3342 Infant to School Age Immunizations Drop-In (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 Family Place (Parent and Tot Drop-In) 9:30 am - 11:00 am Chase River Boys and Girls Club 250-753-2464 Drop-In Playgroup (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:30 am - 10:30 am Woodgrove Centre (near food court) 250-756-2022 Woodbank StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:30 am - 12:30 pm Woodbank Primary School 250-740-3516 Parent-Child Mother Goose Program* (6 mos - 12 mos) 10:00 am - 11:00 am Lantzville Boys and Girls Club (childminding available) 250-390-4001 Parent-Child Mother Goose Program* (Birth - 3 yrs) 10:15 am - 11:45 am Gabriola Island Hope Centre 250-247-2002 Baby Rhyme Time Drop-In (Birth - 17 mos) 10:30 am - 11:00 am Harbourfront Library 250-753-1154 Building Better Babies (Prenatal Class and Drop-In) 10:30 am - 12:00 noon Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 Cooking Out of the Box (One Tuesday per month) 11:00 am - 1:00 pm Nanaimo Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Centre 250-753-0633 Quarterway StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm Quarterway Elementary School 250-740-3516 Infant to School Age Immunizations by Appointment (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Princess Royal Family Centre 250-739-5845 Healthy Beginnings (Prenatal - 12 mos) 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm Nanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3388 Family Storytime* (All Ages Welcome) 6:30 pm - 7:00 pm Wellington Library 250-758-5544

Fairview StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 8:45 am - 11:45 am Fairview Community School 250-740-3516 McGirr StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 8:45 am - 11:45 am McGirr Elementary School 250-740-3516 Rutherford StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 8:45 am - 11:45 am Rutherford Elementary School 250-740-3516 Georgia Ave. StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon Georgia Ave. Community School 250-740-3516 Bayview StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon Bayview Elementary School 250-740-3516 Infant to School Age Immunizations by Appointment (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 9:00 am - 11:00 am Nanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3342 Infant to School Age Immunizations by Appointment (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 9:00 am - 11:30 am Princess Royal Family Centre 250-739-5845 Infant to School Age Immunizations Drop-In (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 Woodbank StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:30 am - 12:30 pm Woodbank Primary School 250-740-3516 Parent-Child Mother Goose* (6 - 12 mos) 10:00 am - 11:00 am Chase River Boys and Girls Club 250-753-2464 Parent-Child Mother Goose* (12 - 18 mos) 10:00 am - 11:00 am Lantzville Boys and Girls Club (childminding available) 250-390-4001 Rug Huggers (Parent and Tot Drop-In) (Birth - 4 yrs) 10:00 am - 11:45 am Gabriola Island Hope Centre 250-247-8730 Healthy Beginnings (Prenatal - 12 mos) 10:00 am -11:30 am Nanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3388 Toddler Storytime* (18 mos - 36 mos) 10:15 am - 10:45 am Wellington Library 250-758-5544 Preschool Storytime Drop-In (3 yrs - 5 yrs) 10:30 am - 11:00 am Harbourfront Library 250-753-1154 Building Better Babies for Pregnant and New Moms (Birth - 6 mos) 10:30 am - 12:00 noon Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 Baby Storytime* (Birth - 17 mos) 11:15 am - 11:45 am Wellington Library 250-758-5544 Cooking Out of the Box (One Thursday per month) 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm Nanaimo Food Share Centre 250-753-7470 Quarterway StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm Quarterway Elementary School 250-740-3516 Infant to School Age Immunizations Drop-In (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm Nanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3342 Connections: Young Parents Support Group 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Princess Royal Family Centre 250-739-5845 Preschool Storytime* (3 - 5 yrs) 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm Princess Royal Family Centre 250-716-1551 Dads Make a Difference 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Princess Royal Family Centre 250-716-1551

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Infant to School Age Immunizations by Appointment (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 9:00 am - 3:30 pm (every other Saturday) Nanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3342 Parent-Child Mother Goose* (6 - 18 mos) 10:00 am - 11:00 am Chase River Boys & Girls Club 250-753-2464

Georgia Ave. StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon Georgia Ave. Community School 250-740-3516 Bayview StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon Bayview Elementary School 250-740-3516 Building Better Babies (Home Visits & Drop-In) 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 Breastfeeding Centre Drop-In 9:30 am - 11:30 am Nanaimo Health Unit 250-755-3388 Infant to School Age Immunizations Drop-In (Vancouver Island Health Authority) 9:30 am - 4:30 pm Tillicum Lelum Health Centre 250-753-6578 Family Place (Parent & Tot Drop-In) 9:30 am - 11:30 am Lantzville Boys and Girls Club 250-390-4001 Woodbank StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 9:30 am - 12:30 pm Woodbank Primary School 250-740-3516 Quarterway StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm Quarterway Elementary School 250-740-3516 Quarterway StrongStart (Birth - 5 yrs) 12:30 pm – 3:30 pm Quarterway Elementary School 250-740-3516 Kindergarten to Grade 12 Immunizations by Appointment 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm Nanaimo Health Centre 250-755-3342 Storytime for Tots* (12 - 36 mos) 1:15 pm - 1:45 pm Wellington Library 250-758-5544

* Items marked with an asterisk (*) require pre-registration. Please telephone ﬁrst to conﬁrm times and locations of all drop-in programs or to register for those requiring pre-registration. * Parent Child Mother Goose® Program. This group experience for parents and their babies and young children focuses on the pleasure and power of using rhymes, songs and stories together. * Prenatal Classes. Free classes are offered at the Nanaimo Health Centre (VIHA) throughout the year. Please call 250-755-3342 for information and to register. * Infant to School Age Immunization Clinics are offered at the Nanaimo Health Centre (VIHA) throughout the week. Please call 250-755-3342 to make an appointment or for drop in times. * Gabriola Island Monthly Infant to School Age Immunization Clinics by appointment. Call 250-755-3342 for an appointment. * Please also check with Nanaimo Parks, Recreation & Culture for additional recreational programs for parents and preschoolers. 250-756-5200

FREE

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Early Years Resources Pregnancy g y and Early y Years Support pp Birthright Information Help Line Born Healthy (Prenatal Nutrition Program) Ladysmith Crisis Pregnancy Centre of Nanaimo Gabriola Island Hope Centre Ladysmith Community Health Centre Ladysmith Resources Centre Association Maternal Health Program -Intertribal Health Services Nanaimo Health Centre Nanaimo/Ladysmith Nursing Intake Line Nanoose First Nations Headstart Program Options for Sexual Health Princess Royal Family Centre Snuneymuxw First Nations Health Centre Stz’uminus First Nation Health Centre Tillicum Lelum Health Centre

1-800-550-4900 250-245-3079 250-716-1633 250-247-8730 250-739-5777 250-245-3079 250-753-3990 250-755-3342 250-755-3388 250-390-0003 250-753-9511 250-739-5845 250-740-2337 250-245-8551 250-753-6578

Breast Feeding g Support pp Gabriola Island Hope Centre Ladysmith Community Health Centre - Switchboard La Leche League Breastfeeding Support Nanaimo Health Centre Nanaimo/Ladysmith Nursing Intake Line Princess Royal Family Centre Snuneymuxw First Nations Health Centre Stz’uminus First Nation Health Centre Tillicum Lelum Health Centre

250-247-8730 250-739-5777 250-754-5853 250-755-3342 250-755-3388 250-739-5845 250-740-2337 250-245-8551 250-753-6578

Food and Nutrition Good Food Box – Ladysmith Health Link BC Dietitian Services Ladysmith Food Bank Loaves and Fishes Community Food Bank Meals on Wheels Nanaimo Community Kitchens Society Nanaimo Community Gardens Society Nanaimo Food Share Society Salvation Army Meal Program / Community Services Snuneymuxw First Nations Health Centre Stz’uminus First Nation Health Centre Tillicum Lelum Health Centre VIHA Community Nutrition Program – Nanaimo Health Centre 7-10 Club Society – The Family Soup Kitchen

250-245-3079 811 250-245-3079 250-754-8347 250-753-1300 250-753-7470 250-816-4769 250-753-9393 250-754-2621 250-740-2337 250-245-8551 250-753-6578 250-739-5845 250-714-0917

Health BC Poison Control Child and Youth Mental Health - Aboriginal Child and Youth Mental Health - General Healthlink BC (24hr Nurse Line) Ladysmith Community Health Centre Nanaimo Health Centre Nanaimo/Ladysmith Nursing Intake Line Nanaimo Regional General Hospital Nanoose First Nation Head Start Program Princess Royal Family Centre Public Health Nursing Appointments Snuneymuxw First Nations Health Centre Stz’uminus First Nation Health Centre Tillicum Lelum Health Centre

1-800-567-8911 250-741-3600 250-741-5444 811 250-739-5777 250-755-3342 250-755-3388 250-754-2141 250-390-0003 250-739-5845 250-755-3342 250-740-2337 250-245-8551 250-753-6578

Vancouver Island Regional Libraries: • Gabriola Island Library • Ladysmith Library • Nanaimo Harbourfront Library • Nanaimo Wellington Library

250-247-7878 250-245-2322 250-753-1154 250-758-5544

Child Care Boys and Girls Club of Central Vancouver Island • Bright Adventures Daycare • Chase River Club • Coal Tyee Club • Fifth Street Club • Forest Park Club • Ladysmith Child & Family Centre • Lantzville Club • Station 4 Daycare Child Care Subsidy Program Community Care Licensing Program Little Ferns Early Learning Centre PacificCARE Child Care Resource and Referral Supported Child Development • Nanaimo (Child Development Centre) • Ladysmith Vancouver Island University Early Childhood Education and Care

250-754-3294 250-753-2464 250-616-7681 250-754-3220 250-751-8937 250-245-8921 250-390-4001 250-753-2464 1-888-338-6622 250-739-5800 250-753-1783 250-756-2022 250-753-0251 250-245-3466 250-740-6248

Family y Support pp Autism Society of BC Big Brothers and Big Sisters Foster Parent Support Services Society Gabriola Island Hope Centre Immigrant Welcome Centre Kw’umut Lelum Child & Family Services LAFF Ladysmith Family Resource Program Ladysmith Resources Centre Association Ministry of Children and Family Development NARSF Programs Ltd. (Nanaimo and Area Resource Services for Families) Nanaimo Child Development Centre Nanaimo Family Justice Access Centre Nanaimo Family Life Association Nanaimo Family Resource Programs Nanaimo Men’s Resource Centre Nanaimo Women’s Centre Nanaimo Youth Services Parent Support Services of BC People for a Healthy Community (Gabriola) Snuneymuxw First Nations Admin SOAR Mentoring Program for women – Intertribal Health Authority Stz’uminus First Nation Health Centre Tillicum Lelum Health Centre

250-714-0801 250-756-2447 250-390-9686 250-247-8730 250-753-6911 250-591-0933 250-210-0870 250-245-3079 250-741-5444 250-754-2773 250-753-0251 250-741-5447 250-754-3331 250-753-2177 250-716-1551 250-753-0633 250-754-1989 1-877-345-9777 250-247-7311 250-740-2300 250-753-3990 250-245-8551 250-753-6578

Recreation Beban Park Recreation Centre Bowen Park Complex Ladysmith Parks, Recreation and Culture Nanaimo Aquatic Centre Nanaimo Ice Centre Oliver Woods Community Centre

250-756-5200 250-756-5200 250-245-6424 250-756-5200 250-756-5200 250-756-5200

Specialized p Support pp Programs g and Services Early y Learning g and Literacy y Early Years Program, School District #68 / StrongStart Centres • Bayview StrongStart • Fairview StrongStart • Georgia Avenue StrongStart • Ladysmith Primary StrongStart • McGirr StrongStart • Quarterway StrongStart • Rutherford StrongStart • Woodbank StrongStart Ladysmith Resources Centre Association Literacy Central Vancouver Island Parent -Child Mother Goose Programs • Gabriola • Ladysmith • Little Ferns • Nanaimo Snuneymuxw First Nations Health Centre Speech and Language Pathology/Nanaimo Health Centre Stz’uminus First Nation Health Centre Tillicum Lelum Health Centre

250- 740-3516

250-245-3079 250-754-8988 250-247-8730 250-245-3079 250-753-1783 250-816-1699 250-740-2337 250-739-6827 250-245-8551 250-753-6578

Autism Society of British Columbia BC Centre for Safe School & Communities Crisis Society for Central Vancouver Island Haven Society and Transition House Help Line for Children Kids Help Phone LRCA Family & Youth Support Services LRCA Volunteer Counseling Program Nanaimo Child Development Centre Nanaimo Community Hospice Society Rainbows Children’s Grief and Loss Support Group – Nanaimo Snuneymuxw First Nations Health Centre Stz’uminus First Nation Health Centre Tillicum Lelum Health Centre

250-714-0801 1-888-224-7233 250-754-4447 250-756-2452 250-310-1234 1-800-668-6868 250-245-3079 250-245-3079 250-753-0251 250-758-8857 250-751-7888 250-740-2337 250-245-8551 250-753-6578

Community y Early y Years Initiatives/Partnerships / p Children First Initiative Greater Nanaimo Early Years Partnership Ladysmith Early Years Partnership Success By 6® Initiative

250-816-1699 250-740-3516 250-245-6427 250-616-5820

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

Are amber teething necklaces safe for babies? BY HEATHER BUCHANAN

How are we doing so far? We want to know what you think about the family magazine. Take a moment to share your thoughts and your name will be entered to win a $200.00 gift card to the grocery store of your choice. What do you like about the magazine? Do you think that the content is relevant to your family? Please give us 2 suggestions on how we can improve on article ideas & best places to pick up a copy of the Family magazine. Email your reply to: shelleyanderson@shaw.ca

aimo/Ladysmi

Greater Nan

Family

Amber teething necklaces are very popular right now and many parents believe in putting them on their babies. Many parents are unaware of the safety risks with the use of teething necklaces. Marketing for these necklaces suggest that oils from the amber are released onto the skin and have a calming and analgesic effect. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this, or the use of amber teething necklaces. The necklace is also marketed as being safe because the beads are “small enough to be swallowed but not pose a choking hazard.” The recently revised Health File on choking advises that objects even as small as an un-popped corn kernel are especially dangerous and that would include necklace beads. Health Canada has updated their advisory on the use of such products and the related choking and strangulation risks. The following information is from Health Canada’s website (http://www. hc-sc.gc.ca/cps-spc/child-enfant/equip/necklaces-colliers-eng.php) and may be helpful information to share with parents: ◆ Health Canada first released an advisory against the use of necklaces marketed as preventing or reducing teething pain 10 years ago in April 2001 ◆ Choking and strangulation risks are present with this and any other product meant to be placed around a young childís neck ◆ Other international safety authorities have released similar information regarding the use of teething necklaces Health Canada suggests the following safety tips: ◆ Do not give young children any item that can be placed or wrapped around their neck. ◆ Harm reduction would be to wrap the necklace around a childís ankle inside a sleeper. ◆ Help with teething pain in young children by offering: teething rings and gentle gum massages. ◆ Always supervise young children. For further information contact the VIHA dental program at 250 739-5845.

DID WE MISS YOU? To ensure your ad is published in our next issue, please give us a call 250-753-3707

www.nanaimobulletin.com 777 Poplar Street

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star Twinkle twinkle little star How I wonder what you are Up above the world so high Like a diamond in the sky Twinkle twinkle little star How I wonder what you are Twinkle twinkle star so bright Winking at me in the night

How I wish that I could fly And visit you up in the sky I wish I may, I wish I might Have the wish I wish tonight Twinkle twinkle northern lights Shimmer in the arctic night Up above the clouds so high Green blue ribbons in the sky

Twinkle twinkle northern lights Sparkle in your dreams tonight. When the blazing sun is gone When the moon is shining on Then you show your little light Twinkle twinkle all the night For you never shut your eye Until the sun is in the sky

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

HOW TO MAKE AND ERUPT A VOLCANO: You will need: ◆ Plastic bottle (water bottle, pop bottle, etc.) ◆ Baking pan or cookie sheet ◆ Tin Foil ◆ Old news paper ◆ Paint & paint brush ◆ Vinegar ◆ Baking soda ◆ Dishwashing soap ◆ Red food coloring or red Kool-Aid mix Instructions: ◆ Place the plastic bottle on the baking pan or cookie sheet. ◆ Crumple up balls of newspaper and place them at the base of the bottle. ◆ Wrap tin foil around the newspaper and bottle to make a volcano shape. Make sure you don’t cover the opening of the bottle. ◆ Paint the tin foil volcano black and let it sit to dry. ◆ Pour approx. 3 tablespoons of baking soda into the bottle. ◆ Pour some red Kool-Aid mix or a few drops of red food coloring into the bottle. ◆ Add a few drops of dishwashing soap into the bottle. Your volcano is ready to erupt….get ready….. ◆ Pour in a half a cup of vinegar and watch it explode!!!! Recipe by Luke Bruner, 6 years old.

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

United Way Central and Northern Vancouver Island

d u o r

tner

(250) 7729-7400 (250) 29-77400

www.uwcnvi.ca email: info@uwcnvi.ca

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

Phone Welcome Wagon for a personal visit and your FREE package.

250-756-9794 welcometonanaimo@shaw.ca

L The Nanaimo Breakers coordinate and run the Learn to Play Softball program endorsed by Softball BC. This program teaches children the sport of softball in a fun, revolutionary and action-packed way. This program is for ages 4-8.

The Season Begins In April For more information, or to register, go to... WPVL.org

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Getting Children Outside BY ELIZABETH PENNELL Here are som ideas for what to do with children once you are outside. Providing opportunities for children to connect to nature generates happiness. Creating to nature doesn’t rely on expensive toys or lessons. The joy of playing in an unstructured environment is a great way for children to learn. Identifying with nature and the environment sets the basis to ensure the future stewardship of our ecosystems. The benefits of this list are that all activities are free. ◆ Visit the beach… Piper’s Lagoon, Jack Point, Cable Bay, Neck Point, Departure Bay, Transfer Beach. ◆ Visit the parks… Bowen, Westwood Lake, Linley Valley, Mansfield Park, Hemer Park, Holland Creek Trail. ◆ Find playgrounds that are fun and exciting: Beban Park, Oliver Woods, your local school grounds ◆ Make a collection of leaves,

flowers, shells, rocks and … Find their names. ◆ Play near a stream, go fishing, go wading ◆ Find an open area of sand or other materials for digging, building and creating ◆ Plant a garden, even if it is as small as one pot ◆ Use a handheld magnifying glass to get close to plants and insects ◆ Play outdoors despite the weather ◆ Make snow people, angels, play games and eat a snowflake. ◆ Walk on logs, balance on rocks, climb a tree Resources: ◆ Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder Richard Louve ◆ I am the Future: Ecological Literacy for Young Children and their Families Handbook/CD ◆ www.ArtistResponseTeam. com May be purchased from Elizabeth Pennell, epennell@sd68.bc.ca.

THE BUILDING BLOCKS OF LEARNING Give your child a solid foundation in learning and life by focusing on physical, social, emotional and intellectual development.

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

co Va n u v e r I s l a n d

Triple P Offers Simple Strategies The Triple P Positive Parenting Program provides parents with simple strategies to help solve current behaviour problems & prevent future problems before they arise. Triple P is not just a Vancouver Island program but is being used in 14 countries around the world to help parents become more confident in their own parenting skills and give them the ability to balance work and family without constant stress and worry. For more information about Triple P providers in your area, visit our website at www. triplepvip.ca. Want Happier Children? Focus on the Positive. Parents need to be aware of how their children see themselves and be ready with ways to help their children feel good about themselves and their accomplishments.

Here are some ideas for promoting a positive self-image in children: ◆ Pay attention and notice things your child does well. ◆ Focus positive attention in the efforts a child makes to do well. While the result may not be what was hoped for (for example, a poor test grade), did the child put forth good effort? ◆ Talk about things your child does well. ◆ Encourage your child to set goals for the next time they face a similar talk or situation. ◆ Let your child express how they feel and listen carefully. If children fall into a trap of speaking or thinking negatively about themselves, here are some ideas you might wish to try: ◆ Talk about mistakes or challenges that you face to help them understand that no one is

good at everything ◆ Encourage your child to continue to try. ◆ Encourage realistic thinking. ◆ Be optimistic. Parents can set a good example for their children by showing them how they solve problems or challenges. Encourage family meetings to calmly discuss problems and work out solutions. Teach children problem solving steps such as: ◆ Clearly stating the problem ◆ Trying out the solution ◆ Brainstorming solutions ◆ Talking about how and whether the solution worked. This can help children become more independent at problem solving and can apply to many different areas of life.

TRIPLE P – POSITIVE PARENTING SEMINAR SERIES FOR PARENTS OF 2-12 YEAR OLDS

The Power of Positive Parenting Children of all ages need a safe, secure and loving environment to do well. Positive Parenting is an effective approach to raising children that is positive. It involves creating a family environment that is loving, supportive and predictable. Come hear some suggestions about how to use positive parenting in raising your children. Raising Confident, Competent Children The values, skills and behaviors to encourage in children are the choice of every individual parent. However, some core skills are important for everyone. Children are more likely to be confident, succeed at school and get on well with others when they develop certain life skills. These life skills include being respectful and considerate, communicating well with

others, thinking positively and having healthy self-esteem, being a good problem solver, and becoming independent. Come hear some ideas on how to help children learn these important life skills and become confident and competent individuals. Raising Resilient Children One of the most important tasks of parenthood is helping children learn to deal with their emotions. All children experience periods of stress in their lives and need the emotional skills to deal with it. Children’s ability to cope with their feelings is important to their long-term happiness. Come hear about the six keys skills to help children build emotional resilience. Please see schedule next page

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

ATTEND ANY SEMINAR OR THE ENTIRE SERIES Please call to register Seminar 1 Monday, January 9, 2012 – 6:00-7:30 pm Princess Royal Family Centre (childminding) 250 755-6265 Seminar 2 Monday, February 6, 2012 – 6:00-7:30 pm Princess Royal Family Centre (childminding) 250 755-6265 Seminar 3 Monday, March 5, 2012 – 6:00-7:30 pm Princess Royal Family Centre (childminding) 250 755-6265

Seminar 1 Monday, April 2, 2012 – 6:00-7:30 pm Grant Avenue Health Centre 250 755-6265 Seminar 2 Monday, April 30, 2012 – 6:00-7:30 pm Grant Avenue Health Centre 250 755-6265 Seminar 3 Monday, May 14, 2012 – 6:00-7:30 pm Grant Avenue Health Centre 250 755-6265

Seminar 1 Monday, January 16, 2012 – 6:30-8:00 pm St. Joseph’s School, Chemainus (childminding) 250 246-3191 Seminar 2 Monday, January 30, 2012 – 6:30-8:00 pm St. Joseph’s School, Chemainus (childminding) 250 246-3191 Seminar 3 Monday, February 13 2012 – 6:30-8:00 pm St. Joseph’s School, Chemainus (childminding) 250 246-3191

Seminar 1 Tuesday, March 27, 2012 – 6:00-7:30 pm Ladysmith, Location TBA 250 755-6265 Seminar 2 Tuesday, April 10, 2012 – 6:00-7:30 pm Ladysmith, Location TBA 250 755-6265 Seminar 3 Tuesday, April 24, 2012 – 6:00-7:30 pm Ladysmith, Location TBA 250 755-6265

Seminar 1 Tuesday, April 24, 2012 – 9:30-11:00am Princess Royal Family Centre 250 755-6265 Seminar 2 Tuesday, May 8, 2012 – 9:30-11:00am Princess Royal Family Centre 250 755-6265 Seminar 3 Tuesday, May 22, 2012 – 9:30-11:00am Princess Royal Family Centre 250 755-6265

Services Provided x x x x x x x x x

Daycare Before and After School Care Weekend Care @ the Chase River Club Preschool Parent/Child Mother Goose Parent and Child Drop-in Family Support Programs Youth Programming Evening Programs

Contact Information 20 Fifth St. Nanaimo, BC V9R 1M7 Phone: 250-754-3215 Fax: 250-754-4771 Email: reception@bgccvi.com Website: www.bgccvi.com

Regi To ster Takin day! g ye registra ar-rou

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Preschool - Beginner - Advanced

“Ask us about our Birthday

Party Packages!”

1911 Wilfert Road, Nanaimo Call to register

250.756.9102 www.flipsidegymnastics.ca

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

Planning and Patience Required Unfortunately your new bundle of joy does not come with a manual. There is not one book, or video, or program out there with all the answers when it comes to raising your child. As the parent it is important to know that embarking on the journey of child rearing has its ups and downs, good days and not so good days. The good news is that you are not alone; all parents have struggles and questions when it comes to their child. Among parenting challenges there are a few common themes: Tantrums: a temper tantrum at home or in the community can be an unpleasant experience. It is difficult to talk rationally to a screaming child with flailing arms and legs. First, help your child calm down their body, talking quietly with them and asking them to take some deep breaths (you might need to take some deep breaths yourself!). Many times when the child is the state of a tantrum they are unable to calm themselves and the tantrum will escalate. As the parent it is important to teach the child ways to cope with their anger and frustration, in this example using breathing techniques, a calm tone, and time to sit quietly. Bedtime – how many times does your child

“stall” the inevitable bedtime with “I’m thirsty”, “I’m hungry”, and “I wanted to give you a hug”? Children thrive with routine and structure and this does not end at bedtime. Your routine will look different than other parents; you decide what is going to work for your family in order to be successful. It could include a bath or shower, reading a book, discussing your child’s day with them, brushing teeth, turning on night lights, or picking a favorite toy to sleep with. If your child comes out of the room after they have been put to bed, simply escort back to their bed with as few words as possible and as little emotion

Aspengrove Early Learning Center

as possible. Be consistent with your response to their repeated attempts at escaping bed, this new strategy does not work overnight! Parental patience is required. Transitions – children don’t have the same “time restrictions” as we do. Attempting to rush a child out the door when you are late for an appointment probably can be very frustrating for everyone. Warnings are essential in preparing children for transitions. Give a 10 and 5 minute warning but also try setting the oven timer so the child can see the time counting down and then hear the buzz. Instead of telling your child everything they have to do before leaving the house, break it down into simple steps, maybe even one step at a time. This may take longer but will save you the tears at the door! For all of these situations the most important point is planning. If you are prepared for each situation you are less likely to get frustrated and the situation is less likely to escalate further. Pick your battles with your children and praise them for the successes! Nicole Iorns Family Development Program Nanaimo Child Development Centre

DOUG ROUTLEY, MLA NANAIMO~NORTH COWICHAN

Community Offices

524 1st Avenue | Box 269 Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A2 Phone 250.245.9375 | Fax 250.245.8164

Unit 112 50 Tenth Street Nanaimo, BC V9R 6L1 Phone 250.716.5221 | Fax 250.716.5222

Aspire Grow Succeed

Email: douglas.routley.mla@leg.bc.ca Website: www.dougroutley.ca

“SUCCESS BY SIX – AN ESSENTIAL COMMITMENT TO THE FUTURE OF OUR PROVINCE”

Bringing Memorable Moments of FUN to celebrations and events! nts!

Infants, Toddlers, Junior Kindergarten

(250) 933-2223

7660 Clark Drive, Lantzville www.aspengroveschool.ca

Specializing g in entertainment for children 2-6 years

• Birthday Parties • Picnics • Special Events • BBQs • Family Celebrations • Daycares • Festivals

www.auntibobbi.com

225550-751-1066 250-751-1066 751 1066 666

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Familyy

Eating Out with Children BY EILEEN BENEWITH

When was the last time you ate in a restaurant with your children? Statistics show that close to 40% of the Canadian food dollar is spent in food service outlets. If eating out is going to be a way of life in Canada, it is important for the health of our population that we know what is in the food served and that restaurants are willing to provide healthy options. The so called “family friendly” restaurants where you are welcome to bring children often carry very unhealthy food choices. To make it even more difficult for parents, many restaurants have children’s menus filled with cheap, high fat, high sugar, high salt and high calorie menu choices. This unhealthy food can be served at a much reduced cost because you get what you pay for. Parents need to ask themselves whether these are the choices they really want for themselves and their children. With the recent increase in overweight and obesity in both children and adults, it is time to take a look at what is appearing on the plates in restaurants. Many families choose not to order from the children’s menu. You can always use the

adult menu for cooked meats, bean dishes, vegetables, salads, whole grains and fruit which can be shared with the children. Milk can be ordered as a beverage. There is no need to

drink pop with unlimited refills just because you are sitting in a restaurant. If you are very thirsty, ask for a jug of water to be left on your table. People tend to forget that since they are paying for the meal, the restaurant is in the business to serve you. If most families choose to avoid the children’s menu, they will change the menu or stop having a children’s menu. Another way for families to get the kind of food they would like to order is to tell the manager of the restaurant what they would prefer on the children’s menu. If your usual restaurant is a chain where the menu is set in stone, find their email address as tell them what you need. The Healthy Families BC-Informed Dining Program is a voluntary plan that restaurants in BC can participate in. This program requires restaurants to disclose nutrition information on all standard menu items. Calorie and sodium content must be highlighted. Instead of putting up with unhealthy choices when you eat out, let restaurants know what kind of food you are willing to pay for and choose to eat where they have listened to you.

Tartan Tots 2.5 Years to Ch Championship i hi T Training! i i !

Hiighland Dance / Irish Dance • Nanaimo • Ladysmith • Comox Valley We would like to invite you to:

PRIDE OF SCOTLAND

Sunday, June 10, 2:30 pm, Port Theatre Tickets: 250-754-8550 For more information on our Spring Break & Summer Camps, contact Diena and Charles today!

brigadoondanceacademy@shaw.ca w ca c www.brigadoonacademy.com

250-756-3661

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

Is it Really Fruit? BY EILEEN BENEWITH One of the most important tasks for parents today is to provide healthy foods for their children. Manufacturers know this and have produced thousands of foods advertised for children. These foods have all sorts of healthy sounding words and pictures on the label, but seldom contain much actual food. Recently, a nonprofit nutrition and health watchdog group and a California mother filed a complaint that consumers are misled about the nutritional and health qualities of one company’s fruit snack foods which are advertised with statements that the products are nutritious and healthful to consume. The products contain”trans fat, added sugars, artificial dyes, lacked significant amounts of real fruit, and had no dietary fiber.” Labels contain phrases like “fruity”, “with real fruit”, and “with the goodness of fruit”. Pictures of fresh cherries, oranges, apples and berries are all meant to fool the consumer into buying these products. Often the name of a fruit is used in the title of the product regardless of whether there is any fruit in the product at all.

People who read poorly or those with English as a second language rely on pictures and symbols to help recognize what may be in the box. Those who can read the label often do not take the time to see what is really in that food. People trust the food system and often assume that what they see on the box is also in the food. The best way to offer fruit and vegetables is to cut them up fresh. What you see is what you get. By giving fruit and vegetables whole, you get all the nutrients as well as the juice.

Nanaimo Conservatory of Music Kindermusik for babies & toddlers

Suzuki

cello, ﬂute, in piano and violin

250-754-4611 in a wide variety for ages 3 and up & more re www.ncmusic.ca of instruments music for everyone! toll free 1 866 754 4611

NCM receives funding from the Province of British Columbia and the City of Nanaimo

Fun n for the

WHOLE FAMILY W

What appears to be juice is often not juice. Beverages that say, “Contains real juice” may have as little as 5% real juice. The rest of the box contains water, lots of sugar and artificial colour and artificial flavoring. Although yogurt is a healthy food, fruit flavored yogurt will not give you a serving of fruit. Most yogurts have a jam like product added which gives flavor and colour, lots of sugar, and sometimes a little real fruit. If you want real fruit yogurt, use plain yogurt and add a banana, an apple or some real berries. Fruit flavored cereals are another product that can deceive consumers. These products have little chunks of something made to look like berries or apple bits. If you look at the ingredients, there is red and blue dye added but probably no fruit. This is also seen in frozen blueberry muffins, waffles and pancakes. We think we are serving blueberries, but the label tells us otherwise. Label reading is one of the most important skills a consumer can develop. What is on the front of the package is what the manufacturer wants you to believe; on the list of ingredients you will see what is really in the package.

Support Our Children - Support Helping all children succeed

Leonard Krog M.L.A. (Nanaimo)

Ofﬁ ﬁcial Opposition

4-77 Victoria Cres. Nanaimo, BC V9R 5B9 Phone: 250-714-0630 Fax: 250-714-0859 leonard.krog.mla@leg.bc.ca www.leonardkrog-mla.ca

Your Source For Active Living In The Early Years!

• FREE Kids Zone • 4-H Petting Farm • Amusement • Music & More!

AUGUST 17, 18 & 19

BEBAN PARK FAIRGROUNDS www.viex.ca 250.758.3247

for life.

Helping All Children Succeed for Life.

250-245-6424 www.ladysmith.ca

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

make

NUTRITIOUS

delicious Balanced nutrition can help our kids get a strong start an nd optimiize their development. Our oďŹ&#x20AC;ering of fresh, natural and organic items including ready-to-eat y meals makes us your y grocery g y store destination in Nanaimo.

Port Place 650 South Terminal Ave. 250 729 2937

Longwood Station 5801 Turner Road 250 729 4950 Pharmacy 250 729 7240

Brooks Landing 200 Island Highway 250 729 2933

visit thriftyfoods.com

Greater Nanaimo/Ladysmith Family

CHILDREN FIRST / SUCCESS BY 6

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