Children & Family Directory

YOUR NORTH SHORE RESOURCE FOR FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN AGES 0-12

2023 DIRECTORY

MLA

• Connect you with your MLA on provincial matters.

• Receive feedback and answer questions on provincial programs or policies.

• Provide information about community or government resources and services.

• Attempt to resolve issues you may be having with provincial ministries or agencies.

Providing information to families with children 0-12 across the North Shore: the City of North Vancouver, the District of North Vancouver, the District of West Vancouver, Bowen Island and Lions Bay.

North Shore Community Resources: Child and Family Programs

604-985-7138

www.nscr.ca

#201-935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

Community Action Program for Children (CAPC)

The Community Action Program for Children (CAPC) provides funding to community groups that promote the healthy development of young children from birth to age 6, who face challenges that put their health at risk, such as:

■ Poverty

■ Teen pregnancy

■ Social and geographic isolation

■ Substance use

■ Family violence

Through this initiative, the Public Health Agency of Canada funds 410 CAPC projects serving over 225,000 vulnerable children and parents/caregivers across Canada each year.

North Shore Child Care Resource and Referral Program

■ Provides a community-based service which promotes programs and projects which enhance child care services and the quality of life for children and their families.

For information regarding the listings, please contact NSCR 604-985-7138

For information regarding advertising, contact the North Shore News at 604-998-3520

■ Provides information on child care options for children up to 12 years of age, including group child care, family child care, preschools, out-of-school care, child minding, and programs for children requiring extra support.

Children & Family Directory 2023 is produced by the North Shore News in partnership with North Shore Community Resources.

Cover image: GettyImages

2023 DIRECTORY

Health Resources

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH)

North Shore Services

604-983-6700 | www.vch.ca

Vancouver Coastal Health is dedicated to supporting optimum health for mothers, babies, children, and youth in our community. This is achieved through the delivery of a comprehensive range of services and support for families, including maternity, special care nursery and pediatric services based at Lions Gate Hospital, as well as a variety of community-based programs and services. Public health nurses are available on-call to answer questions related to health issues. Regardless of whether clients are at home, in school or in the hospital, a coordinated team of health professionals will meet their health needs. Services focus on health promotion, disease and injury prevention, as well as early identification of and support for children and youth with developmental and chronic health issues. Staff work together with families, community agencies, recreation and municipal departments to achieve the goal of healthy children and youth living and growing in a healthy community.

Audiology – Hearing Clinic

604-983-6704

Provides services to North and West Vancouver residents who are 0-19 years of age (inclusive) and to developmentally delayed adults who cannot be tested with conventional methods.

Services may include: full hearing assessment, universal hearing screening for newborns and kindergarten children, hearing aid and assistive listening device assessment, counseling, hearing aid sales for children 0-19 years of age and for developmentally delayed adults, fitting and follow-up services, client and family education and consultation with other service providers.

Health Link BC

www.healthlinkbc.ca

By calling 8-1-1, you can speak to a health services navigator, who can help you to find health information and services; or connect you directly with a registered nurse, a registered dietitian, a qualified exercise professional, or a pharmacist.

Community Licensing

604-983-6700

Provides the licensing and monitoring of child and adult facilities on the North Shore. These facilities provide daycare, group home residential care for youth and adults with special needs and homes for seniors.

Dental Services for Children

604-904-6200

Provides oral screenings, assessments and referrals for children under 5 years of age. Oral health prevention services are offered to parents and their young children at selected drop-in groups in the community. An oral health education kit containing lesson plans and handouts is available to loan to preschools upon request.

Environmental Health Inspection

604-983-6700

Inspections and licensing of food premises, public swimming pools, and personal service establishments. Inspects and enforces regulations relating to environmental pollution and contamination.

VCH Public Health Dietitians

604-904-6450

Provide resources and consultation to community programs for children 0-5 years and school-aged children.

Nutritional Counselling

604-984-5752

West Van Community Health Centre offers free individual nutritional counselling with a registered dietitian for normal nutrition (e.g. infant and child feeding) and therapeutic diets (e.g., allergies, gastrointestinal problems). Email: nscds@vch.ca.

North Shore Pediatric Resource Team

604-904-6200 Ext. 4162

Nursing Support Services

Includes coordination and consultation; assessment to determine if delegated or direct nursing care is required; development of Individualized Care Plans (ICP); teaching/ training and delegation for alternate care givers; facilitation of the At Home Program; counseling and referral; monitoring and evaluation.

To access direct care or delegated care services, a physician’s referral is required: www.bcchildrens.ca and search for ‘NSS Referral.’

Health Resources cont.

Physiotherapy – Early Intervention

The Early Intervention Physiotherapy Therapy Program provides community-based physiotherapy services to children between birth and school entry who have, or are at risk for, a developmental delay and/or disability. Physiotherapists provide services that focus on the identification and promotion of optimal movement development to help children achieve their highest level of participation within home, preschool, child care, and other community settings. Physiotherapists often work in consultation with the Infant Development Program and the Supported Child Development Program.

Physiotherapy for School-Aged Children

Physiotherapy services are provided on a consultation basis to school-aged children with special needs – from kindergarten through transitioning to adult services at 19 – to achieve optimal independency and to assist them in meeting their educational goals. The Physiotherapist works with family members, teachers and educational assistants to support the student’s participation, inclusion and access to learning opportunities with the goal of achieving the student’s highest level of independent functioning. Services are provided in the home, school, child care and community settings.

Public Health Nursing

604-983-6700

Provides services including prenatal information, home visits to newborns, immunizations, parent and infant classes, young moms groups, breastfeeding drop-ins, lactation consultant clinics, outreach to preschool and child care sites, support and resources for school health www.vch.ca/schoolhealth/ns, and a general on-call service.

On call operates 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday at 604-983-6700. After hours and weekends, clients can call HealthLink BC at 811.

Immunizations

To book an appointment, or for drop-in times and locations call: 604-983-6863

Immunization clinics are offered at four locations:

■ Central Community Health office

■ John Braithwaite Community Centre

■ Parkgate Community Centre

■ West Vancouver Community Centre

Postpartum Support

604-983-6700

Provides support for new moms who are feeling tired, anxious, sad, teary or overwhelmed. Call the public health nurse on call Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.. You can also call the 24-hour crisis line at 604-872-3311.

Well Baby Drop-In Clinics

604-983-6700

For dates and times of drop-in clinics go to www.vch.ca or call and ask for the on-call nurse for Early Years Team. Vancouver Coastal Health offers drop-in clinics in several locations across the North Shore.

Program provides an opportunity to consult with a public health nurse, get breastfeeding support, weigh your baby and access other health information. A lactation consultant is available by appointment, call 604-983-6863. Call for more information and times.

Youth Parenting & Pregnancy Program (YPPP)

604-675-3982 ext. 20331 | www.vch.ca/yppp

Robert & Lily Lee Family Community Health Centre

2nd floor, 1669 East Broadway, Vancouver

A free service supporting pregnant Vancouver youth (24 and under) and their babies.

Speech/Language Services 0-5 years

604-983-6760

Services are delivered at the Central and West Community Health Centers and Lions Gate Hospital. Speech-language pathologists evaluate how well a child understands and uses language, and if there is any articulation, voice, or stuttering problem. They work with the parents and care givers to help the child overcome their communication disorders. Consultation might also be provided in community settings such as home, daycare, and preschool.

School–aged children have service provided through the public school system.

Tobacco Reduction

604-983-6700

Tobacco resource centre and co-ordination of tobacco initiatives for Vancouver Coastal-North Shore service delivery area.

Health Resources

HEALTH CENTRE LOCATIONS

Central Community Health Centre

604-983-6700

5th Floor, 132 Esplanade, North Vancouver

Parkgate Community Health Centre

604-904-6450

2nd Floor, 3625 Banff Court, North Vancouver

Vision Screening

604-983-6700

This service promotes the prevention of permanent vision loss and the detection of eye problems. Currently all kindergarten age children are screened in the schools, however the recommended age for vision screening is three years old.

Youth Eating Disorders Program

604-983-6847

Provides services to youth aged 11-18 who are struggling with disordered eating/eating disordered symptoms and live in the North Shore, Bowen Island, Sunshine Coast and Sea-toSky regions.

Treatment includes counseling, medical monitoring and nutritional support.

West Community Health Centre

604-904-6200

1st Floor, 2121 Marine Drive, West Vancouver

Options for Sexual Health: Sexual Health Clinic

604-731-4252 | www.optionsforsexualhealth.org

Parkgate Community Health Centre

3625 Banff Court -- 2nd Floor North Vancouver

Opt clinics provide sexual and reproductive health services for all genders, all orientations and all ages. Opt clinicians are committed to providing you with confidential, non-judgmental, youth-friendly, pro-choice, and sex-positive services.

Health Resources cont.

Opt services include low-cost contraception, STI care, Pap screening, pregnancy testing, and pregnancy options counselling. Opt welcomes new and returning clients, and no referral is necessary! Hours of operation: drop-in Wednesdays from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m..

Sex Sense Line

1-800-739-7367 | www.optionsforsexualhealth.org

The Sex Sense Line is a free confidential sexual health referral and information service open Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The team of registered nurses, clinical counsellors, and sex educators offer information and resources for people living in British Columbia and the Yukon. The Sex Sense line answers questions about sex, sexuality, birth control, emergency contraception, pregnancy options, sexually transmitted infections, Pap tests/pelvic exams, and more!

HOSPITAL INFORMATION NON-EMERGENCY

Lions Gate Hospital Prenatal Tours

604-984-5728

Call for information.

Lions Gate Hospital Pediatric Unit

604-988-3131

The Pediatric Unit at Lions Gate Hospital has 10 beds and a health care team trained to meet the special needs of children and families. A weekly pediatric asthma clinic is held on the unit by referral only. Parents are important members of the care team and are encouraged to participate directly in the development of a care plan for their child. As well, parents are given the option to “room-in” with their child to help alleviate anxiety in small children. A parent lounge in the unit has kitchen facilities. A playroom and teen lounge are available for play therapy and patient recreation. Videos and computer games are also available to distract children from pain and anxiety.

Lions Gate Hospital Pre-Admission Clinic

604-988-3131

Children requiring surgery will visit the Pre-Admission Clinic with a parent/guardian prior to the scheduled operation. This visit will provide an opportunity for the child to meet with members of the care team, complete required tests and other procedures, and learn more about what to expect when they come to the hospital. Parents/guardians will also learn what to expect during and after surgery and the role they will play in their child’s treatment and recovery process.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR CHILDREN

North Shore Infant, Child and Youth Mental Health: Vancouver Coastal Health Authority and Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD)

MCFD Child and Youth Mental Health (CYMH)

301–224 W Esplanade, North Vancouver

604-904-4300 (press 1) | 604-983-6719

Child and Adolescent Program (CAP)

5th Floor 132 W. Esplanade, North Vancouver

These two multi-disciplinary teams consist of child and youth clinicians, psychiatrists, behavior support workers, a social worker and prevention educators. Referring problems include anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, ADHD and other mental health issues. Outpatient, community-based therapy, outreach services and parent / children after-school groups, including social skills training, are also offered. Infant mental health services (0 – 5 years) are provided by MCFD only. Services are free and referrals are accepted through the Child and Youth Mental Health Walk In Clinic (see below).

Child and Youth Mental Health Walk-in Clinic

604-904-4300 (press 1)

The Child and Youth Mental Health Clinic provides specialized mental health treatment to children, and youth (0-18 years old), and their families, who are experiencing mental health symptoms that impact thoughts, behaviours and feelings. Clinical services may also include eventual access to psychiatrists for further evaluation of medical need at a later date.

■ Times and location: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

#301-224 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

*No appointments required

Child and Adolescent Program (North Shore VCH)

604-983-6719

Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)

North and West Vancouver Branch

604-987-6959 | www.northwestvancouver.cmha.bc.ca Suite 300 – 1835 Lonsdale Avenue North Vancouver

CMHA believes that good mental health is essential to overall health and well-being. Mental health promotion and mental illness recovery-focused programs and services are offered for people of all ages and their families including counselling for people experiencing mild to moderate depression and a chronic illness.

Child and Youth Counselling

604-988-5281 | www.familyservices.bc.ca

Family Services of the North Shore

#203-1111 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

Supports children and youth struggling with mental health issues that are getting in the way of school, friends, family and life. Specialized counselling also available for children suffering from trauma and symptoms of sexual, mental and physical abuse.

FOOD BANKS

Harvest Project

604-983-9488 | www.harvestproject.org

1073 Roosevelt Crescent, North Vancouver

Our Emergency Food Program has moved to St. Andrews Church on Tuesdays from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. There is no longer an Emergency Food Program located at Harvest Project.

North Shore Neighbourhood House

604-987-8138 | www.nsnh.bc.ca

225 East 2nd Street, North Vancouver

A venue for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society each Wednesday of the month to provide food packages to those

in need. The Food Bank is open 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and you can visit the Greater Vancouver Food Bank website for an upto-date monthly calendar.

BC Food Security Gateway

www.bcfoodsecuritygateway.ca

The Food Security Gateway is designed to be a “one stop” online resource for food security practitioners and others in British Columbia who want to make “healthy eating the easy choice” and build food-secure communities.

Quest Non-Profit Grocery Market

604-566-0110 | www.questoutreach.org

167 East 1st Street, North Vancouver (entrance from Lolo Lane)

Quest Food Exchange is a not-for-profit grocery market offering a variety of fresh, frozen, and non-perishables at a significantly reduced cost. Low-income individuals or family members can approach their caseworker, school counsellor, medical clinic, community resource, or one of Quest’s partnered agencies to get a client referral form.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 5:45 p.m.

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Sunday: Closed

Child Care Resources

BC Aboriginal Child Care Society

604-913-9128 | www.acc-society.bc.ca

#102-100 Park Royal South, West Vancouver

The BC Aboriginal Child Care Society (BCACCS) is a Centre of Excellence for Indigenous early learning and child care. We help Indigenous communities develop high quality, culturally-grounded, spiritually-enriching, community child care services that are based in the child’s culture, language and history.

We are the only provincial Aboriginal Child Care Resource & Referral in BC. We provide information, training, and support to programs, educators, and families.

Mother Bear Child Development Program

Ayas Men Men Child & Family Services, Squamish Nation

427 West First Street, North Vancouver

Licensed group child care (3 to 5 years) Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

North Shore Child Care Resource & Referral Program

604-985-7138 | www.nscr.ca

North Shore Community Resources

#201-935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

■ For parents, child care providers (licensed, registered and informal), ECE students and the community.

■ Provides information on parenting, child care, child development and the early years through parent referrals, professional development and workshop opportunities.

■ Provides assistance with the Affordable Child Care benefit program.

■ Provides extensive child care lending library.

■ Provides information for parents on choosing and finding quality child care.

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH)

Community Care Facilities Licensing

604-983-6787

Provides the licensing and monitoring of child care facilities on the North Shore.

North Shore Supported Child Development Program

604-998-0131 | www.nsscdp.com

North Shore Neighbourhood House

225 East 2nd Street, North Vancouver

Supported Child Development (SCDP) is a community-based program that assists families of children with extra support needs to access inclusive childcare that meets family needs. The program is intended to serve children from birth to 12, with services for youth 13-19 years available in some communities.

SCDP provides the following services to support children, families, and childcare providers:

■ Individual planning to promote each child’s development

■ Training and information for families and childcare providers to help each child’s development

■ Resources such as books, toys and specialized equipment

■ Referrals to other services such as therapists or specialists

■ Where necessary, additional staffing to ensure that children may participate fully with their peers.

■ SCDP operates under the principles of inclusion and family centred practice. SCDP uses a multi-disciplinary team approach. Parents may self-refer, or with parent consent, referrals may come from other service providers. The service is voluntary and free of charge.

Provincial Child Care Resource & Referral Programs

1-888-338-6622 | www.ccrr.bc.ca

Provides information about child care, family support services and locations of Child Care Resource and Referral Programs in BC.

Vancouver Coastal Region CCRRs

www.childcareresource.ca

There are six CCRR programs in the Vancouver Coastal Region: North Shore, Sea-to-Sky, Sunshine Coast, Richmond, Vancouver, Tri-Cities/Burnaby.

Provides information about child care, family support services and locations of Child Care Resource and Referral Programs in the Vancouver Coastal region.

Education Resources

NORTH SHORE PUBLIC LIBRARIES

■ All public library services are free.

■ All public libraries have large collections of books and audio-visual materials for children and youth of all ages.

■ All public libraries provide extensive programming for children of all ages, including story times and special events.

■ Most public libraries offer programming to support parents’ education.

■ Check the websites for current information about programming and lending resources.

Bowen Island Public Library

604-947-9788 | www.bowenlibrary.ca

430 Bowen Trunk Road, Bowen Island

Express Library at Lions Gate Community Recreation Centre

604-988-3033 | www.nvdpl.ca

1733 Lions Gate Lane, North Vancouver

North Vancouver City Library

604-998-3450 | www.nvcl.ca

120 West 14th Street, North Vancouver

(Across the plaza from North Vancouver City Hall)

■ Storytimes for children and families

North Vancouver District Public Library

604-990-5800 | www.nvdpl.ca

North Vancouver District Public Library has three locations:

■ Lynn Valley Library, 1277 Lynn Valley Road 604-984-0286

■ Capilano Library, 3045 Highland Boulevard 604-987-4471

■ Parkgate Library, 3675 Banff Court 604-929-3727

West Vancouver Memorial Library

604-925-7400 | www.westvanlibrary.ca

1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver

Education Resources cont.

break and enter, mischief, theft, community disputes and ongoing relationship conflict.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

North Vancouver School District #44

604-903-3444 | www.sd44.ca

2121 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

■ The North Vancouver School District has 15,713 students enrolled in Kindergarten to Grade 12.

COMMUNITY RESOURCE LIBRARIES

BC Aboriginal Child Care Society Resource Library

604-913-9128 | www.acc-society.bc.ca/resourcecentre

#102-100 Park Royal South, West Vancouver

■ The resource library is open to the public.

■ Contains over one thousand books, periodicals and videos related to Aboriginal children, parenting, child care and early childhood development.

■ Has early childhood education resource kits containing hands-on materials and curriculum reflecting First Nations traditions, which have been developed for loan to Aboriginal childcare programs in British Columbia.

■ Parents, early childhood educators, and other community members are welcome to visit the resource library or browse the on-line catalogue.

Capilano University Library

604-984-4944 | www.capilanou.ca

2055 Purcell Way, North Vancouver

Use of materials within the library is free of charge. Community members are welcome.

North Shore Child Care Resource & Referral Program Library

604-985-7138 | www.nscr.ca

North Shore Community Resources

#201-935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

Extensive child care library of books, equipment and toys.

The North Shore Restorative Justice Society

604-969-7462 | www.nsrj.ca

147 East 14th Street, North Vancouver

Restorative Justice in Education

This program receives youth and adult referrals from the RCMP, West Vancouver Police, Victim Services, and community agencies such as schools and non-profit groups. Referrals include situations where crime, conflict or harm has occurred and the people involved are searching for solutions that promote repair, reconciliation, learning and understanding. Cases commonly referred include physical assault, threats,

■ Programs include French Immersion, International Baccalaureate, numerous Athletic and Art Academies, Career Education, Band & Strings, Outdoor School, Distributed Learning, Strong Start, Summer Learning, and many more recognized programs.

■ New students to the district should register at the Education Services Centre, 2121 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver.

■ Bring child’s birth certificate (for international students, bring proof of citizenship or PR card, and passport), proof of residency, and report card.

■ Call 604-903-3368 for more details.

West Vancouver School District #45

604-981-1000 | www.westvancouverschools.ca

1075 21st Street, West Vancouver

■ West Vancouver Schools offers first class education in our 14 elementary and 3 secondary schools.

■ With our specialized programs and focus on developing adaptable, determined and resilient students, our graduates are well-rounded, socially responsible, and confident change-makers.

■ Our teachers, counselors and staff support academic, athletic, creative, and entrepreneurial pursuits for all of our students.

School District 93 (École André-Piolat)

604-980-6040 l www.andrepiolat.csf.bc.ca

380 West Kings Road, North Vancouver

■ One of the Conseil Scolaire Francophone school in French language

■ Kindergarten to Grade 12 ; Free IB program : MYP Grade 7-10; IB Grade 11-12

■ Possible graduation with 3 diplomas: Dogwood, Cornouiller, IB

■ Online registrations on our website

Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

Program provided in partnership with the North and West Vancouver School Districts.

Settlement Workers in Schools help newcomer parents and their children settle in their school and community. Services are available in many languages. You can contact SWIS directly, or through the ELL teacher or counsellor at your school.

Education Resources cont.

North Vancouver School District/ Impact North Shore

604-988-2931

#207-123 East 15th Street, North Vancouver West Vancouver School District/ Impact North Shore

604-988-2931

#207-123 East 15th Street, North Vancouver

StrongStart Programs (Ministry of Education)

A free drop-in program for pre-school children and their parents/caregivers are located in several public schools in North and West Vancouver.

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

Catholic Independent Schools

604-683-9331 | www.isabc.ca

Conseil Scolaire Francophone

604-214-2600 | www.csf.bc.ca

Independent School Association of BC

604-913-6038

Award winning music education program for 0-5 year olds and the grownups who love them.

Classes in

Village, Lynn Valley, and Coquitlam!

Parent Education & Support

Bowen Island Family Place

604-947-9626 | www.bowenchildrenscentre.ca

650 Carter Road, Bowen Island

Since 1989, Bowen Children’s Centre has been supporting family life on Bowen. Please see listing on page 19 for a full list of services we provide.

Thrive Family Centres

604-988-5281 | www.familyservices.bc.ca

Family Services of the North Shore

399 Seymour River Place, North Vancouver

Free services for parents and caregivers with children birth to 6 years old.

Two locations: Maplewood 399 Seymour River Place, North Van, and West Vancouver Community Centre, 2121 Marine Drive, West Van.

■ Thrive family drop-in

■ Parent support & education groups

■ One to one parent support counselling

■ Parent-child mother goose

■ Breastfeeding/postpartum support group

■ Pancakes & play – Dads and male caregivers Sunday dropin group

■ Toy & clothing exchange

■ Community food cupboard

Family Support Services

Confidential Referral Line

604-987-1411

Available to North Shore families with children under the age of 19 who may be experiencing difficulties resulting from marital breakdown, family conflict or other stresses. Parents, children, blended and kinship family members may all benefit.

Family Support Services

(Hollyburn Family Services)

604-987-8211 | www.hollyburn.ca

#104-267 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

Family support service assists families with children under the age of 19 years, to improve communication, manage conflict, and cope with stress.

■ Parenting strategies and understanding how to adapt as children grow and develop

■ Service is provided in the client home

■ Parenting education groups and workshops

■ Linkage to other community services

Family Resource Centre (North Shore Neighbourhood House)

604-987-8138 | www.nsnh.bc.ca

John Braithwaite Community Centre (JBCC)

145 West 1st Street, North Vancouver

■ Parent Education Workshops

■ Family Playgroup Drop In

■ Parent Community Developers

■ Parent Child Mother Goose

North Shore Child Care

Resource & Referral Program

604-985-7138 | www.nscr.ca

North Shore Community Resources

#201-935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

■ Key Elements of Professional Nanny Care

■ Foundations of Child Care training (includes responsible adult, school age care, and family child care training)

■ Resource library and equipment loan

■ Parent/care provider workshops

■ Family child care and licensed group child care support and network

Parent Community Developers (North Shore Neighbourhood House)

604-987-8138 | www.nsnh.bc.ca

John Braithwaite Community Centre (JBCC)

145 West 1st Street, North Vancouver

The Parent Community Developers (PCDs) host family playgroups, sunshine song time program, parenting support workshops, and provide community resources for families with children up to 6 years old. These free programs are funded by the Community Action Program for Children (CAPC) through the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Impact North Shore

604-988-2931 | www.impactnorthshore.ca

#207-123 East 15th Street, North Vancouver

■ Let’s Learn Together (0-5 in Farsi, Mandarin)

■ Immigrant Parents as Literacy Partners (IPALS), (ages 3-5 in Farsi, Mandarin and Korean)

Parent Education & Support cont.

■ Middle Years (ages 7-12, in Farsi, Mandarin and Korean)

■ Parenting Teens (in Farsi, Mandarin and Korean)

■ School-Age Parenting Programs

■ Women’s English Skills & Support (WESS)

North Shore Neighbourhood House

604-987-8138 | www.nsnh.bc.ca

225 East 2nd Street, North Vancouver

■ Young Parent Program

■ Parent Community Developers (CAPC)

Family Support Program

604-988-5281 | www.familyservices.bc.ca

Family Services of the North Shore

#203-1111 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

A free in-community program for parents with children under 19, to provide linkages to community resources and supports, parenting tips, tools and strategies.

PROUD2BE Parenting Gender Diverse Youth

604-988-5281 | www.familyservices.ca

Family Services of the North Shore

#203-1111 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

Join other parents of gender-diverse youth for safe, judgmentfree discussions co-facilitated by two experienced counsellors. This free, weekly drop-in group is a welcoming place for you to learn more about how to support your trans, non-binary, gender diverse and/or gender-questioning child or teen.

PROUD2BE Drop-in Group for Youth

604-988-5281 l www.familyservices.bc.ca

Family Services of the North Shore

#203-1111 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

A free weekly drop-in for ages 16-24 who identify as queer, transgender, two-spirit, and/or questioning youth. Connect with other youth in discussions led by an experienced master’s level counsellor. Share your experiences, ask questions, and explore your identity.

Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

604-988-2931 l www.impactnorthshore.ca

Impact North Shore

123 East 15th Street, North Vancouver

Are you new to Canada and your child goes to a North Shore elementary or secondary school? The SWIS program can help: ■ parents understand the BC Education System

■ provide key information about your child’s school

Parent Education & Support cont.

■ parents access educational resources

■ increase parent involvement at school and in the community

SWIS staff meet with students and families individually to provide information, facilitate meetings at schools, and hold education-related workshops and youth group activities.

Parkgate Community Services Society

604-983-6350 | www.myparkgate.com

3625 Banff Court, North Vancouver

■ Child and family drop-in

Parent Community Developers

604-983-6444 ext. 849 | www.myparkgate.com

Parkgate Community Services Society

3625 Banff Court, North Vancouver

PCD’s provide community resources, host special events and support families with children 6 years and under. PCD’s host:

■ Parent/caregiver evening drop-in

■ Afternoon Nature Play drop-in

■ Parent Child Mother Goose

■ Parenting workshops

■ Dad/child evening drop-in

Properties Family Hub Society

604-981-1297 | www.westvancouverschools.ca/ programs/properties-family-hub

1300 Chartwell Drive (south portable), West Vancouver

Community partners providing a range of programs and services for families living in the British Properties.

Parent Education & Support cont.

School Age Child Care Association of BC

604-709-5661 | www.saccabc.org

Improves the availability of quality, affordable school age child care by providing programs and services to professionals in this field.

Tsleil-Waututh Child and Family Development Centre

604-354-6764 | www.twnation.ca/child-familydevelopment-centre

3036 Takaya Drive, North Vancouver

■ Aboriginal Infant Development Program

■ Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY)

■ Weekly Parent Group

Family Preservation and Reunification

604-985-2202 | www.westcoastfamily.org

Westcoast Family Centres Society

#203-1111 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

With a referral through MCFD, services available to families are designed to resolve issues that could result in a child being removed from their home. We also help children who have been in and out of the home reconnect with their families. Family counsellors provide therapeutic and educational interventions and help connect families to the community.

Self-referrals can also be made for Family Support Services, providing 8 weeks of outreach. Parent training and education groups also available.

West Vancouver Child and Family Hub

604-921-3403 | www.westvancouverrec.ca

2121 Marine Drive, West Vancouver

Community partners work together to offer programs and services to support families of young children, including free parenting workshops, drop-in storytimes and Vancouver

Coastal Health’s Wednesday afternoon parent infant drop-ins.

Young Parents Program

604-987-8138 l www.nsnh.bc.ca

North Shore Neighbourhood House

225 East 2nd Street, North Vancouver

■ one-to-one support with our Family Support Worker

■ a regular group drop-in

■ parenting classes

■ out-trips

■ ongoing advocacy and support

Email: nfsw@nsnh.bc.ca

Cell: 604-258-8539

Parent/Caregiver & Child Programs

EARLY LITERACY

Parent Child Mother Goose Programs (PCMG)

Provides an early literacy program for parents of infants and toddlers. Most programs are ten weeks in length and include shared songs, rhymes and stories. The following agencies sponsor PCMG programs for parents and caregivers at several locations across the North Shore. Call for information about times and locations.

■ Bowen Island Family Place: 604-947-2717

■ Thrive Family Programs

(Family Services of the North Shore: 604-988-5281)

■ North Shore Neighbourhood House (at John Braithwaite Community Centre): 604-987-8138

■ North Shore Community Resources: 604-985-7138

■ Parkgate Community Centre: 604-983-6350

Thrive Family Centres

604-988-5281 l www.familyservices.bc.ca

Family Services of the North Shore #203-1111 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

■ Parent-Child Mother Goose

PUBLIC LIBRARY EARLY LITERACY SERVICES

■ City of North Vancouver Library: 604-998-3450

■ City of North Vancouver Library at JBCC: 604-982-8315

■ North Vancouver District Public Library (three locations): 604-990-5800

■ West Vancouver Memorial Library: 604-925-7400

■ Bowen Island Public Library: 604-947-9788

FAMILY RESOURCE PROGRAMS

Bowen Island Family Place

604-947-9626 | www.bowenislandfamilyplace.ca

650 Carter Road, Bowen Island

Since 1989, Bowen Children’s Centre has been supporting family life on Bowen. Family Place offers:

■ Programming for parents/caregivers and their children from pre-natal through age six years of age

■ Learning through play

■ Strength-based family support

■ Parent education

■ Baby weighing

■ A clothing exchange

■ A resource lending library

Please see www.bowenislandfamilyplace.ca for program details.

Family Resource Centre

(North Shore Neighbourhood House)

604-987-8138 | www.nsnh.bc.ca

John Braithwaite Community Centre

145 West 1st Street, North Vancouver

■ Family Playgroup Drop In

■ Parenting Support

■ Sunshine Song Time

■ Parent Community Developers

Shewaynewas Family Program

604-985-7826 | http://squamish.net

Squamish Nation Ayas Men Men Child & Family Services

422 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

■ Es7a7tsiwen (Prenatal) Registered program delivered weekly via ZOOM with Community Health Nurse and Infant Development Facilitator

■ Skakel (Parent/Infant) program and S7ixwalh (Parent/ Toddler) program delivered in-person Monday to Thursday with COVID safety protocols in place

Thrive Family Centres

604-988-5281 | www.familyservices.bc.ca

Family Services of the North Shore

#203-1111 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

Free services for parents and caregivers with children birth to 6 years old.

Two locations: Maplewood 399 Seymour River Place, North Van, and West Vancouver Community Centre, 2121 Marine Drive, West Van.

■ Thrive family drop-in

■ Parent support & education groups

■ One to one parent support counselling

■ Parent-child mother goose

■ Breastfeeding/postpartum support group

■ Pancakes & play – Dads and male caregivers Sunday dropin group

■ Toy & clothing exchange

■ Community food cupboard

Impact North Shore

604-988-2931 | www.impactnorthshore.ca

#207-123 East 15th Street, North Vancouver

■ IPALS – Immigrant Parents as Literacy Supporters –helps immigrant families support their pre-school and kindergarten-aged children’s early literacy development through interactions in English and their first language.

■ Women’s English Skills & Support (WESS) provides a safe place for women to learn English, make friends and get information about services in the community; highlighting support for parenting and child care.

Parent/Caregiver & Child Programs cont.

■ Let’s Learn – a program for new immigrant parents and their pre-school age children. Parents gain knowledge of early childhood resources in the community, Canadian resources for families, and children take part in an early learning program.

DROP-IN PLAYGROUPS (0-5 years)

North Shore Child Care

Resource & Referral Program

604-985-7138 | www.nscr.ca

North Shore Community Resources

#201-935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

“Circle of Care” and “Mother Goose” drop-in programs for informal and family child care providers, as well as families. Please call for locations, days and times.

Family Program and Services

(Parkgate Community Services Society)

604-983-6350 | www.myparkgate.com

Inside Parkgate Community Centre at 3625 Banff Court and at Jaycee House 1251 Lillooet Rd, North Vancouver

■ Programs for parents, caregivers, grandparents and children

■ Family Drop in, also on Saturdays

■ Parent education

■ Nature Play

■ Play in the Park

■ Snack and Circle time

■ Monthly dad’s playgroup

■ Parent Child Mother Goose

■ Parent Community Developers

■ Parent Education

■ Special events

StrongStart Programs

StrongStart is a free drop-in program for pre-school children and their parents/caregivers. It is operated under the mandate of the Ministry of Education and held in several public schools on the North Shore (September - June). The program offers a variety of activities for developing early learning skills.

North Vancouver StrongStart Programs:

■ Eastview Elementary School

1801 Mountain Highway, 604-903-3520

■ Boundary Elementary School

750 East 26th Street, 604-903-3260

■ Lynnmour Elementary School

800 Forsman Avenue, 604-903-3590

■ Montroyal Elementary School

5310 Sonora Drive, 604-903-3650

■ Norgate Community Elementary

1295 Sowden Street, 604-903-3680

■ Seymour Heights Elementary School

2640 Carnation Street, 604-903-3760

■ Westview Elementary School

641 West 17th Street, 604-903-3840

For more information contact North Vancouver School District at 604-903-3444, or check the website: www.sd44.ca/Schools/StrongStart

West Vancouver StrongStart Programs

■ Hollyburn Elementary School

1329 Duchess Avenue, hollyburnstrongstart@wvschools.ca

■ Eagle Harbour Montessori School

5515 Marine Drive, ehss@wvschools.ca

■ Chartwell Elementary School

1300 Chartwell Drive, chss@wvschools.ca

For more information contact West Vancouver Schools at 604-981-1095 or visit: https://westvancouverschools.ca/programs/earlylearning#strongstart

SUPPORTING FAMILIES & CHILDREN

Ensuring access to high-quality, affordable, flexible early learning and child care Fees have already been halved, saving families hundreds of dollars a month as we deliver an average of $10-a-day childcare by 2026

CANADA CHILD BENEFIT CANADA DENTAL BENEFIT

Since 2016, the CCB has put more money in the pockets of 9/10 families and helped lift 450,000 children o ut of poverty The CCB is indexed to inflation and will increase this year to ease cost of living expenses

Providing up to $650 per year for low and middle income families to get kids the dental care they need Since applications opened in December, we’ve helped over 200,000 kids from coast to coast to coast

$10/DAY CHILDCARE

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting families and making life more affordable, including through measures such as:

School-Age Programs

SCHOOL-AGE CARE

North Shore Child Care Resource & Referral Program

604-985-7138 | www.nscr.ca

North Shore Community Resources

#201-935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

■ Provides information for parents on choosing and finding quality school-age child care on the North Shore.

■ Provides assistance with Affordable Child Care benefit program.

SCHOOL SITE AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS

North Shore Neighbourhood House

Kids Club Programs

604-987-8138 | www.nsnh.bc.ca

■ Capilano Elementary

■ Cleveland Elementary

■ Lynn Valley Elementary

■ Norgate Elementary

■ Queen Mary Community Elementary

■ Ridgeway Elementary

■ Mountainside Kids Club supporting Braemar Elementary

■ Westview Elementary

■ JBCC Kids Club supporting Queen Mary and Ridgeway Elementary

User Pay After-School Site Programs

Several schools on the North Shore have arranged for afterschool programming through community recreation services. Call to see which schools are involved in these programs. Registration is through community recreation services in both North and West Vancouver.

North Vancouver Recreation & Culture

604-987-7529 | www.nvrc.ca

851 West Queens Road, North Vancouver

NVRC offers a variety of fun camps during summer and school breaks, and on professional days. NVRC also operates two youth drop-in centres at Delbrook Community Recreation Centre and Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre. These are free, safe, relaxed places for youth to gather with friends and make new friends.

Kids Club - West Vancouver Community Centre

604-925-7270

After School Club

604-947-9626 | www.bowenchildrenscentre.ca

Bowen Island Family Place

650 Carter Road, Bowen Island

Offering after-school care at Bowen Island Community School.

PRE-TEEN DROP-IN PROGRAMS

North Shore Community Services Societies provide free (or nearly free) pre-teen after-school drop-in programs once or twice per week at many locations. For current information about locations, days and times, please call the numbers below:

Bowen Island Youth Centre

604-240-3467 | 650 Carter Road, Bowen Island

Capilano Community Services Society

604-988-7115 | Norgate Community School

North Shore Neighbourhood House

604-987-8138

■ Lynn Valley Recreation Hall

■ John Braithwaite Community Centre

North Vancouver Recreation & Culture

604-987-7529 | www.nvrc.ca/youth

Parkgate Community Services Society

604-983-6350 | Parkgate Community Centre

West Vancouver Community Services

604-925-7270

■ Gleneagles Community Centre

■ West Vancouver Community Centre

AFTER-SCHOOL/SUMMER PROGRAMS

North Vancouver Recreation & Culture

604-987-7529 | www.nvrc.ca

■ Delbrook Community Recreation Centre

■ Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre

School-Age Programs cont.

Summer & Spring Break Camps, After School Art

604-988-6844 | www.northvanarts.ca

North Van Arts

335 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

North Van Arts believes in the intrinsic value of the arts in everyday life. We offer summer camps, spring break camps and after school art to school-aged children at affordable prices. Our programmes are offered in schools and at Maplewood House. Classes are taught by professional artists in a variety of mediums, including writing, drawing, comics, printmaking, music and movement, and more.

Boys & Girls Clubs of South Coast BCNorvan Club

604-986-3449 | www.bgcbc.ca | norvanclub@bgcbc.ca

800 Forsman Avenue, North Vancouver

Norvan Boys and Girls Club offers after-school drop-in programs Monday – Friday, and day camps during Pro-D days and holiday breaks. Our programs provide a safe space for children and youth, and offer a wide-range of fun activities. No child is turned away due to an inability to pay.

Artists for Kids

604-903-3798 | www.artistsforkids.ca

2121 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

Artists for Kids offers a range of after-school art programs, as well as spring break and summer art camps for school age children. All programs are taught by BC certified visual art teachers, who work to nurture creativity and artistic skill sets, for each young artist.

Family S er vices of the North Shore

We support children and families through every age and stage of life.

• Free family drop-in for parents and caregivers with children 0-6 years through Thrive Family Centres at Maplewood and West Vancouver Community Centre.

• Counselling for children, youth and families for a wide range of issues. Free or cost based on income.

• Parenting support, tools and strategies through groups in several languages (English, Mandarin, Chinese, Farsi).

• LGBTQ2S+ groups and support for children, youth, and their parents through PROUD2BE program.

• Eating disorders prevention resources for children, youth and parents through Jessie’s Legacy Eating Disorders Prevention and Awareness Program.

For details, visit familyser vices.bc.ca, or call 604-988-5281

@familyservicesofthenorthshore @fsnorthshore

Community Resources & Services

RESOURCES ON THE NORTH SHORE

Bowen Island Family Place

604-947-9626 | www.bowenchildrenscentre.ca

Bowen Children’s Centre

650 Carter Road, Bowen Island

Family Place, a program of Bowen Children’s Centre, provides programs/services for parents/caregivers and their children prenatal through six years of age.

We offer an engaging environment that focuses on developmentally appropriate play-based programming for children, emphasises strength-based family support, links parents to resources and promotes connections between parents/caregivers and their children, families and the community.

■ Family Place

■ Daddy & Me

■ Baby Connections

■ Parent-Child Mother Goose

■ Baby weigh

■ Breastfeeding support

■ VCH Vaccination clinics

Community Action Program for Children

(North Shore Neighbourhood House)

604-987-8138 | www.nsnh.bc.ca

North Shore Neighbourhood House

225 East 2nd Street, North Vancouver

The Parent Community Developers (PCDs) host free programs for parents and caregivers with children up to 6 years old, and provide information about community resources.

■ Family Playgroup Drop In

■ Sunshine Song Time

■ Parenting Support

Follow us on facebook @NorthShoreNeighbourhoodHouse for more information.

Family Services of the North Shore

604-988-5281 | www.familyservices.bc.ca

An accredited non-profit agency that provides counselling, support, and education for individuals and families of all ages and stages of life.

■ Counselling (sliding fee scale)

■ Parent education and support programs

■ Eating disorders prevention and awareness

■ Support services to LGBTQ2S+ youth and parents of gender-diverse youth

■ Sexual assault response services

Family Support Services Confidential Referral Line

604-987-1411

Available to North Shore families with children under the age of 19 who may be experiencing difficulties resulting from marital breakdown, family conflict or other stresses. Parents, children, blended and kinship family members may all benefit.

Hollyburn Family Services

604-987-8211 | www.hollyburn.ca

#104-267 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

Community-based multi-service agency offering a range of services supporting individuals and families throughout all stages of development, including self-referral and MCFD referral programs;

■ Family support services

■ Parent teen mediation

■ Youth safe house

■ Parent education

■ Victim support services

■ Individual fee-for-service counselling

■ Youth training, support and outreach services

■ Senior’s housing support services

Family Resource Centre

(North Shore Neighbourhood House)

604-987-8138 | www.nsnh.bc.ca

John Braithwaite Community Centre

145 West 1st Street, North Vancouver

■ Family Playgroup Drop In

■ Parent Community Developers

■ Community Resources

■ Sunshine Song Time

■ Parenting Support

■ Circle of Care Playgroups (supporting care providers)

North Shore Community Resources

604-985-7138 | www.nscr.ca

#201-935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

■ Child Care Resource & Referral Program

■ Community Action Program for Children (CAPC)

■ Information North Shore

■ Volunteer North Shore

■ Community Housing Action Committee

■ Legal information and advocacy

■ Seniors One Stop information and referral

■ North Shore Caregiver Support Program

■ North Shore Better at Home

Community Resources & Services cont.

North Shore Crisis Services Society

604-987-0366 | www.nscss.net

#200-147 West 16th Street, North Vancouver Emergency shelter, longer-term housing solutions, and direct service programs for women and children surviving abuse.

■ SAGE Transition House

■ 2nd Stage Housing Programs

■ Homeless Prevention Program

■ Multicultural Outreach Services

■ PEACE Program for Children & Youth

■ Good Stuff Connection Thrift Store & Clothing Program

For immediate care, call NSCSS’ 24-Hour Women’s Support Line: 604-987-3374

North Shore Neighbourhood House

604-987-8138 | www.nsnh.bc.ca

225 East 2nd Street, North Vancouver

A multi-service agency providing a broad range of recreational, social support, community development, and information/referral services to children, youth and families in a diverse community.

Circles In Schools

604-969-7462 | www.nsrj.ca

North Shore Restorative Justice Society

147 East 14th Street, North Vancouver

Circles in Schools is a strengths-based program that gives our children and youth the skills to transform conflict, heal relationships, and create stronger communities themselves. Trained facilitators lead students through a series of developmentally appropriate activities during weekly circles in the classroom. Topics include identity, diversity, communication, empathy, peer pressure, mediation and conflict-resolution skills. To learn more about this and other programs please contact info@nsrj.ca

Parkgate Society

604-983-6350 | www.parkgatesociety.ca

3625 Banff Court, North Vancouver

Community based multi-services and not-for-profit organization offering:

■ Licensed Child Care for children 6 month-12 years, including Licensed Day Camps for vacation

■ Licensed toddler program “Toddler on my Own”

■ Play Groups

■ Community Developers

■ Parent Child Mother Goose

■ Support for caregivers

■ Preteen & Youth programs

■ Parent Education

■ Monthly Dad’s Night Out playgroup

■ Evening and Saturday playgroups

■ Special events

■ Seniors & Volunteer Programs

In partnership with North Vancouver Recreation & Culture and VCH

Properties Family Hub Society

604-981-1297 | www.westvancouverschools.ca/ programs/properties-family-hub

1300 Chartwell Drive (south portable), West Vancouver

A community space on the grounds of Chartwell Elementary School that offers services for families and young children. Visit our website for more information.

Salvation Army Family Resources

604-988-7225 | Brian_Dueck@can.salvationarmy.org

105 West 12th Street, North Vancouver

■ Kids programs including camps

The North Shore Restorative Justice Society

604-969-7462 | www.nsrj.ca

147 East 14th Street, North Vancouver

The Restorative Response Program

A peaceful approach to crime and conflict that seeks to address the needs of victims, offenders and communities by

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSE PROGRAMS

at North Shore Neighbourhood House and John Braithwaite Community Centre

KIDS RECREATION & SUMMER PROGRAMS

Sign up for spor ts, music, ar t & more! See our program guide for details

FAMILY PL AYGROUPS DROP IN

Drop in Playgroups and Parenting Suppor t Contac t 604-987-8138

frahimi@nsnh.bc.ca

And there’s more:

CHILD C ARE SERVICES

Four child care centers for 5 years of age and under plus nine after school care programs at various Nor th Shore locations For more information visit our website w w w.nsnh.bc.ca

Community Resources & Services cont.

offering processes that encourage dialogue, reparation and healing. We offer: an opportunity to tell your story, a chance to explain how you have been impacted, conflict resolution and a chance to repair relationships, a better understanding of the incident and its impacts, an opportunity to take responsibility for one’s actions, meaningful outcomes and an opportunity for closure.

Thrive Family Centres

604-986-9311 | www.familyservices.bc.ca

Family Services of the North Shore

399 Seymour River Place, North Vancouver Free services for parents and caregivers with children birth to 6 years old.

Two locations: Maplewood 399 Seymour River Place, North Van, and West Vancouver Community Centre, 2121 Marine Drive, West Van.

■ Thrive family drop-in

■ Parent support & education groups

■ One to one parent support counselling

■ Parent-child mother goose

■ Breastfeeding/postpartum support group

■ Pancakes & play – Dads and male caregivers Sunday dropin group

■ Toy & clothing exchange

■ Community food cupboard

West Vancouver Child and Family Hub

604-921-3403 | www.westvancouverrec.ca

2121 Marine Drive, West Vancouver

■ Child care: licensed child care, childminding

■ Early learning programs

■ Health and wellness services: parent/baby drop-ins, immunizations

■ Recreation: children’s yoga, swimming, skating, gymnastics

■ Family resource programs: Family Place, parent/caregiver workshops

RESOURCES IN THE LOWER MAINLAND

Association of Neighbourhood Houses of BC

604-875-9111 | www.anhbc.org | central@anhbc.org

#203-3102 Main Street, Vancouver

This organization has more than 300 programs and services from child care to family resources to support children and youth.

BC Association of Family Resource Programs

250-590-5706 | www.frpbc.ca

2004B Fernwood Road, Victoria

Promoting the Family Resource Program model as a community hub where both Canadian-born families and those new to Canada can access family support, opportunities for engagement, and community resources.

BC Council for Families

604-678-8884 | www.bccf.ca | bccf@bccf.ca

208-1847 West Broadway, Vancouver

■ Nobody’s Perfect Parenting Program

■ My Tween and Me

■ Parent Child Mother Goose Program

■ Integrated Strategies for Home Visitors

■ Alliance of Professionals Serving Young Parents

BC Healthy Kids Program

1-866-866-0800 | www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/home/ featured-services/services/healthy-kids-program

Provides help for low income families with the costs of basic dental care and prescription eye wear.

Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver

604-876-2447 ext. 236 | www.bigbrothersvancouver.com

#102-1193 Kingsway, Vancouver

■ Programs include the Big Brother and In-School Mentoring.

■ Police Information Check-Vulnerable Sector required.

Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland

604-873-4525 | www.bigsisters.bc.ca

#200 – 5118 Joyce Street, Vancouver

Big Sisters Mentoring Program & Study Buddy Mentoring Program

■ We provide mentoring relationships to female, transgender & non-binary, kids ages 7 -17 who may be facing challenges like bullying, isolation, poverty, anxiety, lowesteem & more.

■ Big Sisters program matches female mentors with a mentee to develop a 1:1 friendship. They spend 2-4 hours, once a week, for 1 year doing free/low-cost activities.

■ Study Buddy program is a weekly 1:1 mentoring relationship focusing on school work. Female mentors provide educational guidance/support to a mentee.

bc211 / United Way BC

211 | www.bc211.ca

211 and Provincial Help Lines

Provides free, 24-hour, confidential, multilingual information and referral regarding community, social, and government services across BC.

■ 211 phone/text: 2-1-1

■ Alcohol & Drug Information and Referral Service (ADIRS): 1-800-663-1441/604-660-9382

■ Gambling Support Line: 1-888-795-6111

■ Safe Seniors, Strong Communities (SSSC): 2-1-1

■ Shelter and Street Help Line: 2-1-1

■ VictimLink: 1-800-563-0808

■ Youth Against Violence Line (YAVL): 1-800-680-4264

■ Yukon 211: 2-1-1

bc211.ca/bc211chat | 211-help@uwbc.ca

Community Resources & Services cont.

Parent Hope Counselling Program

604-926-5496 | www.livingsystems.ca

info@livingsystems.ca

Living Systems Counselling

#209-1500 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

We offer a structured Parent Hope Counselling Program for parents who have a child or youth who is struggling with mental health issues and or behavioral issues. We also offer individual, couple a family counselling for a wide variety of mental health and relationship issues. Our therapists utilize a Bowen Family Systems approach to therapy. We have a sliding fee scale that ranges from $15-$150 depending on household income, number of dependents and current circumstances.

Ministry of Children & Family Development

www.gov.bc.ca/mcf

The Ministry provides programs and services to help ensure that families can keep their children safe and supported. To report a concern about a child or request family support services call:

North Shore Intake & Family Services

604-981-0008

#304-221 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

Child Protection Reports

■ 24/7 Centralized Screening

1-800-663-9122 Toll Free

604-660-4927 Metro Vancouver, Outside BC

Helpline for Children

310-1234 (No area code required) For after hours emergencies.

CYSN/AT HOME Program/Autism Funding

604-904-4300

#301-224 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

Foster Care Resources and Recruitment

604-904-4300

#301-224 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

Youth Probation

604-904-4300

#301-224 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

Parent Support Services Society of BC

604-669-1616 | www.parentsupportbc.ca

#204-5623 Imperial Street, Burnaby

■ Parent Support Circles: Offers self-help groups for parents & caregivers with children and teens throughout BC. Circles are facilitated by professionally trained volunteers and are confidential, anonymous, and free. Parent Support Circles (PSC) help parents learn positive parenting by providing them with a safe atmosphere in which to share concerns,

learn new skills, and receive emotional support. Holds circles in English, Cantonese, Filipino, Mandarin, Arabic, Korean and Spanish. Childcare and transportation subsidies are available.

■ Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG) Support Circle: Offers self-help groups for grandparents with children and teens throughout BC. Circles are facilitated by professionally-trained volunteers and are confidential, anonymous, and free. Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (GRG) Support Circles discuss topics on parenting, relationship, financial, health, retirement, and social life issues; and provides information and referrals. Childcare and transportation subsidies are available if needed.

■ Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Line: Provides a toll-free helpline that assists grandparents and other relatives raising children to navigate service systems such as MCFD; find answers, assistance, resources; and learn about benefits and services that will support the family. Staff are trained in advocacy, social work, family law, and government services pertaining to kinship caregiving. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Contact: 604-558-4740; GRGline@parentsupportbc.ca.

We offer an

play-based curriculum that supports overall wellbeing.

Our parent participation programs provide a place where families and children can connect, learn, and thrive.

Community Resources & Services cont.

YMCA of Vancouver

604-681-9622 | www.vanymca.org

■ Provides a range of charitable and education programs and services for children and families in Greater Vancouver.

YWCA of Vancouver

604-895-5800 | www.ywcavan.org

■ Provides integrated services for women and families and those seeking to improve their lives, from early learning and care to housing.

Vancouver and Lower Mainland

Multicultural Family Support Services

604-436-1025 | www.vlmfss.ca | cwwa@vlmfss.ca

#306-4980 Kingsway, Burnaby

Provides culturally-sensitive services to immigrant and visible minority women and their families who are experiencing family violence. Services are provided by bilingual workers from various minority cultures in many languages. Also provides individual and/or group counselling support to children who witness violence, and many other support services related to family violence. Also have groups for caregivers with their children aged 1-6 to share about parenting skills and learn about child development. Strictly confidential.

Children Requiring Extra Support

BC Centre for Ability (North Shore)

604-451-5511 | www.bc-cfa.org | info@bc-cfa.org

■ Provides assessment and ongoing therapy services to children from birth to school entry age who have a developmental delay or neurological challenge.

■ Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Language Therapy services are available to children and Social Work support to their families. Family referrals are accepted.

■ Children are seen in home, childcare and other community settings where therapists work closely with families and other community partners to support full participation and inclusion.

Child and Youth Counselling

604-988-5281 | www.familyservices.bc.ca

Family Services of the North Shore

#203-1111 Lonsdale Avenue, North Vancouver

Supports children and youth struggling with mental health issues that are getting in the way of school, friends, family and life. Specialized counselling also available for children suffering from trauma and symptoms of sexual, mental and physical abuse.

Hollyburn Family Services

604-987-8211 | www.hollyburn.ca

#104-267 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

Provides clinical counselling services to children and families.

Intellectual Disabilities Society

604-984-9321 | www.intellectualdisabilitiessociety.com info@nsconnexions.org

1070 Roosevelt Crescent, North Vancouver

Advocates and develops community-based services for families that require extra support to meet the unique needs of children living with disabilities or intellectual delays. Services for families with children 0-6 include family support, community respite, and a Snoezelen room. Serving North and West Vancouver.

North Shore Disability Resource Centre

604-985-5371 | www.nsdrc.org

3158 Mountain Highway, North Vancouver

The North Shore Disability Resource Centre (NSDRC) offers the following programs and services to people with disabilities based on the belief that all people are important to their community. Information & Advocacy Services, Infant Development, one-to-one goal based programs for children and adults, Saturday Teen & Pre-Teen Program, STAGE (Adult Education Program), Residential Services and the Summer Bursary Program. North Shore Disability Resource Guide is available on their website at nsdrc.org.

Infant Development Program

604-986-1358 | g.jackson@nsdrc.org

North Shore Disability Resource Centre

3158 Mountain Highway, North Vancouver

Provides information and support to parents of children (birth to 3 years) experiencing or at risk for developmental delay. Home visits, workshops, and opportunities to meet other parents, including a playgroup and a parent support group.

Recreation Resources

Children Requiring Extra Support cont.

North Shore Supported Child Development Program

604-998-0131 | www.nsscdp.com

North Shore Neighbourhood House

225 East 2nd Street, North Vancouver

Supported Child Development (SCDP) is a community-based program that assists families of children with extra support needs to access inclusive childcare that meets family needs. The program is intended to serve children from birth to 12, with services for youth 13-19 years available in some communities.

SCDP provides the following services to support children, families, and childcare providers:

■ Individual planning to promote each child’s development

■ Training and information for families and childcare providers to help each child’s development

■ Resources such as books, toys and specialized equipment

■ Referrals to other services such as therapists or specialists

■ Where necessary, additional staffing to ensure that children may participate fully with their peers.

■ SCDP operates under the principles of inclusion and family centred practice. SCDP uses a multi-disciplinary team approach. Parents may self-refer, or with parent consent, referrals may come from other service providers. The service is voluntary and free of charge.

North Shore Children’s Hearing Clinic, Vancouver

Coastal Health, North Shore

604-983-6704 | www.vch.ca

Provides assessment and monitoring of hearing levels, patient/ caregiver counselling and education, evaluation and fitting of hearing aid(s) and other hearing assistive devices, school/ preschool liaison and direct student support, and workshops for families, caregivers, educators and other professionals. All children from birth to 19 years and all ages with developmental delay. Referrals are accepted from physicians, community health nurses, speech and language pathologists, parents, hearing resource teachers, and other agencies. Universal hearing screening is provided to all newborns either within hospital or at the clinic.

Preschool Speech/Language Services (Children 0-5)

Vancouver Coastal Health, North Shore

604-983-6760 | www.vch.ca

Provides speech-language services at the Central and West Community Health Centres, in preschool/daycare centres, and in the home. A team of professionals, including speech/ language pathologists, teachers, infant development, and supported childcare consultants work together with families to help preschool children overcome communication disorders.

North Shore Pediatric Resource Team

904-6200 Ext. 4162

■ Includes coordination and consultation; assessment to determine if delegated or direct nursing care is required; development of Individualized Care Plans (ICP); teaching/ training and delegation for alternate care givers; facilitation of the At Home Program; counseling and referral; monitoring and evaluation.

■ Physiotherapy services for children 0-5 years. Consultation is provided in multiple community settings: home, daycare, preschool, kindergarten, Infant Development Program, Supported Child Development Program.

■ Physiotherapy serves school-aged children with special needs – from kindergarten through transitioning into adult services at age 19 – to achieve optimal independence and to assist them in meeting their educational goals. The physiotherapist works with family members, teachers and educational assistants to support the student’s participation, inclusion and access to learning opportunities with the goal of achieving the student’s highest level of independent functioning. Services are provided in home, school, child-care and community settings.

INFANT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (IDP)

The Infant Development Program (IDP) serves children from bir th to three years old who are at risk for, or who already have a delay in development. IDP brings parents and professionals together to help children overcome developmental difficulties.

NSDRC.ORG

LET’S BUILD BETTER COMMUNITIES

nsdrc@nsdrc org | 604-985-5371

Multicultural Resources

Impact North Shore

604-988-2931 | www.impactnorthshore.ca

#207-123 East 15th Street, North Vancouver

■ Provides assistance in finding resources for immigrant newcomer families

■ Settlement services include information on education, medical and health systems, social benefits, housing, family issues

■ Community connections & volunteering

■ Employment

■ English language classes

■ Offers programs for youth, parents, women’s health

■ Services are provided in English, Farsi, Korean, Mandarin and Tagalog

■ School-Age Parenting Program

Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

Program provided by Impact North Shore in partnership with the North and West Vancouver School Districts

■ Settlement Workers in Schools help newcomer parents and their children settle in their school and community.

■ Services are available in many languages. You can contact SWIS directly, or through the ELL teacher or counsellor at your school.

North Vancouver School District/ Impact North Shore

604-988-2931

#207-123 East 15th Street, North Vancouver

West Vancouver School District/ Impact North Shore

604-988-2931

#207-123 East 15th Street, North Vancouver

Vancouver and Lower Mainland Multicultural Family Support Services

604-436-1025 | daycare@twnation.ca

#306-4980 Kingsway, Burnaby

■ Provides culturally-sensitive services to immigrant and visible minority women and their families who are experiencing family violence. Services are provided by bilingual workers from various minority cultures in many languages.

■ Individual and/or group counselling support to children who witness violence.

■ Groups for caregivers with their children aged 1-6 to share parenting skills and to learn about child development.

First Nations Resources

BC Aboriginal Child Care Society

604-913-9128 | www.acc-society.bc.ca reception@acc-society.bc.ca

#102-100 Park Royal South, West Vancouver

■ Offers training programs and resources for parents, early childhood educators, and other early childhood development service providers.

■ The library provides culturally appropriate resources to support Aboriginal children and families. This lending library contains over one thousand books, periodicals and videos.

■ Parents, educators, and other community members are welcome to visit the library or browse the on-line catalogue.

Mother Bear Child Development Program

Ayas Men Men Child & Family Services, Squamish Nation

427 West First Street, North Vancouver

Licensed group child care (3 to 5 years) Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Shewaynewas Family Program

604-985-7826 | http://squamish.net

Squamish Nation Ayas Men Men Child & Family Services

422 West Esplanade, North Vancouver

■ Es7a7tsiwen (Prenatal) Registered program delivered weekly via ZOOM with Community Health Nurse and Infant Development Facilitator

■ Skakel (Parent/Infant) program and S7ixwalh (Parent/ Toddler) program delivered in-person Monday to Thursday with COVID safety protocols in place

Tsleil-Waututh Child and Family Development Centre

604-354-6764 | www.twnation.ca/child-familydevelopment-centre | info@twnation.ca

3036 Takaya Drive, North Vancouver

■ Infant and toddler care (6 months – 3 years)

■ Full time child care for preschoolers (3 years – 5 years)

■ Aboriginal Head Start Program

■ Aboriginal Infant Development Program

■ Weekly Parent Group

Recreation Resources

FUN PLACES

Animal Welfare Shelter

604-990-3711

299 Mansfield, North Vancouver

■ Dog walking and cat brushing

Bowen Island

www.bowen-island-bc.com

Bowen Island is a 20 minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. Check www.bcferries.bc.ca for fares and schedules. Drive to Horseshoe Bay and park (pay parking) or take bus. Good for any age.

CityScape Community ArtSpace

604-988-6844 | www.northvanarts.ca

Located in the Shipyards District of Lower Lonsdale, this contemporary, free, public art gallery exhibits local, regional, and international artists. This space was built for the community and all shows are group based and themed, to inspire reflection and conversation. Visit today to explore a diverse range of media including, paintings, textile, photography, printmaking, sculptures and more.

Cypress Mountain

604-926-5612 | www.cypressmountain.com

■ Summer – walking, hiking, blueberry picking, lakes

■ Winter – snowplay, sledding, snowshoeing, skiing

Deep Cove Village, North Vancouver

■ All age groups. Playground, beach, swimming, picnic tables (some are under cover), washrooms.

Deep Cove Cultural Centre

604-924-1378

4360 Gallant Avenue, North Vancouver

■ Seymour Art Gallery and Deep Cove & Area Heritage Society

Grouse Mountain

604-984-0661 | Guest Services: 604-980-9311 www.grousemountain.com

■ Fee for gondola. Top of mountain activities for all ages. Not all trails are suitable for young children. Consult map or inquire about family-friendly hikes.

Lonsdale Quay

604-985-6261 | www.lonsdalequay.com

Located at the foot of Lonsdale Avenue

Open seven days a week. Food market, shopping, outdoor areas, picnic areas, Seabus, and good walks to playground in nearby Waterfront Park. Lots of free special events throughout the year for families.

Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre

604-990-3755

w.dnv.org/ecology | www.ecologycentre.ca

3663 Park Road, North Vancouver

■ The Ecology Centre has interactive displays, films, and programs dealing with environmental concerns, ecological concepts, and the study of nature. Or join guided walks by experienced staff and volunteers. Admission is by donation.

■ Tree Top Tales: Free story time for 2 and 3 year olds. Call for times.

Maplewood Farm

604-929-5610 | www.maplewoodfarm.bc.ca

405 Seymour River Place, North Vancouver

A five-acre municipal park/farm specializing in the display of domestic farm animals and birds. Open year round. Open daily April through August. Closed on Mondays September through March. Open on all statutory holidays except Christmas. Hours of operation: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m..

Mount Seymour

604-986-2261 | www.mountseymour.com

■ Hiking trails, snow play in winter. Some fees.

Recreation Resources cont.

Lighthouse Park | www.lighthousepark.ca

Marine Drive, at the end of Beacon Lane, West Vancouver

■ Nature trails, ecology centre, lighthouse tours

Lynn Canyon Park

www.dnv.org/ecology | www.lynncanyon.ca

North Vancouver

Near the top of Lynn Valley Road, turn right on Park Road. Nature trails, suspension bridge, ecology centre, natural history walks. Some trails are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, and washrooms are available.

Lynn Headwaters Regional Park

604-432-6200 | www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks

Trail Info Line: 604-985-1690

North Vancouver

North Shore Culture Compass

604-988-6844 | www.northshoreculturecompass.ca

North Shore Culture Compass is a free online map that visualizes the rich cultural offerings of the North Shore. An accessible navigational tool featuring key information about points of interest, the Culture Compass encourages local residents and tourists alike to connect with the arts heritage and stories of the North Shore. From dance studios to hiking trails, from festivals & events to day camps, the map is a resource for families to keep busy and learn about local culture.

The Polygon Gallery

604-986-1351 | www.thepolygon.ca

101 Carrie Cates Court, North Vancouver

Admission is by donation thanks to BMO Financial Group. Exhibition tours, talks, and outreach programs are also offered by donation.

Bridgman Park North Vancouver

■ On the corner of Mountain Highway and Keith Road. Trees, river, swings, a slide, climbing equipment, washroom.

Capilano River Regional Park & Salmon Hatchery

604-432-6200

www.metrovancouver.org/services/parks

North Vancouver

From Highway 1, take the Capilano/Grouse Mountain exit and drive north up Capilano Road about 1.5 km to the fish hatchery turn-off. Walk through the woods, beside the river and watch the fish jump in the hatchery. Easy walking, stroller, and wheelchair accessible in places. Picnic and toilet facilities at Cleveland Dam and Capilano Hatchery are wheelchair accessible. Cable Pool Bridge near the hatchery is also accessible and offers views of the river below. However, trails are subject to use and weathering which may degrade them. Free, including free parking.

Hiking trails in beautiful wilderness setting. The picnic area, BC Mills House and washrooms at the park entrance are wheelchair accessible. However, trails are subject to use and weathering which may degrade them. As with all North Shore wilderness areas, keep your children close and safe near the rivers and in the forest where there may be animals.

Maplewood Flats | www.wildbirdtrust.org

2645 Dollarton Highway, North Vancouver

■ Nature tours, walking trails

PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS

There are many parks and playgrounds on the North Shore. To find complete listings, check the websites of listed municipalities for all locations.

City of North Vancouver

604-983-7334 | www.cnv.org

District of North Vancouver

604-990-3800 | www.dnv.org

District of West Vancouver

604-925-7200 | www.westvancouver.ca

Park & Tilford Gardens

604-984-8200 | www.parkandtilford.com/garden/ calendar

In the Park & Tilford Shopping Centre on Brooksbank. Lovely gardens to walk around, fish pond, seasonal lights, and displays.

Seymour Demonstration Forest

Top of Lillooet Road, North Vancouver

■ Hiking trails (stroller friendly), cycling/in-line skating, picnic area, Seymour Fish Hatchery, Rice Lake.

Whytecliff Park West Vancouver

604-925-7000 | www.whytecliffpark.com

Take Marine Drive or Highway One west past Lighthouse Park to Horseshoe Bay, and then continue to 7100 block Marine Drive. Playground, picnic spots, a swimming beach, and an observation pavilion with great views.

Recreation Resources cont.

Stanley Park Vancouver

www.vancouver.ca/parks

■ Beaches, playgrounds, lots of fun things to do. Car (parking fee) or transit.

COMMUNITY RECREATION SERVICES

Bowen Island Community Recreation

604-947-2216 | www.bowencommunityrecreation.com

1041 Mt. Gardner Road, Bowen Island

Offers recreation activities, programs, and leisure activities for all ages and groups.

District of West Vancouver: Parks & Community Services

604-925-7200 | www.westvancouver.ca

2121 Marine Drive, West Vancouver

Offers a wide variety of community recreation, arts and cultural programs. Check out their Leisure Guide, available at community locations throughout West Vancouver and online.

North Vancouver Recreation & Culture

604-987-7529 | www.nvrc.ca

Delbrook Community Recreation Centre

851 West Queens Road, North Vancouver

NVRC offers recreation, fitness, sport and arts programs and events to benefit physical, social and personal well-being at 11 community recreation centres, the North Vancouver Tennis Centre and Centennial Theatre. Financial assistance available for North Vancouver residents and families, and many free and low-cost programs available. Visit nvrc.ca or call for information on programs, classes and services.

COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTRES

NORTH VANCOUVER

Delbrook Community Recreation Centre: 604-983-6530

851 West Queens Road

North Vancouver Tennis Centre: 604-983-6483

280 Lloyd Avenue

Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre: 604-983-6403

123 East 23rd Street

Ice Sports North Shore: 604-924-0828

2411 Mount Seymour Parkway

John Braithwaite Community Centre: 604-983-6471

145 West 1st Street

Karen Magnussen Community Recreation Centre: 604-983-6550

2300 Kirkstone Road

Lions Gate Community Recreation Centre: 604-983-7650

1733 Lions Gate Lane

Lynn Valley Community Recreation Centre: 604-983-6550

3590 Mountain Highway

Memorial Community Recreation Centre: 604-983-6403

125 East 23rd Street

Mickey McDougall Community Recreation Centre: 604-983-6403

240 East 23rd Street

North Shore Neighbourhood House: 604-987-8138

225 East 2nd Street

Parkgate Community Centre: 604-983-6350

3625 Banff Court

Ron Andrews Community Recreation Centre: 604-983-6500

931 Lytton Street

Seylynn Community Recreation Centre:

604-983-6550

625 Mountain Highway

WEST VANCOUVER

Gleneagles Community Centre: 604-315-1097

6262 Marine Drive

West Vancouver Aquatic Centre: 604-925-7270

2121 Marine Drive

West Vancouver Arena: 604-925-7250

786 22nd Street

West Vancouver Community Centre: 604-925-7270

2121 Marine Drive

The First Six Years

The first six years are the most important years in your child’s life. In the early years, the brain forms connections that set the stage for lifelong learning, behaviour, and health. By age six, children have a solid foundation for reaching their full potential. Parents and caregivers have the greatest impact on how a child grows and develops in the early years. You can make the difference!

What I need

If infants, toddlers and preschoolers could tell you what they need, here is what they might say:

Keep me safe

Know where I am and who I am with. Teach me who to go to when I need help.

Middle Years

The middle years can be divided into two sections: 6-9 years, and 10-12 years, or the preteen years.

CHILDREN 6-9 YEARS

Children 6-9 years demonstrate a cluster of characteristics that parents and caregivers will recognize:

■ Gender separation in play

■ Increasing independence

■ Increased ability to accept responsibility

■ Beginning to enjoy organized sports activities (8 years)

CHILDREN 10-12 YEARS (PRE-TEENS)

■ Many entering puberty

■ Relationships with peers are very important

■ Acceptance from peers very important

■ Connections to positive and supportive adults are needed

■ Opportunities for independence are important

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES ARE IMPORTANT FOR PRE-TEENS!

School-age children, particularly pre-teens, can benefit from engagement in after-school activities such as sports, music, dance, theatre, cooking, and arts and crafts. Benefits include:

■ Enriched and broadened life experiences

■ Development of “non-academic” skills

■ New friendships

■ Reduced “screen time” away from TV and computers

■ Opportunities to connect with positive, mentoring adults in the community.

Keep me secure

Hug me. Respect me. Let me know your love is forever. This will help me develop trust and self-esteem.

Keep me healthy

I need a variety of good foods, regular checkups, immunizations, fresh air, time to run and play and regular sleep.

Help me learn

Talk, sing, and play with me. Read to me. Stimulate me with sights, smells, tastes, and sounds.

Help me adjust

I need routines and comfort when I am upset. Help me make friends and learn how to get along with others.

CHILD AND PARENT PROGRAMS, NORTH SHORE COMMUNITY RESOURCES

604-985-7138 | www.nscr.ca

201-935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

Help Your Child Succeed

STEPS FOR HEALTHY CHILD DEVELOPMENT

INFANT - BIRTH TO 12 MONTHS

Safety - Always put your baby to sleep on his back. This reduces the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Use a Canadian Standards-approved car safety seat (infant or convertible) in the rear-facing position every time you travel in a vehicle.

Security - You cannot spoil your baby. Pick her up when she cries. Find different ways to soothe her such as feeding, cuddling, rocking, and walking with her. Hold your baby as often as possible, newborns really love being held skin to skin especially when you are feeding him.

Health - Breast-feed your baby if you can. Take your baby for regular checkups and make sure he gets the immunizations he needs.

Learning - Talk to your baby. Point out familiar objects and name them. Read simple picture books and nursery rhymes to your baby. It is never too early to start.

Adjusting - Respect your baby’s personality and feelings. Each of us responds to people and situations in a unique way. Introduce your baby to grandparents, caregivers and others. This will help him learn how to get along with people later in life.

TODDLER - 1 TO 3 YEARS

Safety - Childproof your house. Cover electrical outlets. Remove dangerous objects. Keep medicines out of reach. Provide safe opportunities for your child to climb, swing, slide and run.

Security - Tell your child you like the way she is and the things she does. Hug your child when he is angry or frustrated.

Health - Offer drinks from a cup only by 1 year of age. Offer water in between meals when your child is thirsty. Take your child for his/her first dental check by 1 year of age. Brush your child’s teeth with a smear of fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Keep your home and car smoke-free. Make sure your child wears a hat and sun-block when she plays outside in the sun.

Learning - Sing, talk, listen and read to your toddler every day. Enjoy counting and rhyming games together.

Adjusting - Develop unrushed routines for eating, going out, playing, and sleeping. Help your child understand his feelings. For example, say, “I see that you are angry because you don’t want to go. We will come back later.”

PRESCHOOLER - 3 TO 5 YEARS

Safety - Watch your child at all times when she is around water. Enforce safety rules in driveways, parking lots, and around traffic. Make sure he always wears a helmet when riding a bike.

Security - When your child misbehaves, help her calm down. Show her that you love her but don’t accept the behaviour. Hang his artwork on the wall. Tell him you like his dancing and singing.

Health - Take him to the dentist and get his vision and hearing checked before he starts school. Brush your child’s teeth with a pea-size amount of fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Take your child for regular dental checkups twice a year. Make sure she has lots of opportunities to be physically active. Offer water in between meals when your child is thirsty.

Learning - Use everyday situations to teach opposites, time, and how the calendar works. Limit the amount of time your child watches television. Watch television with her. Adjusting - Give her lots of chances to play with other children. Your child’s fears and nightmares are real to him. Comfort him and help him find ways to feel better.

TAKING CARE OF YOU

Parenting is a joy and a challenge! Night-time crying, temper tantrums, and the sheer energy of a five-year-old can leave you feeling tired and upset. When you feel this way, it’s hard to be at your best. Parenting will be a joyful process when you take care of yourself, as well as your child. Take a break once in a while. Go out with friends or your partner. Ask a friend, family or someone you trust to stay with your child. Enjoy music and other activities you like. Get your parenting questions answered by visiting a community resource. Go for walks with your child and meet other parents. See your doctor if you are sick, feel sad for more than two weeks or if you are worried that your behaviour may harm your child. This section courtesy of the Government of Ontario Early Years website.

GETTING READY FOR KINDERGARTEN

* This information is from the Government of British Columbia website and the West Vancouver School Board

If your child is turning five this year, there are many ways in which you can support their transition to Kindergarten.

Enrol in an Early Learning Program

■ StrongStart BC Centres are a drop-in program intended for both children (0-5) and caregivers to engage in play-based learning activities.

Help Your Child Succeed cont.

■ Ready, Set, Learn events provide a chance for caregivers and children (3-5) to engage with their local school. These one-time events typically happen in the spring.

Support Your Child’s Transition at Home

There are many ways to help your child prepare for Kindergarten. Play is one of the best activities to do with your child, and can touch on the following topics:

■ Developing the joy of reading

Help your child learn to love reading be engaging with books at home. Help your child point out the front of books, turn pages one at a time, hold them correctly, and pretend to read to stuffed animals or toys.

■ Playing with sounds and letters

Practice identifying letters and numbers in your community, sing simple songs, and familiar rhymes!

■ Listening and following directions

Help your child get ready for school by making directions fun! Play games that involve listening to instructions and taking turns. Also use “first” and “then” to let your child know about expectations. Fro example, say, “First puzzle, then snack.”

■ Check out your local library

Libraries host amazing programs that support play, engagement, and pre-literacy skills.

Play (0-8 years of age)

Extended engagement in play is one of the best ways to prepare your child for school. It is a critical component of your child’s learning, development, and well-being. Here are some suggestions to support your child’s engagement in play:

■ Check out the Ready, Set, Learn toolkit – this has been developed to give parents ideas that encourage children to become life-long learners.

■ Allow your child’s interests to be your guide.

■ Give children time to think and respond to questions, or to make choices.

■ Check out the Play Today B.C. Handbook – this provides examples of and illustrates a variety of play experience.

■ Above all, have fun!

Help Your Child

InternetSucceedResources

BC Parent Newsmagazine

www.bcparent.ca

Independent parenting magazine, giving tips on health care, education, birthing, arts, community events, and others.

North Shore Community Resources

www.nscr.ca

Information, resources and support for all ages.

Jessie’s Legacy

www.jessieslegacy.com

A Family Services of the North Shore program which provides eating disorders prevention education, resources and support for BC youth, families, educators and professionals.

Kids’ Stop – Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

www.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca

Fun and educational resources, with lots of First Nations, Inuit and Métis information, resources, languages.

Modern Mama

www.modernmama.com

Resources for parents with young children

Things to Do on the North Shore www.northvancouver.com

Tourism BC

www.helloBC.com

Official site for Tourism British Columbia, with lots of information for planned vacations within the province.

www.vancouversnorthshore.com

WestCoast Families Magazine

www.westcoastfamilies.com

Resource for families in the Lower Mainland promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.

Business & Services Index

Business & Services Index cont.

Advertiser Index