priceless • take one!
Getting Back In The Groove After Summer Break The Top 10 Reasons Your Child Will Love Theatre Help Your Child Prep for Preschool Private Schools vs. Public Schools
cover photo: www.adriankidsphotography.ca
Fall 2012
n o s u w o l l Fo er t t i w T & Fa ce boo k g a n chil d @o k a n a
Dr. Shylon Mathew & Dr. Natalie Mathew-Sanche Certiied Specialists in Pediatric Dentistry
778-484-KIDS
om
ds.c i K e n o thZ
oo
www.T
(5437)
What sets us apart? ToothZone Kids is a pediatric dental office that specializes in the care of infants, children, and adolescents! ToothZone Kids has been specially designed to provide your child the best dental care in a safe, comfortable and kid-friendly space!
We Offer... • An office designed just for kids • Video games in our fun-filled play area • TVs on the ceiling • A team that really cares for your kids!
New Patients Welcome & No Referral Needed! Get in the ZONE at ToothZone Kids!
Call (778) 484-KIDS
(5437)
and book your appointment today!
Conveniently located on Hwy 97 at #225 - 1634 Harvey Ave, Kelowna, BC next to the Parkinson Recreation Center and across from the Landmark Buildings! 2
l
Fall 2012
Mention that you heard about Toothzone Kids through Okanagan4Kids and we will take 20% off your first visit! www.okanaganchild.com
3
l
Fall 2012
www.okanaganchild.com
contents
Fall 2012
Volume 4, Issue 3
articles
5 6 8 12 14 15 16 17 18
Getting Back in the Groove After Summer Break Top 10 Reasons Your Child Will Love Theatre Private Schools vs. Public Schools: Which One is Better for Your Child? YOLO (You Only Live Once) Toddlers to Teens: Nutrition Growing Kids Need Put The “Home” Back In “Homework” Ignite the Inner Glow: Guide Your Tween to Find Their Passion How Can Children of Divorce Receive MORE Love? Help Your Child Prep for Preschool
columns 4 10 21 23
Editor’s Note Featured Parent Resource Directory Snap Happy
Cover photo: Adrian Kids Photography www.adriankidsphotography.ca E. info@adriankidsphotography.ca P. 250.863.0176 Contributors:
Patti Caplette, Amber Cordeiro, Sara Dimmerman, Sandra Gordon, Jeff Hay, Sara Kendall, Deborah Lowther, Pam Nease, Agatha Stawicki
Editor & Publisher:
Karan Bowyer
Advertising Inquiries: advertise@okanaganchild.com General Inquiries: info@okanaganchild.com Web: www.okanaganchild.com http://www.facebook.com/OkanaganChild https://twitter.com/okanaganchild Okanagan Child is published four times per year by a couple of busy moms. Please note that this magazine is solely funded through the support of our advertisers and sponsors. Please support our advertisers! Opinions expressed in this publication may not necessarily reflect those of the Publishers. All contents copyrighted©. No part of this publication may be reprinted, quoted, copied or reproduced without the express written permission of the Publisher.
Cherry season is now over, and we are ready to begin canning peaches here in Summerland. The first apples of the season have already made their way into a few pies. We live in a truly amazing place and I’m happy that I can raise my children here so that they have these memories. Best wishes for the fall and all the great things that your family will experience. Enjoy that exciting first day at school, your last summer long weekend, and all your upcoming fall activities! Karan & Tracey 4
l
Fall 2012
Programs for Age 2 – Grade 7:
ER MM LAND SU
OL
Preschool – 2/3/5/Day Options Junior Kindergarten Part & Full Time Kindergarten Summer Program After School Care Daily French and P.E. Hockey Development Program Extra Curricular Activities Choir & Drama House Teams
NT HO ESS ORI SC
RA
IR IE V A LLE
PR
Y
As we gear ourselves up for the return to school, it’s hard not to hang on to the last few days that we are spending at the beach, marveling at how brief our summer was.
*Now Accepting Applications for Sept. 2012*
MO
H
ello There! This issue marks the third anniversary of Okanagan Child Magazine and the first issue for us, the new owners. We’d like to welcome you and hope that you find the content both informative and enjoyable. We welcome your input and hope that you will watch as we renovate our website, and continue to supply you with helpful information.
Summerland Montessori School
P
editor’s note
E SC HOOL
Small Class Sizes • Caring Environment Daily Bus Service between Summerland and Penticton Join the Montessori Family – Space Limited
(250) 494-7266
www.summerlandmontessori.com • Email: smsoffice@shaw.ca
Nurturing the Joy of Discovery and the Love of Learning www.okanaganchild.com
Getting Back In The Groove After Summer Break Try a Morning Routine too! by Pam Nease
H
ave you been enjoying relaxing mornings over the summer? Are you worried about transitioning back into getting your kids to daycare and school on time? Are mornings a struggle even with your well rested children? If so, follow these simple steps! 1. On Sunday afternoon, gather up your sweet little children and get out some poster paper, markers and stickers. 2. Explain that in the morning, it is time to go back to school and that means we need to get ready on time.
3. Ask them what they need to get ready and then write it down. Guide them if needed and have “carrots” at the end. Here’s an example: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Go Pee Get Dressed Make Beds Have Breakfast Brush Teeth Get Backpacks Organized (I always make lunches the night before when I make dinner) Watch TV! Colour! Play with Toys! Go early and play at the schoolyard park!
stickers up for all the items after the beds were made. Yes, at first, I did help my 3 and 5 year old with the covers, but my son now does his from start to finish. I love watching how they arrange all their various stuffed animals. They are so creative! No, it does not look like Better Homes and Gardens, but I am one proud Mama. 7. If your child is stalling or wants to colour instead … simply guide them to the poster. “Hmmm … let’s see … what are we supposed to do next?” The poster becomes the “bad guy” not you!
Good Luck and please join me on Facebook and Twitter to ask your questions, share your comments, tips and strategies too! Pam Nease, Licensed Sleep Consultant Sleep Sense | www.sleepsense.net/kelowna
4. Make another poster with a calendar with the days of the week 5. Use painters tape and hang the posters up in the hallway by your children’s bedrooms
6. In the morning, refer to your poster and give your children stickers for each step of the routine or one at the very end. When my family did this after Spring Break, we went all the way upstairs to check the poster the first few days. Once they got in the groove, after just a couple of days, we would put our 5
l
Fall 2012
tel: 250 575 6988 sleepsense.net/kelowna
Sleep Solutions For Babies & Children www.okanaganchild.com
The Top 10 Reasons Your Child Will Love Theatre by Patti Caplette
I
t’s that time of year to get your kids all signed up for extracurricular activities. Here is a what can be gained by exposing your children to theatre at an early age.
1. Confidence Builder The theatre has been my second home for as long as I can remember; a wondrous place where I have seen – and made – magic happen. Taking dance lessons, acting in local productions and musical theatre was instrumental in building my own confidence as a performer. Theatre performance is about challenges, and the more challenges that children are able to confront, the more they’ll be able to confidently face fears in their day-to-day lives. That feeling of accomplishment after a curtain falls on a successful performance is perhaps the greatest confidence-builder any performer, at any age, can experience.
2. Sparks Creativity A parent that likes to expose their child to the creative arts sets the seed for expression. A child who engages in one creative endeavour opens themselves up to many other art forms. Once the seed has been planted, the limits of creative expression are endless.
3. Imagination Power When we use our imaginations, we can travel from the sea to the sky in seconds. In our current theatrical production, Toopy and Binoo and the Marshmallow Moon, Mrs. Octopus encourages the kids in the audience to flex their imagination muscles and help their parents along. Theatre allows us to explore places we’ve never been before.
6
l
Fall 2012
4. Supports Cognitive Theatre helps children engage in problem-solving techniques and critical thinking about right and wrong. It can be helpful in language growth and abstract development. As a theatre director, my aim is to entertain families, but I also feel a tremendous responsibility to create something that offers subtle guidance and functional skills. I’ve had so many wonderful letters from parents describing how their children have benefitted from an early theatre experience.
5. Keeps You Fit Theatre for young people is often very interactive. What better workout than 60 minutes of dancing, singing, and letting imaginations run wild? The best part is that children can reproduce the fun at home. Put on some tunes and encourage your kids to make up a silly story to go along with it. Dress up in some funny clothes. Even include the dog! The sky is the limit!
6. Conquer Stage Fright As a judge of dance festivals and competitions, I will sometimes witness a child who freezes up before setting a foot on stage! Or, just as upsetting, a child bounds on stage, only to find themselves at a loss of what to do next. Tears follow, and another attempt is made, and yet another – either successfully or not. Stage fright happens! As a judge, I relish these moments to give lots of encouragement and praise for working so hard. The more we try the better we become.
www.okanaganchild.com
7. Connects Us All Theatre has many benefits, but perhaps the biggest is its ability to connect people. In subtle ways, children learn that through interaction, relating, and reaching out to one another with a wave or smile, lives can be touched in valuable ways.
8. Arts Lover for Life
Summerland School of Dance Celebrating 20 years!
Registration and More Information for Fall 2012 is available at www.summerlanddance.ca or call 778-516-5583.
Instilling a love for theatre at an early age is something that will last a lifetime. Whether your child becomes an actress, singer or dancer, season ticket holder, or patron of the arts, the theatre experience is something they will return to time and time again.
Walk-in registration is available Sept. 4, 5, 6 from 3:00pm-7:30pm at 9316 Jubilee Rd. East, Summerland, BC.
9. It’s fun to be together!
Also Offering Art Classes for Pre-school, Homeschoolers and Adults with Barb Tucker: Drawing, Painting, Sculpting, Printing
I love to see families of all ages together enjoying the magic of theatre. Attending a play with your family is a wonderful way to build positive memories for your children. And the theatrical experience doesn’t have to end at the theatre. Bring that experience home and engage your children in further activities that extend their interests, motives, and abilities.
Proudly serving Summerland for 20 years. Dance - a life long, year round, source of good health,self expression, and enjoyment...come dance with us!
10. Become a star! Anytime we can encourage our children to explore expression, you never know where the next Justin Bieber or Miley Cyrus will come from. The next star could be yours! Artistic director Patti Caplette is the brains behind such theatrical productions as Toopy and Binoo and the Marshmallow Moon and The Backyardigans: Quest for the Extra Ordinary Aliens. She is also a former ballerina who has professionally danced with Canada’s leading dance companies – Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal and Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet.
Come see us in store or shop online ! 4407 29th Street, Vernon, BC 250.549.1221
Physio for Kids Milena Perini
Helping children play, move and function to their maximum potential physioforkids.ca
7
l
Fall 2012
Physiotherapist
Tel: (250) 860-2854 #205-3320 Richter Street Kelowna, BC
kelownaphysiotherapy.com
www.chickenlittle.ca www.okanaganchild.com
Private Schools vs. Public Schools: Which One is Better for Your Child? by Agatha Stawicki
P
rivate school or public, which is better? Let us help you narrow down the plethora of school choices by taking a closer look at private schools vs. public schools and tackling the debate.
How to Choose the Best School for Your Child
Choosing a school for your child is a daunting, even stress-inducing task. With so many choices—small school or large school, school of the arts or a technology-focused school, public school or private— it’s easy to default to the most convenient (read: geographically closest) choice.
Private School Benefits:
• Increased parental involvement in children’s education, at home and within school community • Class sizes are usually smaller; one-on-one time with students has been proven to improve academic achievement • Private schools often have a good reputation in global higher education institutions, with many schools boasting a 100 per cent rate of students attending their first choice university
• Not run by tax dollars, thus more freedom in curriculum design and general governance • Larger student populations in public schools may lead to decreased supervision and more bullying issues • Public schools may have more bureaucracy, leading to less innovation in program offering, less positive change at the institutional level and decreased parental influence on a child’s educational progress and disciplinary measures • Children who are less assertive or different may miss out on social and leadership opportunities with larger school sizes in public schools • Frequently overcrowded schools and classrooms in public schools may decrease a student’s chance of getting extra attention and academic support as needed • Many private schools meet or exceed provincial education standards, according to Michael Zwaagstra, co-author of the book What’s Wrong with Our Schools and How We Can Fix
• The private school system provides various educational options, including international exchange programs, advanced placement (AP) or international baccalaureate (IB); faith-based schools— Christian, Jewish, Muslim; coed or single gender schools; and special needs schools • Excellent extracurricular activities or special programs—e.g., arts, sports, clubs, music • Dedicated and well-trained teachers, many with advanced degrees 8
l
Fall 2012
www.okanaganchild.com
Them. Private schools that are included in the rankings often score high in the Fraser Institute’s report cards measuring academic achievement among all school types that take standardized tests
Public School Benefits: • Cost-effective; public school is free, paid for by Canadians’ tax dollars • Like private schools, some public schools offer specialized courses or programs—e.g., math and science, special needs and the arts • Public schools don’t usually require prospective students to undergo entrance interviews or tests in order to attend the school, so students may be exposed to a wider range of people • Students in public schools are typically grouped according to geographical area, which can be an advantage in terms of outof-school socializing • Typically, teachers in North American public schools must have a bachelor’s degree as well as federal, state or provincial certification
9
l
Fall 2012
• Public schools are overseen by provincial governments and local school boards (many private schools that receive government funding or grant credits for the provincial high school diploma are also required to abide by provincial standards, but families must exercise due diligence and do research on each school) • Top public schools may have a wide range of resources and cutting-edge equipment • Some private schools may be more selective than public schools and can be stressful to get into • Although there are more ways and financial aid to manage the Private Schools vs. Public Schools Cont’d on Page 20...
www.okanaganchild.com
Photo credit: Adrian Kids Photography
Our Feature Parent: Carmen Perrett A bit about myself… I’m originally from the Lower Mainland and travelled around Europe and Western/Northern Canada for a while before meeting my husband Ray and settling in Kelowna. I worked as a licensed assistant/Realtor at RE/MAX Kelowna for a few years but decided that the hours were a bit too crazy for me so I gave up my license once we decided to start a family. These days, I keep busy as a stay at home mom, working on the board of directors for my sons’ francophone preschool and selling children’s books with Usborne Books at Home.
My journey to becoming a parent… I’ve always wanted to be a parent and couldn’t wait to be a mom once Ray and I got married. It took us a little while to get pregnant the first time and we were overjoyed when our son David arrived. I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis when David was a few months old and wasn’t sure I would be able to have more kids due to my joint pain, 10
l
Fall 2012
fatigue and the medication I was on. Luckily, with the help of a naturopath and my Rheumatologist, Ian came into the world two years later. The boys are now 5 and 3 years old and keep us very busy!
The best parenting advice I ever received… Trust your instincts – You will receive so much advice from well meaning people but not all of it will work for your family. Learn to smile and nod when you get advice, even if you don’t agree, and sift through the advice to see what appeals to you. Also consider the source of the advice: I am much more willing to take advice from someone whose parenting skills I admire.
I never leave home without… Water bottles, snack and a change of clothes. Water and snacks help prevent the kids (and mommy) from getting grumpy. And I have extra clothes in the car as accidents can easily happen when you have a child who is toilet training. I usually always have some sort of mini craft pack in my car for www.okanaganchild.com
when we go out for a meal or have to wait somewhere as well – with paper, crayons and stickers.
My fridge is always stocked with… Yogurt, milk and fruit. Life gets so busy some days that easy snack and meal ideas are a must. My second son is a bit picky at times, but most fruit and definitely yogurt always goes over well.
My favourite part about being a mom… I love the little things: cuddles in the morning (or all day long), hearing them laugh, listening to them while they play make believe, or seeing the joy on their faces when they accomplish something on their own. These things make up for all of the frustrations you encounter throughout the day. Having a family is the best thing that has happened in my life!
What I want most for my children… Health, happiness and consideration. I’m not concerned about what they choose to do for a living as they get older, but I do want them to be happy. I also want them to be considerate and respectful people.
Favourite ways to relax and enjoy self time… I am an avid reader and can easily lose my self in a book much to the chagrin of my husband some times. I also enjoy spending time visiting or hiking with friends, and card making. Evening after the kids go to bed are strictly my time and not a time I use to do housework. I will usually spend that time with Ray, reading, playing on my computer or occasionally watching TV.
11
l
Fall 2012
Photo credit: Adrian Kids Photography
www.okanaganchild.com
YOLO (You Only Live Once) BY Sara Dimerman
S
itting together on the couch in our living room, my thirteen year old daughter turned to me and with that puppy dog look in her eyes, began “Mom….” And then paused. I knew that she was trying to conjure up a magical way to ask me about something she knew I wouldn’t be too happy about. “Yes…..” I responded. “Well, remember when I tried to lighten my hair and create natural highlights with the lemon juice and it didn’t work?” Yes, I did remember helping her whisk up a mixture of lemon juice and some other baking ingredients apparently designed to create blonde highlights. “Well, now some of my friends have found this amazing new product that washes out in a few weeks. You know that Jenna’s mother wouldn’t let her use anything that was bad for her and she’s allowed. Can I use it too?” Sadly for my daughter, my position hadn’t changed. I repeated the same old tired explanation about how I didn’t want her wrecking her beautiful hair, how there would come a day when she wished she didn’t have to colour the grey and how I wasn’t comfortable with the chemicals in the dye being absorbed through her skin. Still, being the persistent child she is, she continued. “Mom, YOLO!” “Yo what?” I asked. “YOLO. You Only Live Once, mom. You’ve got to live each day as if it was your last and not sweat the small stuff. You always say that I should wait to experience these kinds of things until I am older, but what happens if I don’t live until the age you want me to wait until? How would you feel then?” Woah! That hit me like a ton of bricks. What if she really didn’t? I didn’t even want to go there in my head, but how guilty would I feel then for making my beautiful child wait for simple things that would bring her joy? How would I feel for denying her 12
l
Fall 2012
wish? Then I snapped out of it. Whether intentional or not, her approach was undeniably manipulative. And I told her so. “Chloe,” I said “I give you credit for finding creative ways to get me to do what you want so badly to do, but your tactic is manipulation at its best. Of course I might want to rethink my position when you put it that way. However, I also have to live by what I believe in today, so I’m sorry to disappoint you but my decision is still NO NO!” She didn’t say much after that. I think she realized that if I wasn’t going to change my mind after hearing the YOLO argument, this was a battle she was going to have to give up – for a few months, at least. Sara Dimerman has been an individual, couple and family therapist for over twenty years. She is one of North America’s most trusted parenting and relationship experts and the author of three books - ‘Am I A Normal Parent?’, ‘Character Is the Key’ and a soon to be released book for couples – ‘How can I be your Lover when I’m too Busy being your Mother?’ Visit www.helpmesara.com
Looking for a Christian Foundation in your child’s Education? Consider
• Lowest tuition in the Kelowna area • Small class sizes • Highest FSA marks of all West Kelowna schools • School Uniform • In-house Out-of-School-Care Program
Now Accepting Registration for GrK-6 250-768-9008 | www.olol-bc.com www.okanaganchild.com
13
l
Fall 2012
www.okanaganchild.com
Toddlers to Teens: Nutrition Growing Kids Need By Deborah Lowther
I
s there a difference between the nutritional needs of a toddler versus a teenager? Should you be changing the food you are buying or the meals you are making once your children get older? How do you know they are getting the vitamins their growing bodies need? The fact is we all need variety in our diet, including fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and protein, so we can get the important vitamins like A, B, C, D, E, Omega 3s and calcium; the difference is how much we need at different stages in our life. As children grow their dietary requirements will change.
Fruits and Vegetables According to Health Canada, toddlers need a healthy start with 4 servings of fruit and vegetables a day. Growing children need to increase that to 5 servings. Tweens need 6 servings and teenagers need 7 to 8 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins A, B, C, E and K all of which help build strong bones, teeth, build immune systems, repair red blood cells, and helps their bodies absorb iron.
Grains provide a range of B vitamins, which are essential to help your body turn food into energy and forming healthy red blood cells as well as providing fiber to keep their digestive systems functioning properly. Start your children off with the healthiest grains possible; choose 100% whole wheat when you introduce noodles and bread to your babies, make your own healthy muffins with whole wheat flour, oats or quinoa for your toddlers, and teach your older children the benefits of choosing whole grain over enriched foods
Milk and Alternatives Toddlers and growing children need a healthy start with 2 servings of milk or milk alternatives a day while tweens and teenagers need 3 to 4 servings according to Health Canada. Milk provides much of our Vitamin D, which surprisingly, is not found in fruits and vegetables. It’s also a good source of B12, vitamins A, K and calcium. These nutrients work together to help your body build strong bones and teeth, encourage cell growth and increase your immunity.
Give children a variety of fruit options – a healthy shake in the morning with berries, a container of cubed melon and grapes in the afternoon, and fruit kebobs for dessert. Add vegetable fun into snack time by cutting them into shapes, offering with a dip and include vegetables in every dinner, as a side and added to soups and sauces by pureeing.
Choose yogurt, cheese, milk or soy milk that is lower in fat but still provides adequate amounts of calcium. Use milk products in place of water to thicken sauces or thin soups for added nutrients.
Grains
Health Canada guidelines recommend giving toddlers and growing children a healthy start with 1 serving a day of meat and alternatives. Tweens increase that to 1 to 2 servings and teenagers need 2 to 3 servings of meat and alternatives every day.
Health Canada recommends starting toddlers with 3 servings a day of grains a day. Growing children need to increase that to 4 servings. Tweens need 6 servings and teenagers need 6 to 7 servings of grains every day. 14
l
Fall 2012
Meat and Alternatives
www.okanaganchild.com
Meat provides our bodies with protein and vitamins A, B, B12, D, K and Omega 3s, which are essentials to our bones, teeth, immune system, cell growth, regulating nervous system, strengthening cardio, vision, brain health and energy levels. Include many types of meat and alternatives in their diets, such a beans, tofu, lean meat, and ensure they are eating fish at least twice a week to get enough Omega 3s. Children tend to go through stages of picky eating and may love broccoli one day and refuse to have it on their plate the next. Providing a wide variety of healthy choices and meals throughout the week for your growing children is the best way to ensure they get the vitamins they need. Then consider supplementing if they are not reaching the daily recommended intake for important vitamins, like vitamin D and Omega 3s, which can be difficult to get enough of in diet alone. Deb Lowther is a mother of 3 young daughters who, when not running after the kids, is running in the trails. She works hard to ensure her own kids are active and have fun while still eating healthy! A few years after her husband started Life Science Nutritionals and manufacturing all natural IronKids & Adult Essentials Gummy Vitamins, Deb got involved in the company by sharing her tips and ideas with other moms through their websites. She now blogs about Raising Healthy Kids, tweets about taking your vitamins and posts on both their Facebook pages about keeping kids and adults active & healthy! You can visit her websites to learn more www.iron-kids. com & www.adultgummies.com
Put The “Home” Back In “Homework” Courtesy of ABC Life Literacy Canada
A
fter a long hot summer it can be tough to get kids back into a routine, and focused on homework. But homework is a key part of your child’s education, and it’s important that they not only complete it, but also understand what they’ve learned. Studies show that children’s achievements in school improve with increased parent involvement in education. So get involved in your kids’ schoolwork – you might even learn something new too! ABC Life Literacy Canada offers 10 tips on how to make homework part of your daily routine:
1. Develop a daily routine by setting aside a specific time each day/evening for homework. 2. Provide a quiet, well-lit place with basic school supplies.
3. Understand your child’s style of learning – this will help you develop a personalized homework plan for your child.
4. It’s not uncommon for kids to get overwhelmed with big assignments or projects. Help them break the project down into smaller steps. Work on pieces throughout the week and do the hard parts on the weekend. 5. Talk with your child’s teacher and be aware of their method of teaching. Help your child by using familiar terms and examples.
Children’s Wall Decorations
www.feltfantasia.com
6. Don’t reserve learning to homework hour. Make learning a part of daily life.
7. If your child gets frustrated or distracted with their homework, allow them to take a short break. If this frustration continues, talk with your child’s teacher to determine if a tutor might be needed. 8. To reinforce comprehension and memory skills, take 10 minutes to talk about the stories you’ve read together.
Jumpstart your new life by getting fit! Build the strength and energy you need for pregnancy, labour, delivery and parenting! Exercising while pregnant has proven to encourage quicker deliveries and faster recovery! Personal Training Services as well as Pre/Postnatal fitness classes. Train with a certified specialist!
www.ellefitnesskelowna.com
15
l
9. Show your child that the skills they are learning relate to real life. If your child is learning math, for example, balance your cheque book or have them count out change for you. 10. Teach your child to be independent. Offer to help them with difficult homework challenges, but then let them complete the remainder on their own. 11. For other family literacy tips and activities, visit FamilyLiteracyDay.ca.
Courtesy of ABC Life Literacy Canada www.abclifeliteracy.ca
Fall 2012
www.okanaganchild.com
Ignite the Inner Glow: Guide Your Tween to Find Their Passion By Sara Kendall
T
he inner spark lighting up one’s soul comes early in life for some. Then there are others who flounder around, searching for something that truly inspires them. For this latter group, it takes time and experimentation to get an inner glow going. Are your concerned about your tween as they watch their friends excel at an activity while they sit on the sidelines? There is something out there to motivate everyone. Your gentle guidance and encouragement can help them find their passion.
different sporting events through their friends to give them the opportunity to see what this sport entails. This could be their answer, but it could be a tricky route. It’s easy to do what everyone else is doing. Each child is unique, so encourage your tween to focus on what truly interests them not on a friend’s success.
Make some time for a brainstorming discussion. It can be low-key and not so formal. Keep in mind, as invested in their well-being as you are, this is about your child and what they want, not your version of what they want. Ask if they are interested in a group activity or going solo? What appeals to them indoors or outdoors? A sport, musical instrument or art endeavor?
Take Notice
Have a Chat
If you are hearing a bunch of that’s not for me, then go beyond the obvious choices. Outside the norm could be where their answer lies. Ready yourself to be surprised and you likely won’t be. Learning how to build furniture, designing clothes or knowing every fact about every living creature swimming in the sea are valid interests. Helping others at community centers, animal shelters or local parks can be part of their choices. Whatever sparks interest in your child, be open about it. Let your child take the lead and decide on a few choices to explore.
Exposure
Listen to what appeals to them and show your tween the possibilities. Search for demo days and free trial classes at art studios, gyms and ball parks. Look for places that incorporate your child’s interest by searching through apps, online instruction and local talent in your community. There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer. A brief introduction gives them what each activity entails, and it can eliminate something or become a must do. If your child is interested in a group sport, take them to see several 16
l
Fall 2012
Let the trial runs begin. If your kid jumps from one activity to another, don’t harp. It’s part of the exploring stage. Encourage your child to give it their best effort for a reasonable amount of time.
If you find your child is not taking an activity seriously and lacks enthusiasm, it is not for them. Talk with them about moving on to another choice. Once they find something that excites them, your kid will light up when they talk about it. You will know when something truly inspires them, your kid will thank you for taking them there and will be asking for more. Watch for the spark to ignite.
Cheer Them On
When your child finds a passion, they will learn fast and feel good about themselves. Through your love and support, you are helping your tween boost their skill level and self-confidence. You never know where their spark will lead, so start lighting the match to your child’s passion. Sara Kendall is a freelance writer and mother of two daughters.
peekeaanboo b
s
TM
. Pack your bags and get s wept away with . . Fall 2012
‘Postcards From My Imagination’ Find out how you can get FREE Beans Lorena Fuhrmann . . . and FREE shipping! Boys & Girls Baby to 8 years old
t: 250.764.0227 e: lorenaf.stylist@peekaboobeans.com web: www.peekaboobeans.com
Girls 8 to 14 years old
www.okanaganchild.com
Can Children Of Divorce Receive More Love? By Jeff Hay
I
have a theory… I am directing this theory to all single parents for inspiration, but also to married couples raising their children together – that they never take their precious time with their children for granted. There is a common belief that divorce puts kids at a disadvantage. Many parents may actually choose to remain together, in a bad relationship, to ‘spare’ the children from the negative impacts of divorce. There are obvious disadvantages for children of divorce - 2 houses and time split between mom and dad. However, I think that, if the children’s best interests are always put first, that children of divorce may actually receive MORE love – more focussed love. Divorce, as painful and gut wrenching as the process is, is a second chance for both parents to find happiness – a beautiful opportunity to show children what a healthy loving relationship could look like. How will they grow to recognize and absorb what a healthy relationship looks like if they have no model? If all they witness is indifference, non-loving interactions between mom and dad, what is that teaching them for their future relationships? A year into my divorce, I now have a good relationship with my children’s mother – the simple goal of parenting after separation. Life improved when I was able to set aside ALL of the emotions around our divorce and put the focus where it now belongs – on our children. We talk and text about the kids throughout the week – discussing behaviours, lost teeth, injuries, fevers, odd rashes, and sleepless nights. We are on the same page with discipline, encouragement, guidance, and are flexible within our time with the children, often helping each other throughout the week and creating incredibly special one-on-one night with each of our two children. In an effort to make consistency for our children, my ex-wife and I decided to live close to each other – close but not too close. The 17
l
Fall 2012
children are with me at my house Monday to Friday. There is a cycling path through a park between our homes. My walks on this path are very different depending upon the direction. A quick excited step on Mondays contrasts the sad shuffle I take home on Fridays after dropping the kids off, arriving back home to my suddenly quiet and now gloomy home. Within my new ‘normal’, I try not to take one moment with my children for granted. I, like many other single fathers, am a FULL TIME Dad with part-time kids. When I do not have my children, I am constantly thinking of them, yearning, and planning for our next connection. I know the ache of Friday’s walk; I am motivated by it. My time with my children is intentional and focussed - my love is focussed. I am a better parent because I am excited to spend my time with them. My creativity and patience are heightened by my weekly deadline. Like a prisoner on a weekend pass, I want to make every moment count. Mealtimes and bedtimes become cherished events. I am PRESENT with my children during the week and not wasting time that could be best spent with them. I look forward to our time together and being able to plan our time. Many dads have confided in me that they are also better dads now because of their separation. Their time and love for their children is better focussed, intentional, and not “controlled” by mom. Time away from their children RECHARGES them for the next connection. So if you are in a happy marriage, parenting with a partner, YOU ARE LUCKY!! Enjoy, savour, and relish your simple ideal reality – you are always with your children – you say good night and good morning to your children EVERY DAY. Their treasured Can Children Of Divorce Receive More Love? Cont’d on Page 20... www.okanaganchild.com
Help Your Child Prep for Preschool By Sandra Gordon
F
rom ages 2 to 5, kids make big leaps in all areas of development. At age 2, they’ll begin to expand their vocabulary as they associate sounds with objects (“brown cow”). By age 5, they’ll be able to string complete sentences together and use words in different contexts (“I saw a brown cow on my Grandma’s farm and at the zoo too.”) Preschool helps bridge those gaps and paves the way for kindergarten and beyond. “Preschool is an environment in which kids have the opportunity to use language in many different ways with others who are at the same developmental age,” says Jennifer Kurumada Chuang, the site supervisor at Maple Avenue Preschool in Los Angeles. But, overall, preschool helps young naturally-egocentric kids learn how to exist with others in a classroom. “Preschoolers learn how take turns, follow directions, pick up after themselves, stand in line, sit in a circle, raise their hand, use their words to express themselves instead of physically acting out and talk when it’s appropriate,” Kurumada Chuang says. “If they master those social skills in preschool, they’re ready to learn in kindergarten.” Your child’s preschool experiences can set the tone beyond kindergarten too. To help your child prepare for preschool and reinforce the lessons he learns there, here’s the homework you can do that can make all the difference.
Success Rx Read, read, read to your child. “Being read to is the single most consistent and reliable predictor of academic success later in life,” says Kurumada Chuang. She recommends reading to your child for 20 minutes every night at bedtime. While you’re at it, stop every so often and ask your child a question about the story before turning the page, such as: “Gosh, why do you think she was sad?” or “What do you think it going to happen next?” Making reading more interactive makes it more fun and helps build your child’s comprehension skills. 18
l
Fall 2012
Help your child learn to follow directions. To help your child get the hang of following directions, practice at home by giving simple commands, such as “Please help me pick up your toys and put them in the toy box.” Then, encourage your child to follow through by offering an incentive to do whatever it is you’re asking. Tell your child that he can play outside once he’s finished putting his toys away. An incentive helps him understand that following directions makes other fun activities possible. If he doesn’t follow your directions and, for example, put his toys away, calmly explain that he won’t be able to play with those toys for the rest of the day or go to the park. Keep it positive by focusing on how clean the playroom will look when you’re done. Then praise him when he’s successful. “You followed my directions so well. Thank you for helping me put your toys in the toy box like I asked you to! That was so helpful.” Help your child master sharing and turn taking. From age 3 to 5, children tend to hoard coveted toys and objects. They’re not really ready to grasp the concept of sharing yet. But you can help your youngster practice by having him “take turns” with toys and catching him when he shares on his own. To help him develop the empathy that true sharing requires, state what he did and how it makes others feel, such as: “Thank you for sharing. It makes your sister feel good when you share the ball.” Your child should be able to “own” special or new toys, though, so keep them out of sight on play dates or in his room away from siblings. By kindergarten, children are capable of sharing well and taking turns. If your child isn’t there yet, help him get the hang of it by inviting a friend over for a cooperative task such as baking cookies. If things aren’t going well, calmly ask him to sit out. Pretty soon, he’ll get the idea and want to join in on the fun again. You can also read your child books about sharing and discuss them. In the classic tale, Stone Soup, retold by Heather Forest, for example, two hungry travelers make soup from ingredients that everyone in the town contributes. What makes it extra delicious is the sharing it took to make it. www.okanaganchild.com
Help your child make friends. If you get the sense your child needs a little help in the social department, try hosting play dates with others your child likes or with whom she has common interests. Play dates offer an opportunity to break away from the group and foster individual friendships. You might begin by asking your child, for example: “How about a play date with Grace? I notice that she likes to draw, too.” If you’re not sure who to invite over first, ask your child’s preschool teacher if there’s anyone in the classroom who might be a good match for your child. Then, feel free to go from there and make the rounds so that your child gets the chance to know several children better. To help your child play hostess, let her pick the snack and ask her beforehand what games and activities she and her friend might like to do. On the play date, feel free to play along and stay close by to make sure everyone stays safe. But give your child and her friend the chance to play on their own, too. To help things go smoothly, keep play dates to two hours; children start to get tired after that. And keep it simple by inviting just one child over at a time. Practice sharing. From age 3 to 5, kids aren’t yet capable of grasping the concept of sharing, but you can help your preschooler get the hang of it by having her “take turns” with toys and catching her when she shares on her own. “Stating what she did and how it makes others feel, such as: ‘Thank you for sharing. It makes your sister feel good when you share your toast,’ helps her develop the empathy that true sharing requires,” says Marcy Guddemi, Ph.D., executive director of the Gesell Institute of Human Development in New Haven, Connecticut. You can also read your child books about sharing and discuss them. Hone your child’s listening skills. At the dinner table and during car rides, help your preschooler hone her listening skills by asking her to wait to speak until her brother has finished his sentence. When it’s her turn, remind her, “Now it’s your turn to talk. Thank you for being patient and for being such a good listener while your brother was talking.” Explain that being a good listener shows respect for the speaker, whether it’s her brother or her teacher and the other students at school who are trying to hear what the teacher has to say. Mention that it’s a two-way street: When she’s a good listener, she’s showing the same kind of respect that she gets when others listen to her. If she continues to interrupt, keep reminding her that she’ll get the chance to talk. Becoming a good listener, like many things, can take lots of practice.
striped shirt or the orange one? Your blue jeans or sweat pants?” “Get your kids invested in the process with age-appropriate tasks,” says Mary Robbins, a licensed clinical social worker in Orange, Connecticut. To encourage your preschooler to begin to do these things on her own, praise her for a job well done, such as: “Wow! You picked your outfit by yourself ? You’re getting to be such a big girl!” As your child masters one task, add another. Eventually, she can help you pack her snack and her lunch the night before. Also, establish a morning routine and stick to it. It might be: wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast, have a short playtime together, double check the backpack, and leave the house. Structured routines give children a sense of control. When they know what’s coming next, they’re less likely to procrastinate or become anxious about going to school. Make a morning-routine poster for your family and put it in a common area, such as on your fridge. The poster should outline the order of tasks such as dressing, eating breakfast, putting on shoes and socks and brushing hair and teeth. Use pictures to convey the message. If your child dawdles even with a set routine, move his wake-up by 15 minutes instead of trying to get him to conform to your schedule. Also, make sure he gets to bed early enough so he’s more apt to be up-and-at-‘em in the morning. Preschoolers need 11 to 13 hours of shut eye. Also, be on time yourself. If you still need more time in the morning, set your alarm 15 minutes earlier so everyone can get ready at a leisurely pace. Going into preschool late causes drama that can upset kids. Keep your drop-off departure short and sweet. Say goodbye calmly, tell your child when you’ll be back to pick him up (such as after lunch or his nap). And make sure you’re there on time for pick-up as promised. Sandra Gordon is one of the most sought-after and highly-respected food, nutrition, health and fitness writers in the industry. She lives in Connecticut with her husband and their two daughters.
Manage morning madness. To help your child get to school on time and make drop-off easier, try doing what you can the night before, when you have more time to think the next day through. For example, fill out permission slips, write any notes to the teacher and checks for preschool and put them in your child’s backpack. Have your child take her bath or shower too. You can even set the table for breakfast and take out the breakfast cereal, if you want to. You could also check the weather forecast and let your youngster set out the next day’s outfit. Give her choices: “Do you want to wear the 19
l
Fall 2012
www.okanaganchild.com
Private Schools vs. Public Schools: Which One is Better for Your Child? CONTINUED costs of private school, private schools may not be affordable for some families.
Final Verdict:
• Whether you choose a public school or a private school, most critical is finding a school that will provide your child a solid educational foundation for future academic, career and personal success. Ensure that the school emphasizes the well-qualified teachers and smaller class sizes that cater best to students’ unique academic and personal strengths and weaknesses. • Finally, realize that there are good public schools and good private schools. In the end what matters is choosing a school that best suits your child, as well as the entire family. Once you have done your research, relax! No decision is irreversible, and if the school turns out to be the wrong fit—geographically, financially, academically or otherwise—there are plenty more schools to choose from. Our Kids Private Schools Expo happening in Vancouver, British Columbia on November 11th and other cities across Canada this fall, is a great opportunity for parents to explore private and independent schools, educational philosophies and special programs. Our Private School Expos are designed specifically for families that value education. The largest private school events in Canada, these expos showcase a variety of schools—special needs, gifted, traditional, Montessori, Waldorf, coed, single-sex, day and boarding—and educate parents about how to find the right school for their child. Attendees can expect to explore different educational philosophies and special programs, find out about the admissions process and budgeting and speak with current students and parents.
If you are interested in learning more on the Our Kids Private School Expo taking place in the city nearest you this fall, please visit www. ourkids.net.
Can children of divorce receive MORE love? CONTINUED
belongings are not being packed up weekly for transfer to their other bedroom. Your children live under one roof. Savour that and fight for your relationship and family. With my children being 6 and 3 during this transition, they were/ are quite resilient and adaptable. Separation and custody can be much tougher with older children. Children have many questions and need honest answers; my son is sometimes ‘annoyed’ but this situation and does ask why we can’t all live together anymore. But we assure him that mom and dad are happier now, still friends and still care about each other, but most importantly, we assure them constantly that their world is SAFE. They are loved, treasured, and safe with mom and dad. Children living in 2 different homes is not the ideal. But children living in 2 happy loving homes can be incredible. For me, when divorce became unavoidable and what was truly best for our family, the children became the sole focus. The cards had been reshuffled and I needed to play this hand well so that my children WIN. If dads WANT and can be involved, the benefits to their children are astronomical. I love my new life. I am on the other side of the storm and I am smiling again with 2 very happy children. I have a second chance to find happiness and a second chance to show my children what a loving relationship looks like. Within my children’s new normal, they have 2 energetic passionate parents that savour and enjoy the precious time spent with them. So if the children’s well being is always at the top of the priority list, and both parents are motivated to be involved and sharing their unique gifts, then children of divorce CAN receive as much or MORE love from mom and dad! Jeff is an extreme parenting enthusiast – a DAD enthusiast and I really wants to share all of the ideas and theories that can help you become the GREATEST father to your lucky children. You can read more on his blog : www.thedadvibe.com
Your Local Learning Store excite … ignite … inspire
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 1924 Ambrosi Rd. Kelowna 250250-763763-3463
800800-337337-4181
www.cornerstonelearning.ca
20
l
Fall 2012
www.okanaganchild.com
Resource Directory Attractions, Recreation
Bricks 4 Kidz www.bricks4kidz.com After school programs, preschool classes, birthday parties, in-school field trips, day camps South Okanagan: 778.516.1505 Salmon Arm/Vernon 250.558.5437 City of Kelowna - Recreation www.kelowna.ca City of Kelowna, Recreation and Cultural Services offers programs and activities for individuals of all ages and abilities in neighbourhoods throughout Kelowna, including swimming, dance, karate, sports, Mom & Baby programs and more. Davison Orchards www.davisonorchards.ca 3111 Davison Rd, Vernon BC Open Daily May 1 - October 31st. Davison Orchards is a three generation farm which grows 70 acres of fresh produce, offers Orchard tours, and has many great activates for children including farm animals and the New “Crazy Cow Kids Corral” play area. Fresh baking, specialty foods, country gifts, & so much more! Summerland School of Dance Dance - a life long, year round, source of good health,self expression, and enjoyment...come dance with us! 9316 Jubilee Rd, East, Summerland BC www.summerlanddance.ca or call 778-516-5583. Summerland Community Arts Council Year Round Programs for Children Let your child explore the wonderful ways of the arts through music, art and drama using imagination and creativity. Call (250)494-4494 www.summerlandarts.com admin@summerlandarts.com YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan www.ymca-ywca.com The YMCA-YWCA is a trusted charity committed to building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. The Y proudly operates the Kelowna Family Y, the H20 Adventure and Fitness Centre, 3 out of school care centres, a childcare and preschool, and the Y Career Contact Centre for Youth. The Okanagan Regional Library www.orl.bc.ca Parent & Tot Storytimes The ORL is your most economical, sustainable and relevant source for information and entertainment in the BC Southern Interior. Visit us at one of our 29 branches or at www.orl.bc.ca
Breastfeeding Clinics / Support La Leche League (www.lllc.ca) Kelowna, BC: First Wednesday of the Month, 7pm, 630 Cadder Avenue (The Parent Place) Penticton, BC: Third Tuesday of 21
l
Fall 2012
the Month, 10am, Penticton Health Unit Vernon, BC: First Tuesday of the Month, 10am, Vernon Alliance Church, 2601 - 43rd Avenue Okanagan Breastfeeding Coalition 330 Ellis St., Penticton, BC www.okanaganbreastfeeding.org Rutland Health Centre Breastfeeding Centre 155 Gray Rd , Kelowna, BC 250.980.4822
Child Care - preschools, daycares, nannies, Out of School Care
Building Blocks Educational Childcare Ltd www.buildingblockseducare.com 778.478.1818 International Nannies and Homecare Make your life easier with a nanny. 250.862.4949 www.internationalnannies.com Kelowna Waldorf School - Main School 429 Collett Road Kelowna, BC, Canada V1W 1K6 Phone: (250) 764-4130 Fax: (250) 764-4139 info@kelownawaldorf.org Kelowna Waldorf School - Cameron House 2339 Richter Street Kelowna, BC, V1Y 2P3 (250) 763-6794 http://www.kelownawaldorf.org Little Owl Academy www.littleowlacademy.ca 250.764.0122 contact@littleowlacademy.ca Infant/Toddler Care, Daycare, Preschool, Out of School Care Nannysitters www.nannysitters.ca Kelowna’s premier nanny and babysitter agency. Specializing in providing thoroughly-screened local childcare professionals. Nannysitters is fully licensed, bonded and insured. Okanagan Montessori www.okmontessori.com We provide a prepared environment where children are guided through activities by trained Montessori teachers. Children learn as they experiment with and actively participate in activities. Prairie Valley Preschool @ The Summerland Montessori School 10317 Prairie Valley Road, Summerland B.C. 250-494-7266 SMSOffice@shaw.ca www.summerlandmontessori.com
Childcare Resource & Referral
Kelowna Child Care Resource & Referral #4 - 1890 Ambrosi Rd Kelowna, BC
Penticton Child Care Resource & Referral 330 Ellis St., Penticton, BC 250.492.2926 Vernon Child Care Resource & Referral 3300- 37th Avenue, Vernon, BC 250.542.3121
Dental Care
Toothzone Kids Dental Centre Pediatric Dental Office that specializies in the care of infants, children and teenagers. 778-484-KIDS #225 - 1634 Harvey Ave. Kelowna, BC Okanagan Dental Care for Kids A positive experience for you and your child! 250.763.5101 101-1890 Cooper Rd. Kelowna, BC www.okanagandentalcareforkids.com
Cloth Diapering
Babybellhop 1.888.373.5566 www.babybellhop.com Booty Boutique www.bootyboutique.ca 1.888.594.5204 We offer eco-friendly diapering solutions for the modern family along with a Try Before you Buy program!
V0H 1Z5 250-494-7266 SMSOffice@shaw.ca www.summerlandmontessori.com
Employment
Become a Tea Consultant Get paid to par-tea! 780.984.8986 lzacharuk@shaw.ca Laura Zacharuk Power Move One Work from home, moms helping moms! www.powermoveone.com
Entertainment for Hire
Face to Face Face Painting All occassions! 778.478.1011 facetofacefacepainting@hotmail.com Kiki the Eco Elf 250.549.1234
Finances CST Consultants Denise De Haas, Sales Representative Branch 632 denise.dehaas@cstresp.com 250.300.9819
Tidy Tushees Diaper Service info@tidytushees.ca www.tidytushees.ca We help families with all their natural parenting needs including cloth diapering. Whether you choose to let us do the dirty work for you, you need help troubleshooting your system or you are on the hunt for products, we are here to help!
Freedom 55 Financial To find out more about how we can provide permanent insurance and provide for your child’s future, give us a call today at 250.763.1114 Chantal Diaz: ext. 233 Daniel Bussiere: ext. 256
Education
Burtch Chiropractic, Dr. Wayne Terai 250.860.4518 229-1634 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna BC Dr. Wayne Terai is a Doctor of Chiropractic practicing in Kelowna for over 15 years, helping Okanagan families be well without the use of drugs and surgery.
Cornerstone Learning Resources Your Local Learning Store Open Tuesdays through Saturdays 1924 Ambrosi Rd. Kelowna 250-763-3463 800-337-4181 www.cornerstonelearning.ca Kumon 2 locations in the Okanagan to serve you! Franchise available in Penticton. www.kumon.ca Okanagan Adventist Academy 1035 Hollywood Rd South, Kelowna, BC, Canada V1X 4N3 (250)860-5305 okaa@shaw.ca http://okaa.ca Our Lady of Lourdes Elementary School 250-768-9008 www.olol-bc.com Summerland Montessori School 10317 Prairie Valley Road Summerland B.C.
Health, Wellness and Nutrition
Epicure Jenn Hobbs, Independent Consultant Call today to learn more about becoming a consultant! Save money and spend less time in the kitchen with Epicure’s amazing products. www.epicureselections.com Elle Fitness lmcjohnston@gmail.com www.ellefitnesskelowna.com Fitness consultations, Program design, Oneon-one personal training, Partner or group training, Group bootcamp, Stagette boot camp, Pre- and post-natal fitness classes Maternity Care Westside 853 Anders Road, West Kelowna info@maternitycarewestside.com 778.755.5720 www.okanaganchild.com
Resource Directory www.maternitycarewestside.com Nature’s Fare Markets www.naturesfare.com Kelowna, West Kelowna, Vernon and Penticton Okanagan Natural Medicine www.oknaturalmedicine.com Physio for Kids Helping children play,move and function to their maximum potential #205-3320 Richter St, Kelowna, BC Tel: (250) 860-285 physioforkids.ca Training for 2 www.trainingfor2.ca Jump start your new life by getting fit! Today I Ate A Rainbow www.todayiatearainbow.com Today I Ate a RainbowTM is a chart that makes eating a rainbow of healthy fruits and vegetables FUN for kids! This hands-on tool makes it easy for parents to set up healthy eating habits.
Lawyers
Gordon and Company 102 - 1433 St. Paul Street, Kelowna, BC 250.860.9997 With over 30 years of professional experience, Gordon and Company offer an extensive range of serices including all types of litigation, family law, wills/estate disputes and personal injury.
Midwives and Doulas
Doula Services Association, BC 604.515.5588 www.bcdoulas.org Midwives Asscoation of BC 604.736.5976 www.bcmidwives.com
OnLine Parenting Sites
Kelowna New Parent www.kelownanewparent.com Kelowna New Parent is Kelowna’s best resource for all things baby! Check out information on activities, play groups, dining, daycares and much more. True Cuddles Each week we bring you one baby or toddler product, in limited quantity, at up to 75% off retail! www.truecuddles.ca Photography & Portraits Adrian Kids Photography www.adriankidsphotography.ca info@adriankidsphotography.ca Kelowna photographers Jon + Jenny bring their fresh and creative style to kids portrait sessions. Visit them online or give them a call to book your kids session. 22
l
Fall 2012
Public Health Services/Nurses Kelowna Health Unit 1340 Ellis Street 250.868.7700 Penticton Health Unit 740 Carmi Avenue 250.770.3434 Rutland Health Unit 155 Gray Road 250.980.4825 Summerland Health Unit 12815 Atkinson Road 250.404.8050 West Kelowna Health Unit 160 – 2300 Carrington Road 250.980.5150 Vernon Health Unit 1440 – 14th Avenue 250.549.5700 Salmon Arm Health Unit 851-16th Street NE Salmon Arm BC 250-833-4100 Sicamous Health Unit #10 1133 Eaglepass Way Sicamous BC 250-836-4835 Revelstoke Health Unit 1200 Newlands Rd Revelstoke BC 250-814-2244
shopping 24 hrs/day, visit us online at www. chickenlittle.ca Felt Fantasia www.feltfantasia.com Decorate your little one’s nursery with fantastic felt wall art or canvas art. Sleep
BC 24- HOUR Nurse Line Call: 8-1-1 Website: www.bchealthguide.com BC Nurseline gives you 24 hour, 7 day toll-free access to registered nursed specially trained to provide confidential help on the telephone. Available to answer medical enquiries free of charge - carecard required
Sleep Sense www.sleeptsense.net/kelowna Give you and your family the gift of a good night’s sleep with the Okanagan’s only licensed & local Sleep SenseTM Consultant. Call Pam at 250.575.6988 or visit www.sleepsense.net/kelowna
BC Council for Families 204-2590 Granville St, Vancouver, BC 1.800.663.5638 The BC Council for Families works to help create healthy families in a healthy society. Our goal is to empower families. We provide educational resources on topics such as parenting, childhood development, parent-teen relationships, worklife balance, suicide awareness and more.
Support Services
BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities 250.763.0899
Aboriginal Infant Development Program 442 Leon Ave , Kelowna, BC 250.763.4905
Big Brothers and Sisters - Okanagan 151 Commercial Dr, Kelowna, BC www.bigs.bc.ca Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Okanagan provides children and youth ages 7 - 12 (‘Littles’) with volunteer adult mentors (‘Bigs’) who provide a positive influence in their lives.
ACHIEVE BC Toll Free: 1.800.514.0554 Website: www.AchieveBC.ca Advice on prenatal care, nutrition and developmental guides. Parenting tips and information on stimulating your child’s mind and body through reading and play. Learn more about the services offered through the Government of British Columbia by calling the toll free number or visiting the website.
Welcome Wagon 1.866.856.8442 www.welcomewagon.ca It’s time to call your Welcome Wagon representative. She will bring new congratulations and gifts for the new baby and family.
Association for the Benefit of Children with Disabilities 250.763.4663
Armstrong Health Unit 3800 Patten Drive Armstrong, BC 250-546-4727 Enderby Health Unit 707 3rd Ave Enderby BC 250-838-2464 Retail Angel Babies Kids Shoppe 375 Main St., Penticton, BC 250.493.8823 Calling mamas-to-be, parents and grandparents! With a great mix of consignment (maternity & kids) and new clothing, products & gear, Angel Babies is a must visit for young families. Peekaboo Beans Lorena Fuhrmann t: 250.764.0227 e: lorenaf.stylist@peekaboobeans.com web: www.peekaboobeans.com Chicken Little 4407 - 29th Street, Vernon BC www.chickenlittle.ca Chicken Little is a great place to shop for your kids, grandkids, family and friends. For
Watch for our next issue...
Fall 2012 arriving late October www.okanaganchild.com
Snap Happy
www.kelownaphotographer.ca
SHOTS! SHARE YOpiUctRures to our
Upload your photo gallery at ld.com under the www.okanaganc hi ll share some in ‘Kids’ menu and we’ every print issue!
OR...
post your photos on our facebook wall! www.facebook.com/OkanaganChild
23
l
Fall 2012
Share . . . Smile www.okanaganchild.com
tt
DAVISON
ORCHARDS
f l u l N a F at the farm
HarvesT FesT U-PICK APPLE RIDES U-PICK PUMPKIN Rides weekends in september
weekends in october
kid’s corn maze, farm animals and lots more fun in
the
SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO