HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT BACKPACK WHERE PASSION MEETS SUCCESS!
MUSIC CLASSES FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES
WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL 2023
CUSTOMIZE EVERY ASPECT OF YOUR MUSIC LESSONS GROW INTO A CAREER YOU LOVE
10 FACTS ABOUT TRADE SCHOOL
NATURAL FERTILITY AWARENESS WEEK DRIVING SCHOOL OR TEACH YOUR TEEN TO DRIVE?
ESSAYWRITING TIPS FOR STUDENTS
TIPS FOR CHOOSING HIGH SCHOOL ELECTIVES LEARNING ANY TIME, ANYWHERE, ANY PACE
THE RIGHT FIT FOR BACK TO SCHOOL
Students need many di erent supplies to help them move to the head of the class. Teachers frequently post lists online before school begins or advise students in the early days of the new year. Therefore, parents may want to wait to go back-to-school shopping until they learn what's needed. There is one piece of gear, however, that students will de nitely need: a backpack.
Backpacks have been helping students transport books and other materials to and from school for decades. Backpacks are not a new invention, and they actually predate school. Ötzi, a man whose mummi ed remains have been traced to the Copper Age, carried an animal fur rucksack during his travels. American Civil War soldiers carried bindles, and Henry Miriam developed one of the rst knapsacks for the U.S military in 1877. It wasn't until the late 1940s that kids started using backpacks for school, as more materials were available to make these bags after World War II. Backpacks are now ubiquitous on school campuses around the world.
Backpacks are available in many di erent sizes and styles. Not all of them are created equal, and some may be better and safer for students than others. Here are some considerations.
· Look for even, secure stitching that will not come undone easily. Inexpensive backpacks may last a few weeks, but a more durable backpack can last the school year and beyond.
· Pass up backpacks with frayed fabric edges that
could unravel, says Consumer Reports.
· Opt for backpacks with zippers that have fabric aps over them to keep water and other elements out of the backpack, helping prolong its life span.
· Consider a synthetic material, which will be lighter to carry and more resistant to water.
· Choose a backpack with lots of compartments that can spread the weight of gear out across the bag.
· Look for bags that have padded backs and straps. The padding should be ventilated, so the backpack will not get very hot when the child is using it.
· Karena Wu, a physical therapist and owner of ActiveCare Physical Therapy in New York, encourages parents to choose backpacks with tapered straps that will conform better to their children's bodies. A waist strap can help keep the backpack centered on the child's torso to help disperse the load.
· If the school allows it, a rolling bag is a great way to prevent strain on the back. Verywell Family says children should carry no more than 15 percent of their bodyweight in the backpack. That means a
60-pound child shouldn't carry more than 9 pounds.
· Select a backpack that is sized accordingly to the child. It may be tempting to buy the largest one around, but that can be cumbersome and the student may overload it.
· Many students now use laptops or tablets for school. It is a good idea to buy a backpack that has a padded pocket for tech devices to protect them during transport.
Although it may not seem trendy to do so, backpacks should always be worn with all straps in place to distribute weight evenly; otherwise, strain may be placed on one shoulder or side of the body. This, in addition to choosing the right backpack, can keep students comfortable and safe.
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Located in the vibrant Bastion Square, right in the heart of downtown Victoria, Paci c Design Academy o ers diploma and certi cate programs. Our students are creative, highachieving, and skilled at what they do, and we’re proud to help them turn their passion into success in a collaborative and project-based environment. As an academy that values community engagement, we frequently partner with local not-for-pro ts, giving our students the chance to work with real clients while making a positive impact.
We take pride in o ering
full-time programs in a variety of elds. Our most popular programs include Graphic Media Design, Architectural Building Technology, Interior Design, Motion Picture Production, Fashion Design, and more! We also o er evening design workshops for those interested in learning a new skill.
Whether you aspire to be a graphic designer, an interior designer, a eld design coordinator/drafter, a fashion designer, or a videographer working in lm production, our comprehensive programs will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in your chosen led.
- Supportive and Inspiring Learning Environment
We have a diverse student body with many backgrounds. Some students have just graduated high school, while others have had successful careers and are looking to make a change. With small cohort sizes and intimate classroom settings, students bene t from close interactions with both instructors and fellow learners. Our instructors, who are active professionals in their respective industries, bring real-
world experiences and expertise to the classroom.
The design arts industry o ers a wealth of opportunities and great exibility for graduates. Some work for design rms, while others work freelance or remotely with clients. Our programs are designed to prepare students for
in-demand careers designated as high opportunity occupations by the BC government with bright prospects.
Contact us at registrar@ paci cdesignacademy.com or give us a call at 250-383-3631 to start your journey to a ful lling and successful career in the design industry.
We have two locations: Victoria (900 Johnson Street) and Langford (in the YMCA/YWCA building, 210 – 1314 Lakepoint Way).
Why learn in a group environment?
Group classes and ensembles range from 5 to 30+ participants from beginner to experienced. Learning about music in a group setting or performing as part of an ensemble has its benefits:
• Meet like-minded people in your community
• Learn from others and boost creativity
• Build confidence by working as a team
Students
vcm.bc.ca/course-calendar
At the Victoria Conservatory of Music, students of any age, any instrument, and any level are welcome to explore their creative talents in a range of classes: Classical, Contemporary, Music Technology, Early Childhood Music, and more! We offer one of the most comprehensive and wide-ranging selections of music programs anywhere in Canada.
Our faculty are passionate instructors and respected artists, as well as performers in our own community, across Canada, and worldwide. We believe that music education should be accessible to all and offer scholarships and bursaries to new and returning students.
• Low commitment way to try out a new instrument or technology
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced player, we have something for you. Classes are offered in person, and many are offered online.
Register for classes at our Front Desk or through our online Course Calendar.
Our helpful Front Desk team are happy to talk through classes with you and offer help finding the right fit.
Whether you are looking for family classes with your kids or an adult who has always wanted to explore music, it is never too late to discover the power of music!
Greater Victoria School District #61
The Greater Victoria School District No. 61 is committed to delivering quality, culturally responsive education to more than 20,000 students across 48 schools. It serves six communities: Victoria, Esquimalt, Oak Bay, Saanich, View Royal, Highlands, and Four Houses: Esquimalt and Songhees Nations, the Métis and the Urban Indigenous Peoples’ House Advisory. In addition, more than 1,000 International students from across the globe attend its schools with over 650 adult learners registered in Continuing Education Programs.
The Greater Victoria School District is looking forward to welcoming new and returning students, sta , and families this September.
Preparations for the 2023/2024 school year are well underway and are guided by our District Vision of providing each student the opportunity to ful ll their potential and pursue their aspirations. We are committed to collaborating with families and community to make this vision a reality.
As we head into the fourth year of our Strategic Plan, we will continue to focus on creating safe learning environments that support and improve all
learners’ personal and academic success. Our educators are deeply committed to providing all students with equitable, inclusive, and culturally responsive learning opportunities and ensuring that all students feel welcome, safe, and connected. Engagement and collaboration with students, families, and sta remain top priorities this year as we continue to develop and support high-quality learning opportunities. We understand the importance of students having a voice and choice in their experiences and will continue to provide them with opportunities to shape their learning environments and to pursue their passions.
Beyond fostering academic success, we’ll also continue to focus on supporting all learners’ physical and mental well-being. The need for social-emotional learning, physical literacy, and mental health literacy has never been greater – they are key features in improving outcomes for students.
With a new year ahead, we are excited for the arrival of students and sta , and look forward to working with all members of our learning community in supporting an education system that puts students rst. We hope you’ve enjoyed a restful summer and can’t wait to welcome everyone back to school in September.
The Greater Victoria School District welcomes all new and returning students for the 2023/2024 school year.
First Day of School Schedule:
Kindergarten starttimesvary ateachschool.To confirm thefirstdayofclassvisityourschoolwebsite.
ELEMENTARY:
Students attend from 9:00 a.m.—11:30 a.m.
MIDDLE:
Students attend from 9:30 a.m.—11:30 a.m.
Please note the exceptions:
Cedar Hill Grade 6 students 9:30 a.m.—10:15 a.m.
Cedar Hill Grade 7 & 8 students 10:30 a.m.—11:30 a.m.
Colquitz Grade 6 students 9:30 a.m.—11:30 a.m.
Colquitz Grade 7 & 8 students 10:30 a.m.—11:30 a.m.
Gordon Head Grade 6 students 9:00 a.m.—10:30 a.m.
Gordon Head Grade 7 & 8 students 9:30 a.m.—11:00 a.m.
Shoreline Grade 6 students 9:30 a.m.—10:15 a.m.
Shoreline Grade 7 & 8 students 10:45 a.m.—11:30 a.m.
SECONDARY: Students will attend as follows:
Esquimalt :
Grade 9 meet in the gym from 9:30 a.m.—10:45 a.m.
Grades 10, 11, 12 meet in the gym from 11:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m.
Lambrick Park:
Grade 9 meet in the drama studio from 9:30 a.m.—12:00 p.m.
Grades 10, 11, 12 meet in the gym from 10:30 a.m.—12:00 p.m.
Mt Douglas:
Grade 9 meet in the gym from 9:30 a.m.—11:30 a.m.
Grades 10 & 11 meet in the gym from 12:00 p.m.—1:00 p.m.
Grade 12 meet in homeroom from 12:00 p.m.—1:00 p.m.
Oak Bay:
Grade 9 meet in the theatre from 9:00 a.m.—10:30 a.m.
Grade 10, 11, 12 meet in first period class from 11:00 a.m.—11:30 a.m.
Reynolds:
Grade 9 meet in the gym from 10:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m.
Grades 10, 11, 12 meet in block A class from 1:00 p.m.—2:00 p.m.
Spectrum:
Grade 9 meet in the gym from 9:00 a.m.—11:05 a.m.
Grades 10, 11, 12 meet in the gym from 11:30 a.m.—12:30 p.m.
Vic High (923 Topaz Avenue):
Grade 9 meet on the front lawn from 11:00 a.m.—1:30 p.m.
Grades 10, 11, 12 meet in block A class from 9:30 a.m.—10:30 a.m.
S.J. Burnside Education Centre: Alternative Education—re-intake meetings with case managers September 5—7; classes begin Friday, September 8
Continuing Education—registration starts Monday, August 28
Every student learns differently and Custom Music wants to make their lessons the most enjoyable, rewarding and uplifting experience they can be. Students can customize every aspect of their music lessons to suit their needs. They decide on price, location, including in-home lessons and lessons in every area
of the city, music style, learning pace, scheduling, the teacher’s approach and their teacher's age and style. If a student needs to reschedule, it’s no problem.
Custom Music won’t charge extra for make-up lessons and they will offer to move lessons to a new permanent time slot if needed. Custom Music teachers are experienced, lifelong
musicians and many of them are recording artists.
Custom Music is third generation – going back to the Hall Fairfield Music Centre in the 1920s and then the Arcade Music Centre in the 1950s, and now them.
Register any time by calling 250-419-9727 Custommusiclessons.com
In these challenging and uncertain economic times, school is an investment that needs to pay off. For those who want to work outside and are interested in plants, horticulture can provide a fulfilling and enjoyable career in a growing industry. Pacific Horticulture College (PHC), located at the Gardens at HCP, provides students with the knowledge and skills to succeed in the horticulture industry. PHC students are provided with lots of networking opportunities throughout their education and are well-supported in finding jobs post-graduation. In addition, the Landscape Horticulture Certificate Program includes two weeks of work experience that further solidify industry knowledge and connections.
Here is what two of PHC’s graduates have to say about their experience at PHC:
"I enrolled in the horticulture program at PHC with no previous practical experience or knowledge in horticulture. Upon graduation I had the confidence to apply for a variety of job opportunities in the field. The fantastic instructors and staff create a program that goes above
and beyond the SkilledTradesBC content and having the diverse gardens on site to hone our skills is a wonderful advantage." Lisa Giles, 2019 Graduate “PHC supported my growth and development with numerous networking opportunities. They incorporated relevant guest speakers, employers and professionals that directly enhanced my educational experience and prospects for success. After graduating from PHC, I felt confident in my skills and abilities due to the networking opportunities and real industry work experience that the College facilitated throughout my time there.” Jason Tonna, 2018 Graduate Upcoming programs include Level 3 and 4 apprenticeship training, part-time Level 1 apprenticeship training in January, and the Landscape Horticulture Certificate Program also starting in January.
To learn more about how PHC can help you grow your love of plants into a career, contact us at admissions@hcp.ca or attend our Information Session on Monday September 11 at 6:00pm. Also visit hcp.ca for details on program options, application information, and tuition fees.
Vocational programs attract students who do not want to attend a traditional college or university. Prospective trade school students can keep this information in mind as they consider if a career in the trades is right for them.
1. Students can often learn a trade and enter a related profession within 10 to 24 months of enrolling in trade school.
2. Schools focused on specific trades have strong job placement rates that often exceed those of schools where students pursue four-year degrees, according to the Philadelphia Technician Training School.
3. Qualified instructors and trade industry experts tend to be on staff at vocational schools. The instructors bring years of on-thejob experience to the classroom.
4. Many trade school programs offer accelerated formats that lean
heavily on specialized training for specific career goals.
5. Trade schools tend to merge instruction in a traditional classroom setting with hands-on training in real-world situations. That means those studying electrical trades may work in laboratories that mimic both home and business settings.
6. Forbes reports that students in trade school often take part in a paid apprenticeship where they earn money while learning on the job.
7. Many trades are quite lucrative and in-demand. According to ca.talent.com, carpenters earn a median wage of $54,000 while an elevator service technician earns an average of $72,000 per year.
8. Many trade schools offer industry support and career services, just like traditional colleges. These departments
can assist students in funding tuition through federal aid and scholarships and help them find jobs.
9. Students enrolled in accredited vocational schools could be eligible for federal student aid. That's particularly true for students enrolled in programs that last longer than 15 weeks, according to The Balance, a financial resource. Individuals living in the U.S. can file the Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if they're eligible for assistance.
10. Apart from elevator installers and repair people, dental hygienists and radiation therapists tend to earn the highest salaries in the trades. Students interested in trade education can speak with school guidance counselors or reach out to accredited trade schools to learn more about opportunities near them. CB236033
Drs. John and Evelyn Billings of Australia, who developed the Billings Ovulation Method® of natural fertility regulation in 1953, were amazed to nd that older African women of the Luo and Kamba tribes talked to their daughters about the special sign of health and fertility, that some had already noticed, upon entering puberty, in a special fertility ritual. This tradition, taken to a new level, is being carried on mostly by mothers, users of the Method themselves, who see how bene cial the knowledge is for their daughters in understanding how their cycles work. Bene ts include: Empowerment to resist peer pressure thus delaying sexual activity; increased self-
esteem; deeper insight into the wonders and dignity of growing up to be a woman, and it is a safeguard for health and fertility. By knowing what is normal in a fertile or infertile cycle any departure from normal requires medical diagnosis and treatment. Diseases such as cancer and disorders of the endocrine system have been detected early.
The Billings Ovulation Method® is safe and e ective (W.H.O. 98.5%). It has also proved its e ciency in providing for the achievement and avoidance of pregnancy by numerous eld trials in di erent countries of the world. In China, for example, the abortion rate has plummeted in those areas where it is taught by accredited teachers. It is
understood by illiterate poor people, and is able to be used in all di erent circumstances of a woman’s reproductive life, irrespective of whether her cycles are regular or not: during breast feeding, pre-menopause, or when ovulation is delayed through emotional and hard physical stress. Being a natural method it is acceptable to people of di erent cultures and religions. Blind women use the Method.
To contact BC accredited teachers: woombbc@gmail.com
FREE E-BOOKS: “E ective Education in Sexuality and healthy Relationships for schools and “The Facts” (for students): www.billings.life
Parents are excellent partners in training new drivers when working with driving instructors. They also benefit from the opportunity to refresh and update their driving.
All new teen drivers have been observing parents driving skills and habits for many years. This could make teaching driving to the learner a piece of cake if the co-pilot is an excellent driver. Here are some questions to answer before setting out for a parking lot to start your teen new driving experience:
Does your teen know what to do if a car is coming at them?
When more insurance claims are received from parking lot crashes than any other area, it is not advisable to start a learner in a parking lot. Choose a quiet street with limited parking. When an oncoming vehicle approaches how do you handle the situation? There are some necessary guidelines to discuss with the new driver before the situation arises.
Does your teen know that green does not mean go?
New drivers will often not have the countdown tempo for changing lights. They see others speeding up for yellow lights, and late turners going left all when the
lights are red or green. A green light means one can go only when it is clear and safe to do so. These concepts are difficult to teach when poor real-life examples are observed every day.
Did you know that 77% of all crashes are due to driver error?
A new driver must learn the skills and the psychology of good decision making. Professional behind the wheel coaching incorporates the decision making in all situations. Defensive driving skills are so important in reducing crashes.
Did you know that learning to pass a car safely is more important than passing a road test?
A confident well trained driver will be successful on a road test of any kind. The speed is low and traffic not that challenging on a road test. Passing a car at a high speed is the riskiest of all maneuvers. Head on collisions are the deadliest. Once a new driver has a license they can drive anywhere in all conditions.
Parent taught new drivers are 51% successful on the first road test. Average driving school pass rate is 71%.
Joan Wallace Driving School pass rate is 86%. joanwallacedrivingschool.com
Students face a number of challenges during their academic careers. Those challenges are unique to each student, as some excel in certain subjects that their classmates find difficult, and vice versa.
At some point in their academic careers, students will be asked to write an essay. University applications typically feature student essay portions, but essays are even incorporated into elementary school curricula. Indeed, students of all ages are periodically asked to write essays, which underscores how useful some basic essay-writing tips can be.
Identify the assignment: Essays run the gamut from personal essays to papers on historical figures to precis on particular texts. Before students can write an effective, engrossing essay, they must first identify what's being asked of them. Does the instructor want students to argue a point? Is the idea to examine a meaningful personal experience? Is the essay similar to a book report? Once the ball gets rolling and writing begins, it's easy to lose track of the assignment. But an effective essay
must follow the guidelines set forth in the assignment. Students can routinely read the assignment provided by the instructor so they stay the course.
Identify the point of the essay: Once students gain a firm grasp of what the instructor is looking for, they can then identify what their point of view or argument will be. This can require some research and should conclude with a thesis statement that will determine the rest of the essay.
Write an outline: Outlines can help frame the essay and keep writers on track. An outline also serves as a time for writers to determine what to keep and what to omit from an essay. Longer essays typically require ample research, and it's unlikely that all of that research will make it into the final essay. Writing an outline provides a chance to narrow the scope of the essay and cut it down, which should prove useful when sitting down to begin writing the composition.
Engage readers early: An engaging question or assertion at the beginning of an essay will entice readers to want to continue reading. The question should be one writers can answer while an assertion should be supported
throughout the rest of the essay. But some engaging prose in the opening paragraphs can draw readers in and set the stage for a well-written essay.
· Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence. Topic sentences are similar to outlines because they establish the structure of a paragraph. Each new paragraph should include its own topic sentence. If a new topic needs to be addressed, then do so in a new paragraph. Paragraphs should flow into each other, but writers should avoid introducing more than one topic in a single paragraph.
· Write a strong conclusion. The thesis statement will help to define the introductory paragraph, and it also can be utilized to establish the conclusion. Revisit the thesis in the conclusion and show how the points made throughout the body of the essay support that thesis. Conclude the essay with a statement that highlights the significance of the point the essay attempted to make.
Students of all ages write essays. Some basic writing tips can help students master those assignments. BS238169
The curricula at many secondary schools is designed to provide students with the education they need to go on to higher learning and/ or enter the workforce. While certain subjects are on the educational menu in every school, students also have opportunities to pick unique subjects that cater to their interests and potential career goals. Classes that the school requires are often listed as core classes. Those that students are free to choose are called electives.
Electives exist outside of the required curriculum. Many education experts say that electives provide a great chance for students to experiment and determine if any niche
completed most of the core curriculum requirements. Here are some tips for selecting electives.
Go with what you know: Pick courses that tie into already established interests. If you love to write and get to the bottom of a story, then a journalism class may be ideal.
Step outside your comfort zone. Another way to pick electives is to try new things and explore classes in that way. Maybe you never thought about computer programming before, but think it could be interesting to dabble?
subjects or topics appeal to them. According to psychologist Regine Muradian, who works with students on learning and study skills, electives also can increase a student's desire to learn by offering a respite from the pressures of required courses.
Schools vary regarding how many elective classes high schoolers may take each year. Electives typically are a more prominent component of upperclassmen's schedules because they may have already
Choose with future major in mind. If you have an idea of which subject to study in college, you can select electives that align with that major. Someone who plans to major in finance may select an elective in marketing or business management, for example. Think about what colleges want. Colleges accept applicants based on academic performance, but they're also looking for students who check an assortment of boxes. Think about which electives may help you look more attractive to admissions departments. Classes in STEM, public speaking, debate, and international affairs might help you stand out.
Choosing electives need not be complicated. Students can opt for different strategies to select classes that will complement core learning. BS238173
This program is designed to create a rich, exible and respectful learning environment where the teacher, parent and child are partners working together to develop and support their child’s education. Our teachers will build on and engage your child’s natural curiosity!
Your child will experience learning at their own pace and through their personal passions.
Motivation is key to all learning. Heartwood focuses on each child’s interests, natural curiosity, imagination and joy of discovery in order to engage their deep attention.
Our goal is to have each child’s developmental needs recognized, honoured and met. We o er a supported personalized learning program for each family that allows parents to be involved with all aspects of their child’s education.
We believe that strong relationships are essential to a child’s openness to learning. In these small group settings, teachers are able to develop close relationships with each child and guide the process of discovery. Parents have a unique opportunity to collaborate with teachers and contribute to the learning space and learning community.
Teachers and parents work together to co-create each child’s learning plans and continue to communicate closely throughout the year, to share discoveries and interests, challenges, and successes.
The program is free to BC residents, and each family is provided with a budget for learning resources which can include such things as music lessons, or access to sports opportunities.
Portfolio conferencing that present student learning is done 3 times each year, as required by the BC Ministry of Education. navigatenides.com
have more choices than ever before when considering education options for their children.
By thinking outside of the traditional structure of classroom instruction, we are able to deliver more choices to families and make the most of the learning resources available. All of our courses and programs are taught by BC Certi ed teachers, ensuring that the standards of education set by the BC Ministry of Education are met or exceeded.
Navigate has been recognized both nationally and internationally as a leader in blended learning, building
exible learning plans that work for each student. We are proud to have been awarded the prestigious iNACOL (International Association for K-12 Online Learning) award for Innovative Blended and Online Learning in 2014, and the 2016 Canadian Innovators in Education Award from the Canadian Education Association (CEA) and Readers Digest magazine. Our goal is to inspire learning that is meaningful at every stage of child development. We have decades of experience, a history of success, and a strong team of dedicated professionals.
Unique: Learning is a personal experience for each student and we celebrate this by o ering creative solutions to learning. We work with each student to help them find their personal “spark” to develop a life-long love of learning and a never-ending sense of curiosity.
Connected: We support and encourage community so that students, parents, teachers, and community members work together to engage the students and provide an enriched personalized educational environment. Technology allows for K-12 students throughout BC to access online learning as well as face-to-face instruction. Our online learning space
provides secure moderated forums where students can exchange ideas and learn from one another.
Inspired by Community: We are interested in developing community mentoring relationships that provide a context and personal connection to curriculum.
Flexible: Students and families thrive with greater flexibility and education options. The new BC curriculum is the foundation for this approach. Students can enroll as full time or part time students, and work at their own pace to complete their graduation requirements even while attending their current school. Personalized learning plans allow a focus on specific needs for Indigenous students, special education students, and to provide
mental health support in ways that classroom environments are not equipped to do.
Accessible: As a publicly funded OL school in SD71 in the Comox Valley, Navigate o ers free online courses to all non-graduated students in BC. There are modest fees for blended learning programs, and tuition fees are required for adult students who have already graduated. Students from any school district can apply at any time throughout the calendar year.
Supported: A Navigate education is highly resourced. We have decades of experience, a history of success and innovation, and a strong team of dedicated professionals who are open to finding new approaches to common goals.
The hunt for school shoes begins now! Whether you are looking for preschool or high school, New Balance o ers the best selection of casual and athletic footwear. Attention to t will ensure your kids have the right shoes for whatever the day brings. For teens, the focus is often on fashion, but the shoes should also be comfortable and t well. For the younger set, be sure to clarify what speci c requests your child’s school may have regarding indoor and outdoor footwear.
With school shoes for youngsters, there are a few features to look for such as a non-marking outsole or a Velcro closure, but the best choice will support healthy foot development as they grow. Online sizing charts can be confusing or do not account for foot width, which is why actual in person tting is way easier and more accurate. New Balance o ers wide widths in speci c models ranging from infant to preschool to youth sizes. The length and width can be measured with a child-sized Brannock device or a 3D foot scanner which creates an accurate image of the length, width, depth, and arch height. For the scanner method, your child has to be able to stand still for about 15 seconds, but the results of seeing their feet on the screen is a highlight!
The New Balance t expert will check for a thumb width of room between the longest toe and the end of the shoe and that the sides are snug but not constricting. Children’s feet can
grow as much as two full sizes in one year so there is the temptation to get shoes extra big so that they don’t have to be replaced as often. However, the shoes will lack proper support, and there is a much higher likelihood of tripping or heel slippage. When is it time to graduate from Velcro to a laced shoe? Non-laced shoes make it easier to get the kids outside in a timely manner, but once they grow into youth sizes, options for Velcro start to diminish. A laced shoe will o er greater support in the upper and an over-all better t for sport activities that are more technical and longer in duration.
For the teen set, they will no doubt have noticed the New Balance retro lifestyle sneakers ooding their social media. The hottest trend is the basketball inspired 550, which looks athletic but is more suited to casual use. The fact that no one could get this shoe at rst fueled the hype, but New Balance has since released a plethora of colour options. The combination of clean lines, comfortable t, and reasonable price propels this model to the top of the must-have sneakers for the school season.
Other models that hearken back to the 70’s and 80’s are the 327 and the 574. The 327 toes the line of eccentricity, as fashion does. With a uniquely shaped footprint, a wa e sole that wraps half way up the heel, and the giant N on the sides, this is a statement sneaker. In comparison, the 574 is retro cute like a vintage Volkswagen Beatle. This model comes in a selection of colours that can be bold or understated. The style goes with a variety of casual attire by edging away from the athletic sneaker look.
With New Balance, nding a great t also means wearing the trendiest styles. Get started early for the best selection!
