May 2015

May 2015

Summer

An agency of the Government of Ontario

Cherry Blossoms pg 2

10 Fun Things to do in May pg 3

Petting Zoos in the GTA pg 4

Mothers’ Day Activities pg 5

Body Image Advice for Kids and Teens pg 6

Superhero Books pg 7

May Events pg 8-9

Popsicle Recipe pg 10

Time for Preschool?

Northwood Montessori

• Parent & Tot • Nursery • Kindergarten

Ages 1-5 Years Flexible Scheduling Extended Hours

Summer Camps

Finch Campus 1080 Finch Avenue East 416-492-9495

The Academic Advantages of Montessori plus the Fun of Bilingual E.C.E. Enrichment plus the Helpful Conveniences of Day Care.

Madawaska Campus 53 Madawaska Avenue 416-250-8302

www.northwoodmontessori.ca

Plus!

Est. 1989

feature | looking for adventure

In Bloom Don’t miss the cherry blossoms in Toronto There isn’t a more delightful way to enjoy the onset of spring than seeing the beautiful cherry blossoms flowering. Every spring, thousands head over to High Park, to witness the beautiful cherry blossoms. The best time to see the cherry trees in full bloom is in early May. In Japan, cherry blossom viewing is taken to almost religious heights. The blooming flowers are carefully watched, enjoyed and celebrated. Sakura Hanami parties are traditionally held throughout the country to celebrate the season, and feature eating, drinking and music.

In Toronto, most of the Sakura cherry trees are located around Hillside Gardens at High Park, though there are a few by the Duck Pond Don’t miss out! Cherry blossoms only last for about one week to one and a half weeks if the weather is nice. Unfortunately if it rains while they are in bloom, the flower petals will fall quick-

er and the blooming may end in just a few short days. If the weather is unusually cold in April, the trees may not even bloom at all.

Visit these websites to find out when it’s best to make the trip. Keep in mind that it does get very busy so consider going during off-peak times.

High Park Cherry Trees: www.highparktoronto. com/cherry-trees.php This site is great to track the blooms: www. sakurainhighpark.com.

There are also 30 Japanese Cherry trees at the Toronto Islands. If you want to avoid the large crowd at High Park when the trees are blooming, a great alternative is to go see the trees at the Islands. They are on Centre Island, located at the south end of the bridge near the fountain. It’s about a 10 minute walk from the Centre Island ferry docks.

— www.Torono4Kids.com

TORONTO

KIDS &

Interested in advertising with us?

To book an ad, contact the

Toronto Kids & Family Advertising Team 416-493-4400 2 | TORONTO KIDS - May 2015

TORONTO

KIDS &

publisher IAN PROUDFOOT toronto general manager JOHN WILLEMS director of advertising CHERYL PHILLIPS sales team lead GEORGE AGELOPOULOS regional director of operations BARRY BLACK director of circulation MIKE BANVILLE regional director of production and creative services KATHERINE PORCHERON features writers TASHA ZANIN SARAH LENNOX cover design KIMBERLY FONG

175 GORDON BAKER ROAD, TORONTO, ONTARIO M2H 0A2 TELEPHONE & ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 416.493.4400 Toronto Kids & Families is published monthly.

Copyright 2014. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may by reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. Toronto Kids is in full compliance with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act. Call 416-493-4400 for more information.

10 fun things feature | looking for adventure

to do in May

Just as flowers blossom all over town in spring, so do great activities for Toronto families. Plus, there are a few fun dates to celebrate. We’ve rounded up the best things to do with your family this May. Expect nothing but FUN! 1. Take part in Doors Open Toronto Doors Open Toronto will be celebrating its 16th year of taking Torontonians behind normally closed doors. Stops include everything from All About Dogs Inc. to High Park – Forest School to Laser Quest Toronto East. With more than 155 buildings participating, every family is sure to find something fun and educational.

This year’s theme is Sports, Recreation and Leisure in preparation for the 2015 Pan American/Parapan American Games, so make sure to visit some sports-related stops! Visit http://www.toronto.ca/doorsopen for more information.

2. Go to the Geocaching Weekend at Kortright Join the worldwide scavenger hunt! Geocaching is real outdoor treasure hunt, using GPS to locate the treasures. Find hidden geocaches at Kortright Centre for Conservation, May 30 and 31. Enjoy workshops, guided hikes and more!

Adults - $6.50, seniors - $5.50, kids 15 & under - FREE! Visit www.kortright.org for more information.

3. Visit Franklin Children’s Garden on Centre Island Visit the Toronto Islands to get away from the city and enter the fairy tale world of Franklin the Turtle. This magical garden is a great place to discover nature and learn about plants and wildlife. Plan a trip to see some of Canada’s best children’s performers in the garden or just go for the day to play and explore. Franklin’s Children’s Garden is a short walk from the Centre Island ferry docks. Follow the signs the beach and then keep to the right after crossing the bridge.

4. Take part in the Forest of Reading – Festival of Trees Join some of your favourite authors, illustrators and fellow book lovers at Canada’s largest literary event for youth. Get involved in workshops, have your favourite books signed, take part in games and win great prizes. Toronto will be holding the Festival of Trees on May 12 and 13 at the Harbourfront Centre.

French readers should stop by on May 13. Visit http://forestfestivaloftrees.ca/ for more information.

5. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Cinco de Mayo takes place on May 5, and this holiday is the perfect opportunity to explore Mexican culture with your kids. Make special crafts and recipes!

Check out the recipe on page 10 for inspiration!

6. Celebrate National Teachers’ Day National Teacher Appreciation Day is May 5. From kindergarten through university, teachers are an important part of our children’s lives. Take the time to honour and acknowledge the crucial role teachers play!

7. Celebrate National Chicken Dance Day National Chicken Dance Day takes place on May 14. Cluck, scratch and dance like a chicken on this very important occasion! Make some poultry recipes or visit a farm to really channel your inner chicken.

8. Celebrate International Museum Day Every year since 1977, International Museum Day is organized worldwide on May 18. The theme of the International Museum Day 2015 will be: Museums for a sustainable society. Look for special events at a local museum!

9. Go to Beasley Bear’s Picnic on Centre Island Beasley Bear is hosting his Teddy Bear Picnic at Centreville Amusement Park and Far Enough Farm on Toronto’s Centre Island on May 16, 17, 18. Stop by Centreville Amusement Park with your favourite stuffed animal for a healthy heart check-up! There will be lots of other fun activities for kids to enjoy. The event is free (Rides at Centreville Amusement Park are extra).

10. Go fossil hunting along Etobicoke Creek If your favourite exhibit at the ROM is the fossils, try finding your own this month. Trek out to Marie Curtis Park on Lakeshore Blvd. and follow the Etobicoke Creek. Rocks along the edge of the water are full of cool fossils for you to study.

For younger hunters, stick with the fossils that are already visible. Adults can bring a hammer and chisel to split open the rock layers for hidden fossils. You may find a treptoceras or, if you’re really lucky, a trilobite! Make sure to go on a warm day.

— Sarah Lennox with files from www.Toronto4Kids.com

BAYVIEW VILLAGE

JUNIOR TENNIS CAMP • • • • •

Centrally located (Bayview & Sheppard) O.T.A. Award Winning Jr. Program Ages 4-18, Beginner to Advanced 11 Different One Week Sessions Full and Half Day Programs

For further information or camp registration call

• • • •

Certified Professional Instructors Video Tape Analysis Written Evaluations Radar Gun Drills

Fu

n!

Fu

n!

Fu

n!

(905) 889-7293 - Peter Nielson

www.bayviewvillagetenniscamp.ca TORONTO KIDS - May 2015 | 3

feature | looking for adventure

Animal encounters Five fun petting zoos and farms to visit in may!

Grab your kiddos (and a camera) and head out to visit the baby animals this spring! Get ready to encounter some animal fun of the cute kind! If you’re looking for petting zoos and farms where you can get up close to the animals, check out the following sites to visit in and around the Toronto area.

Brooks Farm Brooks Farm, located just north of the city, offers 10 acres of outdoor fun. With so much to do, kids of all ages are guaranteed to have a blast! Kids can visit with the farm animals and in addition to that, there are train rides, zip lines, tire horse swings, sandbox fun, bouncing ponies, a playhouse & slide, a pirate ship, an animated Singing Chicken Show, a corn maze, Rusty’s Forest, straw pyramids & jumps, Spider Mountain Look Out, duck and pig races, a chip truck and much more! The Barnyard Playland opens early May. Admission is $8 per person. Kids 2 and under are free.

122 Ashworth Rd., Mount Albert www.brooksfarms.com Far Enough Farm This quaint working farm is one of the most unique animal farms located just minutes from Toronto’s downtown core. Originally established

in 1959, Far Enough Farm is a long-standing Centre Island staple located at the heart of Centreville Amusement Park. Visiting is a treat for kids of all ages (and parents, too!) There are over 40 different species of barnyard animals and new animals arrive at the farm throughout the spring and summer seasons. Admission is Free. www.centreisland.ca High Park Zoo Toronto’s largest public park is home to a unique and wonderful animal attraction that is open yearround. Although small, the zoo is home to over 45 animals that represent 11 different species of mammals and birds. Nine paddocks showcase a variety of animal species from around the world including bison, llamas, peacocks, reindeer, highland cattle, wallabies, emus, and sheep. Admission is free. www.highparkzoo.ca Lionel’s Farm Petting Zoo Lionel’s Farm Petting Zoo is unique to York Region. See and touch sheep, goats, pigs, cow, donkeys ponies, deer, llamas, alpacas, rabbits, chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys, pigeons, pheasants, peacocks, and a various times throughout the year, you may spot babies. You may feed the animals, but ONLY

mini carrots, cut celery, lettuce, and/or bread can be brought to feed them. Admission is free, however donations are appreciated.

11714 McCowan Rd., Stouffville www.lionelsfarm.com Riverdale Farm The Riverdale Farm is a quaint little farm, located right in the heart of downtown Toronto, in Cabbagetown. Kids can see many farm animals, including cows, horses, donkey, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens,

turkeys, ducks, geese, rabbits, and farm cats. Visit the farm animals and chat with the farmer during daily chores. The farm features a historic working farm, scenic pathways, programs and seasonal events, pig and poultry barn, historic Francey Barn, Simpson House, Meeting House, the “Residence,” Old Zoo Ruins. Admission is free.

201 Winchester St. www.toronto.ca — www.Toronto4Kids.com

TORONTO FRENCH MONTESSORI SCHOOL Learning Through Discovery

FRENCH & ENGLISH EDUCATION WITH SPANISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CO-EDUCATIONAL SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS AGED 18 MONTHS TO 14 YEARS ACCEPTING REGISTRATIONS FOR 2015-2016 SCHOOL YEAR

416.250.9952 TorontoFrenchMontessori.com 4 | TORONTO KIDS - May 2015

10

holidays | mother’s day

ways to celebrate Mother’s Day

On Sunday, May 10, we celebrate moms all over the world. Get the kids involved in making Mother’s Day special and show mom some love with these fun and thoughtful ideas.

Make breakfast in bed Bring mom breakfast in bed or if she’s already up, make breakfast and eat it together at the table.

Take mom on a picnic Don’t let mom do any of the work, so get Dad to help out with the menu. Plan on having the pic-

T.O. Tip Is Mama Dearest just the sweetest?

Then treat her to a special experience on Toronto’s original chocolate tour!

Sample chocolates & goodies and take a guided tour on the history of chocolates! Chat with store owners & chocolatiers. For more information visit www.tastytourstoronto.com.

nic at a favourite local park and let her enjoy her favourite meal.

A personalized mug Put your best family photo on a mug for her to enjoy as she sips her favourite coffee or tea. Add in some specialty coffee beans or tea bags for an extra nice touch.

A gift in her name Make a donation to her favourite charity, in her name. This isn’t directly for her, but she’ll love it just the same.

Make a scrapbook Get some of her favourite family photos and put them in a scrapbook. If you aren’t really into scrapbooking, you can order a photo book online. These make great keepsakes.

Frame artwork Does Mom have a favourite piece of artwork you created at school this year? Have it framed. This is a great gift she’ll love!

Family calendar There are lots of birthdays and other events that mom likes to keep track of. Help her by making a

family calendar. You can create your own on the computer or order a personalized calendar online.

Memory box Make mom a memory box. Look for things around the house that remind you of special memories. Find your best family moments and photos and create a mini keepsake. You can also draw pictures of your special events.

Make a date Does mom love to go to the museum, the zoo or the aquarium? Why not plan a day she can spend doing something she enjoys? There is nothing bet-

ter that mom can receive on her day than spending it with the ones she loves. Look for city attractions that are hosting a special event or brunch.

Family chores As a family, take over all of mom’s chores the week before Mother’s Day so the weekend is free for a special activity! The last thing mom wants to do during Mother’s Day weekend is an endless load of laundry.

Don’t forget to make a card to thank your mom for all the things she does for you and your family.

Happy Mother’s Day! —By Toronto4Kids.com

TORONTO KIDS - May 2015 | 5

healthy living | body image

Weight a minute! lead by example to combat negative body image in kids and teens “Mom, I’m not going to eat anymore because I’m going to be a model.”

Anne Devereux-Mills’ daughter was in kindergarten when she made the bold and frightening statement. The truth is, body image concerns are starting young; 40 to 60 per cent of elementary school girls, aged six to 12, are concerned about their weight or becoming fat, according to a 2011 study published in Body Image - A Handbook of Science, Practice and Prevention. Without a support system and healthy role models, negative body image could lead to negative behaviour, like eating disorders.

“I was not an expert at the time, but we had her write letters to the models she thought were the most beautiful,” says Devereux-Mills. “We had my secretary write back in different handwriting.” The “models” responses encouraged healthy eating and excursive explaining that that’s how they became beautiful.

Devereux-Mills is now the Executive Director of the Healthy Body Image Program at Stanford and Chief Strategy Officer at Lantern, an online and mobile tool that connects tweens, teens and adults to a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy “coach.” Each coach is a mental health professional who, in 10-minutea-day sessions, uses a customized plan with the goal of addressing specific challenges through hands-on exercises,

6 | TORONTO KIDS - May 2015

practical strategies, and real-time tracking on how you’re doing.

“As a parent, you always question ‘Did I say something to spur that?’” says Devereux-Mills. But as we are constantly surrounded by images of the “perfect body” in pop culture, she says she isn’t

that 5 per cent, but she has a younger daughter with a different build who constantly compares herself to her older sibling. Devereux-Mills says both her daughters, now in their 20s, are beautiful, but the comparisons are hard to avoid.

surprised kids are picking up on it.

“That model you saw in fashion week?

She represents less than five per cent of what normal bodies are. They’re striving for an image that’s not attainable,” says Devereux-Mills.

It turns out her daughter was built like

Boys are also feeling the pressure; the Bradley Coopers and Channing Tatums of the world are slim and muscular wellbuilt men.

It’s a slippery slope from negative body image to an eating disorder and the tween years are the first time girl

and boys are surrounded by exceptional pressure to be perfect. According to the National Eating Disorder Information Centre, 30 per cent of girls and 24 per cent of boys ages 10 to 14 have been on a diet, despite being a healthy weight.

So what can parents do if they see the early signs of an eating disorder? “The best thing is to get them into a positive mind frame, but if they need more intervention, turn to counselors or a program like Lantern.” She has found that using Lantern cuts the rate of progression to an eating disorder by 50 per cent.

“It’s never too early to talk to a child about what their values are and that how you look is only a small portion of what you are,” says Devereux-Mills.

Try her tips for building positive body image and preventing eating disorders.

• Throw out the scales because those kinds of measurements lead to kids and tweens focusing on the wrong things • Stock your fridge with good foods and emphasize that it’s great to eat plenty of food as long as the food is good and you’re

not depriving yourself of things you love.

• Model good exercise behaviour. Devereux-Mills exercises daily, but teaches kids that it’s part of a healthy life as long as it’s not to excess.

• Make sure the things you compliment your kids on are not based on body image, which could lead to detrimental habits. Say things like “I am glad you’re enjoying your new exercise routine” or “You are glowing.”

• Don’t make negative comments on other people’s appearances.

It’s easy to say ‘Wow, look at that person,” when you see someone who is larger, but it leaves a negative impression on your child or tween.

• Be thoughtful of what you put on the coffee table.

While it’s impossible to avoid all images of the “perfect body” because they’re everywhere, it’s important to be more thoughtful of the images within reach of your kids that might cause negative comparisons.

— Tasha Zanin

book nook

DC Superheroes: My first book of Girl Power Julie Merberg Exploring attributes from physical strength to intuition, this introduction to DC’s super heroines is also a catalogue of role models for little girls.

Ages 3-5

learning | book nook Celebrate superheroes this spring! If you’re looking for action and adventure, pick up a book full of role models defying odds and overcoming some tough situations. Try reading them with your own superheroes - Mom and dad!

Captain Awesome Goes to Superhero Camp Stan Kirby Captain Awesome and the Sunnyview Superhero Squad can’t wait to get some real superhero training at Camp Ka-Pow. That is, until they meet the Cloudy Ages Heights Super Crew.

The Princess in Black Dean and Shannon Hale Stopping monsters is no job for dainty Princess Magnolia. But luckily Princess Magnolia has a secret —she’s also the Princess in Black, and stopping monsters is the perfect job for her!

6-8

TSA SUMMER ART CAMPS & YOUTH ART STUDIO INTENSIVES GUIDE YOUNG ARTISTS THROUGH HANDS-ON STUDIO EXPLORATIONS IN DRAWING, PAINTING, SCULPTURE AND MIXED MEDIA TO STRENGTHEN SKILLS AND FOSTER THEIR CREATIVE VOICE. Our series of Summer Art Camps (Ages 11-13), Youth Art Studio, Drawing Fundamentals and Life Drawing Intensives for Teens (Ages 14-17) are open for registration! Sign-up now and save $50 on each youth course with the promo code TOkids50.

Ages 6-8

El Deafo Cece Bell In this funny, poignant graphic novel memoir, author/illustrator Cece Bell chronicles her hearing loss at a young age and her subsequent experiences with the Phonic Ear, a very powerful and very Ages awkward hearing aid.

9-12

The Astounding Broccoli Boy Boyce Frank Cottrell Rory isn’t prepared when he suddenly and inexplicably turns green.

But what if it’s not in his genes, or a virus, or something he ate? What if turning green actually means you’ve turned Ages into a superhero?

9-12

Ages 3 to 17 Weekdays, rain or shine!

One week or multi-week sessions!

Lunch programs & extended hours available!

Additional programs!

REGISTER AT Boulevardclub.com Call 416-532-3341 x134 Camps@boulevardclub.com 1491 Lake Shore Blvd W., Toronto, ON M6K 3C2

To register, visit tsa-art.com, call, or drop by the office.

980 Dufferin Street, 2nd Floor Toronto, ON M6H 4B4 416.504.7910 | info@tsa-art.com

TORONTO KIDS - May 2015 | 7

upcoming events Family Sundays at the AGO With events for little kids, big kids and the whole family, there is fun for everyone. The interactive, innovative family activities change on a monthly basis and are inspired by our ever-changing exhibitions and collections.

Sundays in May, 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Art Gallery of Ontario www.ago.net Shakespeare in Action This is a FREE readers’ theatre program for Shakespeare Kids ages 7-12! Join SHAKESPEARE IN ACTION for storytelling adventures! Explore the world of magic, witches, ghosts, silly mix-ups, and swordplay in some of the greatest stories ever told!

May 16, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Various Toronto Public Library Branches www.shakespeareinaction.org/td-library-club.html Tea and Tour Sundays at Gibson House There’s a seat for you at the harvest table

in the historic kitchen on Sunday afternoons this spring. Relax and have a chat over tea and homemade cookies. Enjoy a tour of this lovely, 1850s farmhouse. Included with regular admission.

Sundays in May Gibson House 5172 Yonge St. www.toronto.ca/museum-events Cavalia - ODYSSEO This new production is a celebration of the beauty and harmony of the meeting of two worlds: those of horse and human. As friends, partners and inseparable performers, they will lead you on a journey to another world – a world of dreams.

Until May 10 Under the White Big Top in Toronto Port Lands www.cavalia.net Junior Jays Saturdays Bring your family to the ballpark every Saturday home game for Jr. Jays Saturdays presented by Boston Pizza! Kids can

Education

visit the Jr. Jays zones located at sections 127, 237, 239, the 200 level outfield and section 536 to take part in many fun activities. Kids 14 and under can lineup at sections 108, 208 and 508 to run the bases just like the pros after the game!

May 9 at 1:07 pm - The Jays take on the Boston Red Sox. Rogers Centre www.torontobluejays.com Beauty and the Geek at Solar Stage Tale as old as...wait a minute! The classic tale gets a modern makeover. Will Beauty see past the Geek’s nerdy ways and care about him for who he truly is?

The story is full of delights for even the youngest audiences (and there’s no scary Beast).

Solar Stage, Madison Centre 4950 Yonge St., North York www.solarstage.on.ca Bedtime! at YPT Montreal’s dynamic dance company Bouge de là returns to Young People’s Theatre with their high-octane dancetheatre piece Bedtime! This fantastic new production explores the phases of childhood as seen in the bedroom – a place of dreams and solitude, but also a place for exhilarating exploration and exuberant play.

May 6 - May 14 Young People’s Theatre 165 Front St. E. www.youngpeoplestheatre.ca Stars on Ice Canada’s premier figure skating tour has brought together a superstar ensemble of Canada’s most beloved skaters to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Investors Group Stars on Ice presented

by Lindt. The 25th Anniversary Tour will celebrate the highlights and marquee performances of the past 25 years with a cast of Canada’s legends past, present, and future.

May 8, 7:30 p.m.

Hands-On

Sports

Outdoor

Food

Arts

HarbourKIDS Toronto International Circus Festival May 16 to May 18

HarbourKIDS presents the fascinating, freaky circus spectacle of Toronto’s International Circus Festival, May 16-18. This three-day festival promises the fascinating spectacle of the circus for those curious enough to venture through. Free.

Harbourfront

www.tocircusfestival.com

Air Canada Centre www.starsonice.ca 14th Annual Meagan’s Walk This annual event raises awareness and generates support for children and families affected by paediatric brain tumour.

The 5km walk begins at Fort York and ends with participants forming a giant human hug around The Hospital for Sick Children. To date, Meagan’s Walk has raised more than $3.6 million for paediatric brain tumour research.

May 9, 8:30 am until 12 p.m.

Fort York www.meaganswalk.com Mayfair in Rosedale Park Come to the 70th annual Mayfair in Rosedale Park! Exciting carnival rides, midway games for kids (great prizes!), face painting, track and field, fish pond, candy floss, popcorn, bingo, raffle, silent auction and more! Ride-all-day bracelets for all mechanical rides are $40, available only by advance sale until May 6th. Free admission - Rides extra.

May 9, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Rosedale Park 38 Scholfield Ave. www.mooredale.com Annual International Migratory Bird Day at Toronto Zoo One and two-hour guided bird watching tours of the Rouge Valley and around the Zoo site will be conducted on the hour from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tours are only $10.00 per person.

May 9 Toronto Zoo www.torontozoo.com Science Rendezvous Check out the robots, enjoy interactive experiments and take in a fire show – all at Science Rendezvous sponsored

by Ryerson University. Free and suitable for everyone ages 3 to 103.

May 9, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Yonge-Dundas Square www.ryerson.ca/sciencerendezvous

Native Child and Family Services of Toronto Keep the Connections… Consider being a Foster, Adopt or Customary Care Parent Foster Care Hotline 8 | TORONTO KIDS - May 2015

416-969-8510 ext. 7788

upcoming events 3rd Annual Mount Pleasant Village Kids’ Fun Day Presented by the Merchants of Mount Pleasant Village and taking place in the heart of Toronto’s Midtown on Mount Pleasant Road between Eglinton and Davisville Avenues, Kids’ Fun Day will offer a full day of free, fun family activities.

May 9, 11 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Mount Pleasant Road between Eglinton and Davisville w w w.mountpleasant village.ca/ kidsfunday BSM Birthday Bash!

Celebrate Bata Show Museum’s 20th birthday with a day full of free admission, family-friendly entertainment, arts and crafts and more. Visitors can experience exhibitions coming to life or delight in the playful atrium art installation and of course enjoy a birthday cupcake on Saturday! There will be free admission and arts and crafts on Sunday.

May 9 to May 10 Bata Shoe Museum www.batashoemuseum.ca Pirate Life at Centre Island Sail aboard the 45 foot Island Rogue from Centre Island. Come dressed in a pirate costume or use provided costumes. Receive face paint tattoos and a cool new pirate nick name.

Centre Island www.piratelife.ca Build and Grow Clinics at Lowe’s Kids in grades 2 to 5 can build a Mother’s Day planter while parents shop. Kids will take home a merit certificate, name tag, apron and goggles and their new planter.

May 9 Lowe’s locations across Toronto www.lowes.ca Build a Picket Fence Frame at Home Depot

Kids will learn how to build a Picket Fence Frame with easy to follow steps.

The workshop is for kids ages 4–12 and they must be accompanied by an adult. Free.

May 9, 10 a.m. until 12 p.m.

Home Depot locations across Toronto www.homedepot.ca World Fiddle Day at Fort York See players of bowed string instruments from several traditions teach and perform their music, leading up to the community “Around-the-World Jam� where violin, viola, cello and bass players of all levels play their way through 40 tunes from 25 countries.

Admission is FREE. May 16, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Fort York www.toronto.ca/museum-events Pirates and Princesses at Black Creek Pioneer Village Bring your eye patches and tiaras.

Celebrate stories such as The Snow Queen, Cinderella, and Peter Pan. Enjoy interactive characters, pirate school, a village-wide treasure hunt and more!

May 16 to May 18 Black Creek Pioneer Village www.blackcreek.ca Victoria Day Fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park Celebrate Victoria Day with a dazzling display of pyrotechnics that will definitely impress.

May 18, 10 p.m. sharp Ashbridges Bay Park www.toronto.ca Victoria Weekend Fireworks at Canada’s Wonderland Spend your day enjoying more than 200 awesome rides, coasters and attractions, then round out your day with an action-packed fireworks display over Wonder Mountain.

May 18, 10 p.m. sharp In partnership with

Education

Hands-On

Sound of Dragon Music Festival at Fort York Sound of Dragon Music Festival showcases the very diverse styles of Chinese music from ancient folk and classical repertoire to contemporary compositions and improvisation. It is an international collaborative project with musicians from Vancouver, Toronto and Taiwan. Vancouver musicians are members of the Vancouver InterCultural Orchestra.

May 20, 8 p.m.

Fort York www.toronto.ca/museum-events Rescue Pets Adoption Weekend Various dedicated rescue groups who

work tirelessly to find homes for so many rescued pets each year will be in attendance to answer your questions and introduce you to some of the deserving pets available for adoption.

Adoptions will take place on site. Free admission.

May 30, to May 31, 1 p.m. until 5 p.m.

Purina PawsWay 245 Queens Quay W. www.pawsway.ca Bugs, Bugs, Bugs!

���� ����

���������� �� �� ��� ���������� ����� ���������� �� ��� ��� ���� ����� �������� ������������������������

Once you reach just $5, Once you reach the money you savejust will $5, the money you be transferred into save your will be PayPal transferred walletinto your

PayPal wallet

For more May events, visit: www.toronto4kids.com/Calendar

������ ��� ������� ������� ���� � ������ ������������� ���������� � �������

1. Browse & Shop 2. Upload Receipt 3. Get Cash Back!

1. Browse & Shop 2. Upload Receipt 3. Get Cash Back!

In partnership with

Soli tries to help Rob overcome his fear of creepy-crawly insects. Can she do it before her friends the Bungalow Bugs come over to visit? Find out, in this singalong about the insect world.

Solar Stage May 30 - May 31 The Madison Centre 4950 Yonge Street www.solarstage.on.ca

������ �� � � � � � � � ���� ���� �� � ���� ��� ����

Take a photo of your

Arts

Prologue Children’s Festival for the Arts 2015 See an incredible variety of awardwinning Canadian talent, including Sultans of String, Cadence, Leslie McCurdy, Little Pear Garden Collective, Kahurangi Maori Dance Theatre, and Andre Prefontaine. Free.

May 25, 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Young People’s Theatre 165 Front St. E. www.prologue.org

Introducing the New Cash-Back Feature.

Introducing the NewSave.ca Save.ca Mobile Mobile Cash-Back Feature.

WithWith exclusive offers forforthe love&&$5 $5cash-out cash-out minimums exclusive offers thebrands brands you you love minimums through PayPal, you’ll never withoutyour your smart phone again! through PayPal, you’ll nevergo goshopping shopping without smart phone again!

Take a photo of your receipt and submit it receipt andthe submit through app it through the app

Food

WoofJocks Canine All Stars at Canada’s Wonderland The WoofJocks Canine All Stars are taking over International Showplace!

You won’t want to miss the excitement as the furry All Stars display choreographed performances of canine agility, obedience, tricks, and flying disc.

The skilled group of dogs and handlers stage a fun, fast-paced educational and interactive variety show featuring a variety of breeds.

May 16 - May 18 Canada’s Wonderland www.canadaswonderland.com

Browse the mobile app

Outdoor

Canada’s Wonderland www.canadaswonderland.com

In partnership with

Browse thefavourite mobile brand’s app for your for your favourite brand’s offers, and purchase offers,them andat purchase any store them at any store

Sports

�������� �������

������������������������������ TORONTO KIDS - May 2015 | 9

recipe | chili chocolate peanut butter popsicles

GIRL’S 2014 - 15 BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS

IAL C E P S FOR S R E OFF DES 7, GRA & 10 9

ASK ABOUT US O SUMME UR CAMPSR

REGISTER Private Elementary NOW! & Secondary School Montessori Casa (Ages 3-6) Our Tuition Includes: • Small Classes • Safe & Caring Environment • Free Before & After School Programs • Character Education • Weekly Swimming Lessons • Early Start French Language Classes • Art & Music • Early Start Literacy & Numeracy • Daily Physical & Health Education • Sports Programs SSAF Member 1500 Birchmount Rd., Toronto ON 416-266-8878 ext. 247 info@bondacademy.ca • www.bondacademy.ca

Success Starts at Bond

10 | TORONTO KIDS - May 2015

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo try a cool festive treat with a bit of a kick We may be a bit far north, but any cause for great food and celebration is a good one. This cool holiday is also a great chance to learn about another culture.

Cinco de Mayo celebrates the victory of a small Mexican militia against an invading French army. Now, people all over Mexico and the rest of North America spend time with friends and family, eating good food, listening to music and drinking delicious beverages.

Kick your snacking up a notch! Inspired by the Mexican heat, these popsicles – or palatas – bring together the classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate, with a spicy kick to your palate. For the little ones, the amount of cayenne pepper can be reduced.

Have these yummy treats throughout the day or save them for dessert after a yummy Mexican-inspired taco night!

Chili Chocolate Peanut Butter Popsicles Prep time: 10 minutes Freeze time: 6 hours Makes about 8 popsicles (palatas) Ingredients • 1 cup peanut butter • 1/3 cup liquid honey • 3/4 tsp cayenne pepper • 1/4 tsp salt • 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder • 1 cup milk • 1 tbsp peanuts, very finely chopped (optional)

Directions 1. In a large measuring cup, stir peanut butter with honey, cayenne and salt. Stir in cocoa powder until smooth.

2. Very gradually whisk in milk, until mixture is smooth and milk is completely combined.

3. Sprinkle base of popsicle molds with peanuts.

Pour peanut butter mixture into molds and insert popsicle sticks. Freeze until firm, about six hours.

—www.newscanada.com

TORONTO

KIDS &

A great place to be!

M ntessori Village & Education Centre

SUMMER KEYBOARDING CAMP & SUMMER SOCIAL SKILLS CAMP JULY & AUGUST Register

online at or call

www.ldatd.on.ca

416-229-1680

TODDLER • CASA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 416. 266. 0424 www.gvmontessori.ca Open 7 am to 6:30 pm Open House Wednesdays @ 7 pm OPEN TO ALL… French Immersion Themed Classes – from age 6 to 14 yrs ENROLL NOW... Saturday 2 hour classes -- Call or Visit to enroll Tutoring: Ages 6 and up, French, Math, Language -- High school: Math, Physics, Chemistry 297 Old Kingston Rd @ Morrish Give your child the love of learning…

TORONTO

416-425-6062

KIDS &

Get your FREE copy at the Public Library or the

TTC Subway Station Today!

Every Issue Includes:

r FEVDBUJPO r DBNQT r BDUJWJUJFT r TQPSUT r BOE NPSF TORONTO KIDS - May 2015 | 11

Visit activities events restaurants travel more!

12 | TORONTO KIDS - May 2015