TORONTO
Kids
In ship er t rn h Pa wit
Aug. 2012
Wild Toronto
The Dog Days of Summer
p. 3
Awesome August events p. 6-7 Keeping Cool p.8
Let’s go to The Ex! p. 4 Back-to-school primer p. 5 TTC’ing with Tots p. 10 A TE
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PLAY SPO
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MAKE FRIENDS...
HAVE FU
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SWIM CLUBS & MULTI SPORT CAMPS
2 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2012
GOOD GRIEF! THIS IS A GREAT DEAL FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.
4 TICKETS FOR ONLY $99!
*
“BRIGHT FAMILY-FRIENDLY ENTERTAINMENT! TAKE YOUR KIDS AND ENJOY!” James Reaney, LONDON FREE PRESS
YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN Schulich Children’s Plays presents
YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN Based on the comic strip “Peanuts” by Charles M. Schulz Book, music and lyrics by Clark Gesner Additional dialogue by Michael Mayer Additional music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa Original direction for this version of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” by Michael Mayer Originally produced in New York by Arthur Whitelaw and Gene Persson Directed and choreographed by Donna Feore Stephen Patterson as Snoopy Erica Peck as Lucy Ken James Stewart as Charlie Brown Andrew Broderick as Schroeder Amy Wallis as Sally Kevin Yee as Linus Photo of Stephen Patterson by Cylla von Tiedemann.
*Quote Promo Code SNOOPY
2012 SEASON: ORDER YOUR TICKETS TODAY
MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING 42ND STREET THE MATCHMAKER HENRY V YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE A WORD OR TWO CYMBELINE WANDERLUST ELEKTRA MacHOMER THE BEST BROTHERS HIRSCH THE WAR OF 1812
1.800.567.1600 ANTONI CIMOLINO General Director
stratfordshakespearefestival.com Discover • Debate • Discuss
DES McANUFF Artistic Director
*Discount will be applied when fourth ticket is added to cart. Tax and service charges extra. Offer may end without notice and is subject to availability. Offer not valid on A+ seating. Offer not valid on previously purchased tickets. Some conditions apply.
TORONTO KIDS - August 2012 | 3
greatoutdoors Where the wild things are Even though Toronto is one of the five largest cities in North America, it’s far more than a concrete jungle. Within the borders of our green city there are ample opportunities to get up close and personal with wildlife without going to the zoo! Here are some of our favourite places for getting back in touch with our furry and feathered friends:
HIGH PARK Just under half of High Park is untouched natural landscape, providing a valuable habitat to many species, including hawks, fish, deer, foxes, and many more. The park also plays host to an outstanding variety of rare plant species, including woodland fernleaf, cup plant, St. John’s Wort, and the wild blue lupine.At various times of the year there are many aquatic and shore birds, and on a more permanent basis, fox, mink and raccoons. The park is also home to a small zoo that houses domestic and exotic species including bison, llamas, peacocks, deer, highland cattle and sheep.
LESLIE STREET SPIT
Located at the foot of Leslie Street south of Lakeshore Blvd., the Leslie Street Spit is home to more than 300 species of birds, migratory and resident, including Caspian Terns, Snowy Owls, many species of ducks and shorebirds. A variety of other animals are regularly spotted, including turtles, foxes, frogs, snakes, beavers, otters, red foxes, and coyotes. The Spit is also along the migratory route for thousands of butterflies, with fifty species spotted on The Spit and Baselands alone.
THE DON VALLEY The Don Valley area, stretching from the lake up to Steeles, is Toronto’s largest greenspace, and a fantastic spot to find animal life. The Don Valley river system is a natural highway for animal life, and boasts one of the mostb diverse habitations in the city. Sightings of white-tail deer aren’t uncommon, along with foxes, coyotes, black-crowned Night
Time For Preschool?
Join us for Campt in Augus
Herons, muskrats, pileated woodpeckers, great blue herons, nearly 200 species of birds, and a vast array of fish.
HUMBER SHORES While most of downtown’s waterfront is highly urbanized, with major installations like the Harbourfront Centre and the Powerplant art gallery, much of Etobicoke’s waterfront is private residential land with public parks and lake access in between. The marshes, located on the east bank of the lower Humber River, make up an environmentally significant wetland home to rare plant species such as White Sassafras and White Dog’s-Tooth-Violet. The unique and undeveloped habitat also provides a vital nesting ground for Great Blue Herons and American Coots. The marshes are surrounded by valley lands, which act as a corridor for migrating species like butterflies, birds, and fish. Found at the foot of Kipling right on the lakeshore, Colonel Sam Smith Park offers a series of paths between various inlets and ponds. A great place for waterfowl, these parks also have a much friendlier waterfront for fish and wildlife than you’ll find in residential areas downtown, where land is protected by walls to prevent erosion. The natural shoreline here allows fish to spawn, and animals like mink and foxes to flourish. Nestled on a wide swath of lakefront in Etobicoke is one of Canada’s most enchanting natural attractions, the Humber Bay Butterfly Habitat (HBBH), an ecological restoration project that provides critical habitat for a variety of native butterfly species. Since its creation, the HBBH has also become a home for migratory birds, small songbirds, goldfinches, cedar wax wings, and, of course, red wing black birds. Other species include snapping turtles that came up to lay eggs in the sand, and a number of muskrats. – Nicole Larkin
1-5 y e a rs
• Flexible scheduling • Extended Hours • Half/Full Day
Northwood Montessori for strong academic and learning skills Plus E.C.E. enrichment. 416-492-7812 Academy northwoodmontessori.ca French, Spanish, Science, Music, Creative Arts, Drama, Cooking, Playball Gym, Trips, Family Events. North York, Markham and Thornhill Montessori Plus! • Parent & Tot • Nursery • Kindergarten • After School Programs • Summer Camp
4 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2012
celebratesummer
Let’s go to
the EX
LET THE KIDS HORSE AROUND HorseCapades introduces horses to kids of all ages. The free program teaches the ways a horse thinks, acts and reacts. Children get to feed and pet the horses before taking a fun filled wagon ride. Take advantage of all of the activities dedicated to kids at the EX, and make this year’s visit one to remember.
-Jennifer Romano
T OR ON T O
Toronto Kids is published monthly. Copyright 2012. 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.
IAN PROUDFOOT
publisher
director of production
general manager
PORCHERON
SCHOOL
Kids
100 TEMPO AVENUE TORONTO, ONTARIO M2H 2N8 TELEPHONE 416.493.4400 TORONTO COMMUNITY NEWS advertising inquiries 416.493.4400
ORI
French & English with Spanish as a second language
O H M NTE
SS
Toronto French Montessori School
NC
Tucked in the west end of the CNE, close to Dufferin Gate, Kid’s World is a playground with on-stage entertainment, interactive stations as well as a variety of kid friendly animals. Kids can meet their favourite reptiles when Little Ray’s Reptile Zoo takes them on a journey through the rain forest. Walk down KidStreet and over to Ken’s Petting Zoo for a chance to meet and interact with over 120 animals from around the world. Splash N’ Boots fun-filled performances, hands on craft and music centres, Professor Wick’s School of Magic and Illusion, a full service baby care centre as well as the War of 1812 Kid’s Dress-Up Area, and much more are located on the grounds. Children’s carnival rides are located right next door.
Nestled in the CNE Farm, Kids’ Agventure is an interactive and colourful centre for kids ages three to 10. Five miniature barns are set up to take them through the journey of a farm hand. Each barn has hands on tasks like tending to animals and growing crops. Head over to Agri-Magic for a performance by Canadian Illusionist Daniel Steep as he educates about Canadian farming. The interactive Fishing Frenzy centre gives kids a chance to learn how to catch fish like a pro.
FRE
TAKE A JOURNEY INTO KID’S WORLD
HAVE A KIDS’ AGVENTURE
TORONTO
It’s that special time of year where every Torontonian is free to be a kid again for two glorious weeks. The EX is back and better than ever, with an expanded array of offerings for families and kids of all ages.
Discipline et Qualité d’Education
K AT H E R I N E MARG MIDDLETON
advertising manager director of advertising
RONIT WHITE
WA R R E N E L D E R
senior features coordinator
regional director of distribution
NICOLE LARKIN
JAMIE MUNOZ
Main Campus
432 Sheppard Ave E.
Cummer Campus 53 Cummer Ave
416.250.9952
For Admissions, please email to Admissions@TorontoFrenchMontessori.com
www.TorontoFrenchMontessori.com
TORONTO KIDS - August 2012 | 5
schoolsession They’re going back!
The first day of school is one of the most exciting days of the year for your child. Re-connecting with old classmates, making new friends and meeting the new teacher all make for an exciting time. But, the first day of school can also be a very stressful day for parents if they don’t have everything organized before sending kids off to class.Try these following strategies to make this year’s back to school shopping expedition easier on you – and your wallet. Create a family station: Dedicate a specific space near the front door for backpacks, lunches, keys, coats and any other items you and your kids may need on a daily basis. Keep this area organized and sorted, and you’ll shave hours of your morning routine over the course of the school year. Clean out last year’s backpack and take stock of supplies: Depending on your child’s age and the level of wear-and-tear, it might not be necessary to purchase a new backpack each year. Do a tally of unused supplies before you head out to the stores - you never know how many pencil crayons are floating around the
MONTCREST SCHOOL
Nurture your child's love of learning at Montcrest School.
� i learning
bottom of those backpacks!. Inventory the clothing: The clothing purchase is probably what causes the most conflicts and frustrations. Have the kids try on ALL their clothes to determine what still fits. Then make a list of what they need. Donate clothes your child no longer wears to make room for the new wardrobe. Make a list: Have your kids make a list of all the items they’ll require for the school year, then set a budget for each item.This helps you get organized, plus it will make your kids more cost-conscious. Have them re-evaluate their list to see if there are items they can live without. For younger kids: (you’ll only get away with this at this age) – Buy at the end of the season for next year; one size bigger. Consider purchasing at quality gently-used stores. You can pick up great designer labels. Your kids won’t notice the difference. For middle school kids: Shop together and stick to the necessities. Allow one trendy outfit but everything else should be about what your child needs. Try to make compromises so your child doesn’t feel like you are saying
‘no’ to everything. For older kids: Set a budget and let them purchase their own, with the understanding that they must stick to their list. Anything beyond the budget must come out of their allowance. Look for bulk deals: School supplies don’t go out of style so if there’s an opportunity to buy in larger quantities to save, do it.You’ll likely need extra supplies throughout the school year anyway. Pens, pencils and paper are the basics for every grade. As your child reaches the higher grades, they may need more specific items like scientific calculators, geometry kits and three-ringed binders. Sports Equipment: If you’re looking for sports equipment, classified websites, eBay or sports resale stores are an obvious choice. Kids outgrow sports equipment so quickly that it’s not worth the investment. Or trade the equipment that is languishing in your closet with another family or members of your sports club. – with files from News Canada
. n u F y l i FaatmScenic Caves at Scenic Caves
Co-educational JK-Grade 8 Independent www.montcrest.on.ca RUNNING / HIKING SHOES REQUIRED
OPEN HOUSES OCT. 26, NOV. 23, JAN.18
420 ft Suspension Bridge • Caves and Caverns Gemstone Mining • Big Rock Railway • Mini-golf Picnic Area • Adventure Playground • Gift Shop Snack Bar • Fish Pond • Fabulous views below
1-1/2 hours North of Toronto • sceniccaves.com • 705.446-0256
6 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2012
Family Fun Festival
julyevents Fizzical Fizziks at the Ontario Science Centre
Kids Krafts at Mackenzie House
TD Irie Music Festival
The TD IRIE Music Festival is a multi-day, family-friendly festival. Join the celebration of music — from Reggae to Salsa, Soul to African; dance from the African Diaspora presented in association with dance Immersion, spoken word/literature, visual arts exhibition, delicious tropical food & drinks and more. August 3, 2012 to August 6, 2012 Nathan Phillips Square www.iriemusicfestival.com
Fizzical Fizziks combines the thrill of circus with the wonder of science. Visitors will be delighted by circus skills like juggling, stilt-walking and unicycling, plus dozens of tricks with toys like yo-yos, hula hoops and even a pogo stick. August 4, 2012 to August 6, 2012 Ontario Science Center, 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto 416-696-3256 www.OntarioScienceCentre.ca
Fort York Summer Programming
Island Soul at Harbourfront
Annual Ice Cream Festival
Free Movies Under the Stars at Downsview Park
Movies in the Park
Saturdays & Sundays in July & August, 12 to 4:30 p.m. Bring the family to visit the last home of Toronto’s first mayor, William Lyon Mackenzie, then enjoy some kid time doing an historically-based activity. Please call 416 3926915 for further details. Regular admission applies. Weekends in August Mackenzie House, 82 Bond Street, Toronto 416-392-6915 www.toronto.ca/museums Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thrill to the boom of the cannon, the crack of muskets, the vibrant colours of the uniformed guard, and the lively music of fife and drum. Visitors will enjoy hourly demonstrations of military music, drill, musketry, and artillery performed by students representing the Canadian Fencible Regiment that was garrisoned at the fort at the end of the War of 1812. Regular admission. Daily in August Fort York National Historic Site, 100 Garrison Road, Toronto 416-392-6907 www.toronto.ca/museums
Summer Victorian Extravaganzas at Scarborough Historical Museum
Fabulous weekends of family-friendly entertainment featuring the Scene Change youth players! Check out dress rehearsals and performances. Shows, music and merriment every summer weekend. Admission is pay what you can. Weekends in August Scarborough Historical Museum, 1007 Brimley Road, Scarborough 416-338-8807 www.toronto.ca/museums
Sandal Summer Fun at the Bata Shoe Museum
Parents, the next time you hear “There’s nothing to do!” bring your children aged 3 to 9 over to the Museum to for a whole summer of family fun! We will have a variety of sandal and shoe inspired arts, crafts and activities available for kids in our B1 foyer. August 1, 2012 to August 31, 2012 Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor St. West, Toronto 416-979-7799 x242 www.batashoemuseum.ca
Scarborough RibFest
The Largest Annual Community Event Bringing Friends and Families Together In Scarborough! This is a Family Event! Free Admission! No cover charge and four days of live entertainment! Free Parking! August 3, 2012 to August 6, 2012 Thomson Memorial Park, Scarborough scarboroughribfest.com
Our wildly popular Caribbean festival commemorates the 50th Anniversary of Independence of two culturally and artistically significant island nations: Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago! August 3, 2012 to August 6, 2012 Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto 416-973-4000 www.harbourfrontcentre.com Downsview Park invites you to enjoy a movie under the stars. This week’s movie is Avatar. Time: Movies start at approximately 9 pm based on when the sun sets. August 6, 2012 Downsview Park, Toronto 416-952-2222 www.downsviewpark.ca
Simcoe Day Long Weekend
Come and visit Scarborough Museum over the long weekend. Visitors may tour the historic buildings, view the Impressions of Scarborough and Destination Scarborough exhibits, take in the Victorian Extravaganzas and sample historic treats. August 3, 2012 to August 6, 2012 Scarborough Historical Museum 416-338-8807 www.toronto.ca/museums
Experience the fun and nostalgia of ice cream in pioneer, Victorian and Edwardian times. Live music, horse and wagon rides, games and living history make the perfect topping for this delicious family outing. August 5, 2012 to August 6, 2012 Westfield Village, 1049 Kirkwall Road, Rockton, ON 519-621-8851, 1-800-883-0104 www.westfieldheritage.ca Join us in Riverdale Park at dusk on Sunday August 5 for Back to The Future. 8:30pm. All movies are Free, start just after the sun sets and are PG rated. Bring a picnic, a blanket, friends, family and/or a date. See you in the park! August 5, 2012 Riverdale Park East http://moviesinthepark.wordpress.com
Simcoe Day at Todmorden Mills
Sample seasonal treats prepared in our historic kitchens and participate in outdoor watercolour workshops. August 5, 2012 Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts, Bottom of Pottery Rd., Toronto 416-396-2819 www.toronto.ca
Simcoe Day at Fort York
Join us in Riverdale Park at dusk on Sunday July 22 for Indiana Jones, Raiders of The Lost Ark. 9:00pm. All movies are Free, start just after the sun sets and are PG rated. Bring a picnic, a blanket, friends, family and/or a date. See you in the park! July 22, 2012 Riverdale Park East www.moviesinthepark.wordpress.com
Come and celebrate Fort York and its place in Toronto’s history. Visitors will enjoy tours, exhibits, demonstrations of musketry, cannon and music by the Fort York guard, demonstrations of historic cooking in our 1826 kitchen, and the beautiful grounds of this national treasure. In addition, a walking tour is featured this morning 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Admission is free. August 6, 2012 Fort York National Historic Site www.toronto.ca
Toronto Caribbean Carnival Grand Parade
Simcoe Day at Gibson House Museum
Movies in the Park
After months of preparation, masqueraders in colourful, striking costumes and steel pan bands whine their way from Exhibition Place along a 3.5 kilometer stretch on Lakeshore Boulevard. August 4, 2012 Exhibition Place, 200 Princes’ Boulevard 416-391-5608 www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com
Spend some time visiting the 1851 home of David and Eliza Gibson and their family where you can enjoy tastes of home-made ice cream, children’s activities, and samples of nineteenth century cookery in the historic kitchen. August 6, 2012 Gibson House, 5172 Yonge Street, Toronto 416-395-7432 www.toronto.ca
, Y D REA ET, S
! H G LAU IN SUPPORT OF O
Join us for a day dedicated to young children and early learning. There will be Bouncy castles; Over a dozen arts & crafts stations chosen by CMCP staff that help develop cognitive and fine motor skills in young children; Musical performances; Performances from Bamboo Kung Fu, City Dance Corps, Young Jesters, and more to be confirmed; Reading tent from Frontier College; Appearances by Ace (Blue Jays mascot; fire truck from Toronto Fire Services, and more to be confirmed; Local vendors; Silent auction; Face painting; Coffee supplied by Starbucks; Food supplied by Scooters Catering and much more! August 25 Trinity Bellwoods Park www.cmcp.ca
Free Movies Under the Stars at Downsview Park
Harbour Days
Join us in beautiful Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park for Harbour Days, featuring the Bronte Harbour Invitational Sand Sculpture Exhibit. Bring the whole family to see these spectacular works of art and watch as master sand sculptors participate to win the 2012 championship. General admission is $2.00. Kids under 6 are FREE! August 6, 2012 to August 19, 2012 Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park, 2368 Lakeshore Rd, Oakville 905-257-5555 www.harbourdays.com
How to Train Your Dragon: Live Spectacular
The live production rolls fire-breathing action, epic adventure and heartfelt laughter into an original captivating story set in the mythical world of Vikings and wild dragons. August 8, 2012 to August 12, 2012 Air Canada Centre, 40 Bay Street, Toronto www.theaircanadacentre.com
The Pilaros Taste of the Danforth
One of Toronto’s signature events, showcasing the best our multicultural city has to offer - from mezes to dim sum, from world folk music to children’s games - but with a very special emphasis on the Hellenic food and culture that make GreekTown a year-round destination. FREE. August 10, 2012 to August 12, 2012 Various Venues on Danforth Avenue, Toronto www.tasteofthedanforth.com
Downsview Park invites you to enjoy a movie under the stars. This week’s movie is The Muppets. Time: Movies start at approximately 9 pm based on when the sun sets (sometimes before 9 and sometimes after). August 10, 2012 Downsview Park, Toronto 416-952-2222 www.downsviewpark.ca
Planet IndigenUS at Harbourfront
This 10-day celebration is the largest multidisciplinary, contemporary, international Indigenous arts festival that celebrates the future while honouring and celebrating our rich cultural past. August 10, 2012 to August 19, 2012 Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto 416-973-4000 www.harbourfrontcentre.com
Grangefest in Grange Park
Visit the Mackenzie House table for information about our museum programs - and the opportunity to print a special Grangefest souvenir on our historic proof press! Grangefest is a free community event. Some activity and refreshment fees apply. August 10, 2012 Mackenzie House, 82 Bond Street, Toronto 416-392-6915 www.toronto.ca
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THURSDAYS & FRIDAYS AT 1PM
AUGUST 2 - 30
416 343 0011 416-343-0011
51 MERCER ST. (AT BLUE JAYS WAY)
INDIVIDUAL TICKETS $14 FAMILY 4-PACKS $48
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TORONTO KIDS - August 2012 | 7
Puppy & Kitten Weekend @ PawsWay
Learn everything you need to know if your family is considering its first pet. We’ll have veterinarians, trainers, groomers, nutritionists and experts in all kinds of cat and dog breeds to advise you. And of course we’ll have all kinds of adorable puppies and kittens to meet and admire. FREE! August 11, 2012 to August 12, 2012 PawsWay, Pet Discovery Centre, 245 Queens Quay West, Toronto 416-360-7297 www.pawsway.ca
Wheels on the Danforth & Fun in the Park
Proudly presenting our 3rd annual family friendly festival, come see over 200 antique and classic cars lined up on the closed section of Danforth Ave and Danforth Rd. Our Free Kid’s Zone area will be in Oakridge Park with lots of bouncy castles and plenty of room for the kids in a safe environment. August 11, 2012 Danforth Avenue & Danforth Road, Toronto 416-693-8300 www.WheelsOnTheDanforth.ca
Jerk Food Festival
A wide array of jerk cuisines await you; after you have satisfied your crave with your favourite jerk or Caribbean dish, stroll through the Craft Village and view the beautiful arts & craft that vendors have on display. Set the kids free inside our Kids’ Zone and watch them have fun. August 11, 2012 to August 12, 2012 Centennial Park, 256 Centennial Park Road, Toronto 905-488-5345 www.jerkfestival.ca
Oakville Rotary Dragon Boat Festival
Don’t miss out on this exciting and colourful event! August 12, 2012 Kelso Lake, Milton www.oakvilledragon.com
Power Kids - Geoffrey Farmer’s Figure
Through props, costumes and other materials, Farmer proposes a project that reinterprets Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. BMO Power Kids participants have the chance to activate this work by adding to and transforming a large Giacometti-like sculptural figure over the course of the exhibition. For ages 8 – 12. Parents are expected to join their children in all activities. Free. August 12, 2012 The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, 231 Queens Quay West , Toronto 416-973-4000 www.thepowerplant.org
One World, One Sky at the Ontario Science Centre
A special summer Star Party celebrating the Planet IndigenUS Festival. There will be multiple activities on the~cosmos, night sky observing, and the Perseid Meteor Shower! 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Price: Free. Location: TELUSCAPE outside the main entrance. August 12, 2012 Ontario Science Center, 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto 416-696-3256 www.OntarioScienceCentre.ca
RBC Mosaic 2011
In its 7th year, Mosaic is the premiere South Asian Heritage Festival of Mississauga. Free admission & parking. August 16, 2012 to August 18, 2012 Celebration Square, 300 City Centre Drive, Mississauga www.cre8iv80studio.com
Ontario Summer Games
The 2012 Games will bring together almost 2,500 athletes competing in 28 sports in multiple venues across Toronto and surrounding regions. The Games are a unique opportunity for many young athletes, as the multi-sport competition serves as a stepping stone to many national and international competitions. August 16, 2012 to August 19, 2012 Multiple Venues in Toronto www.ontariosummergames.ca
American Idol Live
AMERICAN IDOL LIVE! returns this summer for another hit tour to showcase this season’s talented top 10 finalists. CHIPS AHOY! and RITZ are thrilled to bring the excitement of the tour to their fans in a number of unique ways, from cookie and cracker coupons to a one-of-a-kind consumer promotion. August 16, 2012 Air Canada Centre, 40 Bay Street, Toronto www.theaircanadacentre.com
Free Movies Under the Stars at Downsview Park
Downsview Park invites you to enjoy a movie under the stars. This week’s movie is Winnie The Pooh. Time: Movies start at approximately 9 pm based on when the sun sets (sometimes before 9 and sometimes after). August 17, 2012 Downsview Park, Toronto 416-952-2222 www.downsviewpark.ca
York-Eglinton International Street Festival
The International Street Festival is a weekend-long event featuring local and international entertainment! This event will be sure to entertain the whole family! Two stages, a large dance floor (with lessons!), a carnival and midway, food vendors and many other attractions will guarantee your family has a great time! August 18, 2012 to August 19, 2012 1607 Eglinton Avenue West Between Marlee Avenue and Dufferin Street 416-789-1835 www.internationalstreetfest.com
Movies in the Park
Join us in Riverdale Park at dusk on Sunday August 19 The Princess Bride. 8pm All movies are Free, start just after the sun sets and are PG rated. Bring a picnic, a blanket, friends, family and/or a date. See you in the park! August 19, 2012 Riverdale Park East http://moviesinthepark.wordpress.com
NEW! Posies, Picnics and Papillons at Colborne Lodge
On the tour you will be introduced to the garden voices of John and Jemima and hear stories such as the mystery of the wandering quince, the famous spring blossoms and the enormous picnics that used to take place on the estate. Come early; bring a picnic blanket and a lunch for a pre-tour feast. To reserve your tickets call 416-392-6916. $20 August 19, 2012 Colborne Lodge, Colborne Lodge Drive, south end of High Park, Toronto 416-392-6916 www.toronto.ca
The Himalayan Festival - 2012
The Himalayan Festival is celebrating its 7th year here in Toronto. As part of the one-day festivities, The World Guinness Book Record Holder, Mr. AC Sherpa, who added pride to the nation by climbing 7 top highest summits in the world will be in attendance. In addition, this event will be enriched through the various presentations of many Nepali artists. Free. August 19, 2012 Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West, Toronto 647-774-3230 www.ncc.ca
TELUS TAIWANfest at Harbourfront
A three-day culinary arts, music, dance and film fest that sparks a new dialogue on Canada’s multifaceted lifestyles between new immigrants and Canadians who have been here for generations. August 24, 2012 to August 26, 2012 Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto 416-973-4000 www.harbourfrontcentre.com
Free Movies Under the Stars at Downsview Park
Downsview Park invites you to enjoy a movie under the stars. This week’s movie is Puss in Boots. Time: Movies start at approximately 9 pm based on when the sun sets (sometimes before 9 and sometimes after). August 24, 2012 Downsview Park, Toronto 416-952-2222 www.downsviewpark.ca
Aloha Toronto
We are bringing ‘aloha’ to Toronto. Pack your sunscreen, surfer stoke and join us for the largest beach party ever to happen in Toronto! Aloha Toronto will host legendary longboard surfer Izzy Paskowitz, big wave surfer Garrett McNamara and the original six Hawaiians that kickstarted Surfers Healing over a decade ago. Come support Surfers Healing and SickKids! Come experience ‘aloha’ at Woodbine Beach, Toronto! Free. August 25, 2012 to August 26, 2012 Woodbine Beach, Lake Shore Boulevard East and Woodbine Avenue 416-508-5652 www.AlohaToronto.com
Bangladesh Festival 2012
South Asian cultures through dance, music, drama, fashion show etc. There will be also many vendors who will sell hand crafted fashion accessories, traditional clothing and delicious ethnic foods. Free. August 26, 2012 Albert Campbell Square, 150 Borough Drive, Toronto 416-710-3640 www.obcs.ca
Ashkenaz Festival at Harbourfront
North America’s premier festival of Jewish and Yiddish culture. Featuring the best of the global Jewish culture scene, with music, theatre, film, visual arts, literature and more. August 28, 2012 to September 3, 2012 Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto 416-973-4000 www.harbourfrontcentre.com
ongoingevents 42nd Street
A humble, naïve young actress auditions for a new Broadway musical. Until October 28, 2012 Stratford Shakespeare Festival Festival Theatre, 55 Queen St., Stratford 1-800-567-1600, www.stratfordfestival.ca
Adventures in Slumberland
The classic musical comedy of mistaken identity, comes swashbuckling to the stage. Until October 27, 2012 Stratford Shakespeare Festival 1-800-567-1600, www.stratfordfestival.ca
Shakespeare in High Park
This summer at the Lagoon Theatre by Centre Island: Adventures in Slumberland Prepare to be amazed as the delightful and bizarre dream world of a little boy named Nemo is brought to life before you. July 1, 2012 to August 26 Centre Island 416-875-7075, www.frolick.ca
Canadian Stage presents William Shakespeare’s classic comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream as the 30th anniversary Shakespeare in High Park production (formerly called the Dream in High Park). A pay-what-you-can, family-friendly event. Until September 2, 2012 High Park Amphitheatre, Toronto www.canadianstage.com
All About Miss Lou at Harbourfront
Sharks At Stingray Bay - A Touching Experience
The space will also be animated with stories from diverse cultural traditions. We want to hear and remember Miss Lou’s stories, and we want to hear yours, too! Until August 26 on Weekends - 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. 416-973-4000, www.harbourfrontcentre.com
Circus! The Exhibition
IN ITS FINAL YEAR! Only the Toronto Zoo offers up interaction and fun with the exclusive live exhibit, Sharks at Stingray Bay-A Touching Experience. Until October 8, 2012 Toronto Zoo, Meadowvale Road , Scarborough 416-392-5929, www.torontozoo.com
Explore the magic of “the greatest show on earth” through a scientist’s eye at Circus! The Exhibition. How good is your balancing act? Walk the daunting High Wire. What’s a human pretzel? Learn how muscles, collagen and flexibility allow contortionists to fit into tiny spaces, and more. Until September 3, Ontario Science Center www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Spark! The Heart of Art & Science
Downsview Nature Connection at Downsview Park
Ultimate Dinosaurs Take Over the ROM
A FREE nature program for families. Connect with your natural world and come out to Downsview Park! All ages are welcome. Downsview Park staff will take you on a free indoor/outdoor Park program based on naturethemed topics to get you exploring the natural world, starting with Downsview Park! Until October 29, 2012, Downsview Park, Toronto 416-952-2222, www.downsviewpark.ca
Eyes on the Skies at the Science Centre
This one-of-a-kind, lively program introduces pre-school children to the night-time sky through singing, connectthe-stars constellations and a journey to the moon. The program was designed especially for our youngest visitors and lasts no longer than 20 minutes to accommodate wandering minds and little feet. Ongoing 416-696-3127, www.ontariosciencecentre.ca
Longo’s Free Flicks at Harbourfront For more August Events, Visit www.toronto4kids.com
The Pirates of Penzance
From July 4 to Aug. 29, check out a line-up of films that follow these unlikely heroes who hit a proverbial bottom and needs to turn things around. Until August 29, 2012 416-973-4000 www.harbourfrontcentre.com/freeflicks
Ontario's Largest Indoor Amusement Park Ferris Wheel, Train, Carousel, Arcade & More! Special Events on Wednesdays (until August 15) Visit www.fantasyfair.ca for details Hwy 427 & Rexdale Blvd | 416-674-5437 | fantasyfair.ca
While scientists strive to expand our knowledge of the world, artists seek to evoke reactions to the world around us. Exploration in both science and art is often sparked by inspiration and driven by curiosity and creativity. Until August 12, 2012 Ontario Science Center, 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto 1-888-696-1110, www.ontariosciencecentre.ca See some of the largest and most unusual dinosaurs to have ever roamed the planet at this new exhibition. Cutting Edge Technology and Hands-On Activities bring these Big, Bizarre, and Brand-New Dinos to Life. Until March 2013 ROM - Royal Ontario Museum 416-586-5797, www.rom.on.ca
White Lion Exhibit Opens! NEW!
Meet a rare breed indeed. Toronto Zoo introduces new white lions as a permanent addition to our African Savanna. Ongoing 416-392-5944, www.torontozoo.com
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown
It’s a typically challenging day in the life of Charlie Brown... Until October 28, 2012 Stratford Shakespeare Festival 1-800-567-1600 www.stratfordfestival.ca For more Ongoing Events, Visit www.toronto4kids.com
8 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2012
familyplaytime
Keeping cool this August 2012
The heat is on! This has been one of the continent’s hottest summers on record.With you and the kids feeling as dry and parched as your front lawn, you may have begun to daydream about the winter ahead. Short of keeping the kids cooped up in the house with you and the air conditioning all month, there are a few simple solutions to beating the heat. If you’re looking for fun and creative ways to stay cool this summer, here’s a fun list that’s sure to keep things cool for the remainder of the summer!
Make Ice Sculptures Fill large containers with colored water and freeze. Then let kids spray, chisel and sculpt shapes or animals out of their blocks of ice.
Water, Water, Everywhere
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All kids love to splash around in water and enjoy cool water on a hot day. Connect a fun sprinkler to the garden hose or put the kiddie pool in the shade and let the kids play with different size containers, funnels, etc. Try a wet game of catch by soaking sponges in water or have a water balloon fight. For older kids, head to the nearest city pool. (http://www.toronto.ca/parks/prd/ swimming/index.htm)
It’s Popsicle Time! There is nothing like a cold treat to cool down little bodies. Let the kids help make their own frozen treats as an activity or stock up on their favorites for those moments when everyone just needs to chill out!
Ice Skate Dig out the helmets and skates; no coat required. Ice skating isn’t just for the winter months anymore and it’s the perfect way to cool off in summer. Most rinks are open so check with your local recreation centre. (http://www.toronto.ca/parks/prd/skating/index.htm)
Wash the car Accomplish something productive by washing the family car. Get wet and have fun at the same time!
Water Painting: Grab a large bucket of water, some containers and large clean paint brushes. Have the kids water and paint everything (including themselves) in the backyard.They will cool down while having fun! You can also pick up so spray bottles at the dollar store. Kids will amuse themselves for hours spraying everything in sight. – Toronto4Kids.com
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10 | TORONTO KIDS - August 2012
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TTC’ing with Tots
It’s a rite of passage for every Toronto Kid - their very first transit ride. The exciting “ding-ding-dong” as the doors woosh closed, the speed of the train as it hurtles down the tunnel, the height advantage wee ones have as they peer down at drivers from streetcar and bus windows - it’s all very exciting for your little guys. But all that excitement comes with plenty of risks that parents to new transit riders should be well aware of. Subway stations in particular can be dangerous to rambunctious kids who are a little too excited to board the train. But safety starts well before you make it to the platform. “We recommend people do not walk on the escalators, stand to the right and kids hold onto the railing,” says Danny Nicholson, the TTC’s supervisor of corporate communications. “For parents for children in a babycarriage, if at all possible use the stations with elevators to get down to the platform.” Subway stations with elevators include: Yonge-University-Spadina Subway: Downsview, Eglinton West, St George, Queen’s Park, Osgoode, St Andrew, Union, Queen, Dundas, Bloor-Yonge, St Clair, Davisville, Eglinton, York Mills, SheppardYonge, North York Centre, Finch. Bloor-Danforth Subway: Kipling, Jane, Dundas West, Bathurst, Spadina, St George, Bloor-Yonge, Broadview, Main Street, Victoria Park, Kennedy. Sheppard Subway: Sheppard-Yonge, Bayview, Bessarion, Leslie, Don Mills. Scarborough RT: Kennedy, Scarborough Centre. Once on the platform, it’s crucial to teach children to stand well behind the yellow line when waiting for the tain. A simple way to teach kids is through fun. Tell them that they have to have their bums, ankeles, backpacks - whatever! - touching the wall. Most kids will get the giggles at this request and comply with zeal.
Once aboard the train, make sure your kids either have a seat, or access to one of the stanchion bars to hang onto in order to keep from falling. Sometimes the trains can lurch as they enter a station, and kids and their belongings should be well secured. It’s also a good idea to use this first ride as a primer for polite transit riding. Teach children that specially marked seats closest to exits are for the elderly and disabled. Help them understand that they need to wait for passengers to exit transit vehicles before boarding, to keep their feet off the seats and to use their ‘indoor voices’ when riding the TTC. On the surface, aside from watching out for regular traffic hazards, parents should heed a few extra safety tips to keep kids out of harms’ way when boarding and riding transit. Children to be taught to never run for a bus or streetcar - there will always be another along in a few minutes. While it might not always be possible to board a streetcar with a stroller, children and parcels, the TTC’s bus routes make commuting easier on those with passengers of their own. “On the surface, our buses are pretty well all accessible,” says Nicholson. “Parents with strollers can ask the driver to lower the ramp down to make it easier to board the buses. If you’re exiting a streetcar, make sure before getting off or on that the motorists behind have come to a complete stop.” Toronto’s transit system was built with accessibility in mind. Contrary to popular rumors floating around the city, there are no restrictions on parents boarding the subways with strollers - even during rush hour. “A parent with a child in a stroller has equal access as everyone else,” says Nicholson. – Nicole Larkin
Fall Registration for 2012/2013 Season
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Registration & Open House: August 25th @ 11am - 2 pm Registration: August 30th @ 5pm - 8 pm
We offer Preparation for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) Piano Examinations and Royal Academy of Dance Examinations (RAD)
TORONTO KIDS - August 2012 | 11
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