July 2014 by Toronto Kids & Families

July 2014

TORONTO

KIDS &

PROGRAMS FOR Children 16 months – 4 years old Caregiver / Tot program – for Children 16 months to 4 years old Preschool available 1-4 days per week starting at $140/month Limited number of full day spots for children 2-4 years old – 7:30am – 6:15pm Located at 202 Parkhurst Blvd – mid-town Toronto just east of Eglinton & Bayview

Best Beaches in and Around the City PG 3 - 4

Summer Activity Books PG 6

July Events PG 8 - 9

Festival Frenzy!

Hit the Sa nds!

PG 10

Explore Cool Caves PG 11

Road Trip Car Games PG 12

Bug Hunt! PG 13

Time for Preschool?

Northwood Montessori

Plus!

• Parent & Tot • Nursery • Kindergarten Ages 1-5 Years xible Scheduling Flexible Extended Hours PLUS mp Summer Ca st u g u A July &

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

Finch Campus Fin mpus 1080 Finch Avenue Eas East, 416-492-9495

Est. 1989

Madawaska Campus 53 Madawaska Avenue, 416-250-8302

www.northwoodmontessori.ca

2 | TORONTO KIDS - July 2014

SUMMER FEATURED PACKAGES SUMMER WEEKENDS

•

5 & 7 NIGHT PACKAGES

•

LABOUR DAY WEEKEND

Spirits

RISING Bayview Wildwood Resort is the perfect family destination for Summer Vacation Fun! Summer packages can include two to seven night stays and Labour Day weekend. Our packages are ideally suited to meet your families needs, our “One Child under 12 stays FREE all summer” deal, as well as special weeks where TWO Children (12 and under) stay for FREE.

Located just 90 minutes north of Toronto at the gateway to Muskoka, Bayview Wildwood Resort offers Lakeside Meeting Rooms, Spa Services, On-site Recreation, Inclusive Dining options and Lake View accommodations. To find out more, visit us online or call today! 1.800.461.0243

BAYVIEWWILDWOOD.com

TORONTO KIDS - July 2014 | 3 TORONTO

KIDS &

publisher IAN PROUDFOOT general manager MARG MIDDLETON regional director of advertising WARREN ELDER advertising manager CHERYL PHILLIPS sales team lead GEORGE AGELOPOULOS regional director of operations BARRY BLACK

feature > local beaches

Beach bound Best beaches in and around the city There’s really nothing quite like spending a hot summer’s day at the beach. Beaches are a great place to enjoy a swim, catch some rays, and spend a serene day. Toronto has many city beaches that are open for swimming and offer a nice relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city core.

Located off Lakeshore Blvd south of Parkside Drive.

Kew - Balmy Beach Located at the foot of Woodbine Ave.

Rouge Beach Located at the foot of Port Union Rd, east of Lawrence Ave E.

Beaches in the city

director of circulation MIKE BANVILLE regional director of creative services KATHERINE PORCHERON features writer JENNIFER ROMANO graphic designer SONYA CLARRY

Hanlan’s Point Beach, Centre Island Beach, Ward’s Island Beach and Gibraltar Point Beach. Enter another world as you take the ferry across the lake! Created by drifting sand bars, the Islands’ beaches are supervised, with wading pools a walk away.

Cherry Beach 33 Villiers Located just west of the downtown Toronto core. Activities include: swimming, parasailing, hiking.

Bluffers Park, Toronto East

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.

Beaches in the GTA

Toronto Island Beaches

Bluffers Park has a day use park including a sandy beach, picnic areas, walks, lookouts, a double launching ramp, and visitors dockage.

Woodbine Beaches Large sandy beach including a playground for young children, and lifeguards. Woodbine Beach is located at the bottom of Woodbine Avenue in The Beaches.

Marie Curtis Park East Beach Located at foot of 42nd St., south of Lakeshore Blvd W.

Sunnyside Beach

Beachway Park and Pavilion, Burlington The Beachway Park Pavilion and multi-use trails provide a 2 km route from Spencer Smith Park to the canal. The pavilion provides change rooms, outdoor showers, seasonal concession facilities featuring the Snack Shack and year round washrooms. Amenities at the beach include the pavilion, parking, a pay phone, a playground, and lots of sun, sand, and water. cms.burlington.ca Cedar Beach Park, Musselman’s Lake, Stouffville Offering shaded picnic areas, a swimming area with sandy beach and camping facilities, it is ideal for group and family events picnics and reunions. Recently renovated two-tiered private beach includes swimming, two water trampolines, fishing, canoe and paddleboat rentals, large picnic areas with shelters, new certified playgrounds for all ages, 41 tent sites with power and water hook-ups, 519 sites with 30 and 50 amp power, water and sewer hookups for trailers and motor homes, seasonal and transient camping, two swimming pools and 1 hot tub, sports fields, basketball, beach volleyball, badminton,

tennis, shuffleboard and horseshoes, licensed restaurant, and camp store. www.cedarbeach.com

Kelso Conservation Area, Milton The large, sandy beach on the 20-hectare (50acre) lake is great for kids and parents alike, with change rooms, lockers, beach concessions, and other outdoor activities within steps. www.hrca.on.ca

Sandbanks Provincial Park The wide, clean, sandy beaches and shallow, safe waters of Outlet and Sandbanks beaches on Lake Ontario are ideal for family swimming. Swimming starts sooner at Dunes Beach on West Lake as the inland water warms up faster than Lake Ontario. But beware of the steep drop-off after the shallows. 613-393-3319 www.ontarioparks.com

NTIM Offers Music Instruction for All Ages and Levels! Private lessons in Piano, Guitar, Violin, Viola, Cello, Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute, Accordion, Percussion & more! P

The NTIM Advantage

• Highly qualified teaching faculty • Easy access by TTC, free parking • Well established in Toronto since 1995

North Toronto Institute of Music

550 Eglinton Ave, East (at Bayview) Toronto Tel: 416-488-2588 | www.ntimusic.com

Winner of INSTRUCTI “BEST MUSICAL ON” Mirror Rea in 2014 City Centre der’s Choic e Awards

4 | TORONTO KIDS - July 2014 Sauble Beach, Lake Huron Sauble beach is located less than three hours north of Toronto on the beautiful shores of Lake Huron. Sauble has the beach, shopping, entertainment, camping, accommodations, and sunsets for a perfect weekend with the kids. Recreational activities include biking, boating and boat launches, fishing, hiking, golfing, canoeing and more.. www.saublebeach.com

Wasaga Beach Wasaga Beach is hailed as one of the premier tourist destinations in Ontario with 14 kilometres of white sand beach, swim in warm, clean waters and enjoy the panoramic mountain views across the bay. www.wasagabeach.com

T.O. Tip! Toronto has some of the best beaches in the world, which is verified by the Blue Flag Program. This internationally recognized program awards blue flags to communities committed to maintaining high standards for water quality. To check water quality for Toronto beaches, call the City’s Beach Water Quality Hotline at 416-3927161, or visit http://app.toronto.ca/ tpha/beaches.html

—Toronto4kids.com

Protect kids’ peepers from UV rays With summer in full swing, optometrists are warning parents to pay more attention to protecting their children’s eyes from harmful UV rays. Children receive three times the annual dose of UV exposure compared to adults, says Sherman Tung, a BC Doctor of Optometry. While sunburns are visible and can be easily dealt with, internal eye damage can go undetected and put your child’s vision at serious risk. “If children are not fully protected, this can pose serious risks for their future vision,” says Dr. Tung. “Lack of protection can lead to a number of eye conditions and diseases down the road, many of which don’t present symptoms. These include cataracts, macular degeneration, cornea sunburn, as well as tissue growths on the surface that can block vision.” Doctors of Optometry rec-

ommend the following tips to protect your children’s vision this summer: • Sunglasses should be the close-fitting, wrap around style frame that protects both the skin around the eye, as well as the eye itself. Ensure the glasses block 100 per cent of both UVA and UVB rays. • Hats should be widebrimmed to ensure your child’s entire eye is being protected. • Be conscious of the daily UV index and the many sources of UV radiation, including direct sunlight and reflections from water, sand and pavement. • Teach your children to never look directly into or stare at the sun. • Keep children out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.

• Keep children younger than six months out of direct sunlight. Use a canopy or umbrella as a sun-shield when outdoors. And, even after you incorporate all of these tips into your children’s summer routine, remember that many eye conditions are symptom-free, says Dr. Tung. To keep your children’s eyes healthy, Doctors of Optometry recommend regular comprehensive eye exams beginning at six months of age, again at three years, before entering school, and annually thereafter.

—www.newscanada.com

Are you unhappy with your child’s performance this year? Give Metropolitan Preparatory Academy a call. Summer Nature Camp Starting at $205

Birthday Parties Starting at $175

-12

Grades 7

rs d teache Dedicate sses Small cla ts d studen Motivate lp Extra he SUMMER SCHOOL for

English Grades 9 to 12 Math Grades 7 to 12

Currently interviewing

September 2014 - January 2015 Academic Year

Some scholarships available for students with 80% & over average for Grade 7, 8 & 9

We know educators with the right attitude can profoundly impact a student's entire life. If your child isn't being encouraged and challenged at his or her current school, make an appointment to speak with us. For info: 416-675-5009 or arboretum@humber.ca

416-285-0870 | www.MetroPrep.com | 49 Mobile Drive, Toronto

TORONTO KIDS - July 2014 | 5

This summer, meet us at the Zoo! Giant Pandas. Giant Fun.

MAJOR PARTNERS OF THE GIANT PANDA EXPERIENCE

OFFICIAL DAILY NEWSPAPER OF THE GIANT PANDA EXPERIENCE

torontozoo.com /TheTorontoZoo

6 | TORONTO KIDS - July 2014

learning > book nook Don’t Let the Pigeon Finish This Activity Book! By Mo Willems Age Level: 5-8 years old

7 Little Words for Kids

The Pigeon really, really wants to finish this activity book! But that pesky Duckling keeps getting in the way. Oh, and there’s someone new on the scene causing all kinds of problems. Follow the Bus Driver’s lead as you write, color, draw, create--even build an airport!-in this fun-filled book starring the Pigeon and you.

Fun and challenging puzzles that are easy to learn. If your child enjoys crossword puzzles, word finds, and anagram games, they’re going to love 7 Little Words! Each bite-size puzzle consists of 7 clues, 7 mystery words, and 20 letter groups. Find the mystery words by deciphering the clues and combining the letter groups. It’s easy to learn, but hard to stop playing!

By Blue Ox Technologies Ltd.

Boo

By Jean Potter Age Level: 8-12

Nook!

Nature in a Nutshell for Kids:

Twisted Critters: The Pipe Cleaner Book By Klutz Age Level: 4-7 years old

Make bubbles that bounce! Stir up a tornado in a jar! Make elastic from a dandelion! Predict weather from cloud formations! Discover the beauty and wonder o f nature all year round with these quick, easy experiments and activities from Jean Potter. You can complete each activity in ten fun-filled minutes or less, and the clear step-by-step instructions and illustrations help you get it right every time. The projects are organized by season and help you learn about everything from why grass is green to how seals stay warm in icy arctic waters.

Summer activity books

Twisted Critters is our new take on the good old pipe cleaner. We’ve included many of the original, well-loved projects, from cuddly caterpillars to funny fruit to parading penguins. Plus, we’ve added five brand-new creations, including a fire-breathing fingerpuppet dragon and a handsomely antlered moose. In true Klutz fashion, we break down the how-to’s into five easy-to-master moves, so even beginners will be able to twist, curl, and swirl their way to fuzzy success in no time.

Native Child and Family Services of Toronto Keep the Connections… Consider being a Foster, Adopt or Customary Care Parent Foster Care Hotline

416-969-8510 ext. 7788

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

(905) 889-7293 - Peter Nielson

www.bayviewvillagetenniscamp.ca

TORONTO KIDS - July 2014 | 7

SUMMER

CAMPS & CLASSES Camps include:

• healthy snack and beverage each day • participation certiﬁcates • crafts and games • theme days

July 7 to August 29 Full day 9-4 ($295) Half day 9-12 or 1-4 ($155) Extended Care Available

GYM IS FULLY AIR CONDITIONED

INTERPLAY

& PSB

Interplay and PSB offers preprofessional classes in classical ballet and a full range of recreational classes for ages 3 to adult in ballet, pointe, repertoire, pas de deux, jazz, modern/ contemporary, tap, musical

New Boys Only Ballet Program

theatre, hip hop, ballet fit barre, zumba, adult classes. The Intensive Dance Program provides training to selective and dedicated students who may wish to pursue a career in ballet, jazz and/ or contemporary dance.

77 Browns Line Etobicoke

416-253-1443

www.torontogymnastics.com

250 Davisville Ave (at Mt. Pleasant) 416.972.1316

This program also gives the dancer the opportunity to dance with the Interplay and Profile Dance Company as well as compete in annual dance competitions. New enhanced preprofessional ballet program

for Grade 7-12 starting in September 2013. Program is by audition only and entails students to dance 3 hours daily. This program is for dancers who would like to pursue a professional career focusing on ballet.

ENROLL NOW FOR RECREATIONAL AND INTENSIVE SUMMER PROGRAMS!

www.interplay-dance.ca

$35 annual registration fee

Dance Academy

Intensive, Enhanced pre-professional ballet program, RAD ballet program and recreational from 3 & up.

www.psbdanceacademy.ca

Outreach Program: 91 Rylander Blvd 2351 Kingston Rd Bishop strachan School (Port Union & Kingston) (Kingston Rd & Midland) 416-483-4325 416.284.6784 416.261.9312

Karen Davies Thomas, Director

F.I.S.T.D. (Cecchetti), A.I.S.T.D. (National), A.I.S.T.D. (Modern), Royal Academy of Dance Teacher’s Certificate; BFA Honours Degree, York University; Graduate of the National Ballet School Teacher’s Training Program

Scenic Caves Nature Adventures Superbly Natural! sceniccaves.com

FEATURING... • 420 ft Suspension Bridge • Caves / Caverns to Explore • THUNDERBIRD 1/2-mile Twin-zip Ride • Mini–golf • Gemstone Mining • Big Rock Railroad • Snack Bar • Picnic Area • Fish Pond • Kids Adventure Playground • Fabulous Panoramic Views • Gift Shop

Scenic Caves Road near Collingwood, 1-1/2 Hours North of Toronto 705-446-0256

8 | TORONTO KIDS - July 2014

upcomingevents It’s a Kid’s Life - Themed Tours at Spadina Museum Saturdays in July Live the life of a 1920s and 30s child through toys, games, school lessons and more. Regular admission: Adults $7.96, Seniors/ Youth (13-18 yrs.) $5.75, Children (6-12 yrs.) $4.87 (plus tax), Children (5 and under) Free. Spadina Museum: Historic House & Gardens, 285 Spadina Road 416-392-6910 www.toronto.ca/museum-events Dancing on the Pier at Harbourfront Thursdays in July - 7:00 pm until 10:00 pm Free. Even if you’re shy, live bands and dance-styles from around the world will have you on your feet in no time. Free. Harbourfront Centre 235 Queens Quay West

416-973-4600 www.harbourfrontcentre.com Frozen Fridays at the Toronto Zoo May 1 to May 31 Fridays in July Join us as the grizzlies, African penguins, polar bears and Sumatran tigers receive a special frozen treat every Friday this summer. See website for schedule. Toronto Zoo, Meadowvale Road 416-392-5929 www.torontozoo.com NHL® Team Fan Days at the Hockey Hall of Fame Jul 3, 2014 to Aug 21 9:30 am until 6:00 pm Free game-worn jersey cards, player signings and fan discounts. Hockey Hall of Fame Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge St. 416-360-7765 www.hhof.com

Big Bad Wolf (vs. Lord Underwearface von Schtinker) at Second City Jul 3, 2014 to Aug 29 Wednesdays at 1:00 pm SUMMER MATINEES FOR ALL AGES! Tickets $14.00 - Family 4-Packs $45.00. The Second City Theatre 51 Mercer St. 416-343-0011 www.secondcity.com Adopt-A-Pond 14th Annual Spring Toad Festival May 3 to May 4 - 10 am until 4 pm Face painting, froggy games, Toady the Mascot, lessons on tracking wildlife and information on how to become a Frog Watcher or Turtle Detective. Toronto Zoo 416-392-5929 w w w. t o ro n t o z o o. c o m / a d o p t a pond KidsFest at Centre Island Jul 4 to Jul 6 11:00 am until 4:00 pm Face painting clowns, bouncing castles, a colouring station, live animal visits from Far Enough Farm, music and more, KidsFest delivers three full days of family island fun! FREE for all to participate in! Rides extra. Centreville Amusement Park Centre Island www.centreisland.ca Family Fun Fridays at Ontario’s Legislative Assembly Jul 4 to Aug 29 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm During this two hour experience, families with children aged 6 – 10 will: Explore the historic Legislative Building, play a role in a mock debate, dress-up in traditional robes,

Hands-On

Sports

Outdoor

Food

Arts

Honda Indy Jul 18 to Jul 20

For the first time this year, the IndyCar Series will compete ontrack TWICE, racing for championship points both Saturday and Sunday of the event weekend. This Summer’s event combines a rich history in Toronto and some of the fastest racing series on the planet, with an off-track schedule just as fast-paced as the action on the track including a festival of food, adrenaline packed stunt shows and competitions, charity events, celebrity appearances, interactive activities and live entertainment.

Streets surrounding Exhibition Place www.hondaindytoronto.com

participate in a scavenger hunt,, learn how Parliament works and more – all for free! Pre-registration is required. Call (416) 325-0061 to register or e-mail Tourbookings@ ontla.ola.org. Ontario Legislative Building, Queen’s Park www.educationportal.ontla.on.ca/ en/visit-us/programs/family-funfridays ROCKgarden Party!! Jul 4 to Jul 12 A fun, interactive, and magical musical about our changing environments. On his way to a rock concert, oblivious urbanite SkaterDude gets lost in the rock garden, where he is amazed to discover the mischievious and magical Jack-in-the-Green and Earth Angel living there and keeping the balance of the garden. For ages 3-10. $5 per child, $10 adult. Palmerston Library Theatre 560 Palmerston Ave.

416-256-9849 www.LittleFingersMusic.com Weekends at Scarborough Museum Jul 5 to Jul 27 12:00 pm until 5:00 pm Enjoy fresh baked goodies and share your story at the Communities Memories Kiosk. Scarborough Museum 1007 Brimley Rd. 416-338-8807 www.toronto.ca/museum-events Ontario Family Fishing Events Jul 5 to Jul 13 Ontario Family Fishing Events is a province-wide opportunity for Canadian residents to fish Ontario waters without the otherwise mandatory fishing version outdoors card.Free. Various locations www.ontariofamilyfishing.com

N W

Open Daily July and August!

• ROCK ‘N’ CLIMB • DROP & HOP TOWER • XD SIMULATOR Rides • Games • Free Shows and MORE! INSIDE WOODBINE CENTRE 500 REXDALE BLVD AT HWY 27. FANTASYFAIR.CA

TORONTO KIDS - July 2014 | 9

upcomingevents Tea and Tour Sundays at Gibson House Jul 6 to Jul 27 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm There’s a seat for you at the harvest table in the historic kitchen on Sunday afternoons. Relax and have a chat over tea and homemade cookies. Enjoy a tour of this lovely, 1850s farmhouse. Included with regular admission. Gibson House 5172 Yonge St. 416-395-7432 www.toronto.ca/museum-events Erth’s DINOSAUR ZOO LIVE Jul 8 to Jul 20 Panasonic Theatre 651 Yonge St. 416-872-1212 www.mirvish.com Family Fun Events at Earl Bales Park Jul 10 and Jul 24 7:00 pm until 8:00 pm FREE July 10 Duffle Bag Theatre presents Three Musketeers and July 24 The Ben Show. Rain or shine. Earl Bales Park 4169 Bathurst St. W. 416-392-3846 www.toronto.ca/parks Toronto Botanical Garden Night Critter Sleepover (Family) Jul 12 For kids aged 5 to 95. $75; Members $65. Toronto Botanical Garden 777 Lawrence Ave. E. 416-397-1341 www.torontobotanicalgarden.ca Build a Bug House at Home Depot Jul 12 10:00 am until 12:00 pm Free. The Home Depot www.homedepot.ca/workshops/ build-a-bug-house

Movies In The Park Jul 13 Riverdale Park East 550 Broadview Ave. www.moviesinthepark.wordpress.com Kids’ CBC Days Jul 16 to Jul 17 10:00 am until 3:00 pm CBC Broadcast Centre 250 Front St. W. www.cbc.ca/parents/events/view/ kidscbcdays Day Out With Thomas: The Thrill of the Ride Tour 2014 Jul 18 to Jul 27 Climb aboard and take a ride with Thomas as well as participate in Thomas & Friends themed activities. The St. Thomas stop will also offer, video viewing, live music, children’s entertainers, and more. Elgin County Railway Museum 25 Wellington Street, St. Thomas 519-637-6284. www.ecrm5700.org Canada’s Parks Day 2014 Jul 19 Guided hikes, live music and other outdoor festivities are all part of Fundy National Park’s celebration. Various Locations 888-773-8888 www.pc.gc.ca 2014 AUDL Championship Week Jul 26 to Jul 27 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm Tickets as low as $10.95. Varsity Stadium 299 Bloor St. W. 416-309-0445 http://theaudl.com/championship Pirates and Princesses May 17 to May 19 Three days of family fairytale fun!

Black Creek Pioneer Village 416-667-6295 www.blackcreek.ca HorseCapades and HorsePower Live! at the CNE Jul 27 to Aug 14 11:00 am until 2:00 pm Free admission. CNE - CNE Horse Palace 210 Princes’ Blvd. www.theex.com The AstraZeneca Human Edge Until Dec 31 Imagine yourself a diver far below the surface of the ocean, only the blue light of the deep and the beating of your own heart to guide you. A Single Breath is just one of 55 remarkable exhibit experiences in The AstraZeneca Human Edge, the new exhibition at the Ontario Science Centre that explores the wonders and possibilities of the human body. Ontario Science Center 770 Don Mills Rd. 416-696-3256 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca The Forbidden City: Inside the Court of China’s Emperors Until Sep 1 While China’s last emperors called it home, their subjects called it… The Forbidden City. Peer through the massive gates and gain access into the heart of the world’s largest imperial palace, courtesy of a stunning new exhibition opening spring 2014! Royal Ontario Museum 100 Queen’s Park 416-586-8000 www.rom.on.ca Island of Lemurs: Madagascar Until Aug 3 Take a spectacular journey to the remote and wondrous world of Mada-

gascar and witness the incredible true story of one of nature’s greatest explorers - the lemurs. Ontario Science Centre 770 Don Mills Rd. www.ontariosciencecentre.ca Hockey Hall of Fame - Stanley’s Game Seven (3D) Until Dec 31 Hockey’s first 3D film is a stunning mix of 3D originally filmed hockey action teamed with computer-generated photo-realistic 3D animation and classic archival footage from some of the most renowned moments in Stanley Cup history – the film literally jumps off the screen. Hockey Hall of Fame, Brookfield

Place, 30 Yonge St. 416-933-8215 www.hhof.com Jerusalem IMAX® Film at Ontario Science Centre t Ongoing Jerusalem takes audiences on an inspiring and eye-opening tour of one of the world’s oldest and most enigmatic cities. Ontario Science Centre 770 Don Mills Rd. 416-696-1000 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca For more events, visit www.toronto4kids.com/calendar

Yamaha Music School FREE PREVIEW CLASSES FOR BEGINNERS

5075 Yonge St. 10th Floor Toronto M2N 6C6

www.yamahamusicschool.ca

416-224-5590

10 | TORONTO KIDS - July 2014

summer fun> july festivals

Festival frenzy! Summer is here, let the festivals begin! There’s something on the calendar to please everyone this month, whether your family loves music, food, nature or a good old-fashioned carnival. So grab the family, slap on some sunscreen and kick off summer at one of these great Festivals taking place in and around the city. Toronto Ribfest June 27 to July 1 A great weekend full of fabulous food, family-focused attractions, great music and entertainment on three professional stages, a Kidz Zone, a massive Midway and more. www.torontoribfest.com FringeKids! The Toronto Fringe Festival July 2 to July 13 FringeKids! features eight productions which range from puppet shows and interactive musicals to fantastical tales and charming classics. www.fringetoronto.com/fringe-festival/fringekids/ South Asia at Harbourfront July 4- July 6 Ancient Gurus: Modern Mastery is the guiding principal behind this weeklong celebration of the contemporary South Asian community in Toronto and around the world. Admission is free. www.harbourfront.com Taste of Lawrence July 4 to July 6 The Taste of Lawrence is a three-day food and cultural festival that takes place in the Wexford Heights BIA. As Scarborough’s largest street festival it boasts the most enticing flavours from every cultural community in the GTA. www.tasteoflawrence.com

Cultura Festival July 4, 11, 18 and 25 Now in its fifth season, Cultura is a free weekly Friday night festival in July that celebrates Music, Art, Food and Film. Cultura features unique performers and artists, international street food vendors, creative and interactive art installations and evening film screenings under the stars in Mel Lastman Square. www.culturafestival.ca Afrofest July 5 to July 6 With a bustling African marketplace, boasting more than 60 food and craft vendors, artistic displays, The Creative Children’s Village, drum area, music workshops and organized fun and educational activities for youth, Afrofest is the African cultural event of the summer! Admission is free. www.afrofest.ca China Now at Harbourfront Centre July 11 to July 13 Forget what you thought you knew about Chinese culture. From disparate influences and traditions, to the intersections of people, space and time, the inaugural China Now festival seeks to explore China’s enormous worldwide legacy. Admission is free. www.harbourfront.com

This unique festival launches with a dynamic, high-energy parade down world-famous Yonge Street. The celebrations then shift over to Centre Island for two days of festivities. Admission is free. www.festivalofindia.ca Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto July 17 to August 5 cotiabank Caribbean Carnival Toronto is an exciting three-week cultural explosion of Caribbean music, cuisine, revelry as well as visual and performing arts. www.torontocaribbeancarnival.com Habari African Festival at Harbourfront Centre July 18 to July 20 It’s impossible to define what exactly is African culture, music, food, film, fashion and art. Join us for a weekend of exploration and engagement with the art, sounds and tastes of Africa. www.harbourfront.com Beaches International Jazz Festival July 18 to July 27 Toronto’s signature Jazz event, attracting millions of people, is filled with great music, large crowds, and an engaging atmosphere. Free. www.beachesjazz.com

The biggest Thai community event in downtown Toronto with lots of activities and attractions. www.tasteofthailand.ca Brickfête - Toronto 2014 - LEGO Fan Festival July 19 to July 20 Does your child love LEGO? Join us... Brickfête - A LEGO Fan Festival for the whole family. www.brickfete.com BIG ON BLOOR Festival July 19 to 20, BIG ON BLOOR celebrates arts, culture, and small businesses with a unique community and city-building festival featuring hundreds of events, activities, exhibitions, and a play fair for kids. Free. www.bigonbloor.com BrazilFest: Toronto International BrazilFest July 20 Canada’s largest Brazilian culture event dedicated to showcasing Brazilian culture including its food, dance, and music. www.brazilfest.ca

Carabram: Brampton’s Multicultural Festival July 11, 12, 13 Families can experience the rich culture, food, crafts, drinks, and entertainment of different ethnic groups in Brampton. www.carabram.org

Salsa on St. Clair Street Festival July 19 to July 20 St. Clair Avenue West will be transformed into a showcase of Latin Life where live music, dance, fiery food, and fun take over the street. Free admission. www.salsaintoronto.com/salsa-on-st-clair

YOUTH DAY July 20 Youth Day is a multimedia festival put on by those 14 to 29 years of age for Toronto. It celebrates the positive achievements of young people by showcasing their music, dance, art, and photography. Free. www.yd-toronto.com

Festival of India July 12 to July 13

Taste of Thailand Festival July 19 to July 20

For an up-to-date list of July Festivals, visit: www.toronto4kids.com/Calendar.

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Looking for a unique family adventure?

TORONTO KIDS - July 2014 | 11

get outdoors > cool caves

Head to the hills and underground to explore hidden caves just outside the city This summer, why not take your family to an attraction millions of years in the making? That’s right, it’s time to go cave exploring. The twisting passageways of many of these caves come from thousands of centuries of groundwater seeping into limestone beneath the surface, and dissolving it. As the water table lowers, the passageways remain, revealing narrow tunnels and soaring caverns just waiting to be discovered. While many cave passages can be very small and narrow, others will have visitors in awe of their immensity.  For your family’s next outing, there are plenty of caves and experiences to choose from. Here are some of the most local, popular caves – and what you’ll find during your visit to these million-year-old wonders. Mount Nemo Conservation Area  On the Niagara Escarpment, Burlington www.hrca.on.ca This conservation area has one of the best cliff ecosystems on Ontario’s Niagara Escarpment. Rich green ferns blanket limestone boulders scattered among old growth forests that are alive with jewel like birds. Crevice caves and ancient cedars, a thousand years old, can be seen all along the meandering cliff edge trail. Features viewing geological features such as crevice caves, cliffs, and talus slopes. Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area - Sheep Cave  Appleby Line north; 1 km north of Derry Road on

top of escarpment.  www.hrca.on.ca The Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area has some of the most inspiring scenic viewing found anywhere. Five breathtaking lookouts dot the edge of towering cliffs of Ontario’s striking Niagara Escarpment. With excellent hiking trails, this natural environment park is perfect for that therapeutic walk in the woods during any season. Viewing geological features such as crevice caves, cliffs, and talus slopes.   Scenic Caves Nature Adventures  260 Scenic Caves Road  Collingwood, ON www.sceniccaves.com Nature, history and adventure for the whole family. Self guided tour of caves, caverns, and lookouts on the highest point of the Niagara Escarpment. Ontario’s longest suspension footbridge offers light adventure and the most spectacular views of Georgian Bay and surrounding countryside. Gemstone mining, mini golf, trout pond, picnic areas, snack bar, and gift shop. Try the Treetop Walking and Ziplining attractions.  Warsaw Caves Conservation Area and Campground  289 Caves Road  Warsaw, ON www.warsawcaves.com Nestled in the valley of the Indian River, the conser-

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road trips > car games

Pass the time with road trip car games This summer, avoid the dreaded “Are we there yet?” by trying some of these classic and entertaining car games. Happy kids make for a more pleasant car trip! The Theme Song Game Someone hums the tune to a favourite TV show, and everyone else tries to name the show as fast as possible. The first person to guess correctly hums the next song. For toddlers, you can use Nursery Rhymes and

for older kids, you can use current pop hits! The Alphabet Game One person chooses the right-hand side of the road, and someone else the left. Each player looks for letters of the alphabet that appear on signs or license plates on their side. The object of the game is to point out all the letters of the alphabet in order, from A to Z. The first person to spot the entire alphabet wins.

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The Animal Name Game One person names an animal. Then each person in order has to name another animal (no repeating!) that starts with the last letter of the previous animal named. There are no winners or losers in this game. With older children, try the game with TV shows, or geographical categories such as cities or countries. Come up with new challenging categories.

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Secret Place Race The first player looks at a road map and finds a small town, village, river, etc. That person announces the name of the place she or he has chosen. A second player has 60 seconds to look at the map and try to find the secret place. Silly Stories Start with “Once upon a time…” and build a story where everybody takes turns to add a word or a sentence. Make it the silliest story possible!

-Toronto4Kids.com

TORONTO KIDS - July 2014 | 13

summer activities > bug hunt

BUG HUNT!

Get ready to get dirty If you have kids who love bugs and all things creepy crawlie, take them on a bug hunt! Bugs and worms are amazing creatures and kids can learn a lot from them. Bug hunting is easy, it’s as simple as going outside and looking for bugs. You’ll discover a new and fascinating world, right beneath your feet.

Bug hinting tips Since children are closer to ground level they will probably discover them before you, so let them discover the insects themselves. While most bugs are harmless, make sure you teach them that some bugs can hurt them. Help your child by turning over rocks and tree branches so they can see all the life just out of sight. Teach your child about the different types of insects and the function they have in nature. Another way to attract bugs is to put out some sweet smelling food for them to eat. Use an overripe banana and some brown sugar. Mix these together and let them sit for a couple of hours. Then, go out and paint the sugary substance on the bark of a tree. Wait … and one by one, insects will soon appear, attracted by the scent of the sweet stuff.

Materials to bring with you on the hunt: • • • • • •

Jar (lid with holes or mesh cover) Magnifying glass Plastic tweezers Sketchbook Pencils / Colouring Crayons Books about insects Make a habitat for your bug. Find some twigs,

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leaves, and grass. Stock the jar with those and sprinkle a couple drops of water inside. You might also want to add in a tiny chunk of fruit. Make sure you poke holes in the lid or secure your jar with a piece of mesh. Don’t borrow creatures for too long. Bugs have short lives and plenty of environmental work to do. Make sure you remember to set your new friends free soon after and put them back in the same place you found them.

Activities • Inspect your bugs with a magnifying glass. Discuss what you see with the kids. • Have the kids consult the books to find out more about the bugs they find. • Make some art! Have the kids draw pictures of the bugs they find. • Get the kids to take digital photos of the bugs. Happy hunting, and don’t forget to set your bugs free! -Toronto4kids.com

T.O. Tip! Leave the comfort of your backyard and head to a local park like High Park, Downsview Park or the trails along the Don River Valley to uncover a plethora of insects. Explore the streams, the mud and the dirt. Don’t forget to look under leaves along the shady trails and use the magnifying glass on trees and plants.

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