June 2014

June 2014

TORONTO

KIDS &

This themed edition is dedicated to the Toronto Public Library and its TD Summer Reading Club Program.

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TORONTO KIDS - June 2014 | 3

introduction > editorial TORONTO

What’s Inside

KIDS &

Welcome to our themed edition of Toronto Kids & Families

publisher IAN PROUDFOOT general manager MARG MIDDLETON regional director of advertising WARREN ELDER

R

director of advertising CHERYL PHILLIPS sales team lead GEORGE AGELOPOULOS regional director of operations BARRY BLACK director of circulation MIKE BANVILLE regional director of creative services KATHERINE PORCHERON features writer JENNIFER ROMANO

eading is both a skill and a pleasure that needs to be instilled in our youth.

We believe that so very much that we’ve dedicated this month’s edition of Toronto Kids and Families to the work of Toronto Public Libraries.

Most specifically, this is a themed edition, with content in support of the library TD Summer Reading Club.

The program seeks to engage children in reading during the summer months through various activities and events, a number of which you will see previewed on the pages of the edition.

There are hundreds of events to choose from.

• An overview of the summer reading club program. All of the TPL’s 99 branches in the city are participating this summer.

• A look at the benefits of summer reading.

• Tips for parents on raising a young reader.

• A focus on a few of the kinds of the Summer Reading Club events taking place all across the city starting next month, including Story Mobs.

______________________________________

We have a growing number of activities in partnership with TPL. The library system is growing; the number of library users continues to rise. Just recently, another branch has opened in Toronto.

We think this is exciting and a testament to the desire of the people of Toronto to learn and to grow as individuals.

We hope you enjoy this edition, we encourage your feedback and we hope if you have children, you check out the TD Summer Reading Club.

Paul Futhey is the guest editor of Toronto Kids & Families. He can be reached at pfuthey@insidetoronto.com

About the TD Summer Reading Program pg 4

About the Toronto Public Library pg 6

Tips for reading pg 7

Feature: Joy in reading pg 8

Feature: building blocks of literacy pg 9

June events pg 10-11

Summer Reading Club events preview pg 12-13

graphic designer SONYA CLARRY

The Toronto Public Library’s TD Summer Reading Club program has hundreds of events planned this summer.

175 GORDON BAKER ROAD, TORONTO, ONTARIO M2H 0A2 TELEPHONE & ADVERTISING INQUIRIES 416.493.4400

Reading list pg 14-15

Father’s Day in the City: a list of events

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.

pg 16

Game on! pg 17

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4 | TORONTO KIDS - June 2014

about> reading program

about the TD Summer Reading Club program T he TD Summer Reading Club is an inclusive program that strives to engage all children in the joy of reading during the summer months while championing Canadian writers and illustrators. The program helps connect families with books and build confidence in reading through the delivery of free incentives and fun, accessible library activities.

All summer long across Canada, libraries aim to inspire a sense of adventure and wonder, nurture children’s imaginations and celebrate their accomplishments.

Children who register for the TD Summer Reading Club at their local library receive free program materials and are encouraged to earn twelve collectible stickers by reading books over the summer. They are also invited to participate in programs organized at their local library and share their love of reading with children across the country through the TD Summer Reading club website.

This program is a joint initiative between TD Bank Group, Toronto Public Library and Library and Archives Canada. Every year a theme is selected from suggestions made across the country. Supporting materials for the program are developed by a team of children’s librarians from Toronto Public Library.

About the sponsor

Web: www.tdsummerreadingclub.ca

The TD Summer Reading Club was developed by the Toronto Public Library, and offered to libraries nationwide, with the support of Library and Archives Canada and TD Bank Group. Thanks to TD’s ongoing contributions, the program has continued to grow and thrive, expanding first across the province of Ontario in 2001 and more widely across Canada in 2004. With more than 1,900 local public libraries participating in the program (including 99 in Toronto), almost 700,000 children participate in the TD Summer Reading Club, collectively reading over 1.2 million books each summer.

Together with the Toronto Public Library, TD Bank Group is making a positive impact promoting children’s literacy and education, and encouraging the love of reading in today’s young people.

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TORONTO KIDS - June 2014 | 5

about > summer reads

Jokes: Did you hear the one about...

On the TD Summer Reading Club website, kids can submit their own jokes, and read the jokes of others.

Q: Why can you never trust atoms?

A: They make up everything!

Here’s a sampling of some reader submissions in 2013.

Q: Why couldn’t the teddy bear eat dessert?

A: He was stuffed!

Q: How’d the barber win the race?

A: He knew a short cut.

Q: Why was the computer cold?

A: It forgot to shut its Windows!

Q: What’d 1 mathbook say to the other?

A: Boy, do I have problems!

Q: Why’d Mrs. Grape leave Mr. Grape?

A: She was tired of raisin kids.

Have a joke to submit?

Visit www.tdsummerreadingclub.ca

Activities Looking for activities to do with your children?

Visit www.tdsummerreadingclub.ca/ staff/resources/activities for a list of activities ranging from stories to games to crafts.

Hundreds of events are taking place at the Toronto Public Library’s 99 branches for the TD Summer Reading Club program. Visit tpl.ca/readingclub for a full list of dates, times and location of events

BIRCHMOUNT GYMNASTICS CENTRE

Classes walking to teens Summer CampMonday-Fridays, Jul 2-August 22 Half & Full Days Gymnastics Classes all year round.

Summer camps and more.

Register on-line at:

www.birchmountgymnastics.com

1800 Birchmount Rd.

Toronto

or Call us at: 416 292-4110

*Free Registration June 1 – June 30 To find a Kumon Math & Reading centre, visit kumon.ca or call 1-800-ABC-MATH. *Offer valid at participating centres only when you enroll between 6/1/14 – 6/30/14.

Some restrictions apply. See participating centres for details.

6 | TORONTO KIDS - June 2014

about the Toronto Public Library

about > TPL

Did you know?

Toronto Public Library (TPL) is one of the world’s busiest library systems In 2013, it had more than 18 million visits to its 98 branches.

72% of Torontonians use TPL 1.3 million people are registered Toronto Public Library cardholders Collections are comprised of over 10.5 million items including books, CDs, DVDs and eBooks, with 40 languages represented in library materials Torontonians borrowed library materials 32 million times There were over 26 million visits to torontopubliclibrary.ca There were 1.8 million wireless sessions in library branches More than 800,000 participants attended 31,000 library programs – Toronto Public Library

The Toronto Public Library has 99 branches located across the city.

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Courses Starting June 7 and June 9, 10, 13, 17 and 24 (4-Day Express Courses).

Gift Certificates Available at www.yd.com

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

TORONTO KIDS - June 2014 | 7

learning > reference

6

2 ways 3 to raise 4 a reader 5 6

Read anywhere, any time and anything.

Find things to read at the store, on the street or in the playground!

Be a family of readers.

Read together and read aloud. Show that reading is important to you.

Start young.

It’s never too early to read with your child.

Explore formats.

There are lots of ways to read. Check out audio, large print, e-text and braille books too.

A few handy suggestions for parents

1

Keep reading fun.

Let your child pick what to read.

Comics count too!

Use your local library.

Start by signing your child up for the TD Summer Reading Club in 2014!

If your child has a learning, physical or visual disability and doesn’t read print, talk to Library staff about formats like audio books and ask for an accessible TD Summer Reading Club kit.

Library cards Did you know?

• To get a Toronto Public library card or renew your card, you will need to bring valid and current name and address identification to your local branch.

• Pieces that qualify for name indentification include a health card, a student TTC card, a birth certificate and a passport.

• The Toronto Public Library website has a list of accepted pieces of identification for children and teens. Visit the link below to find out more. www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/using-the-library/your-library-card/identification.jsp The Toronto Public Library’s Ready for Reading card is for children aged five and under.

The Toronto Public Library’s card for school-aged children (ages 6 to 12)

–Toronto Public Library

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8 | TORONTO KIDS - June 2014

feature > reading

Joy in reading Make this the summer of literary discovery for your children

By Izabela Jaroszynski

mer Reading Club is Eureka! and is designed to encourage children to ith school almost create things after being inspired by finished for the year, books. many students are “For children under five, we have gearing up to ditch a pre-reading activity book, a maker their backpacks for the freedom of notebook and stickers,” Heggum says. lazy summer days.

“For older children, we also have a But letting children take a break magazine with articles and activities.” from their studies doesn’t mean Families who may not be able to books should be participate in the library shunned for the sumprogram should still One of the main mer holidays, says Lisa find time to come to the reasons we Heggum, the Children library so children can and Youth Advocate freely browse through encourage for the Toronto Public the available materials. children to read Library.

“We want families “One of the main to come in and borrow during the reasons we encourage books in whatever way children to read during summer is that works for them,” Hegthe summer is that gum says. there is there is actually time to Especially during the actually time to read for pleasure – to summer, when children read for pleasure have more time to spend experience joy from a book – to read some- to experience joy on reading for pleathing just because they sure, Heggum strongly from a book - to love it,” she says. encourages parents to The library, in allow children to choose read something fact, has an entire their own reading matejust because they rial. program geared towards encouraging “Resist the urge to say love it. children to read new ‘no, don’t read that,’” she –Lisa Heggum and exciting material says. “Talk to them about throughout the hot what they are reading summer months. With and, in an appropriate a focus on Canadian way, about what you are authors and illustrators, the library reading.” has a reading list and activity guide To encourage children to pick up for children under five and one for books while on holiday from school, children aged six to 12.

Heggum has a few simple strategies.

The theme for this year’s TD Sum“Bring books to the park, the

W

Summer is a great time to read for pleasure. beach or even the baseball game,” she says. “Leave books lying around the house and bring reading materials into the car and on the TTC.” Studies going back as far as 1978 suggest that children who continue to read during the summer avoid what many call the “summer slide” - a dip in literacy skills from the end of one grade to the start of the next.

But simply having access to books

and reading for pleasure during the school break can give students an advantage by avoiding this skills slip.

“There is research out there that suggests children regress a bit in their reading during the summer but I don’t think it’s good to get too stressed out about it,” Heggum said.

“The important thing is to encourage a love of reading.”

While it is always a good

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idea to incorporate reading into everyday activities, Heggum also says that parents and children should create a special time to read together, out loud and as a family.

“Whether it’s at bedtime or at breakfast time, having that time together to read a story is wonderful.”

For more information on events at the Toronto Public Library, visit tpl.ca/readingclub

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“Taking time to connect to your partner on a regular basis, without distractions, can lead to a stronger partnership and family.”

Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Mixed Media, New Media & Design

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TORONTO KIDS - June 2014 | 9

feature > early literacy

Building blocks Early literacy skills begin at birth

By Izabela Jaroszynski

A

group of one and two year olds sits in a circle around the librarian at Toronto’s Wychwood public library branch listening to an animated story about frogs. Some children wander about the reading room, staring out the windows or eyeing each other. Others crawl into their caregivers’ laps, seeking attention.

All are acquiring critical literacy skills that will form the foundation for a lifetime of reading.

“Literacy skills are the ability to decode the world around you,” says Peggy Thomas, the library service manager of special projects at the Toronto Public Library.

While most children will not learn actual reading or writing until they reach school, the foundation for these skills is laid well before they ever reach kindergarten.

“It really and truly starts from

birth on,” Thomas says.

Everything a baby experiences builds into what Thomas calls their “environmental print” – this is the earliest sense of recognition a child has of the world around them.

If a mother, for example, takes her child to the same bank each week, the child will start to associate with that bank’s colours and symbol and will point it out even in places other than the branch they normally go to.

Thomas says parents can encourage this critical literacy step by creating materials – cutouts pasted into a notebook or onto construction paper – that reinforce these everyday symbols and talking about them to their babies. This creates familiarity for children and encourages their natural curiosity for the world around them.

As a child grows and develops, the skills they need for Literacy skills future reading suc- are the ability to cess are acquired decode the world naturally and simply, Thomas adds. around you.

“Talking, read–Peggy Thomas ing aloud, playing, singing – all of this helps a child learn the nuance of language,” she says.

“It helps them to make sense of the world around them before they are able to communicate themselves.”

The Toronto Public Library fosters these skills with programs geared towards babies, toddlers and families. And just last year, the library launched a publication to serve as a research-supported early literacy resource for parents and caregivers of young children.

The Let’s Get Ready for Reading: a fun and

easy guide to help kids become readers is available for purchase or to check out at every library branch in Ontario. The target is children from birth to five years old and it provides a wealth of activities, resources, tips and reading lists to help build reading readiness in youngsters.

Reading out loud and creating a sense of celebration around books and language will go a long way to creating life-long readers, Thomas says.

“Celebrate books. Talk about what you read,” she encourages.

For youngsters, parents can engage them in stories not just by reading the actual words, but by talking about the pictures and asking questions about the story to elicit an emotional response.

“Ask questions such as: how did the story make you feel, what was the most exciting part, how do you think it will end,” she says. Since children love repetition and will likely reach for the same book over and over again, reading together is an excellent opportunity to en-

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courage letter recognition, language development, critical thinking and a love of storytelling.

“That joy of reading will keep children reading,” Thomas says.

Fu

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10 | TORONTO KIDS - June 2014

upcoming events

Hands-On

June Weekends Weekends until June 29 - 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm Admission is Pay What You Can. Scarborough Museum 1007 Brimley Road, Scarborough 416-338-8807 www.toronto.ca/museum-events

Run bike or stroll – or just stop by to be part of the Festival action including: our largest food court, a midway including lots of rides and games!

Cost: Free admission, all-day ride pass for $20 per child.

Downsview Park www.moveathon.com

Kids will learn how to build a riding lawn mower with easy to follow stepby-step instructions. A great free activity for children ages 4-12. Free.

The Home Depot Various Locations - See Website www.homedepot.ca/workshops/ build-a-riding-lawn-mower

Music in the Orchard A Concert Series at Spadina Museum Jun 8 and 15 - 1:30 pm until 2:30 pm Pay what you wish.

416-392-6910 www.toronto.ca/museum-events

Roncy Rocks! Music & Arts Festival Jun 14 - 11:00 am until 8:00 pm Free admission.

Roncesvalles Village www.roncyrocks.com

Little Red Riding Hood at Solar Stage Jun 7 to Jun 22 Musical Play. Ages 3 - 10.

Solar Stage - The Madison Centre 4950 Yonge Street, 416-368-8031 www.solarstage.on.ca

Ontario: Yours to Discover Jun 8 - 11:00 am until 3:00 pm Organized in partnership with Ontario Parks, this family event provides an introduction to the Ontario wilderness through the paintings of Tom Thomson, the Group of Seven, and Woodland artists, created in Ontario’s provincial parks.

McMichael Canadian Art Collection 10365 Islington Avenue, Kleinburg North of Major MacKenzie 905-893-1121 www.mcmichael.com

Zareinu Moveathon Jun 8- 11:00 am until 6:00 pm

Build a Riding Lawn Mower Jun 14 - 10:00 am until 12:00 pm

NXNE - North by Northeast at Harbourfront Centre Jun 14 to Jun 15 The 20th annual NXNE festival infiltrates our site with next generation of buzzworthy musicians and interactive programming for kids of all ages. Bands made up exclusively of musicians 18 and under. Great music for fans of all ages. Free!

Harbourfront Centre 235 Queens Quay West, Toronto, ON www.harbourfrontcentre.com/summer/nxne/ The 1st annual Chessfest at Harbourfront Centre presented by Scotiabank Jun 15 - 11:00 am until 5:00 pm The Chess Institute of Canada and the Annex Chess Club provide a day of chess programming for all ages and skill levels. To register, please visit: www.annexchessclub.com. Free.

Harbourfront Centre www.harbourfrontcentre.com

The Port Union Waterfront Festival runs on June 21.

(Khushnum Bhandari photo)

Yorkville Exotic Car Show Jun 15 - 12:00 pm until 5:00 pm Admission is free. Join us on Father’s Day in supporting Prostate Cancer Canada among 120 examples of classic and exotic cars.

Bloor Street West and Bay Street,

Outdoor

416-920-2228 www.YorkvilleExotics.com Beasley Bear’s Teddy Bear Picnic Jun 16 to 20 - 10:30 am until 3:30 pm Combines outdoor fun with physical education to teach school aged children about the importance of leading a heart-healthy lifestyle. Special ticket price to school and organized activity groups: $15.

Centreville Amusement Park Centre Island, Toronto, ON www.centreisland.ca JuneFest Jun 18 - 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm An awareness festival that celebrates June as Deaf-Blind Awareness Month in Ontario. Public and the local business community is invited to come out to learn about deaf-blindness while enjoying music, a charity barbeque, awards, children’s games and activities. Free.

Mel Lastman Square 416-730-9501 www.junefest.ca Indigenous Arts Festival Jun 20 to Jun 22 A celebration of traditional and contemporary indigenous art and culture centered around National Aboriginal Day. Admission is FREE. Fort York 250 Fort York Blvd., Toronto, ON www.toronto.ca/museum-events The Redpath Waterfront Festival Jun 20 to 22 Learn more about the world’s newest extreme water sport at the 2014 Flyboard. Families can enjoy dog friendly events at the 2014 DockDogs® World Qualifying Championships, presented by the Toronto Port Authority. Kids can play in the

Ontario’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park JUNE 6

See fantasyfair.ca for showtimes

Check us out at fantasyfair.ca | 500 Rexdale Blvd at Hwy 27 LOCATED INSIDE THE WOODBINE CENTRE | 416-674-5437

Sports

Food

Arts

adventure filled KIDS ZONE. General admission to the festival is free. Some fees for activities.

Toronto Waterfront www.towaterfrontfest.com Port Union Waterfront Festival Jun 21 - 11:00 am until 3:00 pm Activities include entertainment, music and free children’s events and activities, as well as a community BBQ. Everyone is welcome to share this very special day in our community! Admission is free.

Port Union Village Common Park www.waterfrontpark.ca Children’s Concert Classics Jun 22 - 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm This month features Manuele Adrian Mizzi, tenor and Jennifer Schinzel, soprano. Tours of the museum and refreshments are included in the ticket price. Adults $22 plus HST, children under 12 $12.50 plus HST. Tickets available at www.neapolitanconnection.com.

Montgomery’s Inn www.toronto.ca/museum-events Toronto Ribfest - Food and Music Festival (Canada Day Weekend) Jun 27 to Jul 1 - 11:00 am until 11:00 pm The Toronto Ribfest Food and Music Festival committee and Rotary Etobicoke invite you to enjoy 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. 100% of the profits from Toronto Ribfest go via the Rotary Etobicoke into supporting community activities.$2 donation requested for admission.

Centennial Park Renforth and Eglinton www.torontoribfest.com

JUNE HOURS OF OPERATION Monday - Thursday 1 pm - 8 pm Friday 12 pm - 8pm Saturday & Sunday 11 am - 7 pm

TORONTO KIDS - June 2014 | 11

upcoming events ½ Price Fridays at Gardiner Museum Fridays in June Admission is ½ price every Friday from 4–9pm and all day on the first Friday of every month.

Gardiner Museum 416-586-8080 www.gardinermuseum.com

www.ontariosciencecentre.ca

The AstraZeneca Human Edge Until Dec 31, 2014 Explore the wonders and possibilities of the human body.

Ontario Science Centre 770 Don Mills Road, Toronto, ON 416-696-3256 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca

Hands in the Bowl at Evergreen Brick Works Saturdays in June Caregivers and children aged 4 to 7 are invited to come roll up their sleeves and learn how to mix, grate, mash, and eat their delicious creations! No registration required.

Space is limited to a maximum of 12 children. $5 suggested donation.

Evergreen Brick Works 550 Bayview Ave, Suite 300, Toronto, ON 416-596-1495 http://ebw.evergreen.ca/whats-on/ kids-families/hands-in-the-bowl

Family Sundays at McMichael Sundays in June Join us on select Sundays each month for our popular Family Sundays. Enjoy hands-on art activities and live entertainment, along with seasonal nature walks, tours, and our family favourite Discovery Space.

McMichael Canadian Art Collection 10365 Islington Avenue, Kleinburg, 905-893-1121 www.mcmichael.com Eyes on the Skies Ongoing This one-of-a-kind, lively program introduces pre-school children to the night-time sky through singing, connect-the-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. All participants receive a certificate of landing on the moon and a follow-up activity guide.

Ontario Science Centre, 770 Don Mills Road 416-696-3127

The Forbidden City: Inside the Court of China’s Emperors Until Sep 1 Royal Ontario Museum 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto, ON 416-586-8000 www.rom.on.ca

Hockey Hall of Fame - Stanley’s Game Seven (3D) Until Dec 31, 2014 Hockey Hall of Fame, Brookfield Place, 30 Yonge Street 416-933-8215 www.hhof.com It’s a Kid’s Life - Themed Tours at Spadina Museum Until Aug 30 Fun and games aren’t just kid stuff in this fascinating, hands-on tour.

Experience the sumptuous world of the Austin children, and all the rules that went with it, and the working class lives of the chauffeur’s son and daughter. Live the life of a 1920s and 30s child through toys, games, school lessons and more. Saturday afternoons at 2:30 p.m. May, June, July & August. Regular admission: Adults $7.96, Seniors/Youth (13-18 yrs.)

Hands-On

Sports

Outdoor

Food

Arts

$5.75, Children (6-12 yrs.) $4.87 (plus tax), Children (5 and under) Free.

Spadina Museum: Historic House & Gardens 285 Spadina Road, Toronto, ON 416-392-6910 www.toronto.ca/museum-events The Kids’ Gallery Just Like Me: Explore, Imagine, Create Ongoing Check out the works of art. Make a portrait. Explore the books. Relax and stay a while. Exhibition-inspired costumes and props are available for visitors to design, dress up and pose for their own portraits. The Kids’ Gallery activity centre also includes art books and a drawing station for budding artists inspired by the exhibited works.

Art Gallery of Ontario 317 Dundas St. West 416-979-6648 www.ago.net The Lion King Presented by Mirvish Productions Until Jun 15 Marvel at the breathtaking spectacle of animals brought to life by awardwinning director Julie Taymor, whose visual images for this show you’ll remember forever. Thrill to the pulsating rhythms of the African Pridelands and an unforgettable score including Elton John and Tim Rice’s Oscar®winning song “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” and “Circle of Life.” Let your imagination run wild at the Tony® Award-winning Broadway sensation Newsweek calls “a landmark event in entertainment.”

Princess of Wales Theatre 300 King Street West 416-872-1212 www.mirvish.com Toronto Bike Month Until Jun 26, 2014

Still from ‘Under the Sea’

(Photo courtesy Ontario Science Centre)

A celebration of cycling in Greater Toronto with hundreds of community events including rides, races, tours, festivals, and more. Events take place at multiple locations. Free admission. www.toronto.ca Under the Sea Ongoing This film takes you into fascinating underwater locales such as the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Triangle for face-to-face encounters with some of the most mysterious and stunning creatures of the sea.

Ontario Science Centre, 770 Don Mills Road

416-696-3127 www.ontariosciencecentre.ca Weekend Family Fun at the Bata Shoe Museum Weekends in June Bring your children aged 3 to 9 over to the Museum to paint a mini-clog, try on shoes, and go on a treasure hunt in the galleries!

Bata Shoe Museum, 327 Bloor St. West, Toronto 416-979-7799 x242 www.batashoemuseum.ca For more ongoing 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

12 | TORONTO KIDS - June 2014

td summer reading club events: storymobs

Malaya Landon, 6, reads her part during the StoryMob event that took over Trinity Bellwoods Park last year for a reading of Robert Munsch’s classic children’s tale, ‘The Paper Bag Princess’.

(Nancy Paiva photo)

events > library

S

toryMobs, a literary phenomitems to use at the StoryMobs at a enon where great children’s pre-event craft session. books meet flash mobs, will Like other flash mobs, StoryMobs run 13 story mobs on June 28, of the appear out of nowhere in an apparsame book, in six provinces across ently spontaneous way, in a busy the country – four of them at Topublic space, at a designated time, ronto Public Library and then disperse branches. without any adFriday, June 20 Through the use ditional fanfare. of costumes and The chosen book is when props, music, simple for this StoryMob is the Toronto choreography and The Busy Beaver by reading out loud, author and locations will be Canadian children and their illustrator Nichofamilies engage las Oldland. The announced with books in a new Toronto locations and exciting way. will be revealed on Participants are June 20 on tpl.ca/ encouraged to dress up as characters readingclub Book-lovers, flash mobfrom the book, bring props to use in enthusiasts and fun folks of all ages the telling of the story, and to read are encouraged to attend this free along as the story is shared. Families event. Toronto participants can find will have an opportunity to create the script and sign up for reader parts crafts, make props and costume for all 4 locations at storymobs.ca

tpl.ca/readingclub

Private Elementary & 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

Ask U About s O Summ ur e Camps r

SSAF GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL & BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS

Special Offers for Grades 6, 9 & 10

1500 Birchmount Rd., Toronto ON • 416-266-8878 ext. 247 • info@bondacademy.ca www.bondacademy.ca • Success Starts at Bond

TORONTO KIDS - June 2014 | 13

events > library

td summer reading club events Ashley Spires

Artist John Martz Meet John Martz, your 2014 TD Summer Reading Club Artist extraordinaire! Along with the work he created for this year’s TD Summer Reading Club materials, John is an illustrator of such popular books as Dear Flyary and Who’s On First?. Join us as he shares his experiences as an artist and offers an illustration workshop, demonstrating his drawing techniques to participants. Ages 7-12.

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

77 Browns Line Etobicoke

$35 annual registration fee

416-253-1443

www.torontogymnastics.com

Award-winning author and illustrator of many titles including Binky the Space Cat and Small Saul, Ashley will share her experiences creating her books including her latest title, The Most Magnificent Thing, a TD Summer Reading Club recommended read. Afterwards, she will teach participants how to do a simple illustration and then show them how to “hack” a book, making it a unique creation of their very own! Ages 6-12.

For a complete list of all TD Summer Reading Club events, times and locations in Toronto, visit tpl.ca/readingclub

E H T IN G E LET B S E GAM

Bring your ur family (even the dog!) to Viamede Resort this summer, and spend d more time pl playing. Head out for a boatride on Stoney Lake, splash ash iin the pool, or start up a game of disc golf or volleyball.

Whatever your family’s idea of “fun” is, give them a summer they will never forget, just 2 hours from the city.

595 MOUNT JULIAN-VIAMEDE ROAD WOODVIEW, ONTARIO K0L 3E0

1.800.461.1946 | www.viamede.com

14 | TORONTO KIDS - June 2014

learning > book nook

reading list Getting ready for your summer reading? Take a look at these title suggestions courtesy of the Toronto Public Library staff.

If you’re looking for more titles visit http://www.tdsummerreadingclub.ca/staff/ resources/books

denotes Canadian

Boy + Bot by Ame Dyckman.

Who wouldn’t want a robot as a friend?

Ages 2-6.

Ella May and the Wishing Stone by Cary Fagan.

A creative girl makes wishes come true.

Ages 4-7.

Ruby Goldberg’s Bright Idea by Anna Humphrey.

Does Ruby have what it takes to win first prize at the science fair?

Ages 8-12.

The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires. A young inventor learns it pays to keep trying!

Ages 5-8.

Evil Inventions by Nick Arnold.

Scientific discoveries have never been so horrible! Ages 8-12.

How To by Julie Morstad.

How To? That’s up to you!

Ages 2-6.

The Cardboard Box Book by Danny Walsh.

Use a humble cardboard box in all kinds of creative ways.

Ages 6-12.

Henri’s Scissors by Jeanette Winter. Henri Matisse explores an artistic world beyond his paintings, to dramatic results! Ages 5-8.

The Awesome, Almost 100 % True Adventures of Matt & Craz

by Alan Silberberg. Two boys’ cartoons come to life.

Ages 8-12.

Cardboard by Doug TenNapel.

What if your cardboard creations came to life?

Ages 10-12.

LEARNING THROUGH DISCOVERY FRENCH AND ENGLISH WITH SPANISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE CO-EDUCATIONAL SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS AGED 2 TO 14

Enrolling NOW for SUMMER CAMPS! Early Stages (4-6 yrs) & Main School (6-16 yrs)

FOR MORE INFO VISIT: Mary Long

Cadence Allen Crawley

416-255-2511

416-844-2162

Toronto West

Toronto East

www.stagecoachschools.ca

Friday morning classes for 3-4 year olds starting in March at Play Cafe on Bayview! www.playcreativecafe.com

• Award winning program • Encourages respect for individual differences • Promotes self motivation • Small Classes • Students with no previous exposure to French are welcome Main Campus 432 Sheppard Ave. E.

Cummer Campus 53 Cummer Ave.

416.250.9952

TorontoFrenchMontessori.com

TORONTO KIDS - June 2014 | 15

learning > book nook denotes Canadian

Getting ready for your summer reading? Take a look at these title suggestions courtesy of the Toronto Public Library staff.

Extra Yarn by Mac Barnett. It all starts with a never ending box of yarn.

Ages 4-9.

Sneaky Art

by Marthe Jocelyn. Try a variety of craft projects using common household materials.

Ages 7-11.

If you’re looking for more titles visit http://www.tdsummerreadingclub.ca/staff/ resources/books

Spork by Kyo Maclear. Spork can’t seem to fit in with the forks or the spoons. Ages 3-6.

Robot Zombie Frankenstein!

by Annette Simon. Two robots keep trying to outdo each other. Ages 4-8.

Kids in the Garden: Growing Plants for Food and Fun

by Elizabeth McCorquodale.

A simple guide for young gardeners.

Ages 9-12.

Henry’s Amazing Machine by Dayle Ann Dodds. See if you can guess what Henry’s machine will do. Ages 5-8.

Mr. Zinger’s Hat by Cary Fagan. A story is trying to get out of Mr. Zinger’s hat! Ages 4-8.

Levi Strauss Gets a Bright Idea by Tony Johnston.

Enjoy this tall tale of how gold rushers inspired blue jeans. Ages 6-8.

Everything but the Kitchen Sink: Weird Stuff You Didn’t Know About Food by Elizabeth MacLeod and Frieda Wishinsky.

Wacky facts about all kinds of food. Ages 7-12.

Chill: Discover the Cool (and Creative) Side of Your Fridge by Allan Peterkin.

Think your refrigerator is only good for keeping food cold and holding souvenir magnets?

Think again!

Ages 7-12.

Book Your Group Trip Now And Enjoy Special Summer Pricing!

Summer Group Pricing Children: $12.00 • Adults (13+): $14.00 with every 10th Child, 1 adult goes free

Meal Deals $5 per meal* Includes the option of a Cheese Sandwich, Roast Beef Sandwich, Slice of Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza or Hot Dog along with a yogurt tube, juice box and bag of chips.

Qualifications for Group Pricing: Minimum of 10 children per booking.

Group admission is a special admissions rate reserved for organized groups such as Scouts, Guides, Church Groups, Daycares or YMCA programs. Large parties or families will not qualify for the Group admissions rates.

SPECIAL OFFER: Book your Group Trip before July 15, 2014 and receive a FREE Minifigure for each child!** PROMO CODE: MINIG14

Please call 1-855-356-2150 to book your group trip! www.LEGOLANDDiscoveryCentre.ca *all priced are subject to applicable sales tax. **Valid on group visits booked between July 1 to August 28, 2014. LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations, the Minifigure and LEGOLAND are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2014 The LEGO Group.

16 | TORONTO KIDS - June 2014

celebrate father’s day June Weekends at Scarborough Museum Weekends until Jun 29 - 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm Looking for a fun place to kick-off your summer? Scarborough Museum is the perfect choice! Bring Dad here for Father’s Day! Admission is Pay What You Can. Scarborough Museum 1007 Brimley Road, Scarborough 416-338-8807 www.toronto.ca/museum-events

Toronto’s famous castle is an event to remember. The Library is a spectacular setting for your meal. After brunch, enjoy a self-guided tour of the castle.

Visit our website for Father’s Day Brunch Menu.

Casa Loma 1 Austin Terrace www.casaloma.org Father’s Day Survival Skills Fun at Kortright Jun 15 - 1 pm - 2:30 pm Learn survival skills, what to eat to stay alive in the forest and build a survival shelter.

Kortright Centre for Conservation 9550 Pine Valley Drive, Woodbridge 416-667-6295 www.kortright.org

Battle of Black Creek at Black Creek Pioneer Village Jun 14-15 The Battle of Black Creek REVOLUTIONARY WAR RE-ENACTMENT. Explore Revolutionary War Military Encampments. All Day ~ Throughout the Village! Followed by a Father’s Day BBQ. Black Creek Pioneer Village 1000 Murray Ross Parkway www.blackcreek.ca Mariposa Cruises’ Father’s Day Brunch Cruise Jun 15 - 11:30 am until 2:30 pm Make this Father’s Day memorable with a Brunch cruise. What better way to start his day than feasting on a fabulous Buffet Brunch created with care by Mariposa’s professional Chefs. Boarding begins at 11:30am, followed by the Brunch cruise from 12:00-2:00pm.

Mariposa Cruises

Soldiers remove a civilian from court before the Battle of Black Creek Revolutionary War re-enactment during last year’s event at Black Creek Pioneer Village. This year’s event is scheduled on June 14 and 15.

(Dan Pearce photo)

207 Queen’s Quay West 416-203-0178 www.mariposacruises.com

INTERPLAY

& PSB

Dance Academy

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

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.

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

250 Davisville Ave (at Mt. Pleasant) 416.972.1316

events> father’s day

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

Father’s Day Brunch at Casa Loma Jun 15 Our Brunch served in the stately elegance of

It’s Fathers’ Day at Glama Gal! Jun 15 We are very excited to announce our first ever Fathers’ Day VIP Package to celebrate that special man in our glama gal’s life! A VIP Package that will sure to honour Dad and Daughter!

Glama Gals Multiple locations in the GTA www.glamagaltweenspa.com

For additional Father’s Day Events, visit www.toronto4kids.com/calendar

TORONTO KIDS - June 2014 | 17

fun > game on!

Joining the TD Summer Reading Club also gets you access to a number of activities and games. These include drawing exercises, maker activities, word searches and word games.

Some samples, which are from Eureka!, the TD Summer Reading Club magazine, are on this page.

Those who join the TD Summer Reading Club get a copy of Eureka!

Visit www.tdsummerreadingclub.ca for more games and activities and the answers to the puzzles below.

O A K E R U E C K T L D

W Y X X Z Q J Y J Z T R

A S A X S I Z V A N R X

T B E R G D T C E Y U D

E H Q D C U T M L Q N N

R Y L N B H E W L D N U

F J N G D T I F D X I O

P D V P I A A M W V N F

I A X C E G J P E L G C

B C X D C M P Y Z D V G

L E I G R E E K I M E Q

D I S C O V E R Y P S S

The SBA will be conducting a Basketball Camp for 8 to 13 year olds during the summer at Jean Vanier CSS. Starts Wednesday, July 2nd, 2014 - Ends Friday, August 8th, 2014. Half and Full Days!

FOCUS OF THE CAMP Strengthen basketball fundamentals (e.g. Shooting, Passing, and Dribbling) and develop an understanding of Game Strategy.

See our website for more details or Register Online at

sbabasketball.ca

18 | TORONTO KIDS - June 2014

Summer Riding Camp Creditview Stables 905-451-8654

www.creditviewstables.ca

Oxford Learning is… SUMMER CAMP

Outdoor Activities + Brain Camp Starting from $39 per day

7734 Creditvew Rd. Brampton, Ont

Get 50% off assessment - this location only

July and August Monday to Friday 9 am - 4 pm for ages 8 years to 15 years

All Ages. All Grades. All Subjects.

creditview.stables@gmail.com

Don Valley

416.502.9628

donvalley@oxfordlearning.com

LEGACY L EGACY YO OF FD DANCE ANCE ACADEMY Celebrating 21 Years Yea ears rs

INSTILLING THE LOVE OF DANCE IN OUR STUDENTS IN A FUN NON COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT. Summer Dance Camp for ages 5-16yrs.

July 21-25 and August 11-15. 9am-4pm before and after extended hours available.

Campers partake in jazz, ballet, hip-hop, musical theatre, tap, latin, yoga, pilates, drama classes, crafts and activities. Mini dance showcase for parents.

2014/2015 DANCE SEASON REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE. Kids Dance - Adult Classes - Birthday Parties Personalized tutu bags a great gift idea, many designs available in our boutique and online.

416-425-6062

www.legacyofdance.com • 416-492-4491 • 4077 Gordon Baker Rd. (at Pharmacy Ave.) Toronto, ON, M1W 2P3

Summer Nature Camp Starting at $205

Birthday Parties Starting at $175

For info: 416-675-5009 or arboretum@humber.ca

TORONTO KIDS - June 2014 | 19

Make Muskoka a reality.

Spend this summer in your private Muskoka Resort Cottage, from only a NOT are timesh

$69,900

Only from 143km o Toront

Toronto Kids Special!

Purchase your Muskoka Cottage

before July 1st and choose one of our

Muskoka Family Welcome Packs!

Call for details.

Call 1-866-603-3299 or visit www.ShamrockBayResort.com to book a private, no pressure tour.

Make this summer count - make your family memories in Muskoka.

Actual 3 bedroom, $69,900 cottage!

Certain terms and conditions apply. Based on availability. Call for details. Pricses do not include applicable tax. O.A.C.

Check out our website for info, contests and virtual tours.

20 | TORONTO KIDS - June 2014

OP OP DA E Ju I N E ly LY M N ay W & Au & E Se EK gu st pt E em N be DS r Ju ne ,

Be sure to stop by to me meet all of our adorab blee feathered and flu ufffy friends!

Purchase Advance Tickets Online & SAVE!