February 2015

February 2015

THE TRUSTED SOURCE.

TORONTO - FEB 22

GET FREE TICKETS AT

CAMPEXPO.CA Valentine’s Day Activities for the Family PG 3

Valentine’s Day Recipe: Whoopie Pie PG 4

Riverdale Farm PG 5

Books with Family Values PG 6

Fire up for Summer Camp PG 7

February Events PG 8-9

Spread the Love MAKE FEBRUARY ABOUT FAMILY Time for Preschool?

Family Day Events PG 11

Activities: Maze and Colouring PG 10 & 13

Northwood Montessori

• Parent & Tot • Nursery • Kindergarten

Ages 1-5 Years Flexible Scheduling Extended Hours

Visitors Welcome

Finch Campus 1080 Finch Avenue East 416-492-9495

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

Madawaska Campus 53 Madawaska Avenue 416-250-8302

Plus!

Est. 1989

www.northwoodmontessori.ca TORONTO KIDS - February 2015 | 1

As featured in the best selling book “The Woman Who Changed Her Brain”

Parent information sessions at 7pm: Wednesday, February 11th, 2015 Wednesday, April 8th, 2015 Wednesday, May 13th, 2015

Full-Time and Part-Time enrolment available.

We also provide assessments of individual learning profiles.

A COGNITIVE PROGRAM ADDRESSING: READING ◆ WRITING ◆ MATHEMATICS VISUAL MEMORY ◆ AUDITORY MEMORY ◆ DYSLEXIA ◆ NON-VERBAL LEARNING ◆ ADD

245 St. Clair Avenue West, Toronto, ON 416-963-4962 info@arrowsmithprogram.ca 2 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2015

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feature | valentine’s day

My little Valentine

publisher IAN PROUDFOOT toronto general manager JOHN WILLEMS

Activities for spending Valentine’s Day with Kids

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 feature writers TASHA ZANIN ANGELICA BOTTARO cover design SONYA CLARRY

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.

Valentine’s Day is a day for showing your loved ones how much you care. With fancy dinners for two and bouquets of roses, February 14th seems to be all about the romantic kind of love. But family love is just as - if not more - important and deserves to be celebrated too!

From the sweets and heart shaped candies, to exchanging Valentine’s Day cards in class, kids love to get in on the Valentine’s Day fun.

Here 10 things to do to share the love with your family at home this Valentine’s Day. 1. Start your family’s Valentine’s Day off right with a special breakfast. Shape into hearts pancakes, use red food colouring to dye them pink or cut toast into heart shapes, and lay out special Valentine’s décor such as placemats or tablecloth. Stick to a red and pink colour scheme.

2. Sneak a love note in your child’s lunch box telling them how much you heart them… or tuck little construction paper hearts with love notes into their backpack or jacket pocket for them to find throughout the day.

3. Have your kids hand-make Valentine’s Day cards for a special someone. 4. Make glorious Valentine’s cupcakes or sweet treats with sprinkles, moulds, cookie cutters, packaging, and decorative candy to make loved ones feel extra special. Check out the recipe on page 4 for ideas.

5. Make Valentine’s Day Crafts. These can be as simple as 15 minutes with red construction paper, scissors, and magic markers, or as

elaborate as a fun creative family project for three hours. Need inspiration? There many websites you can visit for ideas!

6. Share the love with you little ones by spending some uninterrupted quality time together. We suggesting reading a favourite Valentine’s Day book together. Our pick? Guess How Much I Love You, by Sam McBratney. In this story, a young rabbit named Little Nutbrown Hare thinks he’s found a way to measure the boundaries of love.

7. If you didn’t have time in the morning, end the day with an extra special meal. Make a “fun” Valentine’s Day dinner for your family complete with heart-shaped pizza, chocolate

dipped strawberries, and a heart-shaped cake for dessert!

8. Celebrate For The Love Of Family at Toronto Zoo. Head over to the Zoo and visit with some of zoo families! Family fun activities, including special valentine crafts on the 14th, will take place from 10am to 3pm in the Conservation Connection Centre.

10. Don’t forget the candy! V-Day just isn’t complete without some traditional chocolates or red and pink candy! Prepare a small treat bag with a gorgeous bow for your kids to “wrap up” the day!

­— www.toronto4kids.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 - February 2015 | 3

feature | valentine’s recipe

Love & Chocolate

Valentine’s day is quickly approaching and you know what that means… Chocolate!

An abundance of chocolatey treats will be packed onto store shelves just waiting to be eaten. But instead of running out to buy those you love a pre-packaged box of chocolates, spend some quality time together making a delicious dessert — the whoopie pie.

A whoopie pie is something of a pie and cookie hybrid and is an easy and creative chocolate dessert that any family member will love to make... and eat!

Follow the guidelines of the recipe below to cook up a storm with loved ones and get ready for a flavour overload!

Ingredients Batter: 2 cups (500 mL) all-purpose flour ½ cup (125 mL) Hershey’s Natural Cocoa Powder 1 ½ tsp (20 mL) baking powder 1 cup (250 mL) packed dark brown sugar ½ cup (125 mL) unsalted butter, at room temperature and cut into pieces 1 cup (250 mL) 2% milk 1 large egg 1 tsp (15 mL) vanilla extract ½ cup (125 mL) Hershey’s Chipits Milk Chocolate Chips Filling: 1 cup (250 mL) Hershey’s Chipits Milk Chocolate Chips

1 250 g pkg cream cheese, at room temperature 3 cups (750 mL) icing sugar, sifted

Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350 (F (180 (C) and line 2 baking trays with parchment paper.

2. Sift the flour, cocoa powder and baking powder into a large bowl.

Stir in the brown sugar. Add the butter and mix in using electric beaters on medium speed (or in a mixer) until pieces of butter are no longer visible (the mixture will look like cookie crumbs).

3. In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg and vanilla. Add this all at once to the dry ingredients and mix on low speed to incorporate.

Increase the speed to medium high, beating for about 2 minutes until the batter is light and fluffy.

4. Using an ice cream scoop (a ¾-oz/ 22 mL) scoop will yield 40 pieces) scoop the batter onto the prepared baking trays, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) between each scoop. Bake for 13-15 minutes, until the top of the “cake” springs back when gently pressed. Cool the “cakes” completely on the baking tray before removing with a spatula.

5. For the filling, place the milk chocolate chips in a metal bowl placed over a pot filled with an inch of gently simmering water, stirring with a spatula until melted (alternatively, you can melt the chocolate chips in the microwave on medium heat, stirring every 10 seconds until smooth) Set aside to cool slightly.

6. Beat the cream cheese with electric beaters (or in a mixer) until smooth, and then add half of the icing sugar, beating again until

smooth (the filling will be runny). Add the melted milk chocolate, beating to incorporate, and then add the remaining icing sugar, beating on high speed until fluffy.

7. To fill, spread a generous amount (3-4 tbsp/45-60 mL) onto to the bottom of one “cake” and then sandwich the filling with a second “cake”. Alternatively, you can pipe the filling using a piping bag fitted with a large star or plain tip. The whoopie pies can be stored chilled for up to 3 days, but are best enjoyed pulled from the fridge 30 minutes before serving.

— www.newscanada.com

BCS Summer Language Camp A residential summer camp for boys and girls ages 11–16

June 28 – July 25, 2015

Classroom instruction in English or French Bilingual sports and recreational programmes Small classes with students from around the world s 54 yeamr er of sum ! fun

Summer@BishopsCollegeSchool.com • 819-566-0238 ext. 210 • Sherbrooke, QC 4 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2015

get outside | riverdale farm

THE TRUSTED SOURCE.

TORONTO - FEBRUARY 22

A winter day at Riverdale Farm It can be a challenge to finding family fun in the middle of winter but think Riverdale Farm!

Amidst this year’s cold harsh winter, a recent balmy day led us to a visit to this quaint little farm in the heart of city. Though the butterflyherb-flower-vegetable gardens were submerged in snow, the charming pathways through snowy wooded areas and around frozen ponds made for picturesque scenery.

The Riverdale Farm buildings and natural surroundings reflect a typical, small Ontario farm of the late 19th to early 20th century. The Farm is home to a variety of domestic farm animals that were on hand to greet us. Though many of the farm activities aren’t conducted during the winter, a visit to the farm is still a great way to experience animals up-close.

Did you know that the Riverdale Farm was originally the site of Toronto’s first zoo: The Riverdale Zoo? It was located on the west bank of the Don River and operated from 1894 to 1974. When the zoo closed, many of the animals relocated to a new and larger facility in Scarborough, currently

known as the Toronto Zoo. Walking through the Farm today is a walk through an important piece of Toronto’s history. The Residence, the Donnybrook, and the Island House remain as part of the original zoo buildings. Far from being an “old zoo ruin,” today’s Riverdale Farm is an engaging and educational urban attraction.

When the zoo closed, the site was restored as a farm to let city children see how a farm works and to experience animals.

Admission is free though the farm relies heavily on the support of the public to help maintain its operations -- donations are greatly appreciated. Riverdale Farm is open every day from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Parking is only available on neighbouring city streets.

Riverdale Farm is located 3 blocks east of Parliament Street along Winchester Street or 3 blocks north of Gerrard Street East along Sumach Street.

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TORONTO KIDS - February 2015 | 5

The Berenstain Bears: Forget Their Manners

By Stan and Jan Berenstain Age Level: All ages

By Patricia L. Roberts Age Level: 3-8 years

A great resource for parents wanting to ensure their children are reading books with main characters who portray positive values. The stories can help your child understand the importance of family values.

A wonderful story for kids of all ages about a young boy that learns the valuable lesson of honesty and inner strength by not fitting in with the crowd.

By Donna O’Toole Age Level: All Ages

Read aloud with your family as you go on an adventure of love and loss, friendship and hope, and the importance of inner strength with Aarvy the Aardvark.

Boo

Nook!

The Empty Pot

By Demi Age Level: All Ages

Aarvy Aardvark Finds Hope

k

The Berenstain Bears classic collection of family oriented books never fail to deliver and Forget Thier Manners is no different. Watch as Mama bear develops a politeness plan for her ill-manered family members for a basic etiquette lesson with humour and practicality.

learning | book nook

Family Values through Children’s Literature

You Are My I Love You

By Maryann K. Cusimano Age Level: 4-8

This is a pleasant tale of a parent and a child’s love and experiences. Full of love and laughs, the book is in complete rhyming verse and includes playful visuals that will connect you and your children through the power of words.

Stories about family values

arting school this year?

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To register, visit tsa-art.com, call, or drop by the office. Save $50 on each course with the promo code T0kids50.

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get outside | summer camp

Fire up for camp For many kids, summer camp provides a first taste of independence, as youngsters spend significant time away from home without their parents for the first time in their lives. But as great an experience as summer camp can be for youngsters, it can be just as difficult an experience if parents don’t find the right fit for their children before registering in early spring.

The following are a few things parents should take into consideration when seeking a summer camp for their kids.

Staff The right summer camp staff can make all the difference. Many children are understandably shy when arriving at a summer camp, as their friends from back home might not be joining them. That can make kids hesitant to participate in activities or less enthusiastic about those activities. But a good staff will know how to make kids feel welcome, which should help them come out of their shells and make the most of their summer camp experiences. The quality of staffs can vary significantly depending on the camp, so it’s important that parents ask camp representatives about their staffs before making any commitments. Ask how long the staff has been together and the types of training new and even veteran staff members undergo before the start of camp season? Does the training include first aid and emergency medical training and certification?

It’s also good to ask about the vetting process the camp employs before hiring new staff, including the extent of its background checks. Are criminal background checks conducted? How many references must potential staff members supply to be considered for employment? A good camp will be forthcoming with answers to all of your questions, so eliminate those that appear hesitant to share information.

A day in the life When vetting camps for kids, parents should ask what a typical day is like once the season hits full swing. Regardless of the type of camp parents are considering for their kids, they should ask about what daily life at the camp is like. Ask to see schedules and how strictly camps adhere to those schedules. When considering specialized camps, ask the staff representative if kids will have the chance to simply have a little fun and which types of recreational activities are planned to give kids a break from what are often rigorous schedules.

Camp goals Another thing parents must consider before choosing a summer camp for their kids is the goals of each individual camp. A camp should be dedicated to ensuring kids have fun, even when kids are attending more specialized camps that tend to be more strict.

In addition, parents should look for a camp that wants its attendees to foster relationships with their fellow campers. Camp can be lonely for some youngsters, especially those attending summer camp for the first time, but a summer camp that strives to promote friendship among its campers can reduce, if not eliminate, any feelings of homesickness.

— MS

T.O. Tip

If your campers can’t wait until the season starts, the Toronto Sportsman’s Show at the Direct Energy Centre offers a taste of summer. On Feb 8 and 9, kids can fish at the Fish TV Trout Pond, get up close and personal with live Birds of Prey, learn about Ontario wildlife and ride with the Honda Junior Red Riders.

TORONTO KIDS - February 2015 | 7

upcomingevents

Education

Public Skating at Evergreen Brick Works Lace for free public skating 7 days-aweek on the outdoor Ice Skating Rink, an enchanting winter destination for the whole family. It’s the perfect place for winter fun, as you wind through the gardens and enjoy nature in the city! Free.

Until Mar 15 Evergreen Brick Works 550 Bayview Avenue www.evergreen.ca

Alex in Wonderland at Solar Stage Alex follows a White Rabbit to Wonderland; a world where up is down and in is out. Alex tries to remember who he is and meets a Caterpillar, a March Hare, a Mad Hatter, and a Cheshire Cat along the way. Will he be able to find himself and find his way home?

Until March 1 Solar Stage - The Madison Centre 4950 Yonge Street, North York www.solarstage.on.ca

CHUGGINGTON LIVE! The Great Rescue Adventure In CHUGGINGTON LIVE! The Great Rescue Adventure the trainees are on their first day of Advanced Training, and are eager to impress their mentors by mastering new roles that test their courage, speed, and determination.

Feb 1 Living Arts Centre - Hammerson Hall 4141 Living Arts Drive, Mississauga www.livingartscentre.ca

Kuumba at Harbourfront Harbourfront Centre celebrates Black History Month with Kuumba’s 20th annual edition (February 6–8), part of the TD Then & Now Black History Month Series and in association with Black Artists’ Networks in Dialogue (BAND). Featuring a range of performances, films and family activities Kuumba expresses an alternative, Afro-centric glance to the future.

Free.

Feb 6 to Feb 8 Harbourfront Centre 235 Queens Quay West www.harbourfrontcentre.com/kuumba

Storygami for Children at the Toronto Public Library Join “Storygami” - an origami meetup for kids, the first Saturday of each month.

Our club welcomes beginners as well as more experienced folders, ages 6-12. No registration required. This program is offered in partnership with the University of Toronto Origami Club F.O.L.D - Fly with Origami, Learn to Dream. Come fly with us! Free.

Feb 7, 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Lillian H. Smith Library 239 College Street www.torontopubliclibrary.ca

February Weekends at Scarborough Museum February is the month of love, so visit Scarborough Museum for some TLC … and hot chocolate! Join museum staff and wear pink in support of Anti-Bullying Awareness. Admission is Pay What You Can. Feb 7 to Mar 1, 12: p.m. until 4 p.m.

Scarborough Museum 1007 Brimley Road www.toronto.ca/museum-events TSO’s Pianorama A family Concert. As part of the TSO’s Piano Extravaganza, GRAMMY® Awardwinning pianist Emanuel Ax and the Orchestra will be joined by young pianists from around Toronto to perform Saint-Saëns’s playful piece, The Carnival of the Animals, and other thrilling selections. TSO Feb 7 Roy Thomson Hall www.tso.ca Brick Bros Circus at Solar Stage The Brick Bros. Circus is a complete, miniature one-ring circus, performed by highly trained building bricks in itty bitty costumes. See the acrobatic Bildovitch Family, the breathtaking Madame Brikaskova, the amazing Brick Contortionist and much more! The whole family will love this acclaimed show that has toured the world stimulating imaginations of kids and grown-ups alike.

Hands-On

Sports

Outdoor

Food

Join Toronto Athletic Camps this March Break!

For sports-loving kids from 4-16, the camp has levels from beginner to advanced to suit any child’s needs. The camp is designed to improve technical abilities, build confidence and cultivate a foundation of good sportsmanship.

For hours and sign up information go to www.tacsports.ca or call 416-627-1092.

Feb 7 to Mar 8 Solar Stage 4950 Yonge Street www.solarstage.on.ca The Harlem Globetrotters The iconic Harlem Globetrotters are coming to the Ricoh Coliseum in Toronto with their unrivaled family show, featuring some of the greatest athletes on the planet. With incredible ball handling wizardry, amazing rim-rattling dunks and trick shots, side-splitting comedy and unequaled on-court fan interaction, this must-see event is guaranteed to entertain the whole family.

Feb 14 Ricoh Coliseum ww.harlemglobetrotters.com/tickets Bloor-Yorkville Icefest Celebrate winter in the heart of the city at Bloor-Yorkville’s 10th Annual Icefest!

Toronto’s premier cultural district will transform into a showcase of incredible ice sculptures and live ice-carving demonstrations for the entire family to enjoy. Free.

Feb 21 Feb 22

Village of Yorkville Park 115 Cumberland Street www.bloor-yorkville.com/icefest Positive Parenting In this workshop, we will be discussing different parenting styles, misbehaviour and how to use logical consequences instead of punishment. We will also be focusing on solutions and other techniques to help strengthen the parent child relationship.

Feb 3, 7:30 p.m. until 9:30 p.m.

Swansea Town Hall 95 Lavinia Avenue www.parenteducationnetwork.ca The Heart of Robin Hood In this spectacular rendition of the fabled tale, Robin and his very unmerry gang of cutthroats may steal from the rich, but it’s never occurred to them to give anything back! With music by Parsonsfield, a fivepiece band that infuses a rowdy, rock’n’-roll spirit into its bluegrass and folk influences.

Until March 1 Royal Alexandra Theatre www.mirvish.com

for Kids

GYMNASTICS

PRING ON-LINE SA ION REGISTR T

torontopremiergymnastics.com 49 Railside Rd - 115 Simpson Ave 416 461 8998 8 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2015

Arts

upcoming events Time Traveller P.A. Day Camp Children ages 7 - 10 will travel back in time and explore life almost two hundred years ago. Activities will include playing time detective to uncover mysteries and engage with 19th century cooking techniques and crafts. Pre-registration required. Call for details and after care information.

Feb 13, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.

Colborne Lodge Colborne Lodge Drive www.toronto.ca/museum-events 2015 Toronto Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebration Toronto Chinatown Business Improvement Area (Chinatown BIA) will be celebrating the Year of the Sheep with traditional Chinese performances from lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, Chinese dance and Chinese opera, and more. We will also be joined by the Toronto Zoo and their official Panda Mascot! Free.

Feb 21 to Feb 22, 12 p.m. until 5 p.m.

Toronto Chinatown Centre 222 Spadina Avenue www.chinatownbia.com Owl Prowl at Kortright Come and experience an evening with live owls. Take a guided walk with one of our owl experts through owl habitat and call to Kortright’s wild owls.

Advanced reservations are required.

Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for Members; $6 for children and seniors, $5 for Members; and $30 for a family.

Feb 21, 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Kortright Centre for Conservation 9550 Pine Valley Drive, Woodbridge, www.kortright.org Memorable Munsch at Solar Stage We bring back our traditional and very popular series of Munsch stories presented in skillful and comic Solar Stage fashion. (Play) Ages 3 - 10.

Feb 21 to Mar 29 (Weekends)

Solar Stage, The Madison Centre 4950 Yonge Street, North York, ON www.solarstage.on.ca SLEEPOVER at the Science Centre!

A Sleepover at the Science Centre is a great group event, an unforgettable family outing and a unique indoor camping experience. Gear up for a night of fun with physics as you build and test flying and spinning gadgets! Travel to the Island of Lemurs: Madagascar with an IMAX® film.

Feb 21 Ontario Science Centre w w w. o n t a r i o s c i e n c e c e n t re. c a / Sleepovers/ OUR KIDS Toronto Camp Expo Explore the best camp and kids program offerings throughout the GTA, Ontario and beyond all in one place, on one day at the OUR KIDS Camp Expo.

Planning your child’s March Break and Summer has never be easier. Meet with the very best day and overnight camps and programs.

Feb 22, 12 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Roy Thomson Hall www.ourkids.net/campexpo LunarFest at Harbourfront Lunar Fest celebrates Lunar New Year in showcasing Asian arts and culture compacted in a two-day festival! This event features dishes eaten around Asia in celebration of the New Year, such as different dumpling dishes, the Great Wall of Lanterns, Drumming Performances, Lion Dances, and Lunar arts and crafts suitable for the entire family! Free.

Feb 28 to Mar 1, 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Harbourfront Center 235 Queens Quay West w w w. h a r b o u r f ro n tc e n t re. c o m / lunarfest/

Polar Bear Fest at Toronto Zoo Polar Bear Fest fun includes “Meet the Polar Bear Keeper” talks with ice treats, polar bear themed children’s activities and crafts, a special presentation by Brandon Laforest, who researches polar bears in the wild, silent auction with a chance to win a Keeper-for-a-Day experience or Behind-the-Scenes Tour, and much more!

Feb 28 to Mar 1 Toronto Zoo www.torontozoo.com Mike The Knight In The Great Scavenger Hunt Mike the Knight and his friends are galloping into The Sony Centre for the Performing Arts for a special live performance of Mike the Knight. This brand new adventure follows Mike, his dragon Squirt, and friends on an interactive adventure to find the hidden treasure. To help Mike accomplish his mission, audience members are invited to take on fun-filled challenges and learn lessons in knightliness.

Feb 28 Sony Centre For The Performing Arts 1 Front Street East www.sonycentre.ca Sears Great Canadian Chill The Sears Great Canadian Chill is an urban polar bear dip located in the heart of the city on February 16. Teams and individuals will jump into a custom built chill pool at Yonge-Dundas Square to raise money for the Sears Canada Charitable Foundation. In addition to the “dip”, there will be family-fun activities, live entertainment, prizes for top fundraisers, and a costume contest.

Feb 16, 10 a.m.

Yonge-Dundas Square www.thechill.ca

Gibson House Sweetheart Tea Take your Sweetheart out to tea this Valentine’s Day. Treat your special someone, friends or family to a Victorian-inspired tea, including finger sandwiches and sweets in Mrs. Gibson’s parlour. Costumed interpreters host an afternoon tea in the setting of a mid-19th century home. Guests may tour the museum at their leisure. Preregistration and pre-payment required.

Seating is limited. $20 plus tax per person.

Feb 14 Gibson House 5172 Yonge Street www.toronto.ca/museum-events

Valentine Card-Making for Families Create personalized Valentine Cards to share with loved ones while you learn about the history of Valentine’s Day. Refreshments provided. Pre-registration required. Adult $15; Children $8 (plus tax).

Feb 8, 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.

Todmorden Mills Heritage Museum and Arts Centre 67 Pottery Road www.toronto.ca/museum-events For more February events, visit: www.toronto4kids.com/Calendar

Interactive, inspirational, incredible and most of all ...memorable!

For children 5 to 13 years of age. STEM Camp is for parents who want to provide an incredible and inspirational learning experience for their children in the summer!

Register online at www.stemcamp.ca Toll-free: 519-913-5283 TORONTO KIDS - February 2015 | 9

Skateboard, Scooter and In-line Skate

activities | maze

C.J. Skateboard Park & School is the 4th largest not-forprofit indoor skateboard park in the world. Their mission is to engage and empower all children in the community including at-risk youth and those with special needs (ADHD, Aspergers, Autism, Cancer, Deafness, Down Syndrome, LD, OCD or any other challenge one might have).

President and Founder, Jay Mandarino, has provided a safe and fun learning environment for development and mentoring in the sports of skateboarding, scootering and in-line skating.

Parents appreciate the security of park monitoring, real-time video surveillance, friendly staff and experienced instructors all trained through the International Skateboard Certification Program SKATZ. And because safety is key, Jay has just completed a Safety Welcome Video - a must to watch for those new to the park before they ride.

C.J. Skateboard Park & School offers programs for all ages and levels including private lessons, group lessons, Sunday family skate and year-round camps (PA days, Holidays, March Break and Summer). Mentoring programs are also available for young volunteers and youth ambassadors.

With over 28,000 square feet of indoor space, it’s a great place for birthday parties, private events, corporate teambuilding and promotions. A fully stocked pro-shop features all the gear you need for skateboarding or scootering (including full equipment rentals).

The “Kids Being Kids” program, in partnership with OPACC (Ontario Parents Advocating for Children with Cancer), Childhood Cancer Canada Foundation and Gilda’s Club of Toronto, allow children and their families living with Cancer to enjoy all the park has to offer (free of charge).

To learn more or register your family to participate in this event, please email: kidsbeingkids@cjskateboardpark.com

Jay has a strong passion for helping others conquer their own challenges and it is this passion that drives him to give so much back. He’s received numerous awards and medals including the Diamond Jubilee Medal from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the Ontario Medal for Good Citizenship from the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.

To make programs like these possible, donations can be made to The C.J. Skateboard Foundation, a Registered Charitable Organization. For more information call 416-259-6888 or visit www. cjskateboardpark.com. Open 7 days a week, the park is located at 60 Horner Avenue, Etobicoke.

ALL SKILL LEVELS • GIRLS & BOYS AGES 5-14 • MARCH 16-20 • 8:30am-5:00pm

Visit our PRO SHOP featuring all the latest gear plus full service & repairs!

Limited space available. Register online now! Visit our website for information on...

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 60 Horner Avenue, Etobicoke 416-259-6888 www.cjskateboardpark.com C.J. Skateboard Park & School is the world’s 4th largest Not-For-Profit indoor skatepark. The C.J. Skateboard Foundation is a registered charity #846549632RR0001

10 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2015

events | family day

Family Day Fun

Ontario is celebrating a three-day weekend with Family Day on February 16! There are loads of fun events happening all over the city that are sure to keep you busy. Many are totally free.

Gather the family for a weekend of active adventure and entertainment.

Vanishing Ice Festival at the McMichael Attend Winter Carnival and partake in snowshoe hikes led by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, see live animal presentations, and view the Melting Ice Sculpture, to be installed on the McMichael’s grounds. Bring awareness of climate change to your entire family, while exploring the McMichael’s winter wonderland.

Feb 8 to Feb 16 McMichael Canadian Art Collection 10365 Islington Avenue, Kleinburg www.mcmichael.com Snow Angel at YPT Celebrate the magic of winter and the ripple effect of kindness in one little girl’s neighbourhood. This delightful play about winter for young audiences will be presented on the YPT Mainstage.

Feb 10 to Feb 19 Young People’s Theatre 165 Front Street East www.youngpeoplestheatre.ca Family Day at PawsWay Enjoy fun for the whole family including WoofJocks Canine All Star shows (at 12pm, 1:30pm and 3:30pm), Pockets the Clown, face-painting, ice sculptures, giveaways and more courtesy of Purina Dog Chow®! As always, pets are welcome throughout Purina PawsWay’s facility. FREE! Feb 16, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

ROM Celebrates Family Day Weekend Family Day Weekend, celebrate the Year of the Sheep with a Chinese New Year extravaganza! Activities included with Museum Admission.

Feb 14 to Feb 16 Royal Ontario Museum www.rom.on.ca

For The Love Of Family at Toronto Zoo Visit with the zoo family including polar bear siblings Aurora and Nikita, western lowland gorilla Dad Charles and his newest addition Nneka, Mstari and her mom Twiga in the new indoor giraffe viewing house and more! Family fun activities, including special valentine crafts on the Saturday, will take place from 10am to 3pm in the Conservation Connection Centre. 50 per cent off children’s admission on website.

Feb 14 - Feb 16 Toronto Zoo www.torontozoo.com

Kids FREE at the Hockey Hall of Fame on Family Day Head down to the Hockey Hall of Fame this Family Day where a thrilling experience awaits the entire family - simulation games, theatres, the greatest collection of hockey artifacts anywhere in the world, and best of all, hands-on access to the Stanley Cup. New at the Hall of Fame is NHLPA GAME TIME where guests can face-off against life-size, animated versions of today’s top players in this revitalized model rink.

Feb 16, 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Hockey Hall of Fame www.hhof.com

Kids Fest Toronto Kids Fest Toronto features the largest indoor inflatable road show for kids with over 30 inflatable rides and attractions! Introducing a completely new line up of rides for 2015! On top of the fabulous inflatables, Kids Fest Toronto offers shows, interactive activities, games, crafts and more.

Feb 14 to Feb 16 International Centre 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga www.kidsfestto.com

Family Day Baking Workshops at Black Creek Spend Family Day weekend baking with the kids in our historic kitchen!

Pre-registration required. Maximum 2 children with each adult. All children participating in the workshop must be between 5 and 14 years of age. Adult participants must be at least 18 years old.

Feb 15 Black Creek Pioneer Village 1000 Murray Ross Parkway www.blackcreek.ca

Family Day at TIFF Our annual Family Day celebrations at TIFF Bell Lightbox include hits from previous editions of the TIFF Kids International Film Festival and fun, free family activities! Free activities. Fees for films screenings.

Feb 16 TIFF Bell Lightbox www.tiff.net

Family Fun Fest at Downsview Park Superior Events Group transforms over 30,000 square feet at Downsview Park into a large INDOOR FUN Zone just for Family Day weekend! Family Fun Fest features an indoor amusement park with over 30 rides, activities and attractions including Kiddie Rides, Jumping Castles, Giant Slides, Interactive Games, Fun Foods, Arcade and Carnival Games. Strolling entertainers also make appearances daily.

Downsview Park www.familydayfest.com

Family Day on Toronto’s Waterfront FREE Family Day fun for kids of all ages is only footsteps away at Family Day on Toronto’s Waterfront presented by The Waterfront BIA. Watch dog sport demos, create arts and crafts, discover Inuit art and warm up with a FREE hot drink!

Feb 16, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.

207 Queen’s Quay West www.waterfrontbia.com

PawsWay 245 Queen’s Quay West www.pawsway.ca

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MARCH BREAK CAMP SOCCER • BASKETBALL • SWIMMING • TENNIS

LEARN BETTER PERFORM BETTER AND BECOME BETTER LEADERS”

416-627-1092

www.tacsports.ca TWO WEEKS - TWO LOCATIONS

For more Family Day event listings, visit: www.toronto4kids.com/calendar.

BOYS AND GIRLS AGED 4 TO 16

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“WHERE STUDENTS

Family Day at Playdium Playdium is the ultimate interactive, virtual and physical Family Entertainment Centre. The 40,000 sq ft indoor complex features more than 200 high-tech attractions, rides and simulators. Family Day Special : $31 (+tx) = 225 Credits. That’s an extra $6.25 in FREE credits!

Feb 16 Playdium 99 Rathburn Road West, Mississauga www.playdium.com

OLIVET SCHOOL

Inspire. Learn. Grow.

Preschool – Grade 6

279 Burnhamthorpe Road, Etobicoke 416-239-3054 Olivetschool.ca TORONTO KIDS - February 2015 | 11

SCENIC CAVES

NORDIC ADVENCENTRE sceniccaves.com

5

February 7, 2015

THE NORDIC CENTRE AT SCENIC CAVES SITS AMID A 200 YEAR OLD FOREST THE NORDIC CENTRE AT SCENIC CAVES SITS AMID A 200 YEAR OLD FOREST ON BLUE MOUNTAIN NEAR COLLINGWOOD

Nordic Centre Features • Fully- groomed Cross-country Classic and Skate Ski Trails • Groomed Snowshoe Trails • Guided Night Snowshoe Hikes • Warming Hut • Hot Beverages • Rentals and Lessons • Season Passes • Gift Certificates • 425 ft. Suspension Bridge • Fabulous Panoramic Views • High Altitude Snow Conditions

1-1/2 705 446-0256, 446-0256, ext ext 223 223 1-1/2Hours HoursNorth Northof ofToronto Toronto••Top Topof of Blue Blue Mountain Mountain near near Collingwood Collingwood •• 705

M A R C h 1 6 -2 0

March break 5 1 0 2 p M a c -

-ed idland Avenue • 8-12 co Jean Vanier CSS • 959 M Drive • 13-15 co-ed a en w Ro • 60 CS or nn Senator O’Co

RegiSteR nOw SbAbASketbAll.CA

Formed in 1996 – SBA has a simple game plan: to provide youth with the opportunity to grow and enjoy life through the sport of basketball.

Programs from the ages of 4 – 19 include: Boys and Girls House League, REP Teams, Camps and Tournaments.

For more information visit sbabasketball.ca

12 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2015

REGISTRATION for 2015 SEASON Now OPEN online

activities | colouring

10 Ma Week k Dev e Ne s of F elo w Fr un pN i ew ends Ski lls

s Girl & s Boy s 4 - 14 Age

LEARN TO PLAY PROGRAM - AGES 4-6 (2011, 2010 & 2009) $110.00 BALL HOCKEY LEAGUES - AGES 7-12 (2008-2003) $130.00 - AGES 13-14 (2002-2001) $140.00 Additional $5.00 processing fee added for online registration

Family Plan – Save $10 for every additional child registered (not applicable for Learn to Play Program) All programs are offered on Saturday/Sunday, mornings/afternoons from April to late June 2015 All registration includes team jersey, shorts & socks All games played at Sir Adam Beck – Outdoor Rink (Browns line and Horner Ave)

Visit our website http://www.embhl.ca for more information on WHEN & HOW to register Etobicoke Minor Ball Hockey League

FAMILY DAY SPECIAL VALID FEBRUARY 16, 2015

+HST

225

THAT’S AN EXTRA $6.25 OF

CREDITS

ETMINORBALLHKY

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CREDITS!

99 Rathburn Road West, Mississauga ON L5B 4C1 905.273.9000 • info@playdium.com • www.playdium.com

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TORONTO KIDS - February 2015 | 13

TORONTO

KIDS &

A great place to be!

LEGACY OF DANCE ACADEMY

2014

Celebrating 22 Years

NEW INTRO TO DANCE CLASS SESSION Starting March, Ages 2.5-4 years old

Voted one of the best dance schools by City Parent newsmagazine four years in a row and chosen as the “winner” for 2013 and 2014, try us out and see why.

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

www.legacyofdance.com

ACADEMY Classes for creative youth aged 12-18.

Film Production

Acting Skills

Creative Writing

SECOND SEMESTER BEGINS FEBRUARY 2ND! Weekend and evening classes in Bloor West Village

arts www.centauriarts.ca

416-766-7124

M ntessori Village & Education Centre Smart Kidz Tutoring Program Affordable Tutoring Available in North York, Scarborough & Etobicoke Saturdays & Sundays Register today at www.Idatd.on.ca or by calling 416-229-1680

14 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2015

HOLLAND BLOORVIEW CHANGES LIVES. WHO CHANGED YOURS?

Birthday Parties Available.

Summer Dance Camps, Now Accepting Registration

CENTAURI

CHANGE FOR MARISSA IS SHAVING SHAVING A SECOND SECOND OFF OFF HER HER TIME.

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

Tell us at changeforkids.ca

Supported by:

Community Media Sponsor:

Ontario’s Largest Indoor Amusement Park Join us

FAMILY DAY

FEBRUARY 16th Open 10:00am-6:00pm

FREE SHOWS

See fantasyfair.ca for details.

Best kept secret in the GTA! 500 Rexdale Blvd at Hwy 27 fantasyfair.ca • 416-674-5437 TORONTO KIDS - February 2015 | 15

660 Eglinton Ave. E., Unit 202 Toronto ON M4G 2K2

What are the POSSIBILITIES of learning a new language?

Try two weeks free when you show this flyer!* *Offer applies to children and youth classes only, not including summer camp. There's a one-time registration fee of $50. Offer expires March 15, 2015.

Elizabeth Languages offers exceptional language programs for children aged 6 to 12. Students learn through fun and engaging activities, led by a team of qualified instructors. With an emphasis on conversational skills, our programs are the best way for any child to become fluent in a new language.”

Youth and adult classes are also available.

LANGUAGES OFFERED:

» Mandarin » Spanish » Japanese » Italian Classes for children, youth, and adults

www.ElizabethLanguages.com contact@ElizabethLanguages.com 16 | TORONTO KIDS - February 2015

SUMMER

S P M A C REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

437.344.4788