urbanbaby & toddler - Fall 2011

The

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drawings and doodles

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artspace also offers schools workshops, birthday parties, and art camps. [ Learn more and register at www.artspaceforchildren.com ] 2 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

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special advertising section

Bellies to Babies Celebration Sun, Oct 2 TM

:

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elebrate motherhood at the Bellies to Babies Celebration™, the province’s only educational tradeshow for new and expectant parents. Whether you’re a rookie or becoming a mom for the second or third time, this day is just for you.

Attendees will see everything from stylish baby and children’s clothing; beauty advice for radiant skin; and postnatal classes for mom and baby; green baby products for the new arrival. It’s all at one show— under one roof.

Representatives from varied support groups will be on hand to answer questions for new and expectant parents.

Moms-to-be can take part in educational workshops.

Rookie dads can take part in our Daddy Diapering Contest sponsored by New & Green Baby Co. Bellies to Babies Celebration™ will feature a wide variety of exhibitors and sponsors, over $2,000 in door prizes. The first 100 moms in attendance receive a complimentary diaper bag.

Every mom attending the tradeshow on Sunday, October 2, 2011 will be eligible for the grand prize draw of a $1,000 shopping spree from to jack&lola.

For new mommies, enter your baby into our “Cutest Baby Photo Contest.” Your little one could win the opportunity to be featured in an issue of urbanbaby & toddler magazine plus win a $3,000 Room Design Giveaway sponsored by Homeworks Etc, Benjamin Moore Paints, Harmony Sense Interiors and Out of Line Designs. Pictures will be taken on site by Leina Wade Photography.

Bellies to Babies Celebration™ takes place on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2011 at the Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Drive from 11 am – 4 pm. Admission is by donation to Vancouver Food Bank Basics for Babies Program.

Donations include baby food, formula, diapers and baby wipes.

Monetary donations area also appreciated.

Bellies to Babies Celebration™ supports “Breastfeeding is Best” and provides a breastfeedingfriendly environment for all in the mommy lounge.

Sponsored by: urbanbaby & toddler magazine, JRFM, Virgin 95.3FM, jack&lola, Homeworks Etc, Benjamin Moore Paints, Harmony Sense Interiors and Out of Line Designs, Salsa Babies, Vancouver 24 Hrs, Movies for Mommies, and Westcoast Moms.

To attend: Register at www. belliestobabiescelebration.com or call 604-908-8835.

Sign up today for Bellies to Babies Celebration™ e-newsletter.

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www.belliestobabiescelebration.com urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 3

EDITOR’S LETTER happy birthday,

my little baby

I

t’s hard to believe that I started a little publication called urbanbaby just eight years ago. And my, how it’s grown. Our press run doubled in two years, our distribution grew to include hundreds of locations, and we’ve got 64,000 readers per issue.

When I tell people that I own and run urbanbaby & toddler magazine, I hear, “Oh, I read it/see it all the time.” Swoon!

Like my own real babies, urbanbaby & toddler has been the source of sleepless nights (especially just before press time), forced me step out of my comfort zone (like being on TV or radio), and challenged me to keep up as it grew by leaps and bounds. But it has also given me joy that comes from doing what I’m passionate about. I love urbanbaby & toddler magazine.

Thank you to everyone who supports urbanbaby & toddler, from our sleep-deprived readers (who set aside some of their precious time to read every issue) to our marvelous advertisers (who make this resource possible). Here’s to a great upcoming year.

Editor 4 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

FALL 2011 volume 9 n issue 1 in this issue Baby Meets Trail: Kid-friendly trails in Vancouver....................................... 14 Celebrity Mommies: Interview with Cupcake Girls, Heather & Lori.............. 10 CEO Mom: Managing your time as mom and CEO.................................. 28 Education: Early childhood: Play or learn?.............................................. 20 Education: Full-day kindergarten: Is your child ready?............................... 6 Feature: Parenting: Where do dads fit in?................................................. 8 Great Goods: Fall’s fabulous finds..................................................... 24-27 Health: Circumcision - both sides of the debate...................................... 16 Health: Lice - the facts and treatment..................................................... 22 Nutrition: FAQs about your tot’s junk-food consumption......................... 12 On the Town: Family fun, Sep - Nov....................................................... 32 Postpartum: Postpartum depression and its effects on the family............ 30 Postpartum: Postpartum prolapse......................................................... 31 Real Estate: Think form over function when buying a family home........... 18 Resource Directory......................................................................... 35-39 @urbanbabymag facebook.com/ urbanbabyandtoddler Address (mailing only): 928 West 20th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1Y5 Canada Tel. 604.420.8760 Email. sales@urbanbaby.ca

on the cover The infectious smile of Joshua, one of our 2011 Cover Contest winners, brightens up our Fall cover. Photo credit: Bopomo Pictures

EDITOR Emma Lee DESIGNER Emma Lee PRODUCTION Barb Farley CONTRIBUTORS Natacha V. Beim, Barry Berg, Michael Boronowski, Patricia Chuey, Daniela Ginta, Kristy Hill, Felicia Lee, Marilee Peters, Michal Regev, Emilie Salomons ADVERTISING SALES Emma Lee COVER DESIGNER treefrog-creative.com COVER MODEL Joshua COVER PHOTO Bopomo, bopomo.ca

EDITORIAL PHOTOS Jillian Kirby, jilliankirbybaby.com urbanbaby & toddler magazine is published four times per year by Go Kids Publishing Inc, printing 40,000 copies per issue.

Material appearing herein may not be reproduced in print or electronically without written permission of the publisher, and without proper credit. Editorial opinions and viewpoints may not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

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urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 5

by Kristy Hill

EDUCATION

S

chool is now in session, and children are off to class with new gear and a renewed excitement to see their friends. But this year, school is different for kindergarteners and their parents, as full-day kindergarten is implemented in every school in BC. The transition to full-day kindergarten might prompt feelings of pressure for the academic and social demands that kindergarten presents, however, the BC curriculum for kindergarten hasn’t changed or been added to. Full-day kindergarten will provide more time for children and teachers to accomplish their goals.

Is your child ready to make the leap from home, preschool, or daycare into kindergarten?

Full-day kindergarten: Is your While a checklist of milestones, including things like being able to count from one to 10, is an easy way to say, “We’re ready,” it isn’t necessarily the best indicator that your child is prepared for kindergarten.

In addition to academic skills, preparedness means having had positive social, emotional, and physical experiences in the first five years of life. It is the ability to transition from the parent or primary caregiver into school and having had social interactions with other children outside of their own family.

Here are three factors that contribute to a happy and successful kindergarten.

1. An Independent Learner Being an independent learner

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is an important aspect to success in kindergarten. If children are given responsibility at an early age, then assigning homework, following instructions, taking care of their own needs and learning will happen more easily at school.

Independence is important for learning; it’s not just about memorizing facts. It’s more important for a child to be creative and learn how to solve a problem by finding and using information on their own. These skills will translate into becoming a valuable member of the community. It is tempting to help your child complete a task, but if you allow your child to make mistakes by doing it on his own, he will learn things faster and become a more independent learner.

So often we need to rush

out the door, which is always a challenge with children. But if you take the time and let your child put on his own shoes, tie his shoelaces, and put his jacket on by himself, he learns how to do it faster and to take the initiative, which is more important then getting out the door sooner.

Indicators of an independent learner in kindergarten: • Can be given some responsibility.

• Can be assigned homework and takes initiative to complete it.

• Takes care of his own needs to the extent of getting dressed, going to the bathroom, carrying his own backpack and putting his shoes and jacket on.

What you can do: Let your child draw pictures without telling him what or

child ready? how to draw. Praise him and ask about what he drew—this helps build his confidence and independence.

Be enthusiastic about what your child is doing and encourage him to be enthusiastic as well.

Provide your child with choices on how to solve problems until eventually he can solve his own problems.

2. A Social Contributor In some countries, becoming a good citizen is the primary goal of education. Becoming a productive and contributing member of the community is a worthy goal of education. This begins with friendly children who play well with others and are eager to be helpful to the teacher.

Going to a play date is a great way for your child to practice being friendly and more social, even for a child with the tendency to be shy. Model the behaviour by being friendly to others, asking questions and showing ways to relate with the other child that might have different interests than your child.

Learning new words is best done in a social situation and developing vocabulary is another aspect of literacy success in kindergarten. Children will use the vocabulary they need to communicate with friends, and adults can repeat and reinforce the vocabulary used.

Indicators of a social contributor in kindergarten: • Is willing to interact with others. Listens to and talks to adults and other children.

• Maintains eye contact, and asks and responds to questions.

• Plays with toys for play and

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• Is willing to share toys, responds to social structures, taking turns, and following instructions.

What you can do: Play sound games using names, rhyming, patterns, clapping and rhythm.

Give your child opportunities to be social by visiting friends, relatives and going to play groups, preschool or daycares.

Encourage imaginary play— go shopping, feed the puppy.

Imaginary play gives kids space to act out real-life activities.

Encourage your child to ask questions and think of his own answers. You don’t have to provide all the answers. Children will learn from the process of thinking about a problem.

Encourage emotions in your child. Talk about what it looks like when you feel sad, happy, angry, or worried. Encourage your child to “use his words” instead of physical actions when he is upset.

Spend quality time with your child, aside from trying to keep him busy while you get things done.

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3. An Academic Achiever Many parents focus on their children’s marks, grades, and scoring high. As parents, our recent memories are of studying for university finals and writing essays as a way to achieve academic success; but for a kindergartener, learning through play achieves more skills than anything else. And by providing the tools for language, independence and social preparedness through play as a cont’d on page 32

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by Marilee Peters

PARENTING

A

t last, you’re pregnant!

After months (maybe years) of trying, it’s finally happened. You’re so happy.

So what’s next? Well, now comes nine months of waiting, punctuated by doctor’s visits and tests of varying intrusiveness, accompanied by (if you’re lucky) bouts of intermittent nausea, fatigue, heartburn, insomnia, shortness of breath, the need to pee every three minutes, and—oh yes—that 30- to 60-pound weight gain. If you’re lucky.

If you’re not so lucky...well, that’s why What to Expect When You’re Expecting runs to 800-plus pages. Much can go awry with this tricky business of gestation.

So where were we? Oh

Parenting: Where and how yes, well, after completing nine months of purgatorial pregnancy (enlivened by those wonderful, never-tobe-forgotten flashes of pure delight—when you first hear the heartbeat, when baby first moves, when you realize that’s actually a knee jutting out sideways from your stomach, and you can grab it), it’s at last time to get down to the real business at hand: delivery.

Much has been written about the process of labour and delivery. Many writers more talented than I have been profound, witty, moving and insightful on this topic. Here’s what I have to say: “Ouch.”

Yes, having a baby hurts—a lot. But it’s worth it. You have a baby, at long last.

Now you become immersed in the joys and struggles of adapting to new parenthood.

The feeding. The diapers.

The sleeping (or not sleeping).

The why-is-the-baby-cryingand-why-can’t-I-get-it-to-stop anxiety. The cuddling and rocking and cooing and tickling and singing. And then...oh, what’s this? One day, your partner suggests that perhaps you could go back to work early and he’ll finish the year of parental leave. He wants to care for the baby. He needs some time to bond with the baby. He wants to work out his own rhythms and patterns of parenting without you “hovering” and “correcting” him.

I’ve used this word already, but here it is again: “Ouch.”

Pregnancy and parenting are such consuming experiences for many women—physically, emotionally, mentally—that it can be painful to contemplate handing fulltime caregiver duties over to anyone, even the baby’s father. Here’s what one reader told me after reading a column

kiaporter.com

8 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

I wrote suggesting that Canada needs parental leave policies that do more to encourage dads to participate in caregiving: “I agree whole heartedly that children, families and society would all benefit from stronger father-child attachments. I also agree that simply ‘allowing’ dads to take part of the parental leave is not working. If it were, we would see more dads taking parental leave. …

However, it is my opinion that there are some equally important factors that need to be considered when advocating for a change to the system. I have worked closely with preand post-natal women in BC for almost 10 years. When we talk about this subject, the...reasons women state for dads not taking part of the parental leave are: (a) More and more moms want to breastfeed their babies exclusively for at least one year.

This is fantastic and should be encouraged. (b) Moms don’t want dads to ‘take’ part of ‘their’ parental leave. Becoming a new parent

WANT MORE?

does Dad fit in? is a very emotional time and the idea of having even a week ‘taken away’ is very upsetting for a lot of women.”

Like so much in the area of parenting and family policy, there are no easy answers here, no clearcut solutions.

Governments and employers today say they can’t afford to give new parents much more in the way of paid parental leave, and most families need two incomes. And then there is the financial aspect of (which muddies the waters even further) when dad is earning more, it may not be financially feasible for him to take extended leave. Yet parents are being told constantly that what happens in the earliest years of their baby’s life is absolutely critical to ensure optimal child development.

Breastfeeding is important.

Developing a secure loving attachment is important. An involved father is important.

There is ample compelling evidence to support all these,

and many other parenting imperatives.

So what is to be done when one body of evidence (say, the importance of fathering) clashes with another body of evidence (the health benefits of breastfeeding), which clashes with existing public policy (one year of parental leave), which clashes with a mother’s emotional reality?

My hope is that debate occurs. That public conversation happens about these issues, and that it isn’t just confined to parenting blogs or to academic research, but that it starts there and flows outward into mainstream media and to our legislatures.

The business of raising children is under more scrutiny and being taken more seriously now than ever before in human history, and although some would argue that parenting is becoming obsessive, unquestionably the vast majority of kids in the developed world are healthier and happier and better

Find more articles at

WWW.URBANBABY.CA cared for than any previous generation. We can’t do much to change those nine months of pregnancy. Labour is always going to hurt. But there’s always room for improvement in how we parent, and all of us have a role to play in deciding what parenting in Canada should look like.

Let’s get the conversation started! ] Marilee Peters is the director of communications at the BC Council for Families, a provincial non-profit dedicated to supporting families with information and advocacy on parenting and family issues. You can find them at www.bccf.ca

Dr Ayla Wilson ND Naturopathic Family Medicine

www.draylawilson.com 604.988.1411

Pediatrics | Fertility & Prenatal | Autism & ADHD | Allergies & Eczema

“Newborn and Baby Photography for the Discerning Parent” Trust Accredited Photographer Jillian Kirby with your little one’s first moments

urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 9

by Kristy Hill

CELEBRITY MOMMIES

Sweet dreams become delicious From business to babies, it’s all icing on the

N

ine years ago, it was an idea, a concept, and a leap of faith. Today, it’s a growing business with eight locations across BC, a TV show (The Cupcake Girls on W Network), and a soon-to-be book. Heather White and Lori Joyce, the Cupcake Girls of Vancouver, have paved the way for the cupcake industry and been role models for women entrepreneurs in BC and across Canada. The nation has watched Heather and Lori take their friendship through expanding a business and now, continue to be fascinated by their newest venture: motherhood.

UBT: As new moms, how are you balancing business and babies? heather: I’m much better at multitasking now. I make sure that everything is in sequence. I write everything down, I check off my list, and by the end of my day I feel more accomplished than I ever did before I had a baby. lori: I’m sure Heather will totally agree with me, but as a working mom, it forces you to be quicker on making decisions.

There’s no lollygagging. I really like that about it.

A lot of our business sense comes from intuition. Our partnership works so well because we both respond quickly. It’s yes or no. With babies, there’s less time now, so we really have to follow our gut. And, like Heather said, it has forced us to be more productive, with less socializing. heather: You really don’t get it until you have a baby. But once you’re actually in it and you’re a mom, you’re working, and you’re trying to do it, you get it. It was like French to me when Lori would talk about it. lori: We’ve never been busier with our business and at home.

It’s the most exciting time for us. heather: I’ve never been happier. I have put 10 more things on my plate, but I’ve never been happier.

lori: We’re busier, but we communicate even more now.

UBT: How do you relate to each other now as new moms at the same time? lori: Better than ever. There’s less time to fight because we’re so busy— heather: You fight with someone when you have too much time and not enough going on— lori: A baby will start screaming and that’s the end of it.

We’re different people and we appreciate different things, but we have the same pace.

It keeps things busy and interesting. Very few people can keep up with us when we’re talking—but it’s just because we’ve known each other since we were 15.

We have four businesses. We have Cupcakes, the show, our babies and our marriages.

But I’m the most proud of what we’ve gone through as partners and as friends. I always say this now: you’re not best friends until you’ve started a business together, because that’s where you go through the real stuff.

UBT: How come we don’t see your husband/fiancé or children on the show? heather: Trevor has always

10 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

said, “The show is not about me, it’s about the girls.” lori: My husband could care less about the show and actually doesn’t like it. He’s very private. And until Max is three years old and we can ask him if he wants to be on the show, he won’t be on the show.

We have friends who are in the spotlight and there’s some weird stuff that happens.

They aren’t necessarily huge celebrities, but they need security. And I’m not interested in that for my son.

The show is not our lifestyle, it’s a business. We’re using it as a tool to propel our business.

We’re not actively going out there to be celebrities or have a reality show. It is an awesome and incredible opportunity that Cupcakes was given and we took full advantage of it.

UBT: Heather, why do you call your parents by their first names on the show? heather: Because it’s a business. It’s so much better for me to say, “Kathy” or “Brian,” than, “Mom” or “Dad.” Because we are in a working environment, I don’t want employees to think of them as my mom and dad. There are still employees; they are part of the operation. In front of other employees there has to be a set standard. They respect it, and

they understand.

Everyone asks me that.

UBT: Many Canadian mothers take a year’s mat leave, but both of you went back right away. Why? heather: I took two weeks off— lori: You did not take two weeks off— heather: I wasn’t in the office for two weeks— lori: We spoke every day— heather: Yeah, it was funny.

I was craving for Lori to come over. I said, “Please come over, please come over. Let’s talk about business”— lori: We had meetings at your house— heather: I would say, “Give me a recap of what’s happened.” Which was great. lori: There’s no way that you took two weeks off. heather: Well, I tried. I was physically out of the store for two weeks.

UBT: Tell me about your decision to go back to work so quickly after your babies were born. heather: We crave work. lori: We could’ve taken more time off if we wanted to. But we have so much going on right now—it’s too exciting. We would miss out! heather: If you miss a week in our business, you miss a lot.

reality for the Cupcake Girls

cake for Cupcake Girls Heather & Lori

Spencer today, with my motherin-law. She’s great. She’ll be getting him to do tummy time and everything.

For me, there’s no way I would’ve been a happier person if I had taken six months off.

I need to get out and get the social interaction. And I really want Max to be brought up understanding that both parents work and why they work and that we’re both entrepreneurs and we enjoy what we do. It’s very important.

Neither of us has nannies.

We’re not doing that. heather: I wish.

UBT: How do you manage going to the office every day? lori: My husband has Max every day at work. He has a private office, there is a playroom and his parents are there. And Heather has her mother or her mother-in-law. heather: That’s where I left

20

UBT: Advice to other moms and mompreneurs? lori & heather: Get out of the house! heather: It’s tough to give advice because everyone raises his or her children so differently.

But I love to chunk time. So I make sure that when I’m alone with my son it’s our time together and nothing else. lori: I think it’s important to get out of the house. You need the interaction and I find that is where you get clarity. heather: My doctor said—and I think this is great advice—“Take one hour of every day to yourself with no baby.”

UBT: What’s in the future? lori: So this is what we have happening in the next 12 months.

First, is starting season three of

“Cupcake Girls,” then Heather’s wedding, then I’m due with my second baby a few weeks after that, and we’re expanding the franchise to Toronto. heather: Then the second half of season three of “Cupcake Girls.” lori: And a book. We’ll be working on a book that we’ll be launching for Christmas of 2012. heather: And a lot of surprise launches coming up. Things you’ll see throughout the year that we’re creating. lori: That’s five just off the top of my head that we have happening in the next 12 months.

It couldn’t be more exciting. ] Kristy Hill, of TwellMedia, is a freelance writer and graphic designer in the Lower Mainland.

She happily works from home with her little boy by her side. www. twellmedia.com

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by Patricia Chuey, registered dietitian

NUTRITION

I

FAQs about your tot’s junkfood

’m frequently asked, “Is there a place for junk food in a child’s diet?” In this second of our four-part series, I address 10 common questions on the subject.

What is junk food?

In medical dictionaries, it’s considered any of various pre-packaged snack foods that are high in calories but low in nutritional value. These foods are often loaded with sugar, salt or bad fats. I like the term “HPF” or highly processed food, coined by my colleague Gloria Tsang of www.healthcastle.com. This would also include beverages and fast food.

How does junk food affect the body?

Eating junk food in place of what is needed means key nutrients are not consumed in adequate quantities for growth and overall good health. Too many low-nutrient, highcalorie foods can contribute to obesity. Too much sodium (salt) can lead to high blood pressure and heart problems, which are no longer just adult health issues.

Does junk food cause diabetes?

No single food or category of food has been identified as a cause of diabetes. Diabetes is a problem in which the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or use insulin correctly.

We know that overall poor eating habits (like not enough nutritious food, going too long without eating, eating too much at one time or overdoing it on HPF) can make diabetes harder to manage and increase the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Is junk food the reason for higher rates of obesity?

Obesity and weight

problems result from a combination of factors including genetics. A lack of exercise, too much time on the TV or at the computer, too little healthy food, too much processed food, too much juice and pop have all been linked to obesity.

Which junk foods are the worst offenders?

In terms of foods with no, or very little nutritional value per calorie, some of the biggest culprits include pop, artificial fruit drinks, sports drinks, candy, marshmallows, starchy snack foods targeted at babies and toddlers, potato chips, cheese puffs and so-called “kids’ cereals.” Fast food and processed meats like deli meat and wieners aren’t highly nutritious. They lack fibre and are very salty even though they provide some nutrients and protein.

Why do kids seem to want junk food?

There are many theories.

Junk foods—whether sugary or salty—simply taste good.

Taste is the number-one factor influencing why we eat what we do.

There’s an element of (perceived) fun associated with junk foods. Think of the ads for kids’ cereals and pop as examples.

There’s a certain amount of mystery and curiosity around junk food for kids—especially if parents over-emphasize how “bad” these foods are and never let kids have them in moderate amounts.

The more junk food you eat, the more you want because a desire for intensely sweet or salty foods is created and the palate gets used to it.

It is available everywhere, 24 hours a day, and there is a junk food for every season from Halloween and Christmas to Easter and Valentine’s Day. It seems “normal” to eat HPF on a regular basis.

Should we be concerned about junk food advertising?

Yes. Young children lack the ability to filter the messages they see and see in the media.

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consumption They believe what they’re told.

Discuss ads with your children to begin teaching them that advertising is not always true.

How much junk food is ok?

There’s no official consensus among health experts. I like the 80-20 approach in which at least 80 percent or more of food intake is healthy and nutritious yet some room is allowed for occasional indulgences whether a birthday party or a day at the carnival. Ideally, foods required for optimal health are eaten first and junk food is only allowed over and above, as opposed to in place of better choices.

Some sources suggest limiting junk food to once a week. I discourage the idea of banking up all week and being overexcited or over-doing it on junk food. This approach creates too much focus and desire for something we ultimately want to downplay. Giving permission to eat it often tends to make it less desirable.

How can I stop eating so much junk food?

The less intensely sweet or salty food you eat, the less you’ll want. But it takes time to retrain the palate. For example,

7/26/11

3:32:19 PM

Part 2 of a 4-part series on kids and junk food

if salty snack foods like chips have been the problem, slowly start eating less over a sixweek period to allow your taste buds to readjust. Most of us C eat what’s in the cupboards.

Eat less junk food by having M less on hand in the first placeY and only rarely, if ever, make itCM available. Avoid placing so much MY emphasis on it that you or the kids can’t wait to tuck into it. CY What are some healthy CMY foods kids will like as much K as junk food?

Kids love to eat what they make. Involve them in any way, big or small with food prep.

Make healthy foods look and taste great. Some examples include a frozen banana dipped in a little dark chocolate with crushed peanuts, a frozen yogurt or smoothie popsicle, mini-muffins with a few chocolate chips, a fruit platter with dip, homemade oven-baked fries with a little ketchup…there’s lots to enjoy and celebrate without having to be a complete nutritional write-off. ] Patricia Chuey is a registered dietitian, media consultant and mom. She can be reached through www.patriciachuey.com or @patriciachuey on Twitter.

www.eclipsephotography.ca eclipsephotography@shaw.ca

604.984.7427 urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 13

by Michael Boronowski

BABY MEETS TRAIL

H

ad enough of being cut off by bikes and dodging joggers around Granville Island? Throw on a good pair of shoes...we’ve found two great stroller- and family-friendly trails to help you feel like you’ve escaped the city, if only for a little while.

Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Vancouver Comprised of 763 hectares of forest and foreshore, Pacific

Kid-friendly trails in Vancouver Spirit Regional Park sits between Vancouver and UBC, with a section of beautiful foreshore connecting the Fraser River to Burrard Inlet. Criss-crossed with more than 70 kilometres of wellmarked and maintained trails, it’s a popular location for bike rides, strolls, and walking the dog.

Densely treed and quiet, it’s the perfect escape from the noisy pace of city life.

Getting there: Drive west on West 16th Ave past Camosun St, and turn left on Imperial Dr just as you enter the park. Follow Imperial to the sharp left where it meets West 29th Ave and park in the area along the shoulder of the road. You can also access trailheads along 16th Ave if you continue towards UBC. Terrain: Wide, well-

maintained (and well-shaded) paths criss-cross the park. The trails are mostly flat and free of obstacles, however expect mud puddles if there’s been recent rain. You may meet cyclists on multi-use trails, and possibly find droppings on trails listed as off-leash zones.

Some inclines get a little eroded after heavy rain, but they’re short enough that they’re easily passable.

Stroller recommendation: You won’t need a true allterrain stroller, but because of some rough sections, you’ll want something more capable than a basic umbrella stroller.

Length: Create routes as long or as short as you like, thanks to the myriad of wellmarked trails through Pacific Spirit Regional Park. If you’re a first-time visitor, the nearly 5K trail starts and ends at the entrance by West 29th Ave and Imperial St. Head west along Imperial trail, turn left on Salish. At a clearing near Marine Dr, turn left and head north on Clinton trail, finishing by heading north along St. Georges to 29th Ave, where you turn left and return to the starting point.

Or, if you want to put your all-

terrain stroller to a little more of a test, turn left at the picnic area where Clinton meets St. Georges and follow Sasamat back to the start.

Family-friendly features: Picnic tables and outhouses are available in the park where Cleveland trail crosses 16th Ave and on the Clinton trail where it meets the St. Georges and Sasamat trails. It’s also close enough to 4th Ave that you could stop for supplies or a snack.

Nearby attractions: It’s a short drive or 45-minute walk to Spanish Banks Beach. For plant lovers, the UBC Botanical Garden is just minutes away.

Wreck Beach is also nearby.

It’s not stroller-friendly, but can be accessed at Trail 7 where 16th Ave meets Old Marine Dr. Good to know: Some of the trails are multi-use; check the signs and be aware that you’ll likely encounter cyclists and off-leash dogs, and perhaps the occasional equestrian.

Iona Beach, just outside Vancouver Int’l Airport Iona Beach Regional Park is another fantastic spot to escape city life without leaving Metro Vancouver.

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The jetty offers a great lookout at the tip as well as opportunities to enjoy watching shorebirds and raptors as you walk the 8K return trip.

The marshes and shoreline are home to hundreds of species of birds, and exploring the beach is a blast if you don’t mind getting your feet dirty.

Getting there: Drive towards Vancouver International Airport.

Head north on Templeton St off Grant McConachie Way, following it onto Ferguson Rd and the Iona Island Causeway as it curves north around the airport. Watch for cyclists, equestrians, and inline-skaters on the road during warm weather.

Terrain: The jetty is packed gravel and the rest of the trails are hard-packed sandy dirt.

The sand below high tideline is hard enough that a stroller with

fat tires navigate comfortably.

Stroller recommendation: Anything from an umbrella stroller up will work well for the jetty (there are concrete paths on either side of the crushedgravel path). An all-terrain stroller or one with wider tires is recommended for the beach and other trails as soft sand will trap umbrella stroller wheels.

Length: The jetty walk is 8K return, but it’s flat, and flies by with two shelters and lots of birds to watch along the way.

You can wander endlessly on the sandy beach when the tide is out. You’ll just have a short portage from the bathrooms down to where the soft sand firms up enough so that you can easily push a stroller again.

Family-friendly features: There are well-kept bathrooms, a picnic table, drinking water,

and a tap for rinsing off the sand when you’re done. The two marshes allow you to introduce your kids to birds other than gulls and crows.

Nearby attractions: Vancouver International Airport—kids love to marvel at planes Strolling the jetty with Dad and Grandpa. taking off.

Michael Boronowski runs, bikes, Good to know: and climbs all over western Canada Some invasive plants have with his daughter Lucy. He tweets really moved in. Stay on wellat twitter.com/mvboronowski marked paths and the sand or risk a run-in with prickly thistle or giant hogweed (which can leave bad burns and scars).

Find more articles at Stick to the obvious and accessible paths and you’ll WWW.URBANBABY.CA be fine. ]

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by Daniela Ginta

HEALTH

R

ecently, a San Francisco judge decided to pull out a possible circumcision ban from a voting ballot, following resistance from medical, religious and civil liberties groups. Proponents call it preventative surgery, while opponents refer to it as genital mutilation without consent. Based on scientific evidence, both sides have a bit of truth to hold onto and they can back it up with solid evidence.

When their oldest son was born, Chelsea and Ken MacDonald* had no intention of circumcising him. But he was later diagnosed with hypospadias (birth defect occuring in about 1 in 100 to 1 in 200 boys in boys), a

Circumcision? Before you decide, condition in which the urinary tract opening is not at the tip of the penis. “Our son was born with a mild form of hypospadias, so he was recommended corrective surgery. Now he looks like he was circumcised, even though he was not,� Chelsea explains.

Circumcision is still one of the most debatable topics you can whip up at a dinner party, if you dare bring it up, that is.

While the Canadian Pediatric Society does not recommend circumcision to be done routinely on male newborns and parents have to pay for the surgery out of their own pockets, boys are still being circumcised in Canada, for religious, hygienic, prophylactic and cosmetic reasons.

16 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

Photo credit: Jillian Kirby, jilliankirbybaby.com

Circumcision: The facts Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin, a retractable double-folded fold of skin that covers the head of the penis. Circumcision has been done for centuries for religious reasons, and more recently for hygienic and cosmetic reasons.

Prophylaxis against sexually transmitted diseases is a newly emerged facet of this much debated medical procedure.

While hospital neonatal circumcisions have declined in recent years, they are still performed in private clinics or during religious celebrations.

According to the Canadian

Pediatric Society the overall evidence of the benefits and harms of circumcision is so evenly balanced that it does not support recommending circumcision as a routine procedure for all newborns males, stating that religious and personal values were not included in the assessment.

Following the death of a five-week-old baby boy soon after being circumcised in Penticton in 2004, the BC College of Physicians and Surgeons released a statement advising that circumcision may be carried out only when it is in the best interest of the child. While routine hospital

consider both sides of the fiery debate circumcisions of newborn boys are carried out at a rate of 31.9 percent (according to the Maternity Experiences Survey, conducted in 2006 by the Public Health Agency of Canada), these numbers should be taken with a grain of salt, says Neil Pollock, MD, founder and director of the Pollock Clinics in Vancouver where he performs approximately 2,500 circumcisions per year and up to 30,000 to date.

“It is the routine newborn hospital circumcision rates that have declined, but there are still many parents who opt for circumcisions outside the hospital,” Pollock says.

In his experience, he argues, numbers are increasing and his explanation is that parents

consult the new research coming out and opt for circumcision given the benefits that such an operation offers down the road.

Side 1: Pro-circumcision Because there are quite a few medical benefits to it, says Dr. Pollock. “If you go to someone who has a lot of experience, the risks are minuscule, while the benefits are significant,” he says.

According to a review published in 2010, three randomized controlled trials in sub-Saharan Africa have shown that circumcision reduces the risk of acquiring HIV infection in men by approximately 60 percent.

The review points out that data from the clinical trials

indicate that circumcision may be protective against genital ulcer disease, Herpes simplex type 2, Trichomonas vaginalis and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection in men. The reason that circumcision has a potentially protective role is that the foreskin contains cells that may act like shelters

*Name changed by request

for bacteria and viruses, thus increasing the men’s risk to acquire the disease and further down transmitting to their sexual partners.

Clinical trials that show a lower incidence of HIV transmission in circumcised men have prompted the World cont’d on page 34

TODAY IS A GOOD DAY TO HELP YOUR KIDS REALIZE THEIR POTENTIAL

Your Child’s Care is Our Focus

Their future begins now.

Know your options.

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• Building relationships with families • Promoting good oral health and well being • Providing quality preventative and restorative services • Creating a caring environment and a positive experience Dr. Anita Gartner, Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry #219 - 179 Davie Street, Vancouver 604-569-3669 | info@tot2teendental.com

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by Barry Berg, realtor

Buying a new family home?

Think function over form first

REAL ESTATE

W

e are busting at the seams!” It’s something many new parents exclaim before asking me to lead them to find a home with more space.

When you’re looking for that bigger space, it’s important to have a goal in mind and think about how that new space is going to achieve it. By looking ahead into your future needs and beyond the “fix” of “enough space for now,” you can save yourself a move and some

money. Ask yourself what you and your family might need a few years from now. Are you going to be having another child? Are your children, who are now sharing, going to need their own space? Might you be working from home in the future?

Recently, I had clients who started their search with the intention of finding more space but their intention evolved into finding just a newer space. We had to step back and evaluate.

Sure, the newer space was very appealing but it ended up yielding almost the same square footage as their current home. Of course, if you can

afford to make a parallel move in terms of space, great. But for many families, making a move like this—especially when it takes them away from their original quest of finding more space—could put them a few extra years further from their ultimate real estate goal as they choose form over function. The result? The purchase becomes an additional transaction that can set you back financially.

Think of the costs associated with buying a new home such as Property Transfer Tax, possible HST if the home is a new construction, legal fees, and inspection fees, not to mention the actual cost of

moving, cleaning and storage and, of course, real estate fees (commission).

New parents should think about how the home will be with a baby and/or toddler. How do you need the home to function for your young child and your family routines? Do you want to have all the bedrooms on one floor so that you’re sleeping on the same floor as your child? Or are you comfortable sleeping on a separate floor from your new addition? (Some homes have the master bedroom on the top floor while the secondary bedrooms (which will be the children’s bedrooms) are on the lower floor.)

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Barry Berg is a Vancouver realtor with RE/MAX Real Estate Services.

He is married and has two children. www.barryberg.ca. info@barryberg.ca

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some of these considerations in mind not only will you be better prepared but you will also have a game plan that you can re-visit when the shiny new property or recently renovated property starts pulling you away from your goal.

When looking for your new property, ask yourself realistically how long its function can serve you before making your choice. Sometimes, it can really pay to ‘bust at the seams’ for just a little bit longer in order to get to the property that will meet your needs now and a few years from now too. A real estate transaction and move is not inexpensive—save yourself some money by planning an extra move ahead. ]

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How child-friendly is the property? Are there any parks or recreation facilities that you can walk to?

And what about parking?

Consider how far away you would be willing to park if you’ve got bags of groceries and and baby sleeping in a car seat to carry in? Depending on where you want to live, parking can be an issue. So if you want to live in Kitsilano, for example, parking may be challenging— perhaps not a big deal when you’re just a married couple, but a very big deal when you throw young children into the mix.

What about the school catchments? Do you want to be able to walk to school every day, or is driving okay?

When hunting for the right property, it is easy to get caught up in the “now” instead of a few years from now. If you write out a five-year plan with

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by Natacha V. Beim, education expert

EDUCATION

Early childhood: Play or learn? music, school, dance, and keeping them busy all day, I really feel like we’re not doing enough for our little one.

Should we give her a head start before kindergarten, or let her play freely and enjoy childhood? Help!

Lisa

Q: My husband and I are torn about how to educate our baby daughter in the years to come.

Some people we talk to say that a child should only play until it’s time to go to kindergarten, but others tell us that if our child isn’t prepared for kindergarten, she will already be behind!

I see so many parents putting their kids in swimming,

A: Many parents struggle with the same questions. On one hand, pushing your child to succeed academically before kindergarten seems unnecessary, and even unhealthy at times. However when you see other parents focused on preparing their children for kindergarten, you can’t help but wonder if your child will be left behind.

The fear of your child falling

behind is not a good reason to send your child to school early.

But leaving your child at home to allow her plenty of time to just play, is not necessarily the best option either.

The reason that parents and teachers feel forced to choose between learning and playing is that they are not aware that doing one doesn’t necessarily mean ignoring the other. Many parents and early learning centres have focused solely on free play or strict school-like lessons. The reality is, you can choose a hybrid of both. By this I don’t mean a few strict lessons intertwined with free play. I mean creating an environment (whether it be at home or school) in which children can

play, discover, make friends, laugh and express themselves, while receiving the stimulation they need to develop their brains to the fullest potential.

Children rarely reach their fullest potential playing alone. A play environment that is rich in language and that allows your child interactions with teachers and other children, nurtures your child’s natural curiosity and stimulates her brain development at a critical age.

Research shows that a child’s brain is in its most formative years before the age of six. This is a prime time for a child to learn as the impact is thought to be greater than all the years of elementary education combined. For this reason, I always recommend

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that parents expose their children to as much learning as possible before the age of six.

I caution you, however, to choose a program that is respectful of your child’s interests and needs. If keeping your child at home is your best option, remember that children benefit tremendously from socializing with other children. So do your best to provide social experiences for your children in an environment where they can also begin to develop a variety of skills from reasoning to experimenting to reading, art and everything in between.

As long as your child receives the stimulation and socialization needed, the way you achieve this is not as important.

The other thing I would like to caution you of, however, is over-booking your child with activities. Parents who enrol their children in various activities each and every day may actually be depriving them of one essential component: the freedom to think independently. Always following instructions from teachers limits a child’s critical thinking skills. Allow your child to spend longer amounts of time with friends as opposed to always enrolling them in

highly structured music or dance classes. Let them play what they want to play. Too many activities and social settings for your child can cause unnecessary stress.

Children also need plenty of idle time. One of the biggest misconceptions in our society is that children must be busy all the time. Children need to take their time, spend time alone, and become involved in nothing in particular. This is how they develop their imaginations and actually learn from their environment.

An ideal early learning program should respect a child’s interest and desire to participate (or not) in a variety of activities. In Canada, there are wonderful programs—part or full time—available for young children To enhance your child’s daily learning at home, take your time before, during and after your scheduled activities.

The next time you go for a walk, notice how many things your baby stops to explore, from a tiny bug to a colourful sign. Adults are more goaloriented and want to get from point A to point B as fast as possible. Remember, for a child, everything is new. They may have never seen an insect climbing a leaf in a garden.

They are learning so much about the way it moves, eats, and lives.

Learning about the world around them, classifying and interpreting that knowledge is how young children learn.

You may think the park is fun for them, but absorbing their surroundings on the way there is just as interesting for them.

All you need to do to provide these learning experiences is

Natacha V. Beim is a writer, speaker, teacher, and the founder or Core Education & Fine Arts Junior Kindergarten schools (www.cefa.ca). You can reach her at natacha@cefa.ca, or read her blog at natachabeim.com

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I wish you the very best in this wonderful journey. ]

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urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 21

Source: Caring for Kids

HEALTH

W

Nutrition help for your child • food allergies or intolerances • gastrointestinal problems (diarrhea, constipation) • infants or children with eczema • food refusal or mealtime battles • overweight or underweight • vegetarianism Workshops for Parents

604-738-4344

www.eislerforkids.com #400-1338 W. Broadway Vancouver

Feeding Your Baby - What's New? Toddlers & Picky Eating - Why and How to Manage For dates/locations: info@eislerforkids.com

Corinne Eisler, RD

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Tania Zulkoskey Counselling

r

604-771-8647 (East Vancouver) www.tzcounselling.ca tzcounselling@yahoo.ca

22 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

ith fall here, kids are reuniting with friends at daycare, play dates and preschool. But all that togetherness could mean your child is bringing home a few unwelcome “buddies” home.

Here’s what you need to know about lice and how to treat them in case they appear on your child. Reprinted from Caring for Kids, Canadian Pediatric Society.

Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp, where they lay their eggs. Head lice do not spread disease. Having head lice does not mean you are not clean.

What do head lice look like?

Lice have three stages—the egg (nit), the nymph and the adult.

r

Relationships • Fertility • Parenting LGBTQ • Trauma • Stress

Lice: Facts • Nits are whitish-grey, tan or yellow ovals, approximately the size of a grain of sand. They stick to the hair close to the scalp and can look like dandruff.

Nits hatch in 9 to 10 days.

• Nymphs are baby lice.

They look like adult lice but are smaller.

• Adult lice are approximately the size of a sesame seed and are hard to see. Adult lice can live for up to 30 days on a person’s head, but they die within three days away from the scalp.

How do they spread?

Head lice spread easily, especially where people are in close contact. They are very common among school-aged children or children attending child care.

and treatment • Head lice spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or indirectly by sharing things like hats, combs, hairbrushes and headphones.

• Head lice don’t fly or hop, but do crawl very quickly.

• Head lice that live on people can’t live on pets, such as cats or dogs.

How do you know you have head lice?

One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp. But it is possible to have head lice without any symptoms.

If you think your child has head lice, check his hair for nits right away, then again after one week and after two weeks.

How do I check for head lice?

To confirm a case of head lice, you need to find live lice.

Children can have a few nits without actually having a case of head lice. Usually, children have no more than 10 to 20 live lice.

• Good lighting is important when you are checking.

• Head lice move fast and are hard to see. They are usually found very close to the scalp, at the bottom of the neck and behind the ears.

• To look for nits, part hair

in small sections, moving from one side of the head to the other. Check carefully, looking close to the scalp.

How can head lice be treated?

Insecticides are chemicals that kill insects (bugs). In Canada, three insecticides are approved to treat head lice: • pyrethrin (found in R&C Shampoo + Conditioner) • permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) • lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo).

Pyrethrin and permethrin are safe when used on humans.

However, lindane can be toxic (poisonous). Products with lindane should not be used on infants or young children younger than two years of age.

You don’t need a prescription for these products.

• Follow package directions carefully.

• Don’t leave the shampoo or rinse in the hair longer than directed.

• Rinse hair well with cool water after the treatment. It’s best to rinse over a sink, not in the bath or shower, so that other parts of the body don’t cont’d on page 35

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great goods

reverse fashion Got a toddler who can’t resist taking off his clothes at all the wrong times? Is dressing your child a challenge? Little Bambino’s easy (and smart) back-zipping hoodies make it easy for parents put clothes on and hard for baby to take them off!

Made of eco-friendly bamboo and certified organic cotton, and features silk-screened images using water-based inks and lowimpact dyes. Sizes 6 mos-2 yrs. Hoodie retails for $34.95. Find pants and bodysuits too. littlebambino.ca FIND IT: jack & lola, 135 W 1st St, N Vanc

seamless socks It’s a seamless, totally comfortable sock—for the sensitively footed child (and the parent who cares for him or her). These crew socks by Soft Clothing, have been created with the needs of all children in mind, including those with autism, sensory processing disorder, ADHD, and tactile defensiveness/ sensitivity. They feature a hand-linked seamless toe with no bumps, lumps or ends, no heel construction and gently hugging ribbed top. Retails for $12.

FIND IT: softclothing.net Melissa & Doug • Mother-ease • Tuffo

layer it, baby These super-soft bamboo onesies by Westcoast Baby are irresistible. We love the array of colours—eight hues from bold to pastel—accented with taupe-y gray trim. Pair them with a hoodie and jeans, or a sweater and skirt—a perfect fall layering item. Made in Vancouver. Sizes: 0-3, 3-6 and 6-12 months.

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good, clean fun

FIND IT: Hip Baby, 2110 W 4th Ave, Vanc, Pebble, 2675 Arbutus St, Vanc; Saf & Benjamin, 1081 Marinaside Crescent, Vanc.

refrigerator art Is your stainless steel fridge crying out for your children’s photos or artwork? New from Vancouver’s Cici Art Factory are “Art Corners,” a line of reusable fabric decals for all those fridges that desperately need a touch of whimsy. These decals are modern, colourful and fun.

Just in time for the season’s non-stop supply of take-home artwork. Available in a 8-1/2 x 11” sheet. Retails for $16 per sheet.

FIND IT: ciciartfactory.com

diaper bag fashion We are in love with Kelly Moore bags. If you’re looking for a bag that goes from diaper bag to purse to camera bag, this is it. Originally designed by Louisiana photographer and mom Kelly Moore to ‘step up’ the standard-issue camera bag, the satchels quickly proved their versatility and soon, moms were using them as diaper bags and handbags. They have tons of space, compartments to keep things organized, adjustable straps, hidden magnetic closures, and aesthetics to please any fashion-conscious woman. Colours range from bold (mustard, fuschia, azure, orange) to subdued (black, brown). Dad-friendly styles available too. Prices start at $179. kellymoorebag.com FIND IT: lovethosebags.ca 2675 Arbutus St, Vancouver | 604.568.6923 | pebblebaby.com

What’s in your child’s shampoo? If you’re using Coco & Tini kids’ bath-care products, then you know it’s only 100% natural-source ingredients and you aren’t exposing your baby to artificial preservatives or fragrances. Coco & Tini products are great for little ones with sensitive skin too. Includes a body wash, bubble bath, conditioning detangler and shampoo.

Coco & Tini is a Vancouver-based company. Retails for $15.95 to $19.95. cocoandtini.com

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The Slap Watch Junior (yes, it slaps on, so it’s easy for kids to put on and take off) sports interchangeable faces and bands so your kids can wear whatever suits his or her fancy on any given day. Made of silicone comes in nine fun, bright colours.

Retails for $19.95 USD. FIND IT: slapwatch.com

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luxurious knits, one-of-kind style When you want something a little extra-special, something you won’t find at mass retailers, Boske Kids knitwear is a perfect fit. A Vancouver-based Canadian company run by an enterprising mom, Boske Kids designs kids’ knitwear made of silky-soft baby alpaca from Peru. Using low-impact and eco-friendly dyes, and manufactured in Peru using fairtrade, environmentally friendly practices, this clothing line is as ethical as it is beautiful. Our favourite pieces (shown above, clockwise from right): the Olivia pocket dress in orange (on model), the Audrey long-sleeve cardigan in sapphire, a vintage vest and pants set in pale pink, the Kate sleeveless tunic with belt in green, the William sweater in light blue, and the Charles cardigan in brown. Retail prices for baby alpaca knitwear starts at $45.

FIND IT: Saf & Benjamin, 1081 Marinaside Cres, Vanc; Lusso Baby, 1037 Marine Dr, N Vanc.

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take a walk on the bold side Smile, right down to our toes! That’s what we do when we look at the latest fall shoe from Native Shoes. Known for its ultra-light footwear, Native Shoes has launched the Fitzsimmons boot—which is also lightweight—just for fall 2011.

The hiking-style boot comes in bold hues including yellow, pink, red, blue, green and brown. If these boots don’t put a hop in your child’s step on a rainy Vancouver day, we don’t know what will. And did you know that Native Shoes was established in Vancouver? It’s true. Makes us love the brand even more. Available in toddler to youth sizes. Retail price starts at $60. nativeshoes.com FIND IT: Saf & Benjamin (in Nov), 1081 Marinaside Cres, Vanc; Dandelion Kids, #1 - 101 Morrissey Rd, Pt Moody

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by Felicia Lee

CEO MOM

B

Managing your time as a CEO mom

eing a mom is a full-time endeavour, and running a business is a fulltime endeavor too. My clients often ask how they can juggle effectively between the two, and not get burned out.

There is a myth that moms should be able to do it all—bake from scratch, grow business revenues by 25 percent every year, and keep the house in

order. But what commonly happens is that we realize we are overextended and overcommitted only when something gives. We forget to pick up a kid from school, or completely miss a business appointment. Sound familiar?

The danger with mom business owners is that we’ve forgotten how to “stop.” By overcommitting, we are neither effective at work, nor present with our children.

The key is being intentional about how you spend your energy and your time. Is the life you’re living one that you love?

Or are you wondering why time flies by but you’re not sure why you’re always busy and nothing seems to be getting done?

Here is an exercise that

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I often use with my clients if they feel overwhelmed, unproductive, or generally unsure how they are spending their days.

Time management exercise Start with a blank piece of paper, and draw seven columns. Label each with a day of the week. Divide the rows into three sections, and label them: morning, afternoon, evening.

Now imagine that you could have the ideal, schedule. How would you allocate your time?

(Don’t worry about whether it is realistic yet; just design one as if it were completely possible to create the most perfect schedule for you.) Now add the following items in the following order: 1. Schedule time for selfcare (include exercise time, relaxation time, learning and growing time, and anything else that juices you). There should be time for self-care every day, so plan at least 30 minutes each day just for you.

2. Write down family commitments (e.g. picking up kids from school, grocery

shopping, cooking, helping kids with homework).

Now, how much time is left for running your business? Are you satisfied with how much time there is to run or manage your business? If you are, great—move on to steps 3 and 4. If you’re not, consider what you would want to change.

Often clients notice they only have 30-minute segments to work on their business, and can barely fit a phone call in before personal duty calls.

It may help to arrange your schedule so that you have a few hours on uninterrupted time each week to work on your business instead of one small 30-minute segment daily.

Once you are happy with how much time you have allocated to the business, do the following: 3. Allocate time to work “on” the business (include marketing, networking, meeting prospective clients, researching new services and products, etc.). There should be time at least once a week or once every two weeks to work on growing your business!

4. Allocate when to service your clients (appointments with

clients, filling orders, doing the work required to produce your product).

Again, at this point, review what you have designed. Are you happy with what you see?

Next, notice what is different about what you do currently and your ideal schedule.

Sometimes clients realize that they have not allocated enough time to build their business. Others notice that they don’t have a solid stretch of time to produce and deliver their products, and are mixing family time with business time.

Sometimes clients have no problem allocating time, but aren’t clear on what they want to achieve with their time.

three common issues: No separation between business hours and personal hours. Do you work all the time, checking email even while you’re looking after your family? Consider a no-work policy when you are with your children, and a no-personalaffairs policy when you are working. Once you have allocated and protected the time for both sides, you’ll become more productive and less distracted in your work.

Trying to do too much. Okay, Superwoman, it’s time to learn how to set limits. Make a list of all existing tasks on your todo-list. What tasks should you keep? What tasks should you delegate? What tasks should you defer? Which ones can simply be deleted (e.g. if there is a task that has been on your list for more than a year, and

What would you change?

Now is the time to think about what changes you would like to make. Here are the top

you’ve never got around to it, why is it even there?).

Failing to plan and communicate your plan. The only way to create the ideal outcome is to plan for it. If you want a certain schedule to be in place, use a time planner system. Whether it is a paper day-planner, or a smart phone calendar, writing something down dramatically increases your chances of committing to it. Once your plan is created, let your family, your clients, your colleagues know about the changes you’re making. Communicating clear expectations and boundaries allow others to respect your schedule!

Consider what might stand in the way of you making your ideal schedule become reality?

Make a list and think about how you would address each item

that comes up. How can you commit further to creating your new schedule? The key is to be specific about the changes you want to make: when, where, what will you be doing differently exactly? The more precise you are, the higher likelihood that it will happen.

Juggling motherhood and business ownership requires good decision making on how you spend your time on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis.

We’ve covered how to create a schedule for a week—do the same exercise for a given month or a given year. It will set your mind at ease, so you can be the best mom at home and the best CEO at work. ] Felicia Lee is a business coach with GhostCEO (ghostceo. com). Get business tips on how to build a successful business as a mom entrepreneur; subscribe to her newsletter at vancouvermombusinesscoach.com.

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urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 29

by Dr. Michal Regev

POSTNATAL

Why can’t I feel happy?

Postpartum depression

and its effects on the whole family

W

hen baby Ethan was born, first-time parents Jennifer and Nick were ecstatic and grateful to have a healthy, beautiful son.

But as the weeks following Ethan’s birth went by, Jennifer started to feel different from her normal self. She had difficulties with breastfeeding and was in a lot of pain. She had difficulty sleeping even when Ethan was sleeping. She felt physically and emotionally exhausted and she started having long crying spells and stopped feeling joyful. And Jennifer began wondering if it was a mistake to have a baby and started to believe she was not cut out to be a mother.

Having a new baby is supposed to be a joyful and exciting time for couples.

Everyone expects the birth of a baby to bring a lot of happiness to the family and especially the mother. That’s why it is hard to understand and accept that, for some women, what is supposed to be the happiest time in their lives becomes the most challenging time. The truth is that postpartum depression is quite common: about 15 percent of mothers experience it—that’s three mothers out of every twenty. And it can happen to anyone, whether a woman is highly educated or not, financially stable or not, older or younger, or from any cultural background.

So why do certain women become depressed while others don’t? Experts aren’t sure exactly why but they have identified certain key factors that put women more at risk for postpartum depression: • pre-pregnancy mental health issues • a close family member who has or has had a mental illness, such as a parent or a sibling • feelings of loneliness, isolation or lack of support • birth trauma • ongoing lack of sleep • perfectionism • a highly needy and “fussy” baby or a baby who is unwell What are the common symptoms of postpartum depression?

• depressed mood most days, for most of the day • inability to feel joy • loss of interest in things that used to interest or excite the woman • crying spells for no apparent reason • low functioning, e.g. inability to carry out simple daily tasks that used to be easy to do before • a sense of hopelessness • intense feelings of guilt • changes in appetite and/or sleep • poor concentration and/

30 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

or difficulty with decision making • social withdrawal • loss of sexual desire • unexplained aches and pains • suicidal or homicidal thoughts, images • not feeling connected to the baby • anxiety, which may accompany or precede depression If a woman has had five of the above symptoms, lasting for at least two weeks, she may have postpartum depression and should seek professional help.

Postpartum depression negatively affects the whole family. The new mother goes through what many who have been through it define as “hell.”

The partner often doesn’t know how to help his loved one or how to go on loving her when she is acting differently from the woman he fell in love with. He may also be worried about the well being of the baby if left in the sole care of his depressed partner. The baby or other children may be negatively affected because they may not be getting the quality of care that a non-depressed mother is likely to offer. It has been documented that depressed mothers smile less at their babies, talk and sing less to them and cuddle kids less than non-depressed mothers.

Depressed mothers also are often aware of their compromised mothering and feel tremendously guilty about it. All the more reason to get help as quickly as possible.

How can mothers who suffer from postpartum depression be helped?

Ongoing support and understanding provided by a partner and other close family members or friends can go a very long way.

Psychotherapy, especially cognitive-behavioural therapy, and interpersonal therapy can be helpful. Those two types of therapy have had the most supportive research evidence.

Marital therapy can be very helpful when there is a high level of marital distress whether it started before the baby came or after. These therapies should be provided by a registered psychologist, a registered marriage and family therapist, or a registered counsellor who have trained in these therapies and have had extensive experience with this population.

Group therapy has also been found to be quite helpful, whether provided by a professional or a peer.

Certain vitamins and other supplements may help.

Consulting a naturopathic doctor, a doctor of traditional Chinese

medicine or a homeopathic doctor may help to alleviate some of the symptoms.

Exercising regularly is very important. When someone is depressed and exhausted, the last thing she feels like doing is exercising. But the fact is, cardiovascular exercise done five times a week for 45 minutes has been found in multiple studies to be as effective as medication in alleviating symptoms of depression.

Medication. Some antidepressant medication can be very helpful, especially in cases of severe depression. A general practitioner or a psychiatrist can prescribe these medications but if a woman is breastfeeding, it is advisable to consult a specialist in that area to ensure minimal effect of the medication on the breast milk. Medication should be considered as one of the

options rather than the only option as there are other, highly effective therapies available. In any event, medication should be a woman’s choice.

Postpartum depression is a serious health concern. No one should feel this way and no one deserves it. If a mother becomes depressed, it is not her fault and she is unlikely to be able to “snap out of it”—people can’t just snap out of depression as depression is very over-powering.

Depressed mothers need and deserve a lot of support from family and friends as well as professional help. With that help, they may just start feeling like themselves again and be able to better care for their family.

If you think you are experiencing postpartum depression, consult with your physician immediately to get help. ]

Photo credit: Jillian Kirby, jilliankirbybaby.com

Dr. Michal Regev is a registered psychologist and marriage and family therapist practicing in Vancouver.

She can be contacted through her website at www.drregev.com

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Wed, Nov. 23, 2011 1:00 - 7:00 pm The Coast Hotel and Convention Centre 20393 Fraser Hwy, Langley

Start your Christmas shopping early at this one-stop shopping opportunity!

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• Unique & innovative gifts for children of all ages & abilities • Over 50 exhibitors

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Admission & childminding by donation

www.langleycdc.com 604.532.8184 ext 108

urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 31

ON THE TOWN SEPTEMBER 2011 SEP 12, 10 am - 4 pm: Southlands Country Fair, 7025 MacDonald St, Vanc.

Pony rides, petting farm, horse entertainment, games, thrift sale, silent auction, games and much more. Entry by donation.

Some activities may cost a small fee while others are free.

Info: southlandsridingclub.com to SEP 18, every weekend, 7 - 11 pm: Summer Night Market, 12631 Vulcan Way, Rmd. Shopping, food stalls, and buskers. Free admission.

Info: summernightmarket.com SEP 24, 7 pm: Once Upon A Cure, A Gala for Hunter Syndrome Research, Sutton Place Hotel, 845 Burrard St, Vanc. Help find a cure for MPS II. This gala celebrates the joy of life and helps raise funds for research.

Cocktail reception, 6 pm; dinner, 7 pm. Entertainment, auctions. Tickets: $250/ individual or $1,900/table of 8.

Purchase tickets online. Info: onceuponacure.com or info@ onceuponacure.com SEP 25, 11 am - 5 pm: The Word on the Street Festival, Library Square, at Library Square and CBC Plaza, Vanc.

Storytelling, Family Literacy Tent, bookmaking for kids, kids-only scavenger hunt. Info: thewordonthestreet.ca to SEP 25: Playland at the PNE. Info: pne.ca/playland

Fall family fun OCTOBER 2011 OCT 2, 11 am - 4 pm: Bellies to Babies Celebration, Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Dr, Vanc. A oneof-a-kind event for new and expectant parents to explore and shop. First 100 moms in attendance will receive a complimentary diaper bag.

Admission by donation to Basics for Babies. Sponsored by urbanbaby & toddler. Info: belliestobabiescelebration.com

OCT 7 – 31: Stanley Park Ghost Train at Stanley Park Miniature Train, Vancouver. Info: 604-257-8531 or vancouver.ca/ parks/events/ghosttrain OCT 7 - 10: Rainforest Explorers Program, Capilano Suspension Bridge, 3735 Capilano Rd, N Vanc.

Music and kids’ crafts. Info: capbridge.com OCT 8 - 31, 10 am - 5 pm: Children’s Halloween Fair & Train, Bear Creek Park Train, 13750 - 88th Ave, Surrey. Train ride through Halloween display, crafts, games, candy and pumpkin. Info: bctrains.com OCT 15 - 16, 11 am – 4 pm: UBC Apple Festival, UBC Botanical Garden, Vancouver.

Participate in apple tasting, see demos of cider-pressing, enjoy the entertainment.

Admission applies. Info: ubcbotanicalgarden.ubc.ca/ apple-festival

OCT 29 - 30: Halloween Weekend, Capilano Suspension Bridge, 3735 Capilano Rd, N Vanc. Jack-olantern display, fortune telling, temporary tattoos, crafts, music and trick-or-treating if you show up in costume. Info: capbridge.com OCT 31, 3:30 - 5:30 pm: Halloween on the Heights, Hastings St (fr Boundary Rd to Gamma Ave), Bby. Participating Heights merchants will be handing out candy and treats to children in costume. A deliciously spooky (but not too spooky!) evening filled with yummy treats and a magical touch of community spirit. Info: burnabyheights.com/halloween NOVEMBER 2011 NOV 12, 9 am - 1 pm: Huge Kids Swap Meet, Cloverdale Fairgrounds, 6050 176 St, Surrey. New and gently used kids’ items for sale. Admission applies. Info: 604-588-9919.

NOV 23, 1 - 7 pm: Lower Mainland Toy & Product Fair 2011, Coast Hotel & Convention Ctr, 20393 Fraser Hwy, Langley.

Unique, innovative gifts for kids of all abilites and ages.

50+ exhibitors. Admission & childminding by donation. Start Christmas shopping early.

Info: langleycdc.com or 604-532-8184 ext 108.

Contact event organizers with info provided to confirm details.

PUMPKIN PATCHES Information is subject to change without notice.

Pumpkin Patch, Aldor Acres, 24990 - 84th Ave, Langley, 604-888-0788, aldoracres.com The Applebarn Pumpkin Farm, 333 Gladwin Rd, Abbotsford, 604-853-3108, applebarn.ca Chilliwack Corn Maze, 41905 Yale Road West, Chilliwack, 604-819-6203, chilliwackcornmaze.com Hazelmere Pumpkin Patch, 18507 20 Ave, Surrey, 604-992-7748 Laity Pumpkin Patch, 21145 128 St, Maple Ridge, 604-467-4302, http://members.shaw.ca/ joshscherban/ The Pumpkin Patch at Richmond Country Farms, 12900 Steveston Hwy, Richmond, 604-274-0522, countryfarms.ca

Full-day kindergarten: Is your child ready? cont’d from page 7 foundation, academic success will fall into place.

Indicators of an academic achiever in kindergarten: • Practices gross motor skills such as throwing, kicking,

jumping and running.

• Practices fine motor skills, holding a pencil, cutting paper and drawing.

• Shows an interest in counting and puts it into practice.

32 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

• Shows interest in sorting and matching, including playing with puzzles.

• Shows an interest in books and spends time reading and enjoys listening to and telling stories.

What you can do: Read together every day.

When reading together, ask questions about the picture and new words. “Where is that boy cont’d next page

by Emilie Salomons

POSTPARTUM

L

ately I have been surprised at the lack of information and resources for new mom’s experiencing postpartum prolapse. After asking around for personal accounts of women’s birth stories, I was astounded at the number of women who experienced pelvic floor weakness or prolapse following a birth and were left without any support.

Patricia from Vancouver remembers her uterine and bladder prolapse after the birth of her daughter. “The birth was very difficult and left me weak and exhausted. I was dribbling urine with the slightest abdominal pressure and I felt a sagging sensation in my pelvis.”

Patricia says she came to my clinic because her doctor told her that nothing could be done unless her symptoms got worse. She didn’t agree that waiting was her only option so she came to me to see if acupuncture could help.

During the first treatment she noticed she could feel a lifting sensation and by the end of the month she could no longer feel the protrusion. After two months of regular treatment and exercise, she was able to hold her urine and noticed that she was generally feeling stronger and more energetic. She asked me later why doctors don’t usually mention acupuncture for a prolapse that isn’t severe

Postpartum prolapse

enough to warrant surgery, all I could answer was that I think it is because doctors and their patients aren’t aware of the options that are available to them.

Here is a basic outline for recognizing, treating and preventing postpartum prolapse.

What is a prolapse?

A prolapse is a condition where an organ, in this case the uterus, normally held in place by a network of ligaments and muscles, slips or falls out of place.

Who is at risk for a uterine prolapse?

Prolapse and pelvic floor weakness is most commonly experienced if you have had several vaginal births, a prolonged difficult labour, or if you have a congenital pelvic muscle weakness. Severity may range from a mild pelvic floor weakness, to a full-blown thirddegree prolapse. Bladder and bowel prolapse can be treated similarly to vaginal prolapse with exercises, such as Kegels, vaginal support devices and acupuncture.

Common symptoms of uterine prolapse: • Pulling and/or heaviness in your pelvis • Pain with intercourse • Protrusion at the base of your vagina • Lower back aching and pain

• Symptoms worsen at night and with fatigue Treatment options A common tool used is a vaginal pessary, it is a rubber ring that fits around the lower part of your cervix and props up the uterus. The ring must be removed and cleaned often, and may interfere with sexual intercourse.

Acupuncture is most effective for treating mild to moderate prolapse and pelvic floor weakness. Treatment frequency ranges from one to two times a week for a month, then depending on results, treatment is usually tapered off over the next month. Most patients notice a lifting sensation after treatments. For severe cases like third degree prolapse, surgery may be necessary.

Lifestyle modifications are also an important factor in reducing symptoms. Weight loss is recommended for women who are obese. Heavy lifting should be avoided when possible, and chronic coughs should be treated. Smokers with chronic cough are also usually told to try to quit smoking.

Prevention & maintenance Like any muscle in your body, exercise is crucial to keep you strong and healthy. Kegels are the most common form of pelvic floor strengthening exercise.

They are simple and can be done almost anywhere and at anytime.

Step 1: If you have never done them before, first familiarize yourself with your pelvic muscles by stopping and starting your flow of urine. The muscles you use when you squeeze to stop urinating are the same muscles you will squeeze when you are doing the exercise.

Step 2: Once you have located your pelvic floor muscles, get comfortable in a sitting or laying position. Contract your pelvic floor muscles, hold for five seconds then relax the muscles.

Remember to breathe while doing this. Repeat this 5 to 10 times in a row. Once you are used to the exercises, work up to holding the contraction for 10 seconds, then resting for 10 seconds.

Step 3: Three sets of 10 Kegels should be done morning, noon and night. Kegels can be done anywhere, including on the commute to work, at your desk, or while watching your favorite television program. Just like any other muscle, frequency is key to building strength. ] Dr. Emilie Salomons practices Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, with a focus in reproductive medicine at Acubalance Wellness Centre in Vancouver, BC.

Full-day kindergarten: Is your child ready? cont’d from page 32 going? What do you think will happen next?”

Make counting part of everyday life, “How many fingers do you have? Let’s count the rock and see how many you have.”

Practice sorting colours,

numbers and shapes. This will promote numeric skills.

Provide puzzles for your child with varying degrees of difficulty.

First, teach him clues on how to solve the puzzle and later give him praise when he can solve it

more on his own.

Play with water, cups, sand, and play outdoors. This promotes the understanding of science.

Practice fine motor skills by threading string through beads.

For gross motor skills, throwing,

kicking and running are good practices. ] Kristy Hill is a freelance graphic designer and communications specialist who works out of her home office with a happy, enthusiastic little boy by her side.

urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 33

Circumcision? Consider both sides of the cut cont’d from page 17 Health Organization to advise that male circumcision should be included as an additional strategy for the prevention of heterosexually acquired HIV infection in men in areas with a high prevalence of the disease.

According to a recent study published in Future Microbiology in July 2011, HPV transmission is reduced in the case of circumcised men, and implicitly their female sexual partners. Since the study was done in a sub-Saharan country where HPV infection is exacerbated by the high percentage of HIV infections, opponents object to the necessity of it in countries where other preventative methods such as condom use and proper sexual education are available. A recent review concluded that circumcision is associated with a reduced prevalence and persistence of the cancer-causing HPV virus and it should be described as only one of many factors that may reduce the global burden of HPV infection.

“The operation is not necessary but it is understandable why people would do it based on the medical benefits,” Pollock says, pointing out several benefits such as reduced risk of sexually transmitted diseases such as HPV and HIV, reduced risk of UTIs during the first year of life, prevention of foreskin infections and a reduced risk lower risk of penile cancer, an otherwise rare condition that affects 1 in 100,000.

For Andrea Tanner* the decision was an easy one.

“We circumcised our son for traditional reasons.

Every Jewish man I know is circumcised and knowing that we opted for a wellexperienced practitioner, we were not disapointed,” Tanner explains.

As for pain, Pollock explains, that’s no longer an issue. “The technique used at our clinics is a virtually painless, virtually bloodless procedure that takes 30 seconds,” he says.

Side 2: Anti-circumcision “I would not have subjected my son to a circumcision if he did not have to for medical reasons,” Chelsea MacDonald says. Many parents and anticircumcision advocates agree.

There are several reasons that some people leave their sons intact. The benefits outlined above may not be reason enough to subject the baby to surgery that carries possible health risks, minimal as they are. Bleeding and infection in the circumcised area are the most common problems. Presence of urine and pressure from diapers may cause local irritation, increasing the risk of infection.

In rare cases, babies can suffer damage to the penis that requires medical treatment.

Many well-respected childcare experts such as Dr. William Sears (www.AskDrSears. com) recommend that parents leave their sons’ foreskin intact. The foreskin, he writes, has lots of nerve endings that make it very sensitive to touch and its presence enhances sexual pleasure. It protects the glans (head of the penis) from constant rubbing and chaffing against clothing that can desensitize it over the years.

34 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

Cleanliness, one of the reasons cited by many parents who choose to circumcise for non-religious reasons, is not an issue since it can be easily taken care of without even retracting the foreskin. It is true that an uncircumcised penis requires more care since there are areas where bacteria can hide and cause infections, but water and soap solve the problem.

As for the sexually transmitted diseases, including the dreaded HIV and HPV, if circumcisions would have been the magic solution, countries with a high percentage of circumcised men should have little or no issue with these terrible diseases, yet their rates are significant enough to make circumcision questionable, opponents argue. Proper, timely sexual education and condom using help prevent the above-listed infections with none of the pain and possible risks associated with circumcision.

There are people and medical groups who believe that circumcising a baby is unethical since the baby has no say in it. Many call the procedure, “male genital mutilation,” and argue that if boys, respectively men, want, they can decide for themselves later on. While there is scientific evidence that circumcision offers a few medical advantages, many opponents believe that proper education, both hygienic and sexual, and prophylactic measures such as using condoms and reducing the number of sexual partners, can protect men against infections and STDs.

Bottom line Some parents do it, some don’t. It’s not the kind of decision that you can come back to and change things for your son in case you change your mind. Whether done in a hospital or private clinic, whether done for religious, prophylactic or cosmetic reasons, circumcision is a surgical operation that carries both benefits and risks and all should be considered carefully before deciding, even more so because you, the parent, are deciding for your baby boy. As with most decisions involving our children, do your research and weigh in on the pro and con arguments yourself.

The circumcision issue will always have two sides to it and it will most likely remain one of the most controversial childcare topics. Whichever side you choose, do it only if you’re convinced and not because it’s trendy or it looks good. The human body is beautiful with all its imperfections and should be treated with utmost respect.

If, after weighing both the risks and benefits associated with circumcision, you decide to go ahead with the surgery, make sure you opt for an experienced practitioner who will offer pre- and postoperative counselling and explain to you all elements of risk. Voltaire once said that “No problem can withstand the assault of sustained thinking.”

Add researching to that and you’ve got the whole picture. ]

Lice cont’d from page 23 come in contact with the product.

• Repeat the treatment after 7 to 10 days.

Sometimes, these treatments can make the scalp itchy or can leave a mild burning feeling. If your child is scratching after treatment, it does not necessarily mean the lice are back.

A noninsecticidal product called isopropyl myristate/ cyclomethicone (Resultz) has also been approved for use in Canada, but it should only be used in children four years of age and older: It works by breaking down the waxy exoskeleton (‘skin’) of lice. The lice get dehydrated and die.

• Apply to a dry scalp and rinse after 10 minutes.

• Repeat after one week.

Do not treat anyone with a head lice product unless you find lice in their hair. Check all family members if someone in the house has head lice.

What about other treatments?

• Some people use home remedies such as mayonnaise, petroleum jelly, olive oil, vinegar or margarine. Although these products may make it hard for lice to breathe, they probably won’t kill them.

• There is very little evidence that wet combing works (removing lice by combing wet hair with a fine-tooth comb).

• There is no evidence that products such as tea tree oil or aromatherapy work to treat

head lice.

• Never use gasoline or kerosene. These products can be extremely dangerous.

Should the house be disinfected if someone has head lice?

Because head lice don’t live long off the scalp, there is no need for extra cleaning.

To get rid of lice or nits from items like hats or pillowcases: • Wash the items in hot water and dry in a hot dryer for 15 min; or • Store the items in an airtight plastic bag for two weeks.

Should children with head lice stay home from school?

Children with head lice should be treated and can attend school or child care as usual.

‘No-nit’ policies that keep children with head lice away from school are not necessary because: • Head lice are common among young children.

• Head lice don’t spread disease.

• Cases of head lice are often misdiagnosed.

• Children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms.

If your child has head lice, treat it. Teach your child to avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone. Children should not share combs, hairbrushes, caps, hats or hair ornaments. ]

*Denotes advertiser

resource directory

• breastfeeding clinics and/or support. . .............................................. 35 •c hild care resource & referral..................................... 35 • children’s programs................ 36 • circumcision............................ 36 • counselling.............................. 36 • daycare................................... 36 • dental...................................... 36 • doulas..................................... 36 • education................................ 36 • fitness..................................... 36 • food - nutrition........................ 36 • hair styling............................... 36 • health services........................ 36 • insurance................................ 36 • parent-and-tot programs......... 36 • parent-and-tot storytimes.......... 37 • photography........................... 38 • prenatal classes...................... 38 •p ublic health services/ nurses..................................... 38 • retailers - clothing, equipment, accessories & gifts.................. 38 • sleep consultants.................... 39 • support services..................... 39 • vasectomy............................... 39

Breastfeeding Clinics and/or Support Abbotsford Health Unit 104–34194 Marshall Rd, Abbotsford 604-864-3400 Drop-in breastfeeding clinics & breast milk depot for breast milk bank BC Women’s Hospital Breastfeeding Classes 4500 Oak St, Vancouver, 604-875-2282 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only Burnaby Hospital 3935 Kincaid St, Bury; 604-434-4211 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only Burnaby Region–Fraser Health Authority 604-918-7605 Drop-in breastfeeding services at two locations: • McGill Library, Program Room: Wed, 1–3 pm 4595 Albert St, Burnaby • Eastburn Community Centre: Thurs, 1–3 pm 7435 Edmonds, Burnaby Cloverdale Public Health Unit 17536–58th Ave, Surrey 604-575-5100 Coquitlam Preventative Health Services 200–205 Newport Dr, Port Moody 604-949-7200 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only

Breastfeeding Clinics and/or Support cont’d Milk Bank at BC’s Children’s Hospital 4480 Oak St, Vancouver 604-875-2282 Donate or receive breast milk Newborn Hotline 604-737-3737 Telephone info & referral service for questions about babies birth to age 2. Open 24 hours. Serves Richmond & Vancouver.

North Shore Health Region 604-983-6700 Serving North & West Vancouver North Surrey Public Health Unit 220–10362 King George Hwy, Surrey 604-587-7900 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only Pacific Spirit Community Health Centre 2110 West 43rd Ave, Vancouver 604-261-6366 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only; avail Wed am Richmond Health Department 7000 Westminster Hwy, Richmond 604-233-3150 By appointment only, Weds, 1-3pm South Delta-Ladner Public Health Unit 4470 Clarence Taylor Way, Ladner 604-952-3550 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only Vancouver Breastfeeding Clinic 340–943 W Broadway, Vancouver 604-738-1912 www.breastfeedingclinic.com White Rock Public Health Unit 1185 Centre St, White Rock 604-542-4000 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only Child Care Resource & Referral Abbotsford Child Care Resource & Referral 100 - 32475 Simon Ave, Abbtfd 604-850-7934, www.childcarechoices.ca Child Care Options Resource & Referral 6878 King George Highway, Surrey 604-572-8032 childcareoptions@options.bc.ca www.childcareoptions.ca Serving Surrey, White Rock & Delta Langley Child Care Resource & Referral 20577 Fraser Hwy, Langley, 604-533-4425 North Shore Child Care Resource & Ref 201–935 Marine Dr, N Van, 604-985-7138 Richmond Child Care Resource & Referral 190–700 Minoru Blvd, Rmd 604-279-7020

Guildford Public Health Unit 10233–153rd St, Surrey 604-587-4750 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only (available Tues afternoons & Fri mornings)

Sea to Sky Child Care Resource & Referral • 38370 Buckley Ave, Squamish 604-815-4144 • Pemberton 1-877-894-6106 (Grace)

La Leche League 604-520-4623 Serving the Lower Mainland www.lalecheleaguecanada.ca

Sunshine Coast Child Care Resource & Referral • 5520 Trail Ave, Sechelt; 604-885-5657 • 659 North Road, Gibsons; 604-886-3103 • Pender Harbour; 604-883-2827

Langley Public Health Unit 22033 Fraser Hwy, Langley 604-532-2300 Breastfeeding clinics by appt only

Vancouver Child Care Resource Centre 2772 E. Broadway, 604-709-5661 www.childcareresource.ca urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 35

Child Care Resource & Referral cont’d

Dental

Hair Styling

Parent & Tot Programs cont’d

Westcoast Child Care Resource Centre 2772 East Broadway, Vancouver 604-709-5661, www.wstcoast.org

Tot 2 Teen Dental Care* Dr. Anita B. Gartner Inc. #219-179 Davie Street, Vanc, 604-569-3669 www.tot2teendental.com admin@ tot2teendental.com “Your child’s care is our focus.”

See ad on page 17

Mobile Locks Hairdressing Services* Bringing high-end hair to the comfort and convenience of your home. Licensed in both the UK and Canada, accreditations and service list at www.mobilelocks.ca Save time, save money.

Contact us today at 604-720-7210 or mobile locks@ hotmail.com to book your appointment.

See ad on page 27

COQUITLAM

Westcoast Family Info & Referral 2772 East Broadway, Vancouver 604-709-5699; www.wstcoast.org YMCA Child Care Resource & Referral Serving Burnaby, New Westminster, and the Tri-Cities (Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore and Belcarra) • Tri-Cities: 1130 C Austin Ave, Coquitlam 604-931-3400; triccrr@ vanymca.org • Burnaby/New Westminster: 33–250 Willingdon Ave, Bby 604-294-1109; vanymca.org Children’s Programs Aquaventures Swim Centre* “A Vancouver swimstation since 1984!”

Tropical warm water and excellent teachers make every lesson an aqua-adventure!

604-736-7946 www.aquaventuresswim.com See our ad on page 6 BrightStars Program* Enrich your life with the BrightStars Program and let your child blossom. Learn dance, music and movement in this highly energetic and caring program. Classes held in Kitsilano, Yaletown & Dunbar from 1 - 13 years old. Please call Miss Jordan at 604-662-8554 or email info@ brightstars.ca www.brightstars.ca See ad on page 23 Gymboree Play & Music* www.gymboreeclasses.com Our locations: Vanc & North Shore: 604-739-1190 Email: vancouverbc@gymboreeclasses.com Coquitlam/Tri-Cities: 604-945-4967 Email: coquitlambc@ gymboreeclasses.com Award-winning play, music, arts and baby signs classes for newborns to 5-year-olds.

See ad on page 11 Circumcision Pollock Clinics* Dr. Pollock is a pioneer in North America in developing a safe and virtually painless 30-second circumcision technique. Dr. Pollock has safely performed over 30,000 circumcisions (from newborn to six months) with an extremely low complication rate.

604-717-6200 www.circumcisionvancouver.com See ad on page 16 Counselling Tania Zulkoskey Counselling* Counselling can help strengthen relationshipos, sort out mixed feelings and process trauma. LGBTQ welcomed. Your family story begins with you.

604-771-8647 tzcounselling@ yahoo.ca See ad on page 22 Daycare Kuddles Daycare Programs* Full- and part-time daycare programs for babies, toddlers and preschoolers.

370 Mathers Avenue, West Vancouver 604-729-6538 or info@ kuddles.ca See ad on page 29

Doulas Doulas of North America (DONA) 1-888-788-DONA; www.DONA.org Doula Services Association, BC 604-515-5588; www.bcdoulas.org Education ArtSpace Children’s Arts Centre A brand-new facility in Burnaby that delivers inspiring dance, music, theatre and visual arts classes for children ages 6 mos - 12 years. www.artspaceforchildren.com See ad on page 2 Core Education & Fine Arts* CORE Education & Fine Arts: Canada’s first Junior Kindergarten school. Highly recognized for its leading academic program. For more information about our schools or to find a location near you, please visit www.cefa.ca.

See ad on page back cover KinderHeart Montessori* KinderHeart Montessori Petite offers a new & exceptional infant & toddler daycare program. Our prepared natural environment will allow your child to reach their full potential. Visit us today!

10957 Barnston View Rd, Pitt Meadows 604-460-8558; www.kinderheart.ca See ad on page 18 Fitness Runners and Booties* Runners and Booties Fitness offers specially designed fitness classes for mom and baby since 2005. Come try our new program Salsa Babies and Salsa Tots.

For information call 778-285-6265.

See ad on page 23

Health Services Dr. Ayla Wilson, ND* Dr. Wilson is a naturopathic physician with a holistic family medicine practice.

Pediatrics, prenatal, fertility, autism, and ADHD. Naturopathic care for you and your little ones!

604-988-1411 www.DrAylaWilson.com See ad on page 9 Insurance

Chimo Indoor Swimming Pool 620 Poirier, Coquitlam, 604-933-6027 COQUITLAM cont’d City Centre Aquatic Complex 1210 Pinetree, Coquitlam, 604-927-6999 Pinetree Community Centre 1260 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam, 604-927-6960 Poirier Community Centre 630 Poirier, Coquitlam, 604-933-6010 DELTA Ladner Leisure Centre 4600 Clarence Taylor Crescent, Delta, 604946-3310 Sungod Recreation Centre 7815–112th St, Delta, 604-952-3075 Winskill Aquatic & Fitness Centre 5575 9th Avenue, Delta, 604-952-3005

Allison Layne, Sun Life Financial* Insurance doesn’t have to be expensive or confusing. Let me help you take the necessary steps, to make your dreams a reality.

Allison Layne, GBA 604-607-3970 ext 2275 allison.layne@ sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/allison.layne See ad on page 17

FRASER VALLEY

Parent & Tot Programs

Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre of SACS 13629 – 108th Avenue, Surrey, 604-5842008

BURNABY Bonsor Recreation Centre 6550 Bonsor Ave, Burnaby, 604-439-1860 Burnaby Family Place Drop-in for parents and their kids 0-6 yrs 410 Clare Ave, Burnaby, 604-299-5112 CG Brown Memorial Pool 3702 Kensington Ave, Burnaby, 604-299-9374 Cameron Recreation Centre 9523 Cameron St, Burnaby, 604-421-5225

The Family Resource Program Network of the Lower Fraser Valley offers toy libraries, drop-in programs, support, art activities.

Alexandra Family Place, 604-535-0015 Bridgeview Family Place ,604-580-2344 Delta Family Place, 604-591-9262 Guildford Family Place, 604-583-3844

Ladner Family Place, 604-946-0324 Langley Family Place, 604-534-7921 Newton Family Place, 604-572-8032 South Delta Family Place, 604-946-6622 Semiahmoo Family Place, 604-535-6263 Whalley Family Place, 604-580-2344 LANGLEY Douglas Recreation Centre 20550 Douglas Crescent, 604-514-2865

Food–Nutrition

Confederation Comm Centre 4585 Albert St, Burnaby, 604-294-1936

BC Women’s Hospital Nutrition counselling for pregnant women.

Free service/no referral nec. 604-875-2330

Eastburn Community Centre 7435 Edmonds St, Burnaby, 604-525-5361

Corinne Eisler, Registered Dietitian, Pediatric Nutrition Expert* Corinne is a registered dietitian and pediatric nutrition expert that can help you with your child’s nutrition or feeding issues, and she will help you and your child to be a confident happy eater!

Visit www.eislerforkids.ca for more info.

See ad on page 22

Edmonds Community Centre 7282 Kingsway, Burnaby, 604-525-1671

Walnut Grove Comm Ctr & Aquatic Ctr 8889 Walnut Grove Drive, 604-882-0408

Eileen Dailly Leisure Pool & Fitness Centre 240 Willingdon Ave, Burnaby, 604-298-SWIM

NEW WESTMINSTER

Recipes to the Rescue* Recipes to the Rescue is a free newsletter for the everyday cook adding inspiration to the routine of daily cooking. Simple recipes full of fresh seasonal foods. To receive the free seasonal newsletter, go to www. recipestotherescue.ca.

See ad on page 12

36 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

Movies for Mommies* Wednesdays, 12:30 pm Dolphin Theatre, 4555 E Hastings, Bby www.moviesformommies.com See ad on page 26 Willingdon Heights Community Centre 1491 Carleton Ave, Burnaby, 604-299-1446 CLOVERDALE CloverValley Family Resource Place 604-671-9079

Langley Civic Centre 20699–29th Ave, Langley, 604-530-1323 WC Blair Recreation Centre 2220 Fraser Hwy, Langley, 604-533-6170

Canada Games Pool & Fitness Centre 65 E 6th Ave, New West, 604-526-4281 Centennial Community Centre & Fitness 65 E. 6th Ave, New West, 604-777-5100 Century House-Moody Park recCentre 620–8th St, New West, 604-519-1066 New Westminster Family Place #101-93 Sixth St, New West, 604-520-3666 Songs, crafts, parent education classes. All programs free, Mon - Sat, 9:30 - 11:30 am; Mon & Tues 1 - 3 pm.

Queensborough Community Centre 920 Ewen, New West, 604-525-7388

*Denotes advertiser

Parent & Tot Programs cont’d

Parent & Tot Programs cont’d

Parent & Tot Programs cont’d

Parent & Tot Storytimes (FREE) cont’d

MAPLE RIDGE

SURREY cont’d

VANCOUVER cont’d

COQUITLAM cont’d

Maple Ridge Public Library 130 - 22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd 604-467-7417

Guildford Recreation Centre 15105-105 Ave, Surrey, 604-502-6360

Movies for Mommies* Wednesdays, 12:30 pm The Rio Theatre, 1660 East Broadway (at the Commercial Skytrain station), Vancouver www.moviesformommies.com See ad on page 26

City Centre Branch 3001 Burlington Dr, Coquitlam, 604-927-3561

NORTH VANCOUVER

Newton Recreation Centre 7120-136B St, Surrey, 604-501-5040

Delbrook recCentre 600 Queens Rd, North Vanc, 604-987-7529

South Surrey Recreation Centre 2199–148 St, Surrey, 604-502-6200

Karen Magnusson recCentre 2300 Kirkstone Pl, N Vanc, 604-987-7529

Surrey Sport & Leisure Co 16555 Fraser Hwy, Surrey, 604-501-5950

Lynn Valley recCentre 3590 Mountain Hwy, N Vanc,604-987-7529

North Surrey Recreation Centre 10275–135 Street, Surrey, 604-502-6300

Parkgate recCentre 3625 Banff Crt, N Vanc, 604-987-7529

VANCOUVER

Roundhouse Community Centre 181 Roundhouse Mews, Vanc, 604-713-1800

Britannia Community Centre 1661 Napier St, Vanc, 604-718-5800

South Vancouver Family Place 7710 Nanaimo St, Vanc, 604-325-5213

Britannia Pool 1661 Napier St, Vanc, 604-718-5800

Strathcona Community Centre 601 Keefer St, Vancouver, 604-713-1838

Champlain Heights 3350 Maquinna Dr, Vanc, 604-718-6575

Sunset Pool 404 E 51st Ave, Vanc, 604-718-6505

Coal Harbour Comm Centre 480 Broughton, Vanc, 604-718-8222

Trout Lake Community Centre 3350 Victoria Dr, Vanc, 604-257-6955

New Westminster Public Library 716–6th Ave, New West, 604-527-4660

Douglas Park Comm Centre 801 W 22nd Ave, Vanc, 604-257-8130

Vancouver Aquatic Centre 1050 Beach Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3424

NORTH VANCOUVER

Dunbar Community Centre 4747 Dunbar, Vancouver, 604-222-6060

West End Community Centre 870 Denman St, Vanc, 604-257-8333

Eastside Family Place 1655 William St, Vanc, 604-255-9841

West Point Grey Community Centre 4397 W 2nd Ave, Vancouver, 604-257-8140

Ron Andrews recCentre 931 Lytton, North Vanc, 604-987-7529 Seylynn recCentre 605 Mountain Hwy, N Vanc, 604-987-7529 William Griffith recCentre 851 W Queens Rd, N Vanc, 604-987-7529 W.V. Family Place Adventure Playground Bldg, Ambleside Park, 604-925-7172 PORT COQUITLAM Hyde Creek Recreation Centre 1379 Laurier, Port Coquitlam, 604-927-7946 www.portcoquitlam.ca Port Coquitlam Recreation Ctr 2150 Wilson, P Coquitlam, 604-927-7970 www.portcoquitlam.ca PORT MOODY Kyle Recreation Centre 125 Kyle St, P Moody, 604-469-4561 ww.cityofportmoody.com Port Moody Recreation Complex 300 Ioco Rd, P Moody, 604-469-4556 www.cityofportmoody.com RICHMOND Cambie Centre 4111 Jacombs, Richmond, 604-233-8399 City Centre/Lang Centre 140–8279 Saba, Richmond, 604-233-8910 Hamilton Centre 5140 Smith Dr, Richmond, 604-718-8055 Minoru Aquatic Centre 7560 Minoru Gate, Rmd, 604-718-8020 Richmond Family Place 8660 Ash St, 604-278-4336 Sea Island Centre 7140 Miller, Richmond, 604-718-8000 South Arm Centre 8880 Williams, Richmond, 604-718-8060 Steveston Centre 4111 Moncton, Richmond, 604-718-8080 Thompson Centre 5151 Granville Ave, Rmd, 604-718-8422 West Richmond Centre 9180 No 1 Rd, Rmd, 604-718-8400 SURREY Cloverdale Recreation Centre 6220–184 St, Surrey, 604-502-6400 Fleetwood Recreation Centre 15996–84 Ave, Surrey, 604-401-5003

False Creek Community Centre 1318 Cartwright, Vanc, 604-257-8195 Frog Hollow Neighbourhood House 2131 Renfrew St, Vanc, 604-251-1225 Every Fri, 1–3:30 pm. Cantonese Family Drop-in free for parents with kids 6 & under.

Hastings Community Centre 3096 E Hastings, Vanc, 604-718-6200 Kensington Community Centre 5175 Dumfries, Vanc, 604-718-6200 Kerrisdale Community Centre 5851 W Boulevard, Vanc, 604-257-8100 Killarney Community Centre 6260 Killarney, Vanc, 604-718-8200

Renfrew Park Community Centre 2929 E 22nd Ave, Vanc, 604-257-8388 Riley Park Community Centre 50 E 30th Ave, Vancouver, 604-257-8545

1321A - 56 Street 604-943-2271 MAPLE RIDGE Maple Ridge Public Library 130 - 22470 Dewdney Trunk Rd., Mpl Ridge 604-467-7417 NEW WESTMINSTER

Lynn Valley Main Library 1280 E 27th St, N Vanc, 604-984-0286 Capilano Branch 3045 Highland Blvd, N Vanc, 604-987-4471

RICHMOND

West Vancouver Family Place Drop-in for parents/caregivers & preschool children (infant to 6 yrs), 604-925-7172 Gleneagles Community Centre 5575 Marine, West Vancouver, 604-921-2100

Brighouse–Main Branch 100–7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond, 604-231-6401 Cambie Branch Cambie Shopping Plaza (SW corner) 150–11590 Cambie Road, Richmond 604-273-ABCD (2223) Ironwood Branch 8200–11688 Steveston Hwy, Richmond 604-231-6468

Parent & Tot Storytimes (FREE)

Clearbrook Library 32320 George Ferguson Way 604-859-7814, ext 229

Tsawwassen Library

Terry Fox Library 2470 Mary Hill Rd, Port Coq, 604-927-7999

West Vancouver Community Centre 780–22nd, West Vancouver, 604-925-7270

Kitsilano Neighbourhood House Drop-in for paprents and their children 0-6 yrs. M-F, 9:30 - 11:30 am.

2325 W 7th Ave ,Vanc, 604-736-3588

Ladner Pioneer Library 4683 - 51 Street 604-946-6215

PORT COQUITLAM

WEST VANCOUVER

Call or visit each branch for details.

George Mackie Library 8440 112 St, Delta, 604-594-8155

Parkgate Branch 3675 Banff Crt, N Vanc, 604-929-3727

West Side Family Place 2819 W 11th Ave, 604-738-2819

Kitsilano Community Centre 2690 Larch St, Vancouver, 604-257-6976

DELTA

Steveston Branch 4111 Moncton, Richmond, 604-274-2012

ABBOTSFORD

SURREY Cloverdale Branch 5642–176A St, Surrey, 604-576-1384

Kitsilano Neighbourhood House @ Acadia Pk Multicultural drop-in for parents and their children 0-4 yrs. M, W, F, 10 - 11:30 am.

Acadia Park & Apartments, 2707 Tennis Crescent, UBC Campus, Vanc 604-736-3588

MSA Centennial Library 33660 South Fraser Way 604-853-1753

Marpole Family Place 1305 W 70th Ave, Vanc, 604-263-1405

BURNABY

Newton Branch 13795–70 Ave, Surrey, 604-596-7401

Marpole–Oakridge Community Centre 990 W 59th Ave, Vanc, 604-257-8180

Bob Prittle Metrotown Branch 6100 Willingdon Ave, Burnaby, 604-436-5420

Ocean Park Branch 12854–17 Ave, Surrey, 604-502-6304

Mount Pleasant Community Centre 3160 Ontario St, Vanc, 604-713-1888

Cameron Branch 9523 Cameron, Burnaby, 604-421-5454

Mount Pleasant Family Centre 2910 St George St, Vanc, 604-872-5213

McGill Branch 4595 Albert, Burnaby, 604-299-8955

Fleetwood Branch 15996–84 Ave, Surrey, 604-572-5922

Mount Lehman Library 5875 Mount Lehman Road 604-856-4988

Guildford Branch 15105–105 Ave, Surrey, 604-588-5015

COQUITLAM

Port Kells Branch 18885–88 Ave, Surrey, 604-882-0733 Strawberry Hill Branch 7399–122 St, Surrey, 604-501-5836 Whalley Branch 10347–135 St, Surrey, 604-588-5951

Poirier St Branch 575 Poirier, Coquitlam, 604-937-4144 urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 37

Parent & Tot Storytimes (FREE) cont’d

Photography cont’d

Prenatal Classes cont’d

Public Health Services/Nurses cont’d

VANCOUVER

Eclipse Photography* Award-winning and over 20 years of experience, photographer Kimberly Mara specializes in maternity, newborns & family portraiture. B/W & colour. Open 6 days/ week. In studio or on location. Studio is 600 sq ft with all amenities including makeup, change room/baby room & washroom.

604-984-7427; eclipsephotography@shaw.ca Online gallery: www.eclipsephotography.ca See ad on page 13

Belly to Baby Prenatal Education* Sarah Alexander, RN; 604-469-2698 www.bellytobaby.ca; bellytobaby@shaw.ca A comprehensive course that empowers and equips women and their birth partners with knowledge and confidence for their birth. Weekend and private courses avail.

Canada’s 1st retailer for the Dunstan Baby Language. Obstetrical TENS machine rentals (decrease labour pain without medication).

Twins class coming in January 2011.

See ad on page 28

South Community Health Office 6405 Knight St, Vanc; 604-321-6151

Britannia VPL Branch 1661 Napier, Vancouver, 604-665-2222 Central Library VPL 350 W Georgia St, Vanc, 604-331-3663 Champlain Heights VPL 7110 Kerr St, Vancouver, 604-665-3955 Collingwood VPL Branch 2985 Kingsway, Vanc, 604-665-3953 Dunbar VPL Branch 4515 Dunbar, Vanc, 604-665-3968 Firehall Library 1455 W 10th Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3970 Fraserview VPL 1950 Argyle Dr, Vanc, 604-665-3957 Hastings VPL 2674 E Hastings, Vanc, 604-665-3959 Joe Fortes VPL 870 Denman, Vanc, 604-665-3972 Kerrisdale VPL 2112 W 42nd Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3974 Kensington VPL 1428 Cedar Cottage Mews, Vancouver, 604-665-3961 Kitsilano VPL 2425 MacDonald, Vanc, 604-665-3976 Marpole VPL 8386 Granville St, Vanc, 604-665-3978 Mount Pleasant VPL 370 E Broadway, Vanc, 604-665-3962 Oakridge VPL 101–650 W 41st Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3980 Renfrew VPL 2969 E 22nd Ave, Vanc, 604-257-8705 Riley Park VPL 3981 Main St, Vancouver, 604-665-3964 South Hill VPL 6076 Fraser, Vancouver, 604-665-3965 Strathcona Community Library 592 Pender St, Vancouver, 604-665-3967 West Point Grey VPL 4480 W 10th Ave, Vanc, 604-665-3982 WEST VANCOUVER West Vancouver Memorial Library 1950 Marine, West Vanc, 604-925-7400 Photography Ashleigh Wells Photography* 778-228-7387 info@ashleighwellsphotography.com www.ashleighwellsphotography.com See ad on page 22 Bopomo Pictures* Bopomo offers a modern and fresh approach to studio photography combining convenience, fun and affordability with high-quality photography. Session fees only $29.95!

2631 W Broadway, Vanc; 604-678-1411 www.bopomo.ca See ad on page 19

Jillian Kirby Baby* Trust those first moments of your baby’s life to newborn and baby specialist photographer Jillian Kirby. Discover the comfort, quality and attention to detail of working with a boutique baby photographer. www.jilliankirbybaby.com 604-807-6687 See ad on page 9 Kia Porter Photography* Capturing fun, capturing chaos...capturing life! Candid portraiture in colour or black & white. On location or in the comfort of your own home. Digital negatives always included! www.kiaporter.com 604-787-4236 See ad on page 8 Leina Wade Photography* Enjoy custom photography by newborn and baby photo specialist Leina Wade. You will love the comfort and quality that every session provides. www.leinawadephotography.com 604-341-1510 info@leinawadephotography.com See ad on page 25 Plus One Photography* My aim is to capture a moment of your child and preserve it in a story. www.plusonephotography.com zeynep@plusonephotography.com See ad on page 26

Douglas College 604-527-5476 Serving Rmd, N Delta, Sry, & Langley Lower Mainland Childbearing Society 604-878-1031/registrar@childbearing.org North Vancouver Health Department 604-983-6863 St. Paul’s Hospital 604-806-8298 Public Health Services/Nurses Burnaby Preventive Health Services 300–4946 Canada Way, Burnaby 604-918-7605 Cloverdale Public Health Unit 17536–58th Ave, Sry, 604-575-5100 Coquitlam Preventive Health Srv 200–205 Newport, Pt Mdy, 604-949-7200 Guildford Public Health Unit 100–10233-153 St, Sry, 604-587-4750 Langley Public Health Unit 20389 Fraser Hwy, Lang, 604-539-2900 Maple Ridge Preventive Health Services 400-22470 Dewdney Trunk, Maple Ridge 604-476-7000 New Westminster Preventive Health Services 537 Carnarvon, New West, 604-777-6740 Newton Public Health Unit 200–7337–137 St, Sry, 604-592-2000

Snowy Photography* Beautiful, natural moments, captured forever. In studio or at your home. Please visit our website, or like me on Facebook for updates and specials. Xmas specials coming soon. www.snowyphotography.com 604-723-4119 See ad on page 17

North Community Health Office 200–1651 Commercial, Vanc; 604-253-3575

Studio 32 Photography* Photography for your tragically hip toddlers.

Libby loves being behind the camera to give you art from the heart. So go ahead and be silly, cool, naughty or shy! www.studio32photography.com See ad on page 14

North Surrey Public Health Unit 220–10362 King George Hwy, Sry 604-587-7900

Prenatal Classes BC Women’s Hospital 604-875-2169

North Delta Public Health Unit 11245–84 Ave, Delta, 604-507-5400 North Shore Community Health Services Central Community Health Centre 5th floor, 132 W Esplanade, North Vancouver, 604-983-6700

Pac Spirit Community Health Centre 2110 W 43rd Ave, Vanc; 604-261-6366 Parkgate Community Health Centre 2 Fl, 3625 Banff Crt, N Vanc,604-904-6450 Port Coq Preventive Health Services 2266 Wilson, Pt Moody, 604-777-8700 Port Moody Preventive Health Services 200-205 Newport, Pt Moody, 604-949-7200 Raven Song Community Health Centre 2450 Ontario St, Vanc, 604-709-6400 Richmond Health Department 7000 Westminster Hwy, Rmd,604-233-3150 S. Delta-Ladner Publ Health Unit 4470 Clarence Taylor, Ldner, 604-952-3550

38 | urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca | fall 11

Three Bridges Community Health Centre 1292 Hornby St, Vanc; 604-736-9844 Vancouver Community Health Services Evergreen Community Health Centre 3425 Crowley Dr, Vanc; 604-872-2511 West Comm Health Centre 990–22nd St, West Vanc; 604-904-6200 White Rock Public Health Unit 15476 Vine Ave, Wh Rock, 604-542-4000 Retailers–Clothing, Equipment, Accessories & Gifts Active Baby* With the largest selection of active, outdoor and green products for newborn to 4, ACTIVE BABY is a destination of active families at its Capilano Mall location on the North Shore, and online at: www.activebaby.ca 604-986-8977; info@activebaby.ca See ad on page 13 Baby On Board* Baby On Board sells strollers by Peg Perego, BOB, Maclaren, Mountain Buggy, Bugaboo, Baby Jogger, Valco Baby and Britax. We carry a carefully selected assortment of the finest baby products plus a complete assortment of care products. Two locations: • Richmond Ctr Mall (Rmd), 604-273-0884 • Sunwood Square Mall (Coq),778-285-8282 www.babyonboard.ca See ad on page 15 Baby Bellhop* We offer a huge selection of cloth diapers and accessories to suit every budget.

Feeling overwhelmed ? We’re here to help.

Give our program a whirl before you buy. bumGenius, GroVia, FuzziBunz, Thirsties, Flip, Rockin’ Green and more! www.babybellhop.com See ad on page 20 Boomers and Echoes Kids & Maternity* The North Shore’s largest selection of new and quality consigned, newborn to size 8 and maternity and nursing wear. Furniture, carseats and strollers. Serving families for over 28 years.

1985 Lonsdale, North Vancouver 604-984-6163 www.boomersandechoes.com See ad on page 19 Coco & Tini* Naturally pure hair and bath care for little ones info@cocoandtini.com www.cocoandtini.com See ad on page 23 dandelion KIDS* Celebrate with dandelion KIDS. Put a twinkle in their eyes with fun, non-toxic toys and games, stylish clothing and accessories for boys and girls up to 8 years. The best selection of books, decor items, bath products, gifts. Find a lovely balance of local designs and imports from around the world.

1206 Commercial Dr, Vancouver 604-676-1862; www.dandelionkids.ca See ad on page 31

*Denotes advertiser

Retailers–Clothing, Equipment, Accessories & Gifts cont’d

Retailers–Clothing, Equipment, Accessories & Gifts cont’d

Granville Island Toy Company, The* Providing children with unique and educational toys that engage and entertain.

We have a great selection of eco-friendly toys, as well as toys that are manufactured locally, within Canada and the United States. Open 10 am - 6 pm every day.

Two locations: • 3298 Main St, Vanc, 604-875-0065 •#11 - 1496 Cartwright St, Kids Market, Granville Island, 604-684-0076 See ad on page 21

Room for Two* Room for Two is your best pre and post birth resource centre. Along with maternity and nursing wear, breastfeeding items such as bras and pumps are our specialty. Owner, Lorena, is a 20-year experienced doula and childbirth educator.

1409 Commercial Dr, Vancouver 604-255-0508 See ad on page 12

HeidiKids* We provide quality wooden toys for small kids. www.heidikids.com See ad on page 28 Hip Baby* Hip Baby is playful, colourful and modern, and committed to a sustainable future without compromising style or fun! Organic toys, clothing, meal time, bath time and more. And the largest assortment of in-store cloth diapers and accessories in Vancouver.

3 locations: Van: 2110 West 4th. Vic: 560 Lower Johnson. Web: www.hipbaby.com See ad on page 24 Kids Market* Endlessly fun and fascinating stores! 30 unique shops and services for kids and kidsat-heart. Fashion, toys, games, costumes and more. Kids’ hair salon, play area and arcade. Open daily, 10 am - 6 pm.

1496 Cartwright, Granv Is, 604-689-8447 www.kidsmarket.ca See ad on page 22 Lussobaby* Where discerning parents discover modern nursery furniture, stylish clothing for little ones, locally-made organic gifts. Plus essentials for meal time, bath time and play time.

1037 Marine Drive, North Vancouver 778-340-0648; www.lussobaby.ca See ad on page 4 My Little Green Shop* An affordable eco-friendly lifestyle boutique.

Clothing, rainwear, accessories, diapers, nursery furniture, toys, gifts and more. www.mylittlegreenshop.com See ad on page 9 Odette Alfaro Jewelry* Personalized handstamped jewelry designs, perfect for everyday wear, ranging from keepsake mommy necklace to masculine military tags. All pieces can be customized to your names, dates, words or phrases. www.odettealfaro.com See ad on page 14 Oyaco Products Inc.* Oyaco Products is a distributor of innovative, safe and high-quality baby, maternity and children’s products. Visit our website to find a retailer near you. www.oyaco.com See ad on page 2 Pebble* The lifestyle store for kids 0-6 years. At Pebble, you’ll find a unique selection of toys, clothing, bedding, bath & feeding products. Visit us at 2675 Arbutus St (at W 11th), Vancouver, or shop online at www. pebblebaby.com 604-568-6923 See ad on page 25

Saf & Benjamin Baby Boutique* Saf & Benjamin Baby Boutique Yaletown carries stylish lines that will impress the most discerning little urbanites. Visit us at: 1081 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver 778-328-8194 www.safandbenjamin.com See ad on page 11 Stuck On You Labels* Stuck On You is personalizing the world one name at a time. Gorgeous height charts, lunch bags, water bottles and more...plus don’t forget your labels. Stylish labels that stay stuck for all your child’s belongings! www.stuckonyou.biz See ad on page 22 The Party Monkey - Your online party supplies store* Western Canada’s new store. Carrying supplies for birthdays, baby showers, bridal, themes & other special occasions. www.thepartymonkey.ca or call 778-298-1777 or email info@thepartymonkey.ca See ad on page 18 Tomato Footwear* Children’s footwear 102 - 1926 W 4th Ave, Vancouver 604-433-6448 www.tomatoesshoes.com See ad on page 8 Twinklebelle Design* Mom/kid-approved lines of products, designed

by Vancouver moms: - Grow-with-me sun hats - Non-slip hair accessories - Funky bibs - Nursing covers that double as stroller sun shades - Handmade baby knits & more www.twinklebelle.net See ad on page 21 Wee Ones Reruns* Quality consignment at affordable prices.

612 Kingsway, Vancouver 604-708-0956 www.weeonesvancouver.com See ad on page 24 Zoolu Organics* Eco-chic, stylish & sustainable clothing for kids. Zoolu proves that organic doesn’t have to mean boring and kids’ clothing doesn’t have to be cliché or cutesy. www.zooluorganics.com See ad on page 16 Sleep Consultants Sleep Dreams* We are health professionals providing families with sleep solutions. Many extended health care benefit plans offer full or partial coverage for our services.

604-985-2911 or info@ sleepdreams.ca www.sleepdreams.ca See ad on page 13

Support Services BC Women’s Hospital Nutrition counselling for pregnant women.

Free service/no referral necessary 604-875-2330 Best Babies of the Langleys Supporting at-risk pregnant & postnatal women. 100–20689 Fraser Hwy, Langley 604-530-2772 Best Start Parenting Centre Parenting groups, seminars, tel counselling.

604-925-0831 (fees & registration) Cherish Childbirth Care (formerly Vancouver Childbirth Services) www.CherishChildbirth.com 604-626-1079 Coquitlam Pregnancy Concern Ctr 2512 Arundel Lane, Coq 604-939-2633 Health Link BC 811 or www.healthlinkbc.ca

Reach urbanbaby & toddler’s loyal readership “ I think urbanbaby & toddler is an OUTSTANDING resource and a fabulous publication!

I have a 3-year old little girl and I’ve been picking up your magazine since I was first expecting! It really is fabulous!”

- Vicki G.

Healthiest Babies Possible Free outreach programs for pregnant moms.

Bby/New West: 604-659-2225 Abbotsford/Langley: 604-859-7681 Coq/Mp Rdg/Pt Coq/Pt Mdy: 604-777-8718 Sry/Delta/White Rock: 604-583-1017 Vancouver: 604-877-4672 Kla-how-eya Aboriginal Centre of SACS 13629 - 108th Avenue, Sry 604-584-2008 Maple Ridge Family Education & Support Ctr 604-467-6055 Pacific Post Partum Support Society 104–1416 Commercial Dr, Vanc 604-255-7999

“ I would like to let you know that I LOVE your publication.

It is fun, informative and well-written! I have been a dedicated reader for years!”

- Crystal DiNicolo

“ Just the other day while I was waiting for my girlfriend in a lobby, I came across your magazine. I thought it was very informative and resourceful!

Keep up the good work!”

- Eddie Mai

Parent Support Services Parent Support Circles Prog throughout BC. FREE service. 604-669-1616; 1-877-345-9777 www.parentsupportbc.ca South Community Birth Program 6405 Knight St, Vancouver; 604-321-6151 Surrey-Delta Parents of Multiples 604-626-4550, twinmom@ shaw.ca

“ Since having my daughter last September, I have found urbanbaby & toddler to be such a wonderful resource as a first time mother! My only wish is that there were more issues in the year.”

- Dalyn Szilvassy

Woman Care, BC Family Care 31-22374 Lougheed Hwy, Maple Ridge 604-463-5513 YWCA Single Mothers’ Support Services 604-895-5789; www.ywsinglemoms.org Vasectomy Pollock Clinics* No-Scalpel/No-Needle Vasectomy. A simple and virtually painless, bloodless 7 minute procedure done through a tiny 2mm opening requiring no stitches to close, with a better than 99.9% success rate. The procedure is performed by Dr. Neil Pollock, M.D., a wellknown expert on men’s contraceptive health.

604-717-6200; www.pollockclinics.com See ad on page 20. ]

NEXT ISSUE: Winter 2011-12

“ I love your magazine and always pick it up when I see a new one out.”

- Amber Arce-Starshine

“I just want to say I love your magazine, I actually had to pick up a second one because my first one was just a mess with being used to much.”

- Joanna Casavant

“ I love your urbanbaby & toddler.”

- Bonnie Davis, childbirth & educator/doula

To advertise:

info@urbanbaby.ca 604-420-8760

On the streets: Dec, Jan, Feb urbanbaby & toddler | www.urbanbaby.ca| fall 11 | 39