Urbanbaby & Toddler Magazine Winter 2016

Celebrity Mom: CBC’s This Life

Lauren Lee Smith Ready, Set, Move:

Activate Learning with Movement Eating for Two:

Prenatal Nutrition Education:

Making Sense of Your Child’s Learning Style UrbanGuide:

Ultimate Toy Guide

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WINTER 2016 volume 14 • issue 4

t able of

contents

l et te r f ro m th e The winter season has arrived and our winter magazine is packed with timely must-read content!

4 parenting: Q&A: Avoid Burn-out: Practice Self-Care 6 learning: Ready, Set, Move: Activate Learning with Movement 7 in the kitchen: The Best Sippy Cups to Transition from Bottle and Breast

During the winter season, moms of young children can sometimes get burned out which is why we have positioned on page 4, an informative article on practicing self-care.

8 celebrity mom: CBC’s This Life Lauren Lee Smith

Every child is unique. And our informative article on page 22 sheds light on learning styles so we can better understand how each one of our children will gravitate to specific activities and toys.

10 ages & stages: Six Ways to Encourage Older Siblings to Be Involved

Welcome to the future. Our children will soon be learning Coding in the Classroom as part of their school curriculum. To learn

12 nutrition: Eating for Two: Prenatal Nutrition

editor

more, parents with older children can check our Urban Kid article on page 30 for information and resources about this popular topic.

Parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles will be pleased to know that we are also featuring a convenient shopping guide on pages 26-27 for selecting toys for every age.

Interested in planning some exciting family time? Be sure to check our event guide on page 31 for a full list of family events (including holiday activities) taking place in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

Have a great winter and travel safe.

As always we value your feedback.

Send your emails to the editor at editor@urbanbaby.ca

Editor

Instagram Contest

Two lucky winners

will win a

$250 Visa gift card

14 eco parenting: Three DIY Recipes Good for You and the Planet!

1. Post a pic of you and/or your child(ren) with our Winter 2016 magazine.

You can be holding it, reading it, or shopping with it – pretty much anything!

15 feature: Holiday Pullout Guide

using hashtag #ubtwintercovercontest until January 15th, 2017

2 0 UrbanMarket: Products & Promotions

EDITOR/AD SALES Lara Leontowich

22 education: Making Sense of Your Child’s Learning Style

2. Tag us @urbanbabymag on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook

DESIGN/PRODUCTION Shannon Brownlee

CONTRIBUTORS Julie Romanowski, Sara Kerrigan, Patricia Chan, Kristen Yarker, Lindsay Coulter, Angela Fennelow, Natacha Beim, Sue Wright SUBSCRIPTION urbanbaby & toddler magazine is available for $25.00 per year (includes GST).

Published four times per year by Local Kids Media, reaching 68,000 readers per issue.

24 fitness: Indoor Play Centres: Keeping Children Happy and Healthy

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.

26 things we like: Winter Finds

On the cover: Casey, 2 years old

28 UrbanGuide: Ultimate Toy Guide 3 0 UrbanKid: Whiz Kids: Coding in the Classroom 31 on the town: Winter Family Fun 31 spotlight: UrbanDad: Moshin

Location: Slant Studios, Vancouver Photo Credit: Rhonda Dent Photography www.rhondadent.com

www.urbanbaby.ca urbanbabyandtoddler @urbanbabymag urbanbabymag urbanbabyandtot our mailing info:

Suite 378 - 255 Newport Dr., Port Moody, BC V3H 5H1 Canada telephone: 604.908.8835 email: info@urbanbaby.ca

p a re n t i n g

| by Julie Romanowski

Q&A: Avoid Burn-out: Practice Self-Care

For many parents, the concept of self-care is often overlooked. While we are beginning to see a more positive movement in this direction, many women still struggle on how to kickstart the process so they can see results on a daily basis. Being a mother is hard work. The commitment to get the job done and get it done well is well-known. I have seen many mothers take such wonderful and very nurturing care of their children however, the same love and attention rarely is given to themselves.

Q: I am becoming more and more impatient with my partner, my children and co-workers. I just can’t seem to get over how negative I can be when I get frustrated. Then I feel so guilty afterwards. Any suggestions? Jenifer P. Kelowna JR: In order to increase our patience with other people in our

lives, we must increase the patience we have with ourselves.

This is best done when we learn to ‘accept ourselves’ for exactly who we are -.the good, the bad and the ugly. Making this change within can trigger a more compassionate response in our relationships. Once we make self-acceptance a routine part of our life, we can improve how to relate to others.

Q: Am I crazy? I schedule time for myself to just “sit still”.

Seems like an obvious thing to do but with three kids, husband and a household to take care of, there is actually very little time for it. Tiffany R. Oakville

JR: Congratulations on your great habit for staying mentally

healthy. Scheduling the time to sit and be still is truly genius!

Routinely allocating that time into your schedule sends a very positive message to everyone in the family that you are important.

Life is busy. It just is! So go ahead and take time for yourself in ways that are meaningful to you.

Q: I’m really not happy with who I am as a mom. Since having my two kids, I feel lost and really disconnected from who I used to be. I’ve been hearing a lot about ‘self-love’.

I am just not sure what that looks like or where to begin.

Megan M. Langley JR: I encourage all parents and caregivers to practice self-

awareness. Simply put, it means staying conscious about the

relationship you have with yourself. This is a very important part of parenting and caregiving because who we are to ourselves, reflects in some way, shape or form to those around us. Sift through the negative put-downs you say to yourself; the possible harsh outbursts you experience within your mind; or the continuous apologizing to other people, and start to witness the connection from another perspective. Make adjustments that promote the type of relationship you desire to have with yourself.

Learn to love yourself unconditionally.

When we truly tune into the state of our connection with ourselves and take note of what we “like” and “need”, we can start to really catapult the relationship we have with ourselves into a safe, healthy, loving and nurturing one. You deserve it. •

Recommended Reads The Confident Parent: Caring for Your Little One Without Losing Your Joy, Your Mind, or Yourself

by Jane Scott, MD

How to Have a Baby and not Lose Your Shit

by Kristy Smith

The Magic of Motherhood: The Good Stuff, The Hard Stuff and Everything in Between

by Ashlee Gadd

Julie is a mom, an Early Childhood Consultant and owner of Miss Behaviour: the children’s behaviour and discipline specialists. Learn more through her e-newsletter, tips and blog at www.missbehaviour.ca

Have a Question for Julie? Submit your questions at missbehaviour.ca/just-ask-julie.html 4 | www.urbanbaby.ca | winter 2016

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learning

| by Sara Kerrigan

Ready, Set, Move:

Activate Learning with Movement It’s a wonderful feeling when your newborn grabs onto your finger and won’t let go! But, did you know that they aren’t grabbing on consciously. It’s actually a grasp reflex. You place your finger on the palm of their hand and they will grab it. Try to take it away and their grip tightens.

Through repetition of these natural reflexes, your child’s brain begins to develop relationships with his or her surroundings which foster memory, and learning. Newborns come with primitive reflexes for survival; blinking, coughing, sneezing, gagging, yawning, and breathing. These reflexes provide our children with the first stages of exploration. Our brains receive input from our senses, allowing us to engage with the rest of the world in a new way. As your baby tries out natural reflexes in the early stages of movement, he or she will begin to use the following senses: visual, tactile, auditory and olfactory.

Parents are sometimes surprised to learn that both senses and movement contribute to how children will learn. Movement and exercise benefits the brain first. Many of us exercise assuming

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that it only helps our bodies, but guess what? The brain is only as healthy as the body that carries it. When we take care of our bodies, we take care of our brains.

A child’s brain develops through bilateral cross-patterning movements. Picture an imaginary line down the centre of your child that divides left side and right side which acts like a wall that disappears around the age of three or four. Every time a child crosses the midline they are connecting both sides of their brains thus forcing them to communicate. The ability to coordinate both sides of the body and cross the midline indicates that both sides of the brain are sharing information and working well together.

This results in heightened cognition and ease of learning.

Did you know that the auditory system detects both circular motion and movement in a straight line? This includes everyday actions such as stopping, starting or turning. It also monitors the position of our body with respect to the ground (otherwise known as balance).

A child’s auditory system is activated through movement by different actions. These include rolling, spinning, swinging, somersaulting and swimming. The auditory system also primes the nervous system to run efficiently. All other sensory impulses are processed in relation to basic auditory information. These movements help in the development of judgment, critical thinking, organization, attention, focus, self control and empathy.

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As a parent, you can foster a love for movement through all the stages (infant, toddler, preschool and school years). With our busy schedules, it can become very challenging to maintain that routine but definitely worth it. Somehow, we need to find the time for a walk around the block; passing the ball; drawing, and interactive playing so our children can have a better life of learning. Give your child a wonderfully-enriched experience to learn and grow from. •

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Sara is a mom to two boys and a 1991 World Gymnastics Championships team member. She is the co-founder of Kerrigan Children’s Active Learning Centre and Leapfrog Movement Education Centre which offers movement educational programs for children incorporating circuits, games and music. www.leapfrogmovement.com 6 | www.urbanbaby.ca | winter 2016

i n t h e k i t ch e n

| by Urbanbaby & Toddler

the

The Best Sippy Cups to Transition from Bottle and Breast

Sippy cups can be a great way to transition your baby from nursing or bottle-feeding to drinking from a regular cup. Once your little one starts eating solids it will be time to begin your search. With so many choices on the shelves today, here are five tips to help you find the ideal one:

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5. Don’t be afraid to try a couple of different sippy cups to determine if your baby prefers one with a nipple, straw or wide-mouth opening.

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• Munchkin Miracle Cup $12.99

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• Phillip AVENT Natural Cup $8.99

winter 2016 | www.urbanbaby.ca | 7

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ce l e b r i t y m o m

| by Urbanbaby & Toddler

Lauren Lee Smith Lauren Lee Smith has been acting since she was a teenager. Her flourishing career has her working in both film and television and her success is something she feels very fortunate to have. The thirty-six-year-old Vancouver native is also a new mom. She and her husband, photographer Erik Steingroever, welcomed daughter Tuula Ray this past April. Lauren is now back at work, on the set for Season Two of CBC’s This Life, which premiered this fall.

Recently, Urbanbaby & Toddler Magazine had the opportunity to talk with the Canadian actress about work and her exciting new role as a mom.

UBT: How are you managing Motherhood, now that you are back on set?

LLS: It’s crazy. Everyone tries to prepare you for the sleepless nights and everything, but when it happens, nothing can quite prepare you. I do have to say though, that I feel incredibly lucky

and fortunate to have my husband to be able to take time off from his job, to be here in Montreal with me and be on set with our baby. He has been a full-time daddy while I am at work. That has made things so much easier. I cannot imagine doing it without him. Montreal is an amazing city. I love it but I don’t have family or friends here. To have my husband and that support system has made such a huge difference. It has definitely made the transition so much smoother.

UBT: Every new mother can relate to “mommy brain”. Do you find that a challenge, especially since you returned to the film set rather quickly?

LLS: Yes. The focus is definitely not what it used to be – no longer having the luxury to sit back and spend hours learning lines or running lines with your fellow actors. Those moments between “action” and “cut” are 100% work-related, but after that, it’s momma-mode – instantaneously. I am immediately checking my phone to make sure that everything is okay with my daughter and husband.

UBT: How has being a mom influenced how you see your job?

LLS: I think in a sense it has forced me to become much more secure and confident in myself. Knowing I was going back to

8 | www.urbanbaby.ca | winter 2016

Read past celebrity parent interviews at

www.urbanbaby.ca

work with a six-week old baby terrified me throughout the latter part of my pregnancy. That was the biggest challenge coming into the second season. But it has really forced me to test my limitations and my strength and know that I can do it.

I just had to trust that it will all be taken care of, and it really has. It is also great that this is the second season. It would be a bigger challenge to come into a brand new show and try to find that character and voice for the first time.

UBT: What’s next for you?

LLS: I just feel so incredibly fortunate that I have been able to work. I know that sounds so silly, but it’s true. For the last 17 years, I have made this my career, and I haven’t had to do anything else. I had such interesting opportunities and such different characters to play. To be able to continue working is a huge thing. To me, the definition of success is being able to call this job my “career”. As long as I can keep working — that is on my bucket list. I also feel super-fortunate that I have been able to do it all for the most-part in Canada. I think that is pretty cool.

UBT: New moms often struggling with the “post-baby body” including how you see yourself and how the world sees you. Do you feel any pressure with that reality?

LLS: It is definitely there. I was sort of expecting that. The one piece of advice I was given over and over again was just “don’t be hard on yourself” which I think is so true. You put your body through so much during pregnancy. I haven’t stressed too much about it, thought too much about it, or given myself any crazy unrealistic goals. I think you just need to be kind to yourself and to your body and let your body get back to its rhythm in its own time.

UBT: Do have any advice you would like to share with other moms?

LLS: What can I say? It is so unbelievably worth it. I had so much fear about becoming a mother for quite a few years-before becoming pregnant — because of the industry that I am in. When is the right time to do it? Because there is never a right time to do it, and then there are those thoughts; “If I do it now, will it hinder by career? Will it affect the jobs I am given? Will it affect me? Will I still want to work?” All of those unknowns. The only thing I can say now is that I don’t really have regrets. I wish that I would have done it a little bit sooner because it is doable. It is also incredible how people show up and support you. I had no idea about the strength — mentally, physically, and emotionally — that I was capable of, until becoming a mother. It’s amazing! •

winter 2016 | www.urbanbaby.ca | 9

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a g es & s t a g es

| by Patricia Chan

Six Ways to Encourage Older Siblings to Be Involved Raising a family can be so exhausting. Ever wonder how parents of big families are able to do it successfully? It is a matter of getting older siblings involved, that’s how! The key is to show your appreciation and make it fun for your older child whenever they assist.

1. Give Outgrown Toys to Younger Siblings

Encourage your older child to give outgrown toys to the younger sibling and even play together. That way, the younger children can quickly learn how complex toys work. Explain how happy this can make a little sister or brother.

2. Reward Them

With a newborn in the house, older siblings naturally want to help out. It is a great way for your older child to feel more involved.

Reward him or her with an extra 30 minutes of TV; extended bedtime; a cookie after dinner or consider occasionally taking your older child to movie as a special reward. Even small tasks such as picking up toys or pacifiers can make a difference. It may not seem like much, but with a newborn on your hands every bit counts.

3. Let Them Read to Baby

If your older child is in the early stages of elementary school, they can practice their skills by reading to the younger child.

Take your older child to the bookstore and let them pick out a favourite book. This gesture helps the older child to feel appreciated, especially with all the attention the newborn is getting. From time to time, invite your older child to help in getting baby ready for sleep and you can take turns reading to your younger child.

4. Let Them Hold Baby

Holding a newborn baby is a wonderful experience. When you are able to supervise teach your older child how to carefully rock Little Brother or Sister. This is not just a way to give some responsibility, it is an effective way to teach older siblings how fragile a newborn is and how much extra care is needed.

5. Make Them Feel Grown-Up

Get your older children participating in chores around the house and turn it into a game! Choose chores suitable for the age of each child. For example, you could have them help in preparing dinner; taking out the trash or separating and folding laundry. Make it fun and use the opportunity to teach organizing skills and eco-friendly tips.

6. Be Careful Not to Overload Them

You don’t want your older child to see Little Brother or Sister as a burden. So ensure you are not giving too much responsibility. Their assistance should help to form the bond between siblings at a young age. All the more reason to make their assistance – however small – a pleasurable experience!

Just make sure you show how much their help is appreciated and take the time to thank them for helping out when he or she just volunteers to do something to assist you.

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Getting older children involved teaches them about the responsibility it takes to raise a family and how everyone in the family can and should contribute. Sometimes Mom and Dad need a break and even the smallest fingers can make a difference. •

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nutrition

| by Kristen Yarker

Eating for Two: Prenatal Nutrition Knowing what to eat during pregnancy can be confusing because there are several myths about what you should or should not eat. For additional resources, check with your medical professionals to determine what is best for you.

Pregnancy Cravings

Myth: You’re now eating for two. So go ahead and eat every burger and cupcake you can get your hands on!

Truth: Yes, you are now eating for two. However, your baby is small so you don’t need to double the amount of food you eat. In the first trimester, your baby needs some extra nutrients (vitamins and minerals) but no extra calories.

In your second trimester, all your baby needs is the extra nutrients and about an extra 340 calories a day. In your third trimester, all your baby needs is the extra nutrients and about an extra 450 calories a day. It is about the amount of calories in a snack of hummus and raw veggies or a mango-strawberry smoothie made with milk, Greek yogurt and hemp seeds.

Coffee and Caffeine

Myth: You can’t have any caffeine.

Truth: The recommended limit for caffeine is 300 milligrams per day. The amount of caffeine can vary depending on the brewing method and roast selected. Generally this means a limit of two eight-ounce cups (to be clear, that is not two Ventis!).

Consider also other common sources of caffeine including energy drinks, tea, dark chocolate, and medications. Some emerging evidence suggests that caffeine may increase the risk of miscarriage during the first trimester. So, you may want to decrease your caffeine even lower during your first trimester.

Check with your doctor for added assurances.

Fish and Omega-3 Myth: Fish is high in mercury and other contaminants that are risky for baby. Don’t eat fish.

12 | www.urbanbaby.ca | winter 2016

Truth: Fish, especially fatty fish like herrings, sardines and salmon, are excellent sources of omega-3 fat which supports baby’s brain development. Nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils contain a more simplified version of omega-3 (called ALA) that our bodies can transform into the most useable form (called DHA).

Most of fish we eat are very low in contaminants. Eating at least two servings of fish a week is recommended. The exceptions include: • Avoid eating any fish caught from contaminated lakes.

• Reduce to two servings a month: frozen/fresh tuna, shark, swordfish, marlin, orange roughy and escolar.

• Reduce to four servings a week: canned albacore tuna that is not from Canada.

For DHA supplements, the best choices are algae-based or fish oils. Cod liver oil is not recommended in pregnancy.

Folic Acid and Prenatal Vitamins

Myth #1: You should start taking vitamins once you know that you are pregnant.

Myth #2: Since a little folic acid is good, more must be better.

Truth: Let’s begin by addressing the first myth. Folic acid has an important role in preventing neural tube defects which happens in the first few days of conception – before you know that you are pregnant.

Therefore, it’s recommended that even before you consider trying to conceive, you take a multivitamin with 400 micrograms (0.4 milligrams) of folic acid (also called folate). To obtain additional folic acid, eat a wide range of green vegetables and pulses (beans, peas and lentils).

Secondly, there is some emerging evidence that too much folic acid may be harmful during pregnancy. So, always check the labels on all of your supplements, protein powders and vitamin waters to make sure that you aren’t getting too much folic acid.

As in most of nutrition, too much of anything can be harmful – you want just the right balance. Your doctor and dietitian can be helpful in achieving that goal.

Supplements and Natural Remedies

Regarding vitamins and supplements, review each one with your medical professionals to ensure you are taking the right combination.

Be keenly aware of extra substances in protein powders, smoothies, juices, and protein/ meal replacement bars. Maca, traditionally used as an energy boost and to help support women’s hormones, is sometimes found in smoothies.

Consumption during pregnancy is not recommended. •

Did you know?

You can speak to a Registered Dietitian by calling 8-1-1 Monday-Friday free of charge.

Kristen, MSc, RD is a child-feeding expert who helps parents support their picky eaters to try new foods on their own. Since 2008, she has been working with families to provide good nutrition for their children today and instill a love of food that lasts a lifetime. www.kristenyarker.com/kids-nutrition

winter 2016 | www.urbanbaby.ca | 13

e co p a re n t

| by Lindsay Coulter

Three DIY Recipes Good for You and the Planet!

Ironically many ingredients in beauty products aren’t that pretty. Commercially-produced personal care products contain some 82,000 ingredients.

These include harmful carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxins and hormone disrupters.

In 2010, the David Suzuki Foundation asked Canadians to read labels on their cosmetics. In his quest to identify the Dirty Dozen list of ingredients, including petrolatum, parabens, parfum (a.k.a. “fragrance”) and PEG compounds, consumers were invited to enter ingredients they found in their personal products.

It is no shocker to discover that 80% of products entered contained at least one of these toxic chemicals. We are learning

that parabens are suspected endocrine disrupters associated with breast cancer and may interfere with hormone function.

Through your due diligence when reading labels, you avoid harmful chemicals when purchasing soaps, shampoos, deodorants and other personal products.

And there is more good news. You can also make your own!

By using these simple and effective recipes you can create products that are healthy for your skin, hair and the planet (with no harsh chemicals). ...Continued on page 19

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fe a t u re

| by Angela Fennelow

Spend Less – Enjoy More:

Save All Year for A Truly Happy Holiday Season!

Ka-ching! Ka-ching! Many people get stressed about all the spending that happens during the holiday season. What if there was a way you could still spend while staying on budget? Far-fetched? Not Really!

Having a happy holiday season without money stress is possible with a little planning and a few money-saving habits.

If you don’t have one already, create a budget worksheet for your family to keep track of spending and saving each month. Add a line to your monthly budget for gifts, and save all year so you can buy presents with cash and “be in the clear in the New Year”. Set up auto withdrawals from your bank account to save gift money in an account designated for saving.

Check the rewards programs at retail stores you regularly shop at. Many have reward programs that enable sizeable discounts for you. Some stores will give one free item occasionally as part of their customer loyalty program.

Talk to your bank about credit card options that provide such rewards as cash back, travel/merchandise points or ongoing discounts for being a member. You can use those points saved during the year to buy Christmas presents. Keep in mind that this is an effective strategy that only works if you pay off the balance on your credit card every month.

Plan for extra holiday expenses, and if need be, cut back on other items in your monthly budget to accommodate for the additional cash outflow. Consider brewing your own coffee; at-home date nights; and drinking tap water instead of buying soda. Sometimes steps taken to save money can result in healthier eating habits too!

Buy re-usable holiday items when they are sale-priced. LED lights, durable decorations and artificial trees can be used over and over again, and will save you money in the long run.

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You can also save money by doing things with your family during the holiday instead of buying extra items for them. For example, driving around our neighbourhood to look at Christmas lights has become a tradition in our family. It is a tradition — I might add — that has many fond memories. You can also find many low-cost or no-cost family activities in your community like parades, Christmas Light Tours, and neighbourhood parties.

Families can also have fun and save money by adopting a “white elephant” gift exchange with extended family. The concept involves setting a budget for each gift with each participant only buying and wrapping one gift. This fun exchange can really add to the levity of the season. Set a “no-gift-card” rule for even more laughs.

All it takes is some ingenuity and year-long planning to stay in budget during the holidays. Now hold on to that thought. Just imagine how much more relaxed you will feel during the holidays knowing you won’t have any major money stress greeting you in the New Year. Priceless! • Angela lives in Maple Ridge with her husband, and their three children, Aiden and Archer, and Alisyn. Her whole family enjoys the family ritual of decorating trees and setting up inflatable decorations and lights for the holidays.

Sun Life’s Money for Life approach adapts to you. Let’s build a plan to get the investments, protection and freedom to live your way now, and in retirement.

Angela Fennelow* BBA CFP® Tel: 604-380-4019 angela.fennelow@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/angela.fennelow 23748 132 Avenue Maple Ridge, BC V4R 2S5

Life’s brighter under the sun

Holiday Books for Every Age That’s Not My Santa

by Fiona Watt

Specially designed to help develop sensory and language awareness in babies and toddlers. Ages 0-2 years

All Things

Santa Writing to Santa

The Quiet Christmas Book

Include a return address so Santa can reply.

by Deborah Underwood

The holidays are filled with joyful noise. Soft colored pencil illustrations of bunnies, bears, and more paint a magical holiday picture. Ages 1–3 years

Santa Claus North Pole H0H 0H0 Canada

Email to Santa

Checking it twice, you can

Santa is Coming to Vancouver

now reach Santa by email.

by Steve Smallman

www.the-north-pole.com/

Santa’s packed up all the presents and is headed your way.

With the help of a certain red-nosed reindeer, Santa flies over many Vancouver buildings and landmarks. Ages 4 -7 years

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Video from Santa Portable North Pole will

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the Town Winter Family Fun on Page 31

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...Continued from page 14

Makeup Remover

Prep Time: 5 mins • Shelf Life: 2 months

• 15 ml (1 Tbsp) castor oil • 15 ml (1 Tbsp) olive oil • Optional: 10 ml (2 tsp) sweet almond oil

or grapeseed oil

Combine oils. Store in an air-tight container.

Use with a washable cloth or compostable organic cotton balls/pads.

Cocoa Butter Lotion

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®

Prep Time: 10 mins • Shelf Life: 6 months

• 30 ml (2 Tbsp) cocoa butter • 30 ml (2 Tbsp) sweet almond oil • 30 ml (2 Tbsp) local beeswax (grated or pastilles) • Optional: 5 drops essential oil (e.g., ylang ylang,

grapefruit, geranium)

Create a double boiler by placing the bowl on top of the pot. Melt first three ingredients on low heat. Add essential oil as your last ingredient and then stir. Cool. Store in an air-tight container.

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Banana Facial Mask

Prep Time: 5 mins • Shelf Life: 1 week

• ½ small, ripe, organic, fair trade banana, mashed • 2.5 ml (1 tsp) organic, local honey • 15 ml (1 Tbsp) organic, local yogurt • 15 ml (1 Tbsp) clay (green, white, red or bentonite) • Optional: 2 drops Vitamin E oil,

5 ml (1 tsp) rose water, or 7.5 ml of organic ground rolled oats

Combine ingredients. Apply to face and neck. Let sit 15 minutes. Wipe off with warm cloth. You can refrigerate whatever you have leftover for later use.

Look for two more beauty recipes on the Urbanbaby and Toddler magazine blog at www.urbanbabyandtoodler. blogspot.ca. Download a wallet-sized Dirty Dozen Shopper’s Guide at www.davidsuzuki.org. •

Every loving essential for pregnancy, nursing, babies & kids LOCAL FOR OVER 30 YEARS.

Sourcing natural, organic & safe products for your family

Lindsay resides in Victoria with her two-year old son. As David Suzuki’s “Queen of Green”, she answers questions and offers DIY recipes and tips. She regularly appears as a “green expert” in the media and appeared on the Dr. Oz show. www.queenofgreen.ca

2016

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THREADS Boutique

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Dreamy Wall Decals on Etsy

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Trunki: Luggage for Little People The original ride-on suitcase. Family

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20 | www.urbanbaby.ca | winter 2016

children’s education & childcare Exceptional Infant & Toddler Day care KinderHeart Montessori offers an

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Rogers Santa Claus Parade Ring in the holiday season with the

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Featuring more than 60 festive floats, marching bands, dance troupes, and community groups. The festivities

nutritional consulting

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products for mom BirthTalks Informative events to help you through your pregnancy, birth and beyond parenthood.

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Customize each ring with an initial, name or short phrase. Be on-trend with these

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Friday

winter 2016 | www.urbanbaby.ca | 21

e d uca t i o n

| by Natacha Beim

Making Sense of Your Child’s Learning Style Some children attempt to talk at an impressively young age. Other children seem to have an uncanny eye for reading and identifying facial expressions. The way a child chooses to explore the world is indicative of a preferred learning style.

Although most children learn by doing, in general children tend to also gravitate more towards one of three learning styles: visual, auditory or kinesthetic.

social curiosities. A great way to determine your child’s preferred learning style is to observe your child playing with others.

Understanding your child’s preferred learning style can make you more cognizant on how to effectively nurture educational and

Children who have an auditory learning style often begin talking at an early age and have a wide vocabulary. During the early

Auditory Learners

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years, they delight in hearing songs and singing. They have a wonderful imagination and love dramatic play, both at home and at school. These children make friends with children who share similar interests, and prefer to play with one friend at a time.

Their interactions are rich in content and they often make deep friendships, by taking time to share stories about themselves and listening to others.

Auditory learners are not necessarily as active as kinesthetic learners. Instead auditory babies love to be talked to, and often babble constantly. When reading books, they follow the story more so than the illustrations resulting in great comprehension skills. Although they love music, it can bother them when it is constant or too loud. To get an auditory child’s attention, it is really effective to ask your child to “put on her listening ears.”

She will enjoy pretending to put on her imaginary super ears and carefully listen to what you tell her.

Kinesthetic Learners

Kinesthetic children love to touch and be touched. They like playing in groups, and tend to hug and express feelings physically.

If your child has a more kinesthetic learning style, he or she will enjoy active and social settings like school and play groups.

These children have a strong preference for activities such as dance or sports.

As infants, they will enjoy looking at you and exploring your features. Understandably visual learners love books especially ones with beautiful or complex illustrations. They will often diverge from the story to talk about the image which is something parents should encourage.

For visual learners, it is best when parents talk to them at their eye level, and look at them while speaking.

Sensorial Stimulation

Although learning styles are good to keep in mind when choosing toys and activities for your child, it is important to provide sensorial stimulation of every type to your little one.

This ensures essential connections in the brain are made and reinforced in more than one way. Only focusing on one type of learning limits your child’s learning opportunities. Bear in mind that children form their strongest connections when an experience involves using all of their senses. • Natacha is a world-renowned Early Years and Parenting Expert. She is an award-winning writer, speaker, teacher, and the Founder of the renowned CEFA Early Learning Schools. www.cefa.ca

For kinesthetic babies, it is important to let them touch objects.

This is how babies learn in general, but it is especially important for kinesthetic babies. They will also like to be held more; require extra hugs and enjoy rough and tumble play. They like soft and comfortable clothing, and may be particularly bothered by tags on clothing, or anything itchy or tight.

To get your kinesthetic child’s attention, bring yourself to your child’s eye level and either affectionately touch your child’s arm or lightly hold his or her hand while speaking. That physical contact will grab and retain your child’s attention.

Visual Learners

They sometimes can seem bothered by friends, but it is because they are a little more peculiar about how things should look. They are often very strong readers; excellent with visual arts; and quite detail-oriented. Visual babies like toys that are visually stimulating such as mirrors, patterns, and colours.

Do you want a solid and proven foundation for your child’s physical, intellectual and emotional development?

Register today for North Star Montessori’s infant & toddler classes.

Infancy to Grade 7 | Call today:

winter 2016 | www.urbanbaby.ca | 23

604 980 1205

1325 East Keith Road, North Vancouver BC (Southern annex of the North Shore Winter Club)

Nnorthstarmontessori.ca O R T H S TA R M O N T E S S O R I . C A

Children with visual learning styles tend to be quite meticulous about their belongings. They can spend hours arranging their toys or choosing their clothes. However, visual learners may not like it when others “mess up” their toys, or use them in different ways.

These children have been known to easily entertain themselves.

f i t n es s

| by Sue Wright

Indoor Play Centres: Keeping Children Happy and Healthy When the rainy season arrives and it is pouring rain outdoors resist having the family spend endless hours in front of the TV. Instead of dealing with the ongoing boredom and complaining, get into the habit of switching up the pace at an indoor play centre.

Fun-Filled and Educational Too

Healthy Benefits

Playtime also encourages children to use their academic learning through imaginative play and hands-on activities. The environment helps them learn self-control; build language skills and understand instructions and rules.

Creates Happy and Confident Children

An indoor playground is full of fun and exciting activities for your children; however, it’s also a place where they can explore and use their imagination. You will notice them getting creative, solving problems and acting out scenarios because there is a great deal happening behind the scenes. Your children are learning vital skills that will help them throughout life. The activities are strengthening cognitive connections and boosting their learning ability by helping brain cells grow and thrive.

Physical activity every day is a must. Rainy days, snowy days, hot days and cool days are no exception. The idea is to just get their heart pumping for at least an hour a day. So no matter what the weather is like outdoors, you always have an indoor alternative with an inviting and expansive area to play in. Let them safely explore interactive play areas where they can navigate through mazes; troubleshoot problems; and use their imagination through various age-appropriate activities.

Studies show that children who engage in regular physical activity are not only healthier physically, but also mentally. Good physical fitness helps motivate them in school, to tackle each day with an

Weekday Mornings at

9:30am

Come join us at Shop ‘n Stroll weekday mornings Shop’n Stroll is a workout that turns your stroller into a portable fitness machine and takes baby along for the ride.

Class includes warm-up, power walking, cardio, stretching, and toning exercises in a fun and safe environment for mom/dad and baby.

Coquitlam Centre Willowbrook Shopping Centre Park Royal Shopping Centre Haney Place Mall Oakridge Centre

Come meet other parents in your community while having fun!

Classes are free to Attend!

Sponsored by your Local Shopping Centre

One-time online registration required at

alert mind and willingness to face problems head on. Sports provide a great way to stay active too. However, you can get your family participating in a healthy lifestyle by simply throwing a ball in the backyard or taking a long walk in a nearby park.

Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines for Children: 0-1 years should be active several times throughout the day in activities such as floor play.

1-4 years should be physically active for at least 180 minutes each day, with activity spread throughout the day.

Montessori & Reggio Infant & Toddler, Preschool, Junior Kg Programs 12996 60th Avenue, Surrey 13857 68th Avenue, Surrey

Create Love for Learning

5-17 years should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day.

Four Indoor Play Centre Tips for Parents and Guardians: • Always Be Prepared: Make sure to pack a bag with extra diapers; wipes; change of

clothes; water bottle and socks for you and your little one. For hygienic reasons, some indoor centres require children and parents to wear socks whenever they are on the play area.

• Teach Your Child to Be Polite: Sometimes an indoor play centre may get overly busy

FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

and your children may not have access to favourite equipment or toys. Teaching your child to share; be polite and follow the rules, will ensure he or she learns to get along with others.

• Put Your Cellphone Away: Taking your child to an indoor play centre is not your

opportunity to let your child run loose while you engage on Facebook. Keep in mind that parents and guardians are responsible for the behaviour and well-being of children in their care. Although the play area is monitored by trained staff, children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.

• Keep Sick Children at Home: If your child is sick or showing symptoms of a possible illness, please consider the health of other children and keep your child at home to prevent the spread of illness. As well, whenever you visit indoor play centres, teach your child about hand-washing just as you would when visiting other public locations.

winter 2016 | www.urbanbaby.ca | 25

3 LEVEL PLAYGROUND TODDLER ZONE GREAT FOOD

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things we like!

1.

2.

4.

3.

5.

6.

Winter Finds

We have you covered for the winter season with everything from cozy pillows, boots, skincare and latest gadgetry. Young parents will delight in all the ingenuity that goes into these timely and convenient products that are sure to make parenting easier and more enjoyable.

1. Niche Feeding Pillow

Makes breastfeeding and bottle-feeding much more comfortable. Made of 100% organic, luxuriously-soft, and breathable fabrics. Available in a variety of colours.

In-Store: Lussobaby, North Vancouver & Vancouver

Online: www.snugglebugz.ca

2. DockATot Deluxe

Offers a safe and comfy spot for babies (0-8 months old) to rest, lounge, play and cuddle. Lightweight and portable, allowing for easy travel. The DockaTot Grand version is available for older babies and tots from 9 months – 3 years old.

In-Store: Lussobaby, North Vancouver & Vancouver

Online: www.lussobaby.ca 26 | www.urbanbaby.ca | winter 2016

3. Peas in a Pod

5. Boob-Ease Therapy Pillows

In-Store: Westcoast Kids, Richmond

In-Store: Steveston Village Maternity,

An affordable mom and baby beauty care line from a trusted Canadian brand. Made from high-quality natural, organic ingredients and essential oils to suit baby’s delicate skin needs.

Active Baby, North Vancouver Online: www.oyaco.com

4. SkipHop Baby Gift Sets

The six-piece set includes one-ply blanket, baby hat, reversible bib, teether, two soft toys. Available in pink or grey. Packaged in an attractive, see-through box with gift tag and ribbon handle.

In-Store: Indigo Books, Various Locations Online: www.indigo.ca

Gentle warmth to opens clogged ducts and increases milk production. Therapeutic cooling soothes sore nipples and breasts.

Each pillow has one side made from supersoft 100% bamboo fleece.

Richmond

Online: www.littlemonkeystore.com

6. Yogibo Kids Pyramid

This lightweight, uniquely shaped bean-bag chair is the perfect seat for small children.

Available in seven colours. Cover is machinewashable.

In-Store: Yogibo, Coquitlam Centre & Tsawwassen Mills

Online: www.yogibo.com

enter to win at

u r b a n b a b y. c a

7.

8.

Enjoy Grown-up Movies in a Baby-friendly Cinema!

Stroller Parking • Reduced Sound • Change Table Dunbar and Vancity Theatres Alternating Wednesdays at 11:30AM Visit Facebook.com/movies4mommies or moviesformommies.com for upcoming films, special events & prize giveaways

9.

FIFTH ANNUAL

7. Kids Hale by Muck Boots

Perfect for wearing outdoors in any weather. The stretch-fit topline binding is snug around the calf to keep warm air in and cold air out. Fully-insulated design provides the optimal warmth, comfort, and waterproofing. Available in My Little Pony and Transformers themed prints.

In-Store: The Bay, Various Locations Online: www.muckbootscanada.com

8. Hatley Raincoat and Umbrella

Let it rain with this adorable printed rain gear. This waterproof raincoat is lined with comfy terry and features contrast snap front, hood and front pockets. Pair with a matching umbrella. Machine washable. Available in various sizes and prints for boys and girls.

In-Store: Dandelion Kids, Vancouver & Port Moody Online: www.hatley.ca

9. Mayoral Boutique Fashions

From this popular European brand, the most adorable classic boutique designs for boys and girls as well as newborns. Made from the highest quality fabrics and embellishments.

Online: www.threadsstyle.com winter 2016 | www.urbanbaby.ca | 27

2016!

SPECIAL FEATURE

Kimberly May Smith January 6, 2016 Joe & Jane Smith

Be a part of the 5th Annual Urbanbaby & Toddler Magazine Babies of 2016 special feature published in the Spring 2017 magazine. One lucky baby will be chosen to be featured on the cover of a future magazine issue.

All birth announcements include baby’s full name, date of birth, coloured photo (1 ¼ square) and parents’ names.

LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE

Book by FEB. 15, 2017

www.urbanbaby.ca/babiesof2016

UrbanGuide:

Ultimate Toy Guide Whether you’re celebrating baby’s first birthday or looking for educational and fun gift ideas, check out our favourite toys and games for babies, toddlers and tough-to-buy-for older kids.

Baby & Toddler (Ages 0-2)

Block Crayons

Baby Clemmy

• $14.99

• $34.99

Magic Canvas

Tobbles Neo

Skip Hop Camping Cubs Activity Gym

• $29.99

• $19.99

• $110.00

Our Five Toy Buying Tips: 1 Make sure the toy is age appropriate by checking the age recommendation on the product label.

2 Consider the child’s interests, skills and abilities when choosing a toy.

28 | www.urbanbaby.ca | winter 2016

3

Choose toys that encourage different physical activity such as reaching, crawling, throwing and catching.

4 Choose toys that encourage colouring, reading and craft activities to help children advance their reading, creativity and imagination.

5

Inspect the toy thoroughly for quality construction, loose pieces or sharp edges.

Pre-Schooler

Hape Fresh Fruit • $19.99

(Ages 3-4)

Orchard Toys Shopping List • $21.99

Melissa & Doug Water Wow • $14.99

Dreamy Dress-ups Fabric Wings

Squigz • $34.99

Big Kid (Ages 5 & Up)

• $29.99

The Fairy Game

Rush Hour Jr.

• $19.99

• $34.99

Code Master • $29.99

Hatchimals Pengualas

Keva Structures 200 • $59.00

• $89.99

winter 2016 | www.urbanbaby.ca | 29

UrbanKid

| by Sue Wright

Whiz Kids:

Coding in the Classroom In 2016, the Ministry of Education announced that Grade 6 to 9 students in British Columbia will soon be learning computer coding as a mandatory part of their curriculum. Details of the plan include spending $6 million to train teachers and develop the curriculum, with a portion set aside to buy equipment and resources. It hoped that the curriculum can be developed by 2017 so students can learn to code in classrooms by September 2018.

Learning to code will teach students how to analyze a problem and determine computer-generated steps to resolve the problem. With more and more discussions about computer coding taking place amongst parents, this educational concept is being embraced. In fact, some suggest that learning to code could become “the new piano lesson” for children of all ages.

As a busy mom of 4, I loved being there for my children however, my choice to be at home limited my career options.

I looked into several home based companies (party plan & MLM) but I wanted something more traditional. Today, I work with a manufacturing company and head up a marketing team.

Most of us are moms and all of us work from home… around our family’s schedules!

If the idea of earning additional income, while having fun with other moms, intrigues you…we should talk!

To get your child started in learning about coding, check out computer coding camps or courses in your community.

You can also find numerous online courses, programs and apps with simple tutorials designed to help children learn about coding. Here are a few online coding programs and books to get your child excited about this emerging educational shift:

computing classes in schools and offers free lessons and resources for parents.

• LEGO WeDo: Designed as a step

• Tynker: For children who can read,

this app for Android and iOS helps to teach programming logic with visual code blocks.

Books on Computer Coding: Scratch Coding Cards: Creative Coding Activities for Kids

by Natalie Rusk (Available Nov. 30, 2016)

How to Code: A Step-By-Step Guide to Computer Coding

by Max Wainewright

between traditional building blocks and robotics, this Lego series allows children to build models with programmable motors and sensor.

enables children to create games and animations without learning programming text—it’s a drag-anddrop way to learn computer concepts and have fun while doing it.

Roni McMillan

Roni@CreatingSixFigures.com

as six, this iPad app uses games that subtly teach coding with few instructions.

• Kids Code Jeunesse: Teaches free

• SCRATCH: A program that

778.882.6586

• Kodable: Designed for users as young

30 | www.urbanbaby.ca | winter 2016

Learn to Program with Minecraft: Transform Your World with the Power of Python

by Craig Richardson

o n t h e t ow n

|

Winter Family Fun!

November 2016 Nov 18-20, 10am-5pm Just Between Friends Sale Croatian Cultural Centre, Van consignment sale,clothes, toys and baby items.

Admission: $5 per adult vancouverbc.jbfsale.com

Nov 16-Jan 5, 10am-3pm: Festival of Trees Family Days The Fairmont Empress, Vic Live entertainment, holiday treats and children’s activities bcchf.ca

Nov 25-Jan 2, open 7 days a week until 11pm: Vancouver Festival of Trees Four Season Hotel, Van Live entertainment, holiday treats and children’s activities

Support BC Children’s Hospital bcchf.ca

Nov 19-Jan 2, 1pm-5:30pm: Heritage Christmas Burnaby Village Museum, Bby An old-fashioned holiday with entertainment for the kids burnabyvillagemuseum.ca

Nov 25-Jan 2: The Peak of Christmas Grouse Mountain N. Van Sleigh rides, choirs, ice-skating, Santa’s reindeer and Christmas movies grousemountain.com

Nov 28-Jan 1: Bright Nights Stanley Park, Van Train ride through twinkling forest, animated displays, hot chocolate.

Admission applies www.vancouver.ca

WINTER

kidsmarket.ca

Ongoing Events

December 2016

Shop ‘n Stroll Fitness Various Weekdays, 9:30am Mom & Baby Fitness Class Sponsored by your local Shopping Centre Free to Attend Registration required

Dec 3 & 4, 10, 16-24, 8:30am – 10:00am: Breakfast with Santa Families can enjoy breakfast buffet and visit with Santa Claus, face painting, magic show.

runnersandbootiesfitness.com

grousemountain.com

Dec 4-23: Carol Ships Parade of Lights Vancouver Harbour 50 decorated boats and 100,000 lights to see carolships.org

Dec 13-31: Christmas at Canada Place Woodward’s windows, mini train, outdoor covered skating rink, Santa’s workshop and much more christmas.canadaplace.ca

Dec 3, 6pm: Santa Claus Parade Memorial Peace Park, Van Hot chocolate, Santa, arts & crafts, music and community carolers mapleridgechristmas festival.com

Find more community events at

Groovin Babies Every Wednesday, 11:00am Parent and Toddler Dance and Music Class Sponsored by Brentwood Town Centre Free to Attend Registration required

runnersandbootiesfitness.com

Zumba for Mom & Baby Every Friday, 10:00am Dance Class for Mom & Baby/ Toddler. Sponsored by Lougheed Town Centre Free to Attend Registration required runnersandbootiesfitness.com

Movies For Mommies New Releases and Favourites Alternating Wednesdays, 11:30am Dunbar Theatre, Vancouver Grab bags and special guests. Stroller friendly, diaper change area moviesformommies.com

Please check websites to confirm event details

Family Fun Dec 4, 12pm: The 13th Annual Rogers Santa Claus Parade Van. Downtown W Georgia St and Howe St Dazzling floats, Santa, treats and music

rogerssantaclausparade.com

Please check websites to confirm event details

UrbanDad

Dec 5-24: 11am-3:30pm: Holiday Traditions Kids Market, Granville Island, Van Santa, holiday sing-a-long and magic shows

capbridge.com/explore/ canyon-lights/

urbanbaby.ca

Dec 1-Jan 1 Skating at Robson Square Skating is free with your own skates. Rentals available.

Concession with snacks and drinks robsonsquare.com

Nov 24-Jan 8, 11am-9pm: Canyon Lights Capilano Suspension Bridge, N. Van Sparkling lights through the park, gingerbread cookie decorating and music

SPOTLIGHT

EVENTS

Dec 10-Jan 4 Festival of Lights Van Dusen Botanical Garden Highlights include Santa’s living room, dancing, lights and choirs vancouver.ca

winter 2016 | www.urbanbaby.ca | 31

Moshin • Richmond Zoya, 2 ½ and Kian, 6 months

1. What is the best part about being a dad?

Everyday is so exciting. I enjoy being such a big part of their lives and watching them grow and learn. They have even taught me a few things.

2. What is your favourite activity to do with your children?

We love to explore new parks in the city; ride our bikes together and pretend we are “tourists on an adventure” as we ride on the skytrain.

3. What is your favourite movie?

I have too many to mention although the one that stands out for me is: Monty Python.

4. What is one product or service you can’t live without?

My Surface computer and Smartphone are my must-haves.

Both enable me stay in steady contact with my friends and family.

5. How do you find some “daddy time?”

My wife is amazing! She knows I love concerts, so I am able to attend quite a few with friends. If I really want “daddy time,” it is late at night when everyone is sleeping because I am quite the ‘night owl’.

6. What advice would you give other dads?

Learning to adjust to the new responsibilities and expectations may feel overwhelming at first, but you’ll have plenty of time to get it right. Enjoy all those special moments because your children will grow up fast. I have learnt to cherish the small stuff before it disappears.

Want to be our next

UrbanMomorDAD email us at info@urbanbaby.ca

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