WestCoast Families Summer 2022

Celebrating the modern family lifestyle on the West Coast

Vol 29, Ed 6 FREE!

SUMMER 2022

Make a Splash!

8 things to do—rain or shine

Getting Ready for Baby

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Hikes for Family Fun

WESTCOASTFAMILIES.COM

A lesser-known checklist

The ‘Other Mom’ On being same-sex parents

New location at Garden City in Richmond is NOW OPEN! Spots are filling up quickly. Register Today!

Our holistic approach to early learning is what makes Rothewood unique.

Contact us to learn more or schedule a tour:

ROTHEWOOD.COM

HEAD. HANDS. HEART.

Saplings Nature School

The North Shore’s newest and only nature-based independent school BOOK YOUR TOUR NOW

Registration is open for Kindergarten and Grade 1–4 for September 2022

saplingsnatureschool.ca 778-838-0335

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Be on the lookout for WestCoast Family’s Family Fun Guide

Family

FUN GUIDE to Vancouver and Lower Mainland

Available June 2022 Summer 2022

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IN THIS ISSUE

SUMMER 2022 Vol 29, Ed 6

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WHAT’S NEW? Jim Schneider Publisher publisher@westcoastfamilies.com Sue Fast Editor editor@westcoastfamilies.com

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FRESH FINDS

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3 HIKES FOR FAMILY FUN

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Jodi Iverson Account Manager jodi@westcoastfamilies.com

MAKE A SPLASH!

Kristine Wickheim Account Manager kristine@islandparent.ca

For distribution inquiries, please email publisher@westcoastfamilies.com

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GETTING READY FOR BABY

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COOKING WORKSHOPS

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CHANGING IDENTITIES

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SURVIVING—AND THRIVING

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THE 'OTHER MOM'

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WestCoast Families, published by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a bimonthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on resources and businesses for west coast families. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher.

No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher.

Mailing Address 518 Caselton Place Victoria, BC V8Z 7Y5 250 388 6905 A proud member of

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STAYING SAFE IN THE SUN

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HELPING KIDS COPE

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FAMILY EVENTS

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FROM OUR TO YOURS

S

ummer brings out the kid in all of us. Feel like staying up waaay past bedtime? Eating ice cream for breakfast?

Camping in the backyard?

Well, now’s the time.

If you need an excuse to act like a kid with your kids this summer, here it is: research shows that mental breaks—aka relaxation and play—increase productivity, replenish attention, solidify memories and encourage creativity. And what’s better during summer holidays than making fun your focus?

To that end, check out 3 Lower Mainland Hikes for Family Fun where you’ll find the perfect adventures suited to all

R SUMME CAMP

ages, plus an article on 8 things to do this summer—rain or shine. Don’t miss The ‘Other Mom,’ a feature about being same-sex parents, along with Getting Ready for Baby, a lesser-known checklist. Peruse this issue’s Fresh Finds and make sure to read the latest tips and trends in What’s New. Looking for ways to save money when you travel? Look no further than Finding Attraction Discounts where you’ll discover tips on how to leverage social media channels, special attraction websites and various attractions and memberships.

The sky’s the limit this summer, so stay up late and sleep under the stars!

From our family to yours.

Overnight • Day • Virtual Camps For Kids & Adults with Disabilities Autism • Development Challenges • Down Syndrome • Anxiety • Cerebral Palsy • and others

Get dates, locations & registration details at eastersealsbcy.ca Summer 2022

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WHAT’S NEW?

Surrey SPARKS Stages Ignite imaginations and make memories! The Surrey Sparks launch weekend event, May 27-29, will include a variety of performances for families and children of all ages, including a concert from Fred Penner and Charlotte Diamond. From music to aerial circus, these performances are for the whole family with shows for babies, toddlers, and tweens that grown-ups will love too. There will also be an All-Ages Dance Party. What is special about these shows is that there are lots of value-added extras included in the ticket price, including roving performers, workshops, blanket forts…it really will be magical for everyone. surrey.ca/arts-culture/surrey-civic-theatres/ surrey-spark-stages-performing-arts-kids

#ForYou: A Game About Algorithms From video sites to job applications, algorithms have become an inescapable but often invisible part of our lives. MediaSmarts has designed #For You: A Game About Algorithms, a new educational card game for ages 13+ to simulate the different roles that recommendation algorithms play in delivering videos and ads online. #ForYou is accompanied by both a lesson plan, for classroom use, and a discussion guide, for use in a home, workshop or community group. mediasmarts.ca

Organ Donation Did you know that one organ donor can save up to eight lives and improve the quality of life for up to 75 people? Or that Canada has one of the worst organ- and tissue-donor rates of all developed countries? These are just a few of the astounding statistics that the David Foster Foundation is looking to draw awareness to. Do you have two minutes to help save a life? If so 1) visit davidfosterfoundation.com to see how you can help, 2) register to become an organ donor and share your wishes with your family, 3) Follow @DavidFosterFoundation on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates, 4) share your support via social media by using the hashtag #NOTDAM.

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Does Your Family Love Podcasts?

Hands-free, eyeballs-free, and screen-free, podcasts are often just plain free. There are thousands of podcasts out there but finding great ones for kids just got a lot easier thanks to Common Sense Media. Discover shows that fit your kid and find out where to tune in.

Read reviews and parent-content guides. Then check out what other parents, caregivers, and kids are saying. Whether you’re a long-time listener or just starting to figure podcasts out, Common Sense Media will show you how podcasts can enrich your kids’ lives—and what fun they can be for you and your whole family. commonsensemedia.org/podcast-reviews

Project 2050 Attention all kids! Team-up with other kids across Canada to tackle greenhouse gases and slow down climate change. Make a big difference for the planet, one habit at a time. Join a Challenge now to get started! When you join Project 2050, you’ll get access to fun and easy ways for you and your family to contribute to the fight against climate change. Log each habit, track goal progress, and earn meaningful rewards along the way! Tip: the more habits you log, the closer we’ll get to reaching our community goal. project2050.ca/register

A Soothing Summer.

Create a Calming Corner A calming corner is an effective quiet area in the classroom or home where a child can briefly take a break from an over-stimulating environment or frustrating activity. Keeping the calming area and setting time limits on its use can prevent it from becoming an avoidance tactic when your child does not want to participate in a challenging task or activity. Learn more about using a calming corner to teach self-calming strategies and preventing challenging behaviours at thewatsoninstitute.org/watson-life-resources.

Summer 2022

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SHOP

Fresh Finds

Being a new mom can be overwhelming. With so many products available it’s often hard to know who to listen to, where to look and what to get. For new moms looking for Canadian-made healthy and natural choices for their wee ones, here is a list of mom-tested, mom-designed and mom-approved must-haves to make life healthier and the world a better place.

Petite Revery From the creators of popular sleepwear brand Nest Designs, Petite Revery (Little Daydream) is a thoughtful line that celebrates all the little dreamers out there. The Spring/Summer ’22 line includes t-shirts, swimwear, reversible jackets, accessories and more. Pieces are made with sustainably sourced linen and organic cottons in silhouettes that complement a journey of discovery. petiterevery.com

Tofino Towels Tofino Towel Company and Mamas for Mamas have collaborated to create an exclusive limited edition towel designed by an Okanagan artist, a mom herself.

Tofino Towel Co. will donate proceeds from this signature towel through sales from their website as well as through their retailers, to Mamas for Mamas and a limited number of towels have been produced for sale.

Mamas for Mamas is a national charitable organization that supports mothers and caregivers in crisis by providing ongoing support to individuals and families facing various poverty-related struggles. Towels can be purchased through participating retailers or online through the Tofino Towel Company website at tofinotowelco.com.

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Disney Princess Tea Parties Cookbook This cookbook features over 50 kid-friendly and easy-to-follow recipes inspired by the Disney Princesses. From tasty cookies and biscuits to delicious herbal teas, Disney Princess Tea Parties Cookbook includes many Disney-themed treats for the ultimate tea party. Full-color photography along with tips and tricks from some of your favourite characters. simonandschuster.com

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Schiffer Kids’ is helping build the knowledge base for SEL- and STEAM-inspired learning through content that promotes critical thinking, opens up conversations and ultimately inspires young minds. Social, Emotional, Learning titles explore concepts such as managing emotions, forming positive relationships and teaching coping skills essential for mental health awareness.

The five elements of social-emotional learning include Self Awareness, Self-Management, Social Awareness, Relationship Skills and Responsible Decision-Making. casel.org

The Write It Workshops These free virtual creative writing workshops for children and youth in grades 4–8 focus on improving children’s writing skills through fun, interactive activities that encourage participants to express themselves creatively, build their confidence and find their voices as writers.

Virtual workshops take place every Saturday (excluding long weekends) from 1pm or 2pm depending on the date for 1 hour. To sign up, visit workshop.ripplefoundation.ca.

Summer 2022

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EXPLORE

3 Lower Mainland Hikes for Family Fun

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here’s no time like springtime to get out and explore the forests around you with curious kids in tow.

Slow down and investigate every slug, creek, and hollow tree. Look for the perfect magic wand or make it a scavenger hunt.

Here are three short and easy hikes in the Lower Mainland that are guaranteed to be fun for the whole family.

Reminders: Check trail reports, bring the 10 essentials, leave a trip plan with a responsible person, and pack out all trash.

DORMAN POINT

Round trip: 2.4 km Location: Crippen Regional Park, Bowen Island Perfect for a mini adventure with the kids, the quick jaunt to Dorman Point pays off with potential sightings of bald eagles and turkey vultures. The hike is ideal for B.C. Ferries

foot passengers and, conveniently, starts and finishes by an ice cream window.

At West Vancouver’s Horseshoe Bay terminal, catch a ferry to Bowen Island. From the Snug Cove dock, walk up Bowen Island Trunk Road to Cardena Road. Head left on a boardwalk known as the Lady Alexandra Promenade. Pass by shops and benches, take the bridge over Davies Creek, and arrive at a Crippen Regional Park kiosk.

Go straight across the field at the Snug Cove picnic area to start up the Dorman Point Trail. Follow the wide gravel path past a seemingly double-headed western red cedar. Quickly fork left, then right, in the mixed woods. Keep left at a wooden barrier. Zigzag up the slope, through Douglas-fir trees, lady ferns, Oregon grape, and salal. Ignore a right-hand path.

Emerge at the top of Robinson Road. Go left at the signpost and tackle the final steep push to the Dorman Point viewpoint. Take a seat on a bench and pull out the snacks.

The rock in the outcrop dates back to the Jurassic Period and the age of the dinosaurs. Peer over the treetops at the North Shore mountains and Howe Sound. Head back to the trailhead—and ice cream.

SASAMAT LAKE

Round trip: 3.2 km Location: tәmtәmíxwtәn/Belcarra Regional Park, Port Moody Here’s a no-fail place to introduce young kids to the joys of getting out in nature. No matter the season or weather, get thee to Sasamat Lake. Little ones will find trees to hug, bridges to cross, a waterfall to visit, and a lake to splash in.

From the parking lots, follow signs down to White Pine Beach. Find the start of the Sasamat Lake Loop Trail at the north end of the main beach, between the shoreline and the picnic tables. The wide gravel path features 12 bridges and 147 steps. Cross the first little bridge, bear left, go through a gate, and merge with the Beach By-Pass (for folks with dogs).

Breathe in the fresh scent of Douglas-fir and western red cedar trees. Ascend steps to a gravel road. Turn left, pass a yellow gate, and cross the driveway of the Sasamat Outdoor Stephen Hui is the author of Best Hikes and Nature Walks With Kids In and Around Southwestern British Columbia, a new guide to 55 family-friendly trails.

His first two books, 105 Hikes and Destination Hikes, were #1 B.C. bestsellers. Photos: Stephen Hui. Learn more: 105hikes.com 10

WestCoastFamilies.com

Centre. Pick up the trail on the other side. Take a larger bridge over Lower Windermere Creek.

Go left at the next junction, spurning the trail to Woodhaven Swamp. Follow the outdoor education centre’s tall wooden fence by a high ropes course. Pass a log bench. Earn a couple of viewpoints, offering a look back at White Pine Beach and the dam at the lake’s outlet.

An outhouse is off to the right, just before the floating bridge at the lakehead. Cross the “floatwalk,” which has swimming decks and offers a view of Mount Seymour. Look for bats at dusk. At the floating bridge’s east end, meet a trail from the park gate and turn left.

Tread on a boardwalk, stop to admire a cascade, and come to another boardwalk with cattails and more views. You might spot bald eagles in the trees. Finally, keep left at the Beach By-Pass, go through a gate, and pass the washrooms to return to the main beach and close the counterclockwise loop.

Lake. Following Post Creek upstream, cross a log bridge to the opposite bank. Steadily gain elevation on the rocky, rooty trail in the shady forest. Go by a massive boulder.

Arrive at the Lindeman Lake campground. It’s worth continuing around the west shore, traversing sun-baked rockslides with pikas and tremendous views of the stunning lake.

The brilliant blue-green water invites swimming—but at the risk of chattering teeth. Retrace your steps to the trailhead.

LINDEMAN LAKE

Round trip: 3.5 km Location: Sxótsaqel/Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park, east of Chilliwack The Greendrop-Lindeman Trail is a crowd-pleaser. B.C. Parks maintains backcountry campgrounds at bustling Lindeman Lake and quieter Greendrop Lake. For families, the first lake is a quick and easy destination and highly rewarding at that.

From the bustling trailhead, off Chilliwack Lake Road, set off on the gravel road. Quickly pass the turn-off for Flora

Summer 2022

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PLAY

Make a Splash!

8 THINGS TO DO, RAIN OR SHINE

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h, springtime! While the calendar might say it’s here, the weather doesn’t always stay true to spring.

So here are 8 things to do, rain or shine!

1. The Greater Vancouver Zoo is open 7 days a week, rain or shine. And who better to share a rainy day with than an arkload of animals. Discover the sights and sounds of 140 species on 120 acres in the Fraser Valley. Have you walked with dinosaurs at GVZoo’s new Mesozoic Adventure yet? Why wait? gvzoo.com

2. Act like a tourist on a Hop-on, Hopoff Sightseeing Tour of the city. Half the fun is riding the old-fashioned trolley bus, or if it’s sunny, the open-air bus.

Stops include: Canada Place, Vancouver Aquarium, Stanley Park, Science World and Robson Street. hop-on-hop-offbus.com 3. Head for Langley’s Twilight Drivein—Metro Vancouver’s only drive-in theatre—to watch a movie from the comfort of your car. Rain or shine. Reserve your spot and purchase online advance tickets at twilightdrivein.net.

4. Get going up the Grouse Mountain Super Skyride. In the summer, you can take the Skyride Surf Adventure and access a special viewing platform on the rooftop of the Super Skyride! Feel the wind on your face—and maybe a little rain!—as you ascend the 2,800 feet from the Lower Terminal to the Peak Chalet. grousemountain.com

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summer summer YO SPEND S PEND Y YOUR OU R

WIIIT TH CA AR WITH W T HC CAROUSEL A ROUSEL TH EA AT TR FO THEATRE T HE A T RE FOR F OR YO YOUNG Y O U NG P PEOPLE EOPLLE E

CAROUSEL CAMPS 5. Take off on an exhilarating flying ride at FlyOver Canada that lets you soar, dive and dip through incredible landscapes without leaving Vancouver.

Hang suspended, feet dangling, in front of a 20-metre spherical screen on this state-of-the-art ride. flyovercanada.com 6. Splish, splash and sway your way across the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver There’s a free shuttle from downtown Vancouver from select locations. Proof of park admission is required for return service on the shuttle. capbridge.com

7. Get outta town with a BC Ferries’ trip to Victoria. While you’re there, check out the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, the Royal BC Museum and the Malahat SkyWalk, 30 minutes outside of town— and 32 metres up! For more ideas on fun things for families to do while you’re there, pick up a copy of Island Parent Magazine or visit islandparent.ca.

8. Visit the Vancouver Lookout and watch everyone else make a splash in the streets 170 metres below! Take in the spectacular 360° city and mountain views and You can use your ticket twice in one day, so you can come back at night to enjoy the city lights. vancouverlookout.com

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Summer 2022

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PARENTING

Getting Ready for Baby A lesser-known checklist Y

ou are getting close to welcoming a very special person into this world: your baby. Do you feel like you have a lot to think about and prepare for?

Sample baby registries often recommend long lists of baby gear.

But I would like to offer you a less common, but arguably much more important “getting ready for baby checklist”: things for you to consider and source out.

role models to show them how. Sometimes the new dad does not get involved enough and the new mom becomes overworked and stressed.

Changing social policies that contribute to this issue is going to take time, but research points to three things couples can do to support each other in parenting.

2. PREPARE YOUR MIND

There may be no way to fully prepare your mind for the enormous change of becoming a parent. But several key things can help you in Consider a postpartum babymoon. Some cultures have a wonder- the early weeks—and continue to matter for many years to come. ful practice of a postpartum “babymoon” or “bubble” where mothers Practice mind-mindedness. Your baby will come into the world and babies stay home for 20 to 40 days after birth. Relatives help with ready to connect and form relationships. She will need at least one chores while the mother rests and bonds with her newborn. person to form a secure attachment to: a strong and mutual emotional How can you create a postpartum babymoon if you live far from connection. family, have older children to care for or must return to work? Try to Research shows that secure attachment forms best when parents gather your support system, do some planning and create your own are sensitive and mind-minded. Sensitivity is probably not a new version of a babymoon, if only for a short while. Only you can decide concept for you. Sensitive parents perceive, interpret and respond to what it will look like and how long your “while” is. baby’s signals accurately, promptly and warmly.

Arrange your life in a way that allows for as much rest and bonding But have you heard of mind-mindedness? Mind-minded parents with your baby as possible. Think about who you would like to see dur- view their babies not only as little bundles of joy and potential, but ing the early postpartum days and weeks. Ask for what you need most. as whole people with minds of their own. They adjust their views and The early weeks are physically and emotionally demanding, but special practices as they watch their baby’s behaviour, instead of relying on and precious like no others. pre-conceived notions, their own feelings and wishes or general ideas Map out local resources. Find trusted local resources you might of what babies need or should be doing. need or want, such as a lactation consultant, a postpartum doula or a Learn about newborn temperament and crying. Newborns’ physiphysiotherapist specializing in postpartum recovery. There may be a ological processes and rhythms are not yet organized or coordinated. local mom support group or a babywearing community in your area. If They are working hard at staying calm and regulated so they can pay you find these resources now, getting help and support once your baby attention to people, things and events around them. arrives will be much easier.

Being calm is harder for some babies than others, for two reasons.

Discuss roles with your partner. If you will be parenting with a The first reason is something called neurobehavioural maturapartner, talk about your hopes, ideas, and concerns about life with a tion. Some babies are born less neurologically ready than others. Their baby as openly as you can. Studies show that key to engaged parenting nervous systems are having a harder time adjusting to quick changes is the time parents put into—and responsibility they feel for—the day- in sensory input such as light, temperature and sound. These babies by-day caregiving. And moms tend to shoulder more work—and more appear more “touchy” or “reactive.” stress—of parenthood.

The second reason is baby’s temperament: a set of tendencies each For millennia, birth and postpartum has been women’s work, but baby is born with that influence how he approaches, responds to and never of one woman alone. In today’s nuclear families, men are invited interacts with the world. Temperament is how a baby responds to the to be full partners in birth and early parenting, yet many did not have world (what he does); it is only part of baby’s personality (who he is).

1. GATHER YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM

Anya Dunhamis a research scientist with a PhD in Biology, a mom of three young children and the author of a parenting book, Baby Ecology (Encradled Press, January 2022).

Visit Anya at kidecology.com.

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3. PREPARE YOUR HOME

Although you don’t have to babyproof just yet, now is a perfect time to check on and improve your home’s overall safety. Make sure your smoke alarm has fresh batteries. Have emergency phone numbers handy. Consider switching to non-toxic, environmentally-friendly home cleaning products.

A calm home environment. How will your baby experience your home? Think about your home environment from your baby’s perspective. Your baby will be very tuned into his environment right from the start.

Being tuned into their environment helps babies learn rapidly. At the same time, it makes them sensitive and easily overwhelmed, especially in the early weeks. And you might find this surprising: young babies learn best when they get more sleep and less stimulation.

environments for babies because they can get wedged between the cushions or pressed against an armrest, all serious suffocation hazards.

Will you bring your baby into your bed for feedings? Put the same consideration, thought and careful planning into setting up your bed as you would for bed-sharing, just in case you fall asleep while feeding.

“Baby things”: the minimum essential set. A newborn’s needs are simple (but also all-consuming!): to be fed, safe, rested and loved.

Your newborn will need:

Can you screen out some of the world’s intensity to help your newborn stay calm and begin focusing her attention? Consider decluttering, adding window drapes to soften light and sound and moving away from background television.

A safe place for your baby to sleep and feed at night. Which sleep arrangement fits your family best: bed-sharing, room-sharing or baby sleeping in his or her own room? Each sleep arrangement has its benefits and risks. Changing approaches on the fly or because “nothing else works” can create unsafe sleep environments. Decide where your baby will sleep and make this space safe and comfortable in advance.

Next, think about how and where you will feed your baby at night: Are you planning on feeding in a chair or sofa? Take utmost care to not fall asleep during feedings. Chairs and sofas create unsafe sleep

Diapers and wipes. Bottles and formula (if you plan on bottlefeeding formula) or bottles, a breast pump and breastmilk freezer bags (if you plan on bottle-feeding breastmilk) 8 to 12 breathable one-piece sleepers or gowns. Those with zippers or snaps all the way down the front work best. There is a very good chance you will not want to pull even the cutest outfits over your newborn’s head in the early weeks.

Large, soft flannel or muslin receiving blankets. They can also double as burp cloths, stroller and baby carrier shades or nursing covers.

A rear-facing infant car seat if you plan on driving with your baby.

Learn how to adjust and use it properly ahead of time. Consult a car seat technician if you have questions.

Summer 2022

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LEARN

Changing Identities, Changing Minds

M

y relationship with my body has changed as I’ve aged, but I always took it for granted that I was born with the right parts, as a woman. I recently learned that there’s a name for this: I’m cis-gender.

A few months ago, I found the faded spiral-bound notebook that contained the list of ideas for baby names I wrote over the course of my second pregnancy. One column for boys, one column for girls. For nine months, it could have gone either way. I didn’t realize that it could also go either way 17 years later. I took it for granted that my child is a boy.

That child, now a teenager with a deep voice and fuzzy upper lip, is growing long hair and trying on makeup. My young person—as the parenting group leader likes to say—is going to take on a new name but hasn’t chosen one yet. We are slowly shopping for a new wardrobe, learning about hairbands and barrettes and elastics, experimenting with a flat iron and a curling iron and consulting with a pediatric endocrinologist.

“You’ll feel better when you are able to fully express who you really are,” she said to my child during our first visit, letting the weight of her words settle to the shiny floor of her swanky office. I had taken it for granted that I would know if my child was unhappy.

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I had assumed that if something was amiss, my mother’s intuition would give me hints. I would pick up on some otherwise imperceptible clue, and I would intervene. I couldn’t have been more wrong, and I feel guilty for not knowing sooner, even though this knowledge would not have changed anything.

In hindsight, I searched for those clues, judging myself for my lack of understanding. Is that why my child never went swimming without a shirt? Should I have known that my child’s perennial avoidance of public restrooms—even at school—was because of a misalignment of gender? And the eyeliner and choker in that Instagram photo last year, that wasn’t just a teenage experiment?

For the first few nights after my young person came out to me, my dreams were haunted by statistics about trans youth.

I spent my days researching, reading and reaching out to my support network. I had taken it for granted that my child would not suffer from discrimination, hatred or violence.

It’s been nine months since my child came out to me.

Although my initial response was fear and worry about the hardship faced by many trans teens, I have learned to find gratitude in this experience. I’m grateful that my child will

have the chance to freely express their gender identity, whatever that looks like. I’m grateful that my child’s friends are supportive, and that they are entering adulthood in a time and place that may actually embrace them, rather than reject them. Most of all, I’m grateful for the way this has strengthened my relationship with my child.

It’s not in the grand gestures, but the small things: we share a Pinterest board of my child’s favourite outfits (and I gladly take the ribbing when my child has to remind me that “drip” means nice clothes); we talked about role models once and watched Oprah interview Elliot Page; and when I ask a question I don’t always get that blank teenage stare.

These small things—these are the real treasures in this unfolding journey: I have discovered the power and grace in appreciation, which is a potent antidote to taking anything for granted.

Jennifer Wilson is the Managing Director of a national organization that recruits and manages homestay placements for international students. She has an MBA in leadership, and regularly speaks on homestay standards and best practices at industry conferences. Jennifer has her private pilot’s license, loves to run and drives an electric car. She lives with her two children and husband in Victoria, BC.

ONLINE RESOURCES:

Improving Gender-affirming Care Across B.C.: phsa.ca/transcarebc Gender Spectacular Families: genderspectacular.com Gender Creative Kids: gendercreativekids.com Gender Spectrum: genderspectrum.org QMunity: qmunity.ca BC Children’s Health: bcchildrens.ca/health-info/copingsupport/gender-resources Transgender Resources: uvic.ca/research/transchair/ contact/resources/index.php Gender Generations Project: gendergenerations.org Transgender Teen Survival Guide: transgenderteensurvivalguide.com

BOOKS:

The Transgender Teen: A Handbook for Parents and Professionals Supporting Transgender and Non-Binary Teens, by Stephanie Brill and Lisa Kenney, simonandschuster.com/books/Transgender-Teen/ Stephanie-A-Brill/9781627781749 The Gender Creative Child by Diane Ehrensaft, theexperimentpublishing.com/catalogs/spring-2016/ gender-creative-child

A MAMMOTH EXPERIENCE BIG THINGS ARE HAPPENING

rbcm.ca/mammoth

Summer 2022

17

PARENTING

The 'Other Mom'

T

he “other” mom.

That’s my new title and I wear it with pride, but I wish I didn’t have to explain it so much to strangers.

My wife is pregnant, almost half way now, and for every doctor’s appointment, ultrasound and hospital visit, I feel like I have to say right away “I’m the other mom” before I get the weird looks and the “Do you need to go with her?” questions. It’s almost an invisibility cloak I have to put on to avoid being left behind.

You don’t see men saying “I’m the

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dad” when they accompany their wives or partners, you just assume they’re meant to be there. Why should it be any different for me? I’ve yet to encounter anyone who’s openly against me being the “other mom,” but I cringe every time I have to clarify my status whenever someone refers to me as “support person” or “friend.”

Early in our pregnancy, we had a scare and ended up at our local hospital. Upon checking in, the woman at the counter said to me “do you need to be with her?” That was the first time I had to

slip into my “I’m the other mom” cloak.

It worked, I was allowed in and able to make sure our baby was happy and healthy. He was. But having to justify my being there made me feel like I needed to wear a badge that explained my rank: who I was, why I was there and why I should be allowed in.

Since then I’ve had to use it almost everywhere and it’s got me thinking about how it’s still fairly unusual for same-sex couples to have the same experience as “traditional” couples. When it’s Valentine’s Day or our wedding anni-

TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN ACTIVE THIS SPRING & SUMMER...

YOU NEED OXFORD LEARNING

versary, I have to hunt to find same-sex or even gender-neutral cards to give to my wife that express love and affection without having to special order something off Etsy or another website and pay three times the price. The same goes for medical forms almost everywhere when it comes to pregnancy.

Quite often my name comes after the designation “support person” or “other.”

Just once it would be so great to see “partner,” or a space for “parent one” and “parent two.”

There are all different types of families; it’s time we start making the language more open and accepting of all.

We are half way through the pregnancy, and soon we are going to be transferring from our family doctor to an OBGYN for the final half of our journey and before we know it headed back to the hospital as our baby boy will be on his way. So, I’ve decided I’m taking back my title and instead of feeling I need to use it as a badge to prove why I need to be there I’m going to say it loud and proudly positive. I’m the other mom!

This baby has two amazing moms to love him and protect him for his entire life. He gets double the mama bear and we get double the happy Mother’s Day cards because we are both his moms.

Sincerely, the “Other Mom.”

ALL AGES. ALL GRADES. ALL SUBJECTS.

ENROL TODAY!

South Surrey 604.575.1494 205-15149 Hwy 10 Surrey, BC V3S 9A5 ssurrey@oxfordlearning.com

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Join the conversation!

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Malia Fast lives in Langley, BC with her beautiful wife, a baby boy on the way, two amazing dogs and one crazy cat! She is excited to share her journey as a firsttime mom.

Summer 2022

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EAT

Cooking Workshops for Young Foodies W

e all have one: that friend who posts pictures of every meal on Instagram; who hosts immaculate dinner parties and amps up the carefully curated cheese board with homemade sourdough and prosciutto cured in their own garage; who frequently visits farmer’s markets or forages for fiddleheads. They’re a foodie.

But whoever said foodies were exclusively adults? With the ubiquity of cooking shows, YouTube tutorials and wherever else kids get their information these days, Gen Z is ready to make something delicious.

And what responsible parent wants to ignore their child’s desire to be in the kitchen? (So long as they learn to clean, anyways.)

Indulge your kid with one of these top-notch cooking classes whether you live in BC or are just visiting; after all, the best way to experience regional cuisine is to make it yourself. Your kids will learn to appreciate different kinds of food and take home some serious life skills too. And, hey, while the kids are in class, maybe you can sneak off to enjoy some nosh or visit a local brewery.

Nourish Café | Vancouver

Dirty Apron | Vancouver

Kids in the Posh kitchen learn how to bake and cook classic Western dishes, like mac and cheese, pizza balls and cupcakes. In other workshops, they’ll get a taste of Mexico with enchiladas and churros, or Spain with delicious, fresh paella. They’ll learn how to mix and measure, incorporate ingredients and how to be safe in the kitchen. The schedule for summer workshops is on the way, but they routinely host weekend birthday parties for culinary-minded kids. And with Posh Pantry taking care of everything from aprons to clean up, there’s no need to worry about any messes in the kitchen afterwards. poshpantry.ca | suitable for kids 4+

Designed with young chefs in mind, the summer food camps at the Dirty Apron teach kids about food and how to best prepare it. Using fresh, local ingredients, the chefs show participants how to use BC’s bounty to create dishes from around the world like Filipino chicken adobo, French potato rosti, or Mexican soft shell tacos—from scratch!

The Dirty Apron is owned by husband-and-wife team Chef David and Sara Robertson, who, with their team, average over 10,000 students a year. They’ve forged strong relationships with local farmers, growers and suppliers and pass all that knowledge and experience down to their students, whether youth or adult. dirtyapron.com | suitable for kids 7–11

Although the cooking classes at Nourish Café are currently on hold, they’re worth making a note of for when they resume programming.

With a philosophy of teaching kids to cook so they’ll eat better, the youth classes at Nourish are a great way to subtly nudge kids towards healthier eating habits. Participants learn all about food facts but still have plenty of fun with hands-on cooking and silly games. Camps feature recipes inspired by world cultures, including Italian, Chinese, Canadian, Japanese and French cuisine. No matter the inspiration, at Nourish Café the chefs always keep Michael Pollan’s words in mind: “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” They believe in using whole, organic foods and use a plant-based approach. They also support local farms and use seasonal ingredients, passing along knowledge about BC’s seasonal harvest to their budding chefs. nourishvancouver.ca | suitable for kids 8–13

Posh Pantry | Burnaby

Sprouting Chefs | Burnaby

This non-profit organization is dedicated to the development and

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cultivation of school garden programs. Founder Barb Koyanagi McMahon teaches not only about kitchen safety, cooking techniques and food preparation, but also about the environmental impacts of choosing local, seasonal ingredients, how healthy food promotes health and wellness and how to start your own garden. In her summer programs, McMahon incorporates all this and more—like physical activity through foraging, arts and crafts and team building. All of the recipes are centred on what kids can do at home, with and for their families. Your kid will be doing meal prep in no time! sproutingchefs.com | Suitable for kids 7+

baking, to Japanese, Greek and Thai, to Western-style Sunday dinners and vegetarian feasts, there’s something for every type of taste. Working with Chef Helena, participants will leave these two-and-a-halfhour sessions with plenty of new recipes under their belts. And as a bonus, the Well Seasoned store carries plenty of gourmet condiments, sauces and snacks, so if you want to bring home flavours from a class, you’re in the right place. wellseasoned.ca | suitable for kids 7–16

Well Fed | North Shore

With locations across Canada and the US, Little Kitchen Academy has quickly become a renowned name in showing kids their way around the kitchen. When students enroll at any LKA branch in the Lower Mainland, they’ll be invited into a program that has boosted the confidence and independence of thousands of kids. Subscribing to a Montessori approach, co-founder/culinary director Felicity Curin and her team create an environment that encourages experimentation and curiosity. That’s where some of the best recipes come from after all! Classes cater to kids as young as three and go up to teens, with each session structured into groups close in age. It’s a fantastic way to encourage young ones into getting their hands dirty (as if they need help), and give young adults room to build on what they already know. littlekitchenacademy.com | suitable for kids 7–16

Being able to cook a delicious meal from scratch is an essential life skill according to Well Fed (they’re right!) and they teach kids the hands-on technical skills they’ll need to succeed in the kitchen. But perhaps more importantly, they teach kids how to experiment with food to foster a life-long love of cooking. Recipes used in their cooking camps are well-balanced and use whole foods. Well Fed follows what they like to call the lifestyle eating or 80/20 rule: 80 percent of their meals focus on health, using lean proteins and nutrient-rich vegetables. But that other 20 percent is all about decadence. With summer camps offered most weeks in July and August, you have the flexibility to make the most of your time. wellfedstudio.com | suitable for kids 7–17

Well Seasoned | Langley

Another fantastic cooking workshop that’s currently on hold, but plans to reopen soon, so we thought we’d include it in the meantime!

Well Seasoned offers a variety of one- to three-day camps where kids and teens get hands-on experience with cooking. From breakfast and

Little Kitchen Academy | Vancouver, Surrey, North Shore, Richmond

By Ariane Fleischmann, from WestCoastFood.ca, a one-stop fresh guide to the best local and insider stories of all there is to experience and taste in British Columbia’s nine communities of Metro Vancouver.

Summer 2022

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EXPLORE

Surviving - and Thriving - this Summer

D

on’t just survive the summer, thrive! Follow these steps and get ready for a summer full of memories, laughter, relaxing and a happier family.

Are you ready for summer?

I’m ready for summer. I’m ready for hot days, sprinkler fun, lazy mornings, and no schedule. But after what we’ve all gone through this past few years, I find we all get a little antsy and tired of trying to come up with something great to do with our time. Then comes the dreaded summertime phrase: “Mom, I’m bored.” And just like that it seems like we’re all going a bit nuts.

So what’s the secret to thriving instead of merely surviving?

The way to get the most out of our summer days is to keep a routine. Yes, a routine. But isn’t summer supposed to be a break from the schedule? Yes, it is, but I would argue that we are designed for routine.

Look around. There is a routine to everything. The sun rises; the sun

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sets. We eat breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. I need my coffee to feel like my day has started. Even the kids need it. We all need it. No, no, not coffee—routine. It’s still good and I think we crave it, though our routine during the summer looks entirely different from the rest of the year.

You see, instead of a daily routine, we tend to keep a weekly routine and I encourage you to do the same and here’s why—you’ll get the best of both worlds. It will feel like you’re all relaxed and taking life as it comes, but you’ll still have some predictability that allows you to keep your sanity.

With a little (and I mean little) planning, you’ll be able to enjoy the summer with these four steps:

STEP 1.

Take a few minutes to figure out what your goals are for summer. Do you want to explore new places in your area? Read those books that are piling up? Paint the bedroom? Teach your child to ride a bike? Go to the lake?

Make a list and talk with your kids too, they often will have expectations of their own and you may be surprised to hear some of their ideas.

STEP 2.

Choose one or two special things to do each week and balance it out with the things you need to accomplish. Take that bike path. Go to the beach you’ve heard is fantastic. Take a picnic to the kids’ favourite park. But don’t try to tackle the whole list in the first two weeks. You’ll be exhausted! Space it out so you’ll continually have things to look forward to.

STEP 3.

Create a schedule that includes your goals and special things along with planned down time and jobs. Don’t forget the down time.

Whether your kids take naps or you all need to sit down and read a good book in the afternoon, everyone needs a little peace and quiet.

Make a weekly schedule and put it up on the wall so everyone can read it and know what to look forward to as well as see the work that needs to be done too.

STEP 4.

I may step on a few toes here, but I’m just going to say it. Turn off the TV. And the computer. And your phones. Spend time building memories together. Summer is for getting outside. It’s for playing in the sprinklers and climbing trees. It’s for exploring and adventuring.

A few years ago we implemented what we call “screen time boxes.”

Each kid gets six boxes for the week and each box is good for 20 minutes of screen time.

They get to use them when they want (as long as it fits with the family schedule and they have their jobs done for the day), but when the boxes are used up, they don’t get more until the next week. It helps the kids have ownership over their time and helps us feel like they don’t become zombies who have vegged out on too much media entertainment. Our kids used all their “screen time boxes” on the first day in a matter of hours. So be prepared for a learning curve. It will all be worth it. During the summer, the kids rarely use their boxes. Why? We are doing all the things we wanted to do and planned on doing as a family. We’re out making memories. Together.

SEE FULL SCHEDULE AND GET TICKETS

IS THIS YOU?

So with this little bit of planning, we keep to a schedule for the summer. And no, I’m not militant about it. We still go on vacation and deviate from the routine. I mean, after all this is SUMMER. Often we will switch our days around or change the week completely, but the point is, we have a rhythm to our days and weeks. It keeps us from getting bored or from getting to the end of the summer feeling like we didn’t do the things we really wanted to. We keep our sanity. But more than that…we THRIVE. You’ll find that with a little preparation, you can thrive this summer too and create life-long memories with your family.

Gretta Kennedy is a writer, speaker and co-owner of Traveling Islanders, the #1 travel blog on Vancouver Island. She loves being a West Coaster and has a passion to inspire her readers from all over the world to enjoy travel and new experiences as much as she does. Read more of her family’s adventures at travelingislanders.com.

WestCoast Families is always looking for people who want to tell their stories and join our team. publisher@westcoastfamilies.com Summer 2022

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EXPLORE

Finding Attraction Discounts Do Your Research

Use traveler reviews from TripAdvisor, Google or Yelp to determine which attractions are actually worth the price of admission. Reviewers may also alert you to special discounts that you may not have been aware of otherwise. Keep these attractions in mind when booking accommodation as sometimes hotels will offer package deals including free attractions or attraction discounts.

Social Media Channels

Look for special offers on the social media channels of your favourite attractions (Facebook posts, Instagram stories etc).

Specialized Attraction Websites

Check for deals on platforms that specialize in attraction ticket sales such at Viator.com and GetYourGuide.com. These companies will sometimes offer extra discounts for booking multiple attractions or for making bookings via their app.

Consider Attraction Passes

Companies such as CityPass and GoCity offer multi-attraction passes in major centres such as Seattle, Toronto, and New York. If you have some action-filled days planned, these passes can save you more than 40 percent.

Note: These companies typically offer discounted children’s passes but keep in mind that some included attractions are already free for kids (most museums, for example).

Take this into account when deciding if it makes sense to purchase a pass for your child/children.

Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals

It might not be close to November right now, but if you know you have a trip coming up later in the year, hold off booking attractions until you have a chance to look at Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. This can be the best time of the year to save money.

Members Only Deals

Organizations love to have customers signed up for their membership programs and newsletters. In exchange, loyal customers are often rewarded with special members-only deals and first access to special events. I encourage you to sign up for these mailing list in advance of your visit to have the opportunity to take advantage of special deals and events.

Consider Off-Peak Season and Off-Peak Times

Many attraction discounts are found outside of peak season (summer, Easter and Winter Break). You may also find Tara Cannon is an avid traveler who wants to inspire families to have unique and memorable adventures. You can find her latest travel guides at PintSizePilot.com or follow along with her on Instagram @pintsizepilot.

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great family attractions discounts in off-peak hours such as Tuesday evenings. Furthermore, some attractions (most often museums) offer one day (or evening) a month that is either free or by donation.

The best place to find these deals is by checking the attraction website under discounts or offers.

The BCAA Membership

Many attractions offer a small discount with an BCAA membership. As hotels also often offer a BCAA discount, we have found that our saving over a long weekend have often covered off our annual cost of our membership.

Go Local

Another nice thing is to find out what events and festivals are going on locally for families. Do a Google search on, using Seattle as an example, Seattle Family Magazine or Seattle Parent’s Magazine. This search brings up two great community magazine websites that list kid-friendly events going on in the city for the upcoming months.

Why choose Madrona School?

Madrona is a small independent school that offers an academically challenging program for gifted and bright students from Kindergarten through Grade 8.

We provide a safe, flexible and nurturing environment that promotes intellectual satisfaction and positive social interactions.

Register Now for the 2022/2023 School Year

madrona

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL

For more information visit us online at www.madronaschool.com Summer 2022

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EXPLORE

Staying Safe in the Sun P

rotecting children from getting too much sun is important, whether they are playing outside or are with you on an errand. The hot summer sun can be dangerous for children. A child can sunburn easily, even on a cloudy day. Bad sunburns and too much time spent in the sun without skin protection have been linked to a higher risk of skin cancer later in life.

During the summer months, children can easily lose body fluid and become dehydrated. Children’s skin can also be burned by touching hot surfaces, such as pavement, metal slides or car doors.

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How can I keep my child safe from the sun?

Avoid being in the sun for long periods of time at the start of the season.

Gradually increase the amount of time you spend outdoors with your child over a period of several days. When possible, stay indoors or in the shade during the hottest time of the day, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

To prevent sunburn:

Always protect babies from the sun: • Limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours

• Cover your baby in loose clothing and make sure they are wearing a hat • Use a stroller sunshade to cover your baby • Properly apply a small amount of sunscreen with SPF (sun protection factor) 30 on exposed areas. Note that sunscreen is not recommended for babies under 6 months old, who can rub it in their eyes and mouth.

• Make sure your child’s favourite play areas have a shady spot or bring along a sun umbrella.

• Your child should wear a sun hat with a wide brim and back flap to protect the back of the neck, sunglasses

Webb’s Holiday Acres Overnight Horse Camp for 6–14 year olds

1-hour drive from Vancouver.

Heated pool, games, arts and crafts, fabulous homecooked meals, campfires, sing songs, great staff!

webbsholidayacres.ca guestranch@shaw.ca 604-857-1712 with 100 per cent UV protection (“broad spectrum”) and loose cotton clothing to protect skin from the sun’s rays.

• At least 30 minutes before heading outside, apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on all areas of your child’s skin that will be exposed to the sun.

Use a lip balm with SPF 15 as well.

• Remember to put sunblock on ears, nose, back of neck and legs, and tops of feet.

• Reapply sunscreen every few hours and after swimming or vigorous play.

Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, especially water.

Children don’t necessarily feel thirsty while at play.

Be alert for signs that your child is experiencing heat illness and needs to go inside. These include thirst, fatigue, leg or stomach cramps, and cool, moist skin, which can be a sign of heat exhaustion. Bring your child inside or into a cool, shady area, and offer frequent, small sips of water. Removing extra clothing and fanning can help your child cool down slowly.

Most importantly, lead by example and remember to protect yourself from the sun as well.

Enter to win one of two four packs of tickets for a “Day Out with Thomas”

May 28 & 29 | June 4 & 5 Railway Museum of British Columbia Good for choice of three departures on any of the four days (value $120)

westcoastfamilies.com/category/contests

For more information on staying safe in the sun visit caringforkids.cps.ca.

Summer 2022

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LEARN

Helping Kids Cope with News of Traumatic Events P

arents can help to lessen anxieties arising from the coverage of catastrophic events by: • monitoring media exposure • mediating media images and messages and • mitigating the media’s impact

MONITOR

Don’t assume that children are unaware of news events.

It’s almost impossible to be unaware of current events in our information age. Even very young children hear and see more than we think, so it’s important to question them about what they have learned and how they’re feeling.

Look for signs of anxiety in children. Some children are more susceptible to anxiety about events reported in the media. Various factors influence children’s reactions, including age, temperament, a tendency to worry or a vivid imagination.

Children are more likely to dwell on certain news events if they themselves have been victims of violence, war or similar tragedies, if they have relatives or friends living in the affect-

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ed area, or if they have family in the military or in emergencyresponse professions.

Be selective in your media consumption, particularly with young children. Protect kids from intensely disturbing or frightening TV images. Don’t leave the TV or radio on as background noise, don’t watch coverage of traumatic events with young children in the room, and avoid media “replays” in the days following a catastrophe.

MEDIATE

Help children to feel safe. When traumatic events occur, kids need to have the risks to themselves and their families put into a realistic context. While we should be concerned about conflicts in other parts of the world, children need to be reassured that these events do not pose a direct threat to them. Explain how governments and organizations such as the United Nations and UNICEF are working hard to make the world a safer place for all children.

Make the time to listen to any concerns children may have. Be honest when answering questions. With young children, however, don’t elaborate with long, detailed explanations. Some children may ignore news coverage of catastrophes in order to avoid unpleasant feelings. If they don’t want to talk about the events, tell them that’s fine. It’s okay to just let them be kids.

Tell them how you’re feeling. Be aware of the impact that traumatic events may have on your own emotions and behaviour. Share your feelings with kids. It helps older kids to know that such events are upsetting to adults as well. Remember, however, that young children may become more fearful if they sense anxiety and tension in the adults around them.

by Canadian, American and other international media. Talk about the differences in how various media approach the same event.

Emphasize the importance of tolerance and respect. Explain that media coverage of world conflicts can trigger powerful feelings of fear and anger in people, which can turn into hate directed at certain groups of people. Explain how negative stereotypes can lead to simplistic and dangerous “good versus evil,” “bad guys versus good guys” perceptions. Point out that peaceful solutions to conflict are always preferable to retaliation and violence.

Emphasize the positive things that may arise from traumatic events. Talk about how, after a tragedy, there is usually a shared outpouring of grief, concern for the victims’ families MITIGATE and admiration for the heroes. Traumatic events can make Help older children to analyze media coverage. Use this us pull together and talk about the importance of loved ones opportunity to educate kids about how the media work. and the value of life.

Watch news coverage with older kids and talk about it. ExTake action to make a difference. Gandhi said: “Be the plain that news is a business and that the need to attract change you want to see in the world.” Helping people in your audiences can influence editorial decisions on how events community or another part of the world can help minimize are reported. feelings of despair and helplessness. Let children choose their Expand your sources of information. Seek out news cover- own course of action. They can volunteer at a local food bank, TN – NANAIMO – ISLAND FAMILIES/WEST COAST FAMILIES AD age from a variety of sources including the Internet, newspa- make a donation to a refugee support organization or write a HALF PAGEand 7"radio. × 4.5" 05/06/22 pers, magazines Access alternative media as well as letter expressing their concerns to the local newspaper. mainstream media outlets. If your children are reading about current events on the Internet, check out the sources of the Prepared by MediaSmarts and Dr. Arlette Lefebvre, Staff information to ensure their credibility. Compare the coverage Psychiatrist, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto.

Family fun starts here Thinking about your next family getaway? Nanaimo is the perfect place for your next Island adventure. With biking, kayaking, shopping, ziplining and incredible parks and playgrounds at every turn, the affordable family fun is endless in Nanaimo. From the moment you take the bikes off the roof rack, get onto the water, or stumble upon that first Nanaimo Bar, come #ExploreNanaimo with the kids and see why it all starts here.

tourismnanaimo.com/StartHere

@TourismNanaimo

Summer 2022 FILE NAME: TN_22-0211_Nanaimo-Island-Parent-WCFamilies-Mag

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PLAY Whether you’re looking for something to keep you busy at night, or something to keep your heart rate up by day, these two events will satisfy either—or both!—desires.

Richmond Night Market Fri–Sun and Stat Holidays: 7pm–midnight (Fri & Sat) 7–11pm (Sun & Stat Holidays) richmondnightmarket.com The Richmond Night Market is back! It’s going to be an amazing summer filled with laughter, great food, and more.

Featuring live performances, carnival games and over 200 retail stalls, you’ll feel the excitement from the moment you arrive. Highlights from previous summer events include: games area, Angel Duck Cafe, and live entertainment. 8351 River Road, Richmond.

Playland 2022 Opening: June 18 | pne.ca/playland Playland has everything from enjoyable family fun rides to sky-scraping, heartstopping, extreme G-force thrills. At 100-smiles-per-hour, amusement park enthusiasts are sure to have an electrifying experience. Playland also has a range of entertaining activities like midway games, mini golf, a haunted house and a climbing wall. Come hungry and indulge your appetite with a wide variety of food options including Triple O’s burgers, pizza, totchos, slushies, candy floss and everyone’s favourite treat: mini donuts. Admission includes unlimited rides for your specific date/time slot. Tickets are limited.

SPOTLIGHT ON LOCAL PRESCHOOLS LICENSED PRESCHOOL Play based learning in a warm and nurturing environment. surrey.ca/preschool | 604-501-5100

Reggio Emilia inspired high quality Licensed Child Care and Preschool Programs that support your child’s early learning through arts and crafts, music, indoor and outdoor activities, science, dramatic play and story telling.

5288 Joyce St, Vancouver

604 435 0323

Childcare Learning Centre for ages 2–12

Our learning centre is Reggio-Emilia inspired and incorporates best practices in education while highly valuing the arts. Our School of Arts includes educational development in the areas of music, art, character and psychological development.

We specialize in providing fun, engaging, and educational piano lessons for all ages.

Wonder of Learning Organization 1346 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC

604-829-1346 wonderoflearning.ca

northstarmontessori.ca

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Credit: Kevin Clark

SPARK CREATIVITY Art, Design, Dance, Theatre, Music & Film programs for ages 2-22 Registration for 2022/23 begins June 4 604-681-5268 artsumbrella.com Summer 2022

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