Winter2010

priceless • take one!

Winter 2010

cover photo: www.adriankidsphotography.ca

Fighting Childhood Fears

Q & A with Local Experts!

Why Winter = Cold & Flu Season Naughty or Nice, They’re Still our Kids!

Gift Guide!!

buddies kids boutique style, quality and service ...since 2003

Photography West

Buddies is a designer boutique for children from birth to age 10. Our store is filled with clothing, shoes and special gifts that are as unique as the child in your life.

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contents

Winter 2010

articles

Ever Wonder Why Winter is Cold & Flu Season?

Stocking Your Kitchen How to Slay Scary Monsters The Gift of Gratefulness From Dad to Dad: “The Greatest”

Fighting Childhood Fears

Q & A with Local Experts!

Why Winter = Cold & Flu Season Naughty or Nice, They’re Still our Kids!

5 12 18 20 24 26 27 30

volume 2, issue 4

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columns

Editor’s Note Stuff We Love: GIFT GUIDE EDITION Featured Parent: Janelle Wood Ask the Expert Recipes You’ll Love Michelle Collie: Naughty or Nice Resource Directory Snap Happy

Contributors: Michelle Collie, Kim Corrigan-Oliver, Michale Hartte, Jeff Hay, Jodi Quibell, Heidi Smith Luedtke, Wayne Terai Editor & Publisher Colleen Bezeau Advertising Inquiries: advertise@okanaganchild.com General Inquiries: info@okanaganchild.com www.okanaganchild.com 1.888.373.5566 Okanagan Child is published four times per year by Bellhop Media Inc. Circulation: 15,000. Please note that this magazine is solely funded through the support of our advertisers and sponsors. Please support our advertisers!

Opinions expressed in this publication may not necessarily reflect those of the Publisher. All contents copyrighted ©. No part of this publication may be reprinted, quoted, copied or reproduced without the express written permission of the Publisher.

Watch for it this February!

To share your feedback, please send an e-mail to info@okanaganchild.com. To submit a local event, please complete the form on our website at www.okanaganchild.com

We Make It Easy To ExploreTogether Nelson, BC

top quality gear to get your family out there

WWW.MOUNTAINBABY.COM Winter 2010 l 4

Gift Guide!!

cover photo: Adrian Kids Photography www.adriankidsphotography.ca E. info@adriankidsphotography.ca P. 250.863.0176

Editorial Photography: Aviva Photo Studios, Sharla Pike Photography

Next issue: Spring 2011...

1.888.990.2292

cover photo: www.adriankidsphotography.ca

8 10 14 16 22

WINTER 2010

A unique selection of hard to find products for mom, dad and baby

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FREE SHIPPING ON CANADIAN ORDERS OVER $150 www.okanaganchild.com

editor’s note

A

recent news headline caught my attention: It’s a La Nina year. Now I’m no meterologist, but typically that means a good winter is coming our way. Of course, by “good” I am referencing cooler temperatures and hopefully a whole lot of snow.

After last year’s El Nino influenced mild winter season, I have to say I am stoked and ready for some full on winter fun! Besides, isn’t it always more fun when Santa’s sleigh can land on a snow-covered roof?

When I grew up, I loved the magic of Santa Claus. How neat it was to truly believe that a jolly old man would stuff himself down millions of chimneys all for the joy of little girls and boys. Not to mention the thoughtfulness of all those elves who worked so hard to make all the toys. Now as a parent, I’ve had a number of discussions with other parents about Santa. There are those who play up the magic for their kids just the way my parents did. There are those who don’t participate stemming from cultural or religious beliefs.

And there are those who don’t really say much at all about Santa because they don’t believe in “lying” to their children. No matter who we are though, what our beliefs may be, I think we all benefit from the general spirit of the holiday season. There tends to be a hustle and bustle in the streets, people scurrying about. There are lots of warm smiles, much celebrating and a whole lot of eggnog (does anyone drink eggnog outside of December?) It’s good for there to

be a time of year when people make a concerted effort to be merry.

We have a ton of great editorial to help you cozy up for winter and stay healthy! First, we’ve added a brand new ‘Ask The Experts’ column. We have a panel of local experts who are here to answer your questions, so don’t hesitate to write us at info@okanaganchild.com to share a question! We’ve also added another new column entitled ‘Receipes You’ll Love.’ We’re delighted to have Michale Hartte on board with us. As a local nutritionist and author of a new book, she’ll share great recipes with us on a regular basis. Don’t forget to check out our expanded ‘Stuff We Love’ section for gift ideas plus all kinds of other great editorial. www.facebook.com/OkanaganChild www.twitter.com/OkanaganChild Happy Holidays and Best Wishes for the New Year!

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Winter 2010 l 6

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Giveaways

$75 gift card! buddies kids boutique

over $75 value!!

Buddies Kids is a fantastic Kelowna-based boutique that carries brands that offer stylish, fun options to celebrate the uniqueness of your child!

Have you heard of Noppies, Kate Mack, Little Maven, Ally Girl or Butterfly Girls? If your answer is no, you don’t know what you’re missing!

If innovative brands isn’t enough already, they carry all sorts of fabulous toys and books as well. There’s something for every child at Buddies Kids Boutique. One lucky reader is going to have a blast spending their $75 gift certificate! www.buddieskidsboutique.com Entry Deadline: February 18, 2010 Entry Location: Visit www.okanaganchild.com, select ‘giveaways’

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Kula Klips provides some of the best accessories on the market for little girls and boys. It all began in 2006 with a clip and some ribbon and now Kula Klips offers an incredible line-up with pattern choices that will suit everyone’s taste! Whether you need hip belts, mitten clips, hair accessories or soother clips, check out Kula Klips! www.kulaklips.com Here’s what is included in this fantastic prize pack: • 1 cassette tape belt size 4-7 for boys • 1 flower belt size 4-7 for girls • 1 boy set of mitten klips • 1 girl set of mitten klips • 1 Kula Band (adjustable headband) • 1 set of Kula Klips pink cupcake • 1 3-Pak of snap klips This prize is perfect for your own little ones or for gift-giving!

Entry Deadline: February 18, 2010 Entry Location: Visit www.okanaganchild.com, select ‘giveaways’

Do you love giveaways?!

You’ll find additional giveaways on the website periodically that aren’t noted here so be sure to check OkanaganChild.com regularly for your chance to win more fabulous products or services.

Winter 2010 l

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health

Ever Wonder Why Winter is Considered Cold & Flu Season?

by Wayne Terai, DC

A

s we head into winter, the days get shorter, we layer up with more clothing, and we tend to spend more time indoors.

Unfortunately, this can limit our body’s ability to produce the “sunshine vitamin,” Vitamin D, which we require to maintain a healthy immune system and proper bone health. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets and osteoporosis, whereas maintaining an adequate level of Vitamin D can help us avoid cancer, obesity, cardiovascular disease, poor immune function, multiple sclerosis, and even cognitive problems such as dementia.

During the sunny summer months, just 10 minutes of exposure to UV-B radiation via sunshine every other day can be enough for most people to produce about 90% of our body’s required amount.

But here in the Okanagan area, during the winter months, most of us simply do not get enough sun exposure for our body to produce even a fraction of what it needs. Keeping sufficient levels of Vitamin D during the winter, then, can certainly be a challenge.

When we can’t get the Vitamin D we need from exposure to sunlight, we should check to see if we’re getting enough Vitamin D through our diet. The main dietary sources are fatty fish (cod, herring, salmon, sardines, halibut, trout), eggs, liver, and fortified foods (milk, cereals, orange juice).

Vitamin D deficiency is becoming rampant. Half of British adults, 59 percent of Americans and over 70 percent of Canadians lack adequate levels of this critical nutrient (BMJ 2010;340:b5664; J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2010; 95:1076-83, Public Health 2010; Epub).

Most health experts have historically recommended daily Vitamin D dosages of 200 IU for people up to 50 years old, 400 IU for those 50 to 70 years old, and 600 IU for those older than 70 years. More recent research indicates that these levels may be sufficient to promote decent bone health, but 1000 IU will likely improve overall health (Arch Intern Med 2009; 169:626-32).

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Is your child between the ages of 8 and 18?

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Depending on your diet and sun exposure, nutritional supplementation may be the only way for you and your family to ensure that you get enough of this essential nutrient. The optimal way to ensure good health is to take Vitamin D3 in liquid form. It is the most biologically active, more readily absorbed, and should be free of heavy metal pollutants. One drop in a glass of water or juice each day may keep you and your loved ones feeling well this winter… maintaining bone health and boosting your immune system to help you avoid those winter colds and flus!

SUBMISSIONS DEADLINE - January 14th, 2011

For applications, Information & Contest Rules go to www.ourkidshavetalent.com or www.rarearthmusic.com or info@rarearthmusic.com

“Girls Will Be Girls...”

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This information is provided by Dr. Wayne Terai, B.Sc., D.C., a family practice chiropractor, Advanced Proficiency Rated in Activator Methods. He has practiced in Kelowna for 15 years, and has practice includes the new Kelowna Laser Therapy Clinic, implementing the BioFlex Low Intensity Laser Therapy (LILT).

LILT is used to effectively treat injuries and chronic and inflammatory conditions.

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Jamie Rae Hats - now in stock!

Visit us in our new location in the heart of Kelowna’s Arts and Cultural District!

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READ

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Winter 2010 l

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Stocking Your Kitchen

by Kim Corrigan-Oliver

A

well-stocked kitchen makes meal planning goals much easier to meet. Rushing home to make dinner only to discover you are missing an ingredient will create a little roadblock in your plans.

• • •

Here are some suggestions of what to keep stocked in your kitchen to create quick, healthy and delicious meals.

• • • • •

Pantry • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Baking powder – non-aluminum Baking soda Beans (dry and some canned in BPA free cans for quick meals – black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, white beans, lentils, split peas) Breadcrumbs – brown rice Broth – low sodium vegetable Cereal – low sugar, such as Barbara’s Bakery Hole ‘n Oats Oil – extra virgin olive oil, coconut Crackers – Rice and Mary’s Rice cakes Dried fruits – apricots, raisins, cranberries, dates, goji berries Flour- coconut, quinoa, brown rice, oat, etc Jams- organic and sugar free Pasta – brown rice and quinoa Canned tomatoes – low sodium Tomato sauce - in glass jars Grains – quinoa, oatmeal, millet, oats, rice Vinegars – apple cider, red wine, rice, balsamic Tea – Yogi decaf green tea, nettle, red raspberry, horsetail, alfalfa, lemon balm Vanilla extract Herbs and spices – ginger, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, curry, oregano, basil, sage, rosemary, ginger.

Winter 2010 l 10

Honey Maple syrup Sugar – coconut, sucanut and cane sugar

Freezer

Berries – blueberries, raspberries, strawberries Vegetables – usually peas and corn Gluten free bread Brown rice wraps Extra nuts and seeds

Refrigerator • • • • • • • • • • •

Fresh fruit and vegetables Butter - organic Mustard Eggs - organic from local farmer Salsa Nuts – almonds, pecans, walnuts, pine nuts, cashews Nut and seed butters Seeds – sesame, pumpkin, sunflower, chia, flax and hemp Blackstrap molasses Milk – almond, brown rice and coconut Nutritional yeast

There will be things you want to add to your list based on your own family’s likes and dislikes. Work on creating your own list of kitchen staples, then get your kitchen stocked up and ready to tackle the meal planning preparations you have already done.

Your Green Baby guides your preconception, pregnancy and postnatal nutritional care and that of your baby and toddler. We’re passionate about living a healthy natural lifestyle for both mom and baby. Visit our blog today: http://yourgreenbaby.blogspot.com www.okanaganchild.com

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!

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Winter 2010 l

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STUFF WE

LOVE

Based on Bloch’s world famous ballerina shoes, the Baby Bloch line is expertly crafted for comfort, style and protection of baby’s developing feet. When style meets practical, it’s a win!

50.00+ www.buddieskidsboutique.com

Drip Sticks keep kids’ clothes clean by catching the sticky drips from ice cream cones or any frozen treat on a stick. Now that’s clever! The less mess and less sticky hands, the better! One side holds ice cream cones, the other holds treats on a stick.

4.99 mylilpackage.com

Have a little girl? Meet hopscotch for kids. And mama? Meet Scotch.

These salon quality polishes are a safe and eco-friendly alternative to conventional solvent-based polish.

Yes, that’s right, you can have gorgeous nails minus the toxic factor.

12.99 / 14.99 raspberrykids.com

These magnetic word tiles can be arranged and rearranged on the fridge (or any magnetic surface) for wordplay fun and learning. What a clever way to combine education and fun!

14.56 amazon.ca

Kids love using crayons when they’re out and about. Make it easy with this crayon roll that is easy and convenient to bring along in your purse or diaper bag.There’s even fun to be had in organizing which crayon goes in which slot!

14.00 www.bitstybird.com

This Tree Puzzle has 19 pieces and many levels of difficulty, making it a perfect choice to grow with your toddler!

28.00 www.discoverytoyslink.com/learningthruplay Winter 2010 l 12

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This inflatable, portable toddler bed is perfect for trips or sleepovers at grandma’s house! It comes with an electric pump and has elevated sides to prevent the toddler from rolling out of bed.

79.00 www.theshrunks.com This count and stack toy helps small children learn to distinguish colors and older ones practice counting and sorting!

21.50 www.bumblebeetoys.com

Construction vehicles are almost always a hit with boys. These beautiful wooden ones are made by Plan Toys from sustainable forest products.

25.00 bopeep.ca

Inspire the artist inside with paints, crayons, modelling dough and more from the Celementine Arts line. All natural, non-toxic and environmentally friendly. from 6.95 ww.naturalbellyandbaby.com

Check out the night sky with the Star Explorer Discovery Kit! It helps to pinpoint and identify popular seasonal constellations. Perfect for budding astronauts or any kid who loves all-things-space.

31.50 www.discoverytoyslink.com/learningthruplay

These plasma cars might be a little strange looking, but they are an absolute blast! They harness centrifugal force and friction to propel kids up to 10km/hr. Loads of fun, even for mama & dada!

59.99 www.costco.ca

You can never have enough wipes for a baby.

They’re perfect for baths, faces, hands, and even little bums! Bummas wipes are oh so soft and come in gorgeous color sets of 10 wipes.

16.99 www.bootyboutique.ca

Looking for a gift that you’re pretty certain will be a new experience? Pick up one of the fabulous seedling kits. This one lets you create your own kalidescope!

40.99 www.raspberrykids.com www.okanaganchild.com

Winter 2010 l 13

How to Slay Scary Monsters (and Other Childhood Fears)

by Heidi Smith Luedtke

disapproval and failure.

“M

“Anxious thinking – for all of us – is notoriously distorted, exaggerated, and unreliable,” notes Dr. Tamar Chansky, psychologist and author of Freeing Your Child from Anxiety: Powerful, Practical Solutions to Overcome Your Child’s Fears, Worries, and Phobias. But don’t dismiss your child’s fears as childish or irrational. Confronting even the silliest scary scenarios helps kids learn to deal with real-life woes and worries. When your daughter shrieks and clings to your leg because the neighbor’s border collie bounces her way, embrace the teachable moment. Parents can help kids confront fears so they don’t grow bigger and scarier. om. Come here, now,” my three-year old whispers urgently as he pulls me toward the yard. “Red eyes,” he says, shivering with fear. “Red eyes.”

My son believes we have a monster downstairs, but only at night when we are upstairs. Other monsters live in bushes at the back of our yard, where they feast on stray baseballs and Frisbees. That is why he is worried now. I am called in to retrieve the ball he has lost. I grab the ball and run back to him as if I’ve narrowly escaped.

“Monsters are just pretend,” I say.

A Big, Scary World As their understanding of the world increases, so do kids’ fears. Infants may be fearful of separation or loud noises, and those fears stick with kids into the toddler years. But as their experiences and imaginations grow, toddlers may also develop fears of animals and insects (dogs, snakes, spiders), characters in costumes (beware Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny), and things that lurk in the dark (ghosts and monsters, bad guys and robbers). They may also fear they’ll be sucked down the toilet or the bathtub drain, despite your constant reassurance that they won’t. School-aged kids may get over their fear of the boogeyman but grow anxious about social Winter 2010 l 14

Fight Fears Together Respect feelings. Fear feels uncomfortable. Your child’s heart is racing, her palms are sweaty, and she wants to escape to safety. Be her ally and accept her anxiety. If she isn’t ready pet the snake at the zoo or sleep without a night light, don’t push it.

Word up. Kids can’t always express what scares them, especially when the body’s fear response is energizing them to fight or flee.

Help your child identify specific concerns using age-appropriate words. Ask “what is it about the dog that worries you?” or “what might happen when the lights are off?” You can’t devise monsterslaying strategies if you don’t know the enemy.

Do reconnaissance. Fear festers when our imaginations get the best of us. The more your child learns about the feared situation, the less powerful his imaginary thoughts will be. Hold hands while you both check the basement for monsters. Go online and read about snakes together. Pretend you are engineers studying how self-flushing toilets work. Knowledge is power.

Talk back. Encourage your child to argue against the frightening thoughts or to repeat a calming phrase such as “I am fast and strong.

Ghosts can’t catch me!” Talking back shrinks scary thoughts. Dr. www.okanaganchild.com

Susan Mather recalls that her son was sure there were monsters under the bed and in the closet. “We put a sign on the door that read ‘Monsters KEEP OUT’ and they obeyed!” she says.

SLEEPING BABIES ARE HAPPY BABIES...

Baby steps. “The best way to face a fear is a little at a time, from a safe distance,” says marriage, family and child therapist H. Norman Wright, author of Helping Your Kids Deal with Anger, Fear, and Sadness. Face a fear of heights by imagining the scary situation first.

Then, move on to climbing a low structure, followed by a taller one, and so on. Give high-fives as kids conquer each challenge.

if your infant or toddler isn't getting the sleep they need, help is available.

Be there. Kids need to know you’ll stick with them when they face their fears. Don’t let your own distress or embarrassment cause you to shut down or disappear. “Research indicates it takes about 20 minutes for the anxiety to subside when a fear is confronted,” Wright says. Work toward this goal with your child.

Call Pam Nease 250 575 6988 private consultations. group seminars. practical solutions.

Be Afraid, But Not Too Afraid

www.sleepsense.net/kelowna

Fear is essential for survival – it helps us to escape dangerous situations. But if your child’s fears keep her from engaging in everyday activities, it may be time to seek professional help. Some kids’ fear systems are much more sensitive than others. Anxious kids may be trapped in a whirlwind of fearful thoughts, and paralyzed by nagging “what ifs.” According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, thirteen percent of children are affected by anxiety disorders, which include phobias, panic disorder, and obsessive-

S

T

O

R

compulsive disorder. Talk with your pediatrician or school psychologist if your child’s fears are overwhelming you both.

Heidi Smith Luedtke is a psychologist and mom who enjoys crashing toy cars, making pumpkin cake balls, and blowing raspberries on the baby’s belly. You can read her blog on parenting as a leadership experience at www.LeadingMama.com.

Y

U

P

!

It is no accident that most children’s books and movies have villains. Vicarious scares allow kids to practice coping from a safe emotional distance. These books confront kids’ fears head-on without keeping them up at night with please-check-what’s-in-mycloset concerns.

Story and Picture Books Junie B. Jones Has a Monster Under Her Bed (1997) by Barbara Park. Junie scares away an invisible under-bed monster using an ugly school picture of herself as a weapon.

A Not Scary Story About Big Scary Things (2010) by C.K. Williams. A growling monster begs a brave boy to believe in him in this silly story.

On A Scary Scary Night (Can You See What I See?; 2008) by Walter Wick. Search for objects in spooky scenes with your child to encourage conversation about scary subjects.

Wemberly Worried (2000), by Kevin Henkes. Anxious kids will recognize themselves in Wemberly, a shy white mouse with lots of worries.

What Was I Scared Of? A Glow-in-the Dark Encounter (2009) by Dr. Seuss. The narrator of this delightful classic is terrorized by an empty pair of pants that is equally scared of the narrator.

Self-help For ages 6-12: What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety (2005) by Dawn Huebner. This book educates and inspires kids to confront their anxieties with proven cognitive-behavioral techniques.

For ages 9-13: What to Do When You’re Scared and Worried: A Guide for Kids (2004) by James J. Crist. Kids learn practical Fear Chasing and Worry Erasing strategies and find out when to seek expert help for more serious anxiety disorders. www.okanaganchild.com

Winter 2010 l 15

The Gift of Gratefulness

by Jodi Quibell

photo credit: www.sharlapike.com

W

hen you were a child, there was typically an adult reminding you to say “please” and “thank you” when you wanted something, or if you were given something. Children begin to learn that in order to have their needs met, they must repeat these “magic words.”

be on the children in our care. Each time you make a decision to display any type of behaviour, either positive or negative, there is typically a pair of young eyes and ears watching and listening closely, taking mental notes and filing them away to be retrieved when the time arises for that child.

A child can learn to be hopeful, not expectant, for things they want and grateful for things given to them. Learning through observation for a child is very powerful. Children look to the people in their lives who have been on this Earth much longer than they have, searching for guidance, reassurance and security.

Imagine if those young eyes and ears watched and heard you, as the adult role model, make a conscious decision to react to situations in your life based on a feeling of gratitude. As an example, what if you were to receive a notice that you have been laid off from your job.

If you were to open that notice and read it in front of your 8 year old son, you could choose to get angry, curse and complain. These would all be understandable reactions, but you could also choose to identify a positive such as the opportunity to grow in your field of work, or to start a different career. Your responses model for your child how how to handle challenging situations.

Younger children, birth to age six, are typically not in the developmental stage to deeply understand gratitude. They are typically self-centered and are limited in their ability to appreciate someone else’s point of view. An older child, however, can begin to feel empathy for others’ distress, and a corresponding gratefulness for their own well-being.

Whereas younger children simply mimic the adults in their lives, older children begin to scrutinize and question the behaviour of adults. They will begin to base their own life decisions on the decisions they see being made daily around them, from the adults in their lives that they trust and admire.

If a child sees that his parent or careprovider is not in a state of anger, negativity and resentment when challenges arise in their life, but rather is able to see the challenge as having a positive side as well, that child then begins to understand that challenges do not need to push you down, but that they can build you up.

What if these children observed their parents and/or careproviders expressing gratefulness for everything in their lives, be it food, shelter, water, clothing? Or much deeper, abstract things such as family, health and security? To take it a step further, if these children were to see that even challenges are something for which to be thankful, imagine how much more enriched their lives would be.

Each moment of our daily lives is filled with a multitude of things for which to be grateful. The air we breathe, the clean water we are able to drink, the sunshine on our faces - the list could go on and on. Remembering that each of these simple things are essential to our lives and our well-being will lead to an increased ability to be grateful for everything in your life, leading to a decreased sense of resentment, anger and frustration at those things in your life that you feel are unfair.

Within our daily lives, as parents, teachers, careproviders, we would be remiss not to consistently remember how strong our impact can

Reminding children that being hopeful for things - not simply expecting things to be given to them - is one of the most important

Winter 2010 l 16

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School success is a phone call away.

Our highly personalized approach builds the skills, habits and attitudes your child needs to succeed in school and in life.

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BABY SHOW Sunday December 12th, 5pm - 8pm

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gifts we can give. Children who are taught, both through instruction and observation, that working for and earning things in their lives has value in and of itself, are given the tools to become responsible, hard working and grateful members of society.

Imagine meeting a child who understood that when they are given a gift - either a toy, food, or even a hug from their grandmother - they should feel grateful for that gift and should show their appreciation to the person giving the gift. Imagine they understood that they did not necessarily have to be given that gift, but that another person decided to share it with them. That child would have the potential to grow up with a sense of thankfulness and hope, rather than anger, negativity and resentment. How much healthier for that adult, and consequently for society!

Jodi Quibell is an Early Childhood Educator and Discovery Toys Educational Consultant. Discovery Toys has provided children with exceptional products that are educational, developmental and fun for over 30 years!! www.discoverytoyslink. com/learningthruplay www.okanaganchild.com

Check out our gift ideas to make smiles bright !

4407 29th Street Vernon, BC 250.549.1221

www.chickenlittle.ca Winter 2010 l

17

photo credit: Adrian Kids Photography

Janelle Wood -on life with daughter Payton A bit about myself...

I am a 26 year old first-time mom. My daughter Payton is 22 months old. I was born and raised in Penticton and Justin was as well so we have made the choice to raise our daughter here. Justin and I are both working parents and still trying to find the perfect balance between work time and family time. I work at a Morning and After school program; my hours work wonderfully for me as I get to spend most of my day with Payton yet still be home for dinner every night.

What have I learned most about myself since becoming a mom?

I have learned about patience. For example, when we started potty training Payton and we were packing for a holiday, she peed in a fully packed suitcase! What can you do but laugh at that point? And the obvious that goes unmentioned is the unconditional LOVE. Each day I look at Payton and I love her more and more.

What I wish I knew when my daughter was born...

The terrible 2’s start a lot earlier than they say!

Winter 2010 l 18

One piece of advice I found incredibly helpful...

Stick to a routine. This approach has worked amazingly well for us.

Payton has been sleeping through the night since 3 weeks old and now at 22 months she still has no problem going to bed.

What’s in my diaper bag?

Way too much! This reflects a trait I have inherited from my mom: the tendency to over-pack! My diaper bag always contains extra clothes, diapers, wipes, food and little odds and ends. And importantly, my daughter’s EpiPen for her nut allergy.

The hardest part about being a parent...

I feel like it’s the discipline. I believe I give in a lot and tend to be a push over. I have realized that this is not good for Payton or myself so I am working very hard at sticking to what I say.

The best part about being a parent...

Waking up and hearing Payton say “Mommy!” and watching her grow. Life is so happy for her. It melted my heart the first time she www.okanaganchild.com

gave me a big hug. Now she is saying “I LOVE YOU” and it’s an incredible feeling. I can’t wait to experience more firsts.

The key supporters in my life...

Justin is a great supporter in my life and a wonderful dad. We are both so lucky to have our families here and they do so much for both Payton and the two of us. My mom has been there for me in every way. She looks after Payton two times a week and also spends a great deal of her spare time with her. Justin’s family adores having Payton whenever they can and she has so much fun going there.

My favorite down time activity?

Down time, what’s that?! We are just getting to this stage as Payton is starting to really enjoy coloring and reading books. If we get her on a good day we can get about 15 minutes of cuddles.

The product I recommend most to new moms?

Payton was born in the Winter so I had a cozy car seat cover that kept her shielded from all the outdoor elements. Also the Arbonne baby skin care line that my sister gifted me kept Payton’s skin feeling baby soft. It also worked wonders for diaper rashes. When she started teething she had her Sophie giraffe. It was a life saver some days.

How we’ll celebrate the Holiday Season...

Payton was born 6 days before Christmas. This time of year is very busy so last year we celebrated her birthday the week before her actual birthday before everyone was too busy with Christmas. For Christmas last year, we woke up Christmas morning at my parents’ house with my sister and husband and their four children.

We then spent the day with Justin’s family. We spent some of the holiday season at the cabin with family doing some snowboarding and playing in the snow with Payton. We hope we can do the same this year!

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Do you want to be the FEATURED PARENT? We love all parents:

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Send us an e-mail at info@okanaganchild.com and tell us a bit about yourself and why you’d like to be featured!

Winter 2010 l 19

Ask the Expert

Have Questions?

We’ve got answers.

Now that I am pregnant, are there certain kinds of exercise that I should avoid? What’s safe and what’s not?

Exercising during pregnancy is a fantastic way to prepare your body for an easier delivery and quicker recovery. The following are some considerations: • • •

Relaxin, a hormone which loosens up the joints to prepare the body for delivery, makes us prone to sprains and strains so avoid high impact exercises from mid 2nd trimester on.

To ensure adequate blood flow to your baby, avoid exercises in a prone position (on your back) where the weight of the baby can put pressure on the Vena Cava.

Try to limit vigorous exercise to minimize the chance of overheating and dehydration causing stress to your baby.

Some safe exercises include pilates, yoga and strength training, which will strengthen your core and protect your back for easier delivery and recovery. For a great cardiovascular workout try, walking/hiking, STATIONARY cycling and swimming (swimming keeps you cool and is full body workout with no impact!).

If you have any questions about exercise during pregnancy always

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ask your Doctor or a Certified Trainer for advice.

Cailla Patterson Patterson Coaching and Personal Training

What do I do when my child has a cold or flu?

First and foremost, we need to understand that having a cold or a flu a few times a year is actually GOOD for our children. Shocked?

Let me explain. Up until the age of 7, our children are using their natural immunity to defend themselves. They really do not have much in the way of specific immunity (where they have full antibody production) until after the age of 7 years of age. Those first 7 years are when they use their fevers, mucous membranes (respiratory system) and barriers (our gut) to fight off exposure to any harmful pathogens. Every time your child activates their natural immune response, they have the ability to improve their defence mechanism…keeping them well off in the long run. So, how do you support your child when they get the cold or flu? Here is what to do: 1. Eat only when hungry. Consume only easy to digest foods like slightly steamed veggies and white fish (for critical protein requirements), warming bean or lentil soups with added brown rice or quinoa (for vegetarian protein alternatives). Add extra

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crushed garlic for an anti-viral effect. Have chicken soup.

2. Drink enough filtered water. Remember, it must be room temperature and not cold (cold water is an unnecessary stress to the body). Herbal tea is also a good idea alternatively, try hot water with an added touch of cayenne, 100% maple syrup or unpasteurized honey (not recommended for children under 1 yr of age).

3. Get enough rest. This is important!!! Resting allows the body to be in a healing state - avoiding unwanted secondary infections.

4. Practice good hygiene. Keep the nails clean, wash hand thoroughly (avoiding chemical hand sterilizers) and blow noses – fully!

5. Have a family bath. Have a relaxing bath with added lavender essential oil for relaxation.

6. Mineralize! If you child has aches or pains, they most likely are acidic. Remineralize with meat or bone broths or have them take an Epsom salts bath.

7. Eat clean. Avoid all refined sugars, dairy and processed foods.

8. Supplement. Supplements found to be helpful include: buffered or ph balanced vitamin C (take your child’s weight in lbs and multiply by 10, i.e. 50 lb child would take 500 mg, in divided amounts per day), oil of oregano, Echinacea and a good quality probiotic taken with food 3 times a day. Vitamin D is also found to be effective (500 IUs to 1000 IUs) Michale Hartte, Nutritionist www.fitnhealthynutrition.com

A TOY STORY

Raspberry Kids Style.

To infinity and beyond! Raspberry Kids proudly carries a large range of Plan Toys, Sevi Toys, Educo, Green Toys, Sprig Toys, Anamalz, and many others. Shop early for best selection.

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fresh. healthy. fun.

What is Bisphenol A and what are its health effects?

This month, Canada made history by adding bisphenol A (BPA) to Canada’s Toxic Substances List. BPA is a substance shown to mimic the hormone estrogen and cause reproductive damage that may lead to prostate and breast cancer in adulthood. It has also been linked to immune system dysfunction, early puberty in females, heart disease, diabetes, and higher rates of miscarriage. At this time, it was also proposed that BPA be limited in infant formula cans, and banned in baby bottles. Checking your baby bottles and not using those made before 2009 will also minimize exposure. Avoiding soft plastics, especially those that are heated (i.e. reheating soup in old margarine containers, do you hear me Mom?) will also limit exposure to BPA for our families and can be a huge but simple step towards better health.

Dr. Shelby Entner, ND Okanagan Natural Medicine

Do you have a question!?

Send it to us at info@okanaganchild.com and it may appear right here!

Are you an ‘expert’? Calling all doulas/midwives, optometrists, dentists, chinese medicine specialists & more! Join us and help answer readers’ questions. www.okanaganchild.com

Winter 2010 l 21

From Dad to Dad: “The Greatest”

by Jeff Hay

F

rom the moment she took his arm to walk down the aisle, to their beautifully comfortable father-daughter dance, everyone could see their loving bond. Then, in her graceful and confident toast, she proclaimed her father as “the greatest man she has ever known.”

I felt like I had been struck by lightning. I can still remember exactly where I was sitting when I heard those words: “The Greatest.”

Wow, what father wouldn’t want to be known as “The Greatest?”

When we welcomed our daughter Jacqueline to the world, I knew I needed to try to equip my little girl with all the values, qualities, skills and tools I can so that she can confidently tackle this world.

There are numerous qualities I want to instill and nurture within my daughter. The three central ones are confidence (self-esteem), emotional intelligence and resilience. I want her to know she deserves respect, to recognize what a powerful force she will be in this world and to know that she can do anything she sets her sights on.

A strong sense of self makes the world and its life challenges a bit easier to handle.

As Meg Meeker, author of “Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters” notes, “If you fully understood how profoundly you can influence your daughter’s life, you would be terrified, overwhelmed or both…. You will influence her entire life because she gives you the authority to do so – whether you want the authority or not!”

Here are a few ideas and tips to enhance your Father-Daughter relationship:

Less Talk, More Action

I can talk about how much I love and respect my daughter but does she feel love in the way that I speak with her, comfort her and listen to her? Effective dads tend to talk less and do more. I personally find that men love to solve problems – sometimes you will do more good if you zip your lips and just listen. Resist the urge to jump in with five different solutions.

Love = T.I.M.E. It’s simple math.

The time your daughter spends with you is so important. Some of the best opportunities to deepen your relationship with your daughter may lie in the ordinary tasks of life from changing a diaper, to shopping for groceries, to painting a fence, to reading books at bedtime.

Be Present

Turn off your blackberry / iphone and stop thinking about work, the yard, emails, and all the other things clouding your life.

Raise a Pioneer, not a Princess.

We all see our daughters as our princesses, after all she owns a special part of your heart. You always want what is best for her, but be careful not to overindulge your daughter! Help your daughter understand that she controls her own destiny and any improvement in her life will come from her own hard work.

Get Active

If you are also lucky enough to be the father of a boy, think about photo credit: www.avivaphotostudios.com

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Connecting Inspired Moms Moms across Canada are connecting with each other through momcafé through meetings, seminars and internet based communications tools. Momcafe Okanagan provides a forum to connect and inspire women. Okanagan moms can now too enjoy good conversation, lattés, and on-site childcare while listening to inspirational speakers!

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how you play with him – is it different? Do you wrestle, play catch, shoot hoops and do other physical activities? Do you play the same way with your daughter? When you begin to see your daughter as a flexible, powerful living being, amazing things can happen! In his great book, “Dads and Daughters” (2002), Joe Kelly writes, “for goodness sake, wrestle with her, play word games with her, run and build things together, toss the football, listen to her, treat her like a whole person… not a vase poised to fall and break.”

Respect Mom.

And finally, the greatest gift you can give any child is to respect their mother. Daughters learn about relationships by watching their parents. They watch everything. If children see their parents treating each other with respect, then they understand that as the appropriate and normative way to interact with others. Regardless of your marital situation, strive to always respect your children’s mother.

I am building a lifelong relationship with my daughter. I want a close relationship built on trust, open communication, and respect.

In my dream world, I am my daughter’s golf caddy as she tackles the toughest golf course called life. I am beside her, not helicoptering over her. I am present, dialed in, and available for advice, but I will respectfully let her hit her shots. I will provide positive honest feedback and help her find a solution when she gets herself into a

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tough spot.

How badly to you want to be known as the “greatest man” in your daughter’s life? Roll up your sleeves, be present and get involved!

The clock is ticking…

Winter 2010 l

23

Recipes You’ll

LOVE

Chicken Soup: Learn the Secrets to a Good Stock!

C

hicken stocks, that are properly prepared, give our bodies minerals that are highly absorbable. The secret? Adding an acidic substance (wine or vinegar) while cooking the broth is what’s needed to help draw out the minerals (calcium, magnesium and potassium) into the broth for our nutritional needs.

CHICKEN STOCK 1 • • • • • • • • •

1 whole free-range chicken or 2-3 pounds of bony chicken parts, such as necks, backs, breastbones and wings gizzards from one chicken (optional) feet from the chicken (optional) 4 quarts cold filtered water 2 tablespoons vinegar 1 large onion, coarsely chopped 2 carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped 3 celery sticks, coarsely chopped 1 bunch parsley

If you are using a whole chicken, cut off the wings and remove the neck, fat glands and the gizzards from the cavity. By all means, use the chicken feet if you can find them-they are full of gelatin. (Jewish folklore considers the addition of chicken feet the secret to successful broth.) Even better, use a whole chicken, with the head on. These may be found in Oriental markets. Farm-raised, free-range chickens give the best results. Many battery-raised chickens will not produce stock that gels.

Cut chicken parts into several pieces. (If you are using a whole chicken, remove the neck and wings and cut them into several pieces.) Place chicken or chicken pieces in a large stainless steel pot with water, vinegar and all vegetables except parsley. Let stand 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Bring to a boil, and remove scum that rises to the top. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 6 to 24 hours. The longer you cook the stock, the richer and more flavourful it will be. About 10 minutes before finishing the stock, add parsley. This will impart additional mineral ions to the broth.

Remove whole chicken or pieces with a slotted spoon. If you are using a whole chicken, let cool and remove chicken meat from the carcass.

Reserve for other uses, such as chicken salads, enchiladas, sandwiches or curries. (The skin and smaller bones, which will be very soft, may be given to your cat or dog.) Strain the stock into a large bowl and reserve in your refrigerator until the fat rises to the top and congeals.

Skim off this fat and reserve the stock in covered containers in your refrigerator or freezer.

1

Recipe found in Nourishing Traditions, revised second edition, by Sally Fallon with Mary G. Enig, Ph. D.

Winter 2010 l 24

www.okanaganchild.com

Finding it hard to get in some exercise time?

CHICKEN SOUP Yield: Serves 4 Ingredients: • 1 Tbsp coconut oil • 2 sweet onions, sliced • 4 carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped • 3 celery stalks, coarsely chopped • 3 zucchini, chopped • 2 tomatoes, chopped • Handful of kale or spinach • 3 garlic cloves, crushed • 6 cups Chicken broth – See recipe above • 1 tsp mineral salt • 2 cups left over chicken chunks Directions: In a stock pot, melt coconut oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery stalks; sauté, stirring often until tender (about 5 minutes).

Add zucchini and tomatoes, kale or spinach, and garlic, sauté about 5 more minutes being careful to add a little additional water so that you do not burn the vegetables.

Add chicken broth, mineral salt, and chicken. Bring to a boil, then turn down to low and simmer for ½ hour.

If you like this information, check out Michale Hartte’s, BASc (Nutr), NNCP new book, “The Fit n Healthy Plan – The nutritional diet & lifestyle plan made easy!” found online at www.fitnhealthynutrition.com

Here’s an idea.

Put the munchkin in one of our great kids programs and spoil yourself with some yoga, fitness classes or time in our gym.

Visit kelowna.ca/recreation or call 250 469-8800 for program information & registration.

Get Active. Stay Active.

Dr

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Dr. Chris Spooner ND

Dr. Shelby Entner ND

250.275.1672 VERNON, BC

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NEW BABY? It’s time to call your Welcome Wagon representative.

She will bring congratulations and gifts for the family and the NEW BABY!

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Naughty or Nice, They’re Still our Kids

by Michelle Collie

H

ave you found yourself saying “Santa’s watching. You better behave?” Me too! In fact, I’ve been known to use some form of that year-round. “Tooth fairy’s watching … Easter bunny is watching … The Halloween witch is watching …” After an endless month of warning my kids that Santa is watching for good behaviour and ready to reprimand (with a lack of gifts at Christmas) for bad behaviour, it got me thinking. Why do I have to resort to the threat of make-believe characters to get my kids to behave?

Shouldn’t pleasing their mom be their goal?

Even at a young age I have found that kids are quick to tune out lecturing and reprimands. They get that glazed look in their eyes and nod their heads and say “yes mom” even though they are thinking about something entirely different. The younger set are probably too young to be rolling their eyes and are likely thinking “as soon as mom stops talking I’m going to go play Lego.” The way I see it, I have five seconds to make my point and if it is going to work it had better be good. So I resort to ‘Santa’. After all, they start making their Santa list in August or September and the threat of having something crossed off that list and replaced with coal works wonders in the month or two leading up to Christmas.

My own kids seem a little too old for the time-out mat. Send them to their bedroom and it is more of a reward than a consequence.

“Gee, I snuck a couple cookies and got caught. Now I get to go play in my room.” Take away a favorite toy and they quickly replace it with something else. Turn off Dr the television and they find something else to do. What’s a mom to do?

Okay, I do know the history of Saint Nicholas. I understand the spirit of gift giving and I’m doing my part to keep my kids from becoming greedy children and focusing too much on what they receive. But is it really that wrong to threaten them with the lack of a full stocking? And more importantly, what will I do when they know the truth about Santa Claus? After all, I’m afraid my threats may actually be promoting materialism.

I suppose my first step in changing how I dole out the consequences should come with what deciding what behaviours rightfully deserve to be disciplined. You know that saying ‘choose your battles’?

I think that should be the number one rule to live by. Some behaviours have natural consequences. Bug your sister and she likely won’t want to keep playing with you. Break a toy and you don’t have a toy to play with. But is a little spilled milk really worth crying over? I suppose that depends on how the milk got spilled in the Winter 2010 l 26

photo credit: www.SharlaPike.com

first place.

I also realize that I need to be consistent. If I don’t let them yell in the house then I need to enforce the rule every time. And then of course, the consequence has to match the action. If they yell in the house they need to go outside (not necessarily a punishment but at least it reinforces the rule). If they spill the milk they need to clean it up. And if their behaviour is truly unacceptable they need to take a time out in a quiet location to calm down.

Really, they’re only kids and they are learning as they go. Perhaps my threats about Santa watching might be doing more harm then good. After all, it’s only a quick fix. And it puts someone else in charge, instead of reminding them that I am the one who doles out the consequences (and praise!).

Santa Claus is not the be-all-end-all of discerning which kids are naughty and which kids are nice. When it comes to parenting, our job is to instil a sense of self-confidence in our children and too much focus on naughty and nice is not doing them any favours.

Of course, they need a clearly defined set of rules and expectations and they need guidance when their behaviour is not so nice. But do they ‘really’ need the threat of Santa’s naughty list?

Michelle Collie is a wife, mom, freelance writer and child chauffeur who lives in West Kelowna, B.C. www.okanaganchild.com

Resource Directory Attractions & Recreation Big White & Silver Star www.silverstar.com www.bigwhite.com City of Kelowna - Recreation www.kelowna.ca City of Kelowna, Recreation and Cultural Services offers programs and activities for individuals of all ages and abilities in neighbourhoods throughout Kelowna, including swimming, dance, karate, sports, Mom & Baby programs and more.

See ad on page 25.

Crystal Mountain Resort www.crystalresort.com See ad on page 5.

Davison Orchards www.davisonorchards.ca 3111 Davison Rd. Open Daily May 1 - October 31st.

Davison Orchards is a three generation farm which grows 70 acres of fresh produce, offers Orchard tours, and has many great activates for children including farm animals and the New “Crazy Cow Kids Corral” play area. Fresh baking, specialty foods, country gifts, & so much more!

Kelowna Art Gallery www.kelownaartgallery.com Visitors to Kelowna can explore provocative and varied exhibitions of art in the spacious facility located in the heart of Kelowna’s Cultural District. Serving the Central Okanagan Valley with a variety of exhibitions, the Gallery also offers a wide selection of public programs for all ages.

We Teach Swimming Private Kelowna swim academy for all ages from cradle to career. www.weteachswimming.ca 250.470.7496 See ad on page 23.

YMCA-YWCA of the Central Okanagan www.ymca-ywca.com The YMCA-YWCA is a trusted charity committed to building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.

The Y proudly operates the Kelowna Family Y, the H20 Adventure and Fitness Centre, 3 out of school care centres, a childcare and preschool, and the Y Career Contact Centre for Youth.

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Breastfeeding Clinics / Support La Leche League www.lllc.ca Kelowna, BC: First Wednesday of the www.okanaganchild.com

Month, 7pm, 630 Cadder Avenue (The Parent Place) Penticton, BC: Third Tuesday of the Month, 10am, Penticton Health Unit Vernon, BC: First Tuesday of the Month, 10am, Vernon Alliance Church, 2601 43rd Avenue

Check out local cuties on Page 30 in our

Rutland Health Centre Breastfeeding Centre 155 Gray Rd , Kelowna, BC 250.980.4822 Child Care - preschools, daycares, nannies

Snap Happy

Nannysitters www.nannysitters.ca Kelowna’s premier nanny and babysitter agency. Specializing in providing thoroughly-screened local childcare professionals. Nannysitters is fully licensed, bonded and insured.

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North Okanagan Childcare Society www.noccs.ca Okanagan Montessori www.okmontessori.com We provide a prepared environment where children are guided through activities by trained Montessori teachers.

Children learn as they experiment with and actively participate in activities.

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Summerland Montessori School www.summerlandmontessori.com The Summerland Montessori School incorporates Montessori philosophy and current best teaching practices to create our unique school character.

Childcare Resource & Referral Kelowna Child Care Resource & Referral 1890 Ambrosi Rd, Kelowna, BC 250.763.3536 Penticton Child Care Resource & Referral 330 Ellis St., Penticton, BC 250.492.2926 Vernon Child Care Resource & Referral 3300- 37th Avenue, Vernon, BC 250.542.3121 Chiropractic Care Burtch Chiropractic, Dr. Wayne Terai 250.860.4518 229-1634 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna BC Dr. Wayne Terai is a Doctor of Chiropractic practicing in Kelowna for over 15 years, helping Okanagan families be well without the use of drugs and surgery.

section!

Diaper Service Booty Boutique www.bootyboutique.ca 1.888.594.5204 We offer eco-friendly diapering solutions for the modern family along with a Try Before you Buy program!

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Tidy Tushees Diaper Service info@tidytushees.ca www.tidytushees.ca We help families with all their natural parenting needs including cloth diapering. Whether you choose to let us do the dirty work for you, you need help troubleshooting your system or you are on the hunt for products, we are here to help!

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Doulas Doula Services Association, BC 604.515.5588 www.bcdoulas.org Education Aberdeen Hall www.aberdeenhall.com Aberdeen Hall is an independent, nondenominational university preparatory school for boys and girls from preschool to senior grades. We offer a safe and balanced learning environment, individual attention and specialized instruction to enable your child’s to reach his or her full potential.

CSF Schools www.csf.bc.ca The Couseil scolaire francophone de la

C.-B. offers French language public education across the province. It has schools in Kelowna and Penticton and elsewhere in the province.

Sylvan Learning Reading . Writing . Math School success is a phone call away!

Kelowna 250.861.1255 Vernon 250.549.2443 www.sylvanbc.ca See ad on page 17.

Employment Vitality Now www.vitalitynow.wisehomebiz.com We need enthusiastic people wanting to increase family income. Many of us earn $50,000 a year or more working part time from home. Training provided.

Must be coachable and willing to learn.

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Fashion for Moms Arbonne International www.kgilkyson.myarbonne.ca gilkyson.karen@gmail.com Arbonne’s products are botanically based. Arbonne’s Baby Skin care is free of parabens, sls, mineral oil, dyes, fragrance and phthalates. It will make your baby very happy to have Arbonne!!

Call for your complimentary ABC Baby Care sample today.

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Avon Avon is the company for women.

Call for the latest brochure. Become a consultant for only $20.00. Call Tasha at 250.769.8500 for more information.

Winter 2010 l 27

Resource Directory Haute Mama www.hautemama.ca Haute Mama is the upscale boutique for pregnant women who love clothes. Visit our online shop at www.hautemama. ca to see our beautiful collections from around the world.

See ad on page 6.

Finances Canadian Scholarship Trust Plan, Beverly O’Reilly www.cst.org . 250.498.6234 beverly.o’reilly@cstresp.com We’re RESP Specialists. Our goal is to make sure your education savings are there when your child goes to school.

A non-profit company, started in 1960, we are celebrating our 50th anniversary this year.

Freedom 55 Financial To find out more about how we can provide permanent insurance and provide for your child’s future, give us a call today at 250.763.1114 Chantal Diaz: ext. 233 Daniel Bussiere: ext. 256 Health & Wellness Okanagan Natural Medicine www.oknaturalmedicine.com Dr. Shelby Entner and Dr. Chris Spooner offer natural family medicine, allergy testing, herbal medicine, nutrition, homeopathy, laser therapy, hormone health, prolotherapy, iv medicine and vitamin injections.

See ad on page 25.

Today I Ate A Rainbow www.todayiatearainbow.com Today I Ate a RainbowTM is a chart that makes eating a rainbow of healthy fruits and vegetables FUN for kids! This hands-on tool makes it easy for parents to set up healthy eating habits.

See ad on page 20.

Lawyers Gordon and Company 102 - 1433 St. Paul Street, Kelowna, BC 250.860.9997 With over 30 years of professional experience, Gordon and Company offer an extensive range of serices including all types of litigation, family law, wills/estate disputes and personal injury.

See ad on page 29.

Midwives Midwives Asscoation of BC 604.736.5976 www.bcmidwives.com Winter 2010 l 28

Music Music for Young Children www.myc.com Celebrating its 30th anniversary, Music for Young Children has been among the world’s leading music-learning systems. The hour-long classes include rhythm ensembles, singing, ear-training, sight-reading, note-reading, theory and composing techniques.

See ad on page 15.

OnLine Parenting Sites Kelowna New Parent www.kelownanewparent.com Kelowna New Parent is Kelowna’s best resource for all things baby! Check out information on activities, play groups, dining, daycares and much more.

Children and Family Portrait Photographer. Capture your precious smiles and love with Rhea Taylor Photography.

Public Health Services/Nurses Kelowna Health Unit 1340 Ellis Street 250.868.7700 Penticton Health Unit 740 Carmi Avenue 250.770.3434 Rutland Health Unit 155 Gray Road 250.980.4825 Summerland Health Unit 12815 Atkinson Road 250.404.8050

Mother of a Deal Deal hunting made easy! www.motherofadeal.com See ad on page 8.

West Kelowna Health Unit 160 – 2300 Carrington Road 250.980.5150

Parent & Tot Storytimes

Vernon Health Unit 1440 – 14th Avenue 250.549.5700

The Okanagan Regional Library www.orl.bc.ca The ORL is your most economical, sustainable and relevant source for information and entertainment in the BC Southern Interior. Visit us at one of our 29 branches or at www.orl.bc.ca Party & Event Services Par-T-Perfect www.par-t-perfect.com Your complete Children’s PARTY & EVENT Service! Whether it’s a birthday for 8, a corporate gathering or festival for thousands...if kids are involved, let us do it for you!

See ad on page 19.

Photography & Portraits Adrian Kids Photography www.adriankidsphotography.ca info@adriankidsphotography.ca Kelowna photographers Jon + Jenny bring their fresh and creative style to kids portrait sessions. Visit them online or give them a call to book your kids session.

See ad on page 6.

Retail Angel Babies Kids Shoppe 375 Main St., Penticton, BC 250.493.8823 Calling mamas-to-be, parents and grandparents! With a great mix of consignment (maternity & kids) and new clothing, products & gear, Angel Babies is a must visit for young families.

See ad on page 9.

Baby & Me www.babyandme.ca 1969 Harvey Ave., Kelowna, BC (across from London Drugs) 250.717.0556 I like to call it “4000sf of the best stuff for baby and mom.” The owners, Don & Nicole, handpick each and every item for its safety, value, style, and parent-tested practicality. The knowledageble staff is available to help guide parents in the right direction. Free gift wrap and gift registry.

See ad opposite inside front cover and on back cover.

Aviva Photo Studios www.avivaphotostudios.com We are Mike & Elizabeth Soergel and together we are Aviva Studios. We’re passionate about what we do and we believe that the experience is just as important as the images themselves.

Bitsy Bird www.bitsybird.com Bitsy Bird creates beautiful gifts that are sure to impress at any baby shower.Our themed diaper cakes, washcloth cupcakes and tutus make memorable gifts that are charming and practical.

See ad on page 6.

Rhea Taylor Photography www.rheataylorphotography.com

Bo Peep Boutique www.bo-peep.ca

Bo Peep Boutique stocks fashioable and great quality clothes for children aged 0 -13. They also carry lots of fun toys, books and accessories for moms and babies.

Buddies Kids Boutique www.buddieskidsboutique.com buddieskids@gmail.com Children’s boutique offering clothing, shoes and special gifts from 0-10. Buddies has been a unique place to shop for children since 2003.

See ad on inside front cover.

Chicken Little 4407 - 29th Street, Vernon BC www.chickenlittle.ca Chicken Little is a great place to shop for your kids, grandkids, family and friends.

For shopping 24 hrs/day, visit us online at www.chickenlittle.ca See ad on page 17.

Felt Fantasia www.feltfantasia.com Felt Fantasia provides creative wall designs for children’s rooms. These fun decorations will tell any story on a lucky kid’s wall. Shop online at www. feltfantasia.com Lalabee Bathworks www.lalabeebathworks.com Organic skincare for Mommy and Baby. Lalabee Mommy covers the three stages of pregnancy all organically! Our organic Bottom Balm is a fantastic cream that really works on diaper rash.

See ad on page 20.

Little Baby Hugz Mom and Baby Necessities! www.littlebabyhugz.ca 250.963.9214 info@littlebabyhugz.ca See ad on page 23.

Mountain Baby www.mountainbaby.com Serving young children and families for over 15 years, we offer outstanding products that encourage families to be fit, to be in nature, and to be together in every season.

See ad on page 4.

My Lil Package www.mylilpackage.com A unique selection of hard to find products for mom, dad and baby.

See ad on page 4.

Natural Belly and Baby 1331 Ellis St., Kelowna, BC 250.860.0307 . 1.866.763.7214 www.naturalbellyandbaby.com Offers customers a unique opportunity to select from not only the latest and most highly respected brands for moms www.okanaganchild.com

and babies, but also introduces many yet unknown locally produced products destined to be appreciated.

See ad on page 9.

and play. Learn more about the services offered through the Government of British Columbia by calling the toll free number or visiting the website.

JOSEPH R. GORDON

Our Baby Impressions www.ourbabyimpressions.com 250.769.8500 Preserve the actual size, shape and lines of your baby’s tiny hands and feet in a 3-dimensional casting, mounted on a classic antique style frame. Oak frames also available.

Association for the Benefit of Children with Disabilities 250.763.4663

B.S.W., B.JURIS., LL.B, LL.M.

Raspberry Kids www.raspberrykids.com Raspberry Kids is an online lifestyle store that features fresh, healthy & fun products for the little ones in your life.

We cater to savvy expectant parents, moms, dads and gift givers.

See ad on page 21.

The Shrunks Inflatable, portable toddler beds and much more! www.theshrunks.com See ad inside back cover.

Usborne Books - Karen McGrath karen.mcgrath@shaw.ca www.usborne.ca/titles Guaranteed to be your children’s favorite books! Interactive, award-winning titles including fiction, art, science, puzzle and flap books! Host a home show or become a consultant today!

Word to the Wall www.wordtothewall.com Decorate your child’s room with vinyl lettering and images. Browse online and call Tasha at 250.769.8500 to order.

Sleep Sleep Sense www.sleeptsense.net/kelowna Give you and your family the gift of a good night’s sleep with the Okanagan’s only licensed & local Sleep SenseTM Consultant. Call Pam at 250.575.6988 or visit www.sleepsense.net/kelowna See ad on page 15.

BC 24- HOUR Nurse Line Call: 8-1-1 Website: www.bchealthguide.com BC Nurseline gives you 24 hour, 7 day toll-free access to registered nursed specially trained to provide confidential help on the telephone. Available to answer medical enquiries free of charge - carecard required BC Council for Families 204-2590 Granville St , Vancouver, BC 1.800.663.5638 The BC Council for Families works to help create healthy families in a healthy society. Our goal is to empower families.

We provide educational resources on topics such as parenting, childhood development, parent-teen relationships, work-life balance, suicide awareness and more.

BC Lions Society for Children with Disabilities 250.763.0899 Big Brothers and Sisters - Okanagan 151 Commercial Dr , Kelowna, BC www.bigs.bc.ca Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Okanagan provides children and youth ages 7 - 12 (‘Littles’) with volunteer adult mentors (‘Bigs’) who provide a positive influence in their lives.

B.A., LL.B

FRANCES JOY BULLICK

Barristers, Solicitors, Notaries Public

OVER 30 YEARS OF PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE • ALL TYPES OF LITIGATION • CRIMINAL DEFENCE • FAMILY LAW • PERSONAL INJURY • REAL ESTATE DISPUTES

W

• TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS & TICKETS

WILLS & ESTATE DISPUTES hen the Virtual School Society• (VSS) launched its “Cyber Safe with Steve Dotto” initiative targeting parents, it believed that the best way to combat internet danger was to find a way to get stuT. 250.860.9997 dents, teachers, parents and the community all working together. It seems to have found a great champion for a significant part of the F. 250.860.9937 student-focused component in Vernon Secondary School’s media and social studiesSt. teacher, Sawka.

102 - 1433 PaulMike Street, Kelowna BC V1Y 2E4

Welcome Wagon 1.866.856.8442 www.welcomewagon.ca It’s time to call your Welcome Wagon representative. She will bring new congratulations and gifts for the new baby and family.

See ad page 25.

Support Services Aboriginal Infant Development Program 442 Leon Ave , Kelowna, BC 250.763.4905 ACHIEVE BC Toll Free: 1.800.514.0554 Website: www.AchieveBC.ca Advice on prenatal care, nutrition and developmental guides. Parenting tips and information on stimulating your child’s mind and body through reading www.okanaganchild.com

Watch for our next issue...

Spring 2011 arriving this February Winter 2010 l 29

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Winter 2010 l 30

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Teaching Excellence

Dear Santa, Please bring me anything from Baby & Me. They have all the best stuff for us kids.

Thank you.

P.S. They even Gift Wrap for free.

Across from London Drugs 1969 Harvey Avenue Kelowna, BC 250-717-0556

www.babyandme.ca Safe, stylish, and unique gifts for Mommy, Baby, and the Kids.