BC Parent Winter 2016

Celebrating

Years of Service to BC Families

NEWSMAGAZ

INE

winter 2016 bcparent.ca

Baby teeth are important too

Preschool & Tutoring Guides

Ask an Expert:

RESP

Coming April 1st 15th Annual Family Resource Guide Have your business listed in BC’s favourite resource for parents LISTINGS INCLUDE: EDUCATION 쐍 CLASSES AND PROGRAMS 쐍 FAMILY FUN 쐍 RETAIL 쐍 SUMMER CAMPS 쐍 BIRTHDAYS HOME 쐍 FAMILY HEALTH AND SUPPORT SERVICES Don’t miss your opportunity to have your company included in this year’s guide.

For advertising and listing information EMAIL: info@bcparent.ca 778-855-2024 OR VISIT: www.bcparent.ca On the stands April 1st, 2016 (Advertising deadline March 1st)

To view current issue visit www.bcparent.ca

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Celebrating

Letter from the Editor

Years of Service to BC Families

S

pring is in the air! I know it’s still a ways off, but the days are getting longer, and the weather is warming up (some days). This time of year, tends to have people worrying about a few things when it comes to their children and education.

If your child is 2 or 3—you’re probably thinking where are they going to go to preschool next year?

What type of school is best for them? If you have a child in school already—you’re probably thinking how is my child doing this year? Are they meeting their academic goals? And no matter what age your child is—you’re probably thinking how am I going to pay for their post-secondary education?

These are all big questions and in this issue, we’ve tried to provide you with some answers. Or at least some resources to try and get those answers.

Carlie Parkinson

Inside ...

4 A Quest for Sleep

15 Who is your child’s mentor?

6 Baby teeth are important too

16 Public Francophone School Listings

9 How do I find the right preschool or daycare?

18 Not Buying It

11 Preschool Guide

20 Ask an Expert: RESP http://twitter.com/bcparentmag

22 San Diego—Not just sand and surf

Mailing Address: P.O.Box 30020, North Vancouver, BC V7H 2Y8

Winter Issue 2016 Volume 25, Number 1

Follow us on

22 Spice up your daily routine

14 Education and Tutoring Guide

BC Parent Newsmagazine

email: info@bcparent.ca www.bcparent.ca Canadian Publications Mail Registration No.251836

Publisher/Executive Editor: Carlie Parkinson Editor: Geoffrey Legh Advertising Design & Layout: Julie Cochrane Editorial Design & Layout: www.retrometrodesign.ca Advertising Sales: info@bcparent.ca

Contributors: BC Dental Association, Jennifer Chaloner, Na W.Y., Brett Graff BC Parent is published 6 times per year. The Publisher reserves the right to omit advertising which is judged to be in poor taste or which does not conform to the concept of this publication.

Cover photography by Alana Couch Photography

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A Quest for Sleep My sleep training diaries

By Carlie Parkinson

W

e’ve all been there before, the point of total exhaustion. It began the night I was woken up a total of seven times (3 by the toddler and 4 by the baby).

I was so tired the next day that I broke down and cried at the kitchen table during breakfast.

After that, the first thing I did was pick up the phone to call the Sleep Consultant—enough was enough, I couldn’t do this on my own.

I began my journey to get some rest by speaking with sleep consultant, Laura Rosin, of WeeSleep. During the free

15-minute consultation, I explained my sleep issues and concerns. I was originally quite happy with our sleep routine, which although not perfect, was good enough—until that one night.

After our consultation, I realized the potential and how nice it would be to sleep through the night.

It’s funny how we call it sleep training and everyone assumes you’re just training the children, but I felt the advice trained us.

Our sleep issues were immediately identified and a personalized plan was put in place, giving us the tools to break our

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habits and, conversely, the ones we passed on. Laura gave us some simple tips—that seemed obvious when pointed out. Of course, in our sleep deprived state we weren’t able to think of them. There is only so much you can absorb from a book— sometimes you need to speak with someone who has an expert opinion.

Before we got started, we had to complete a questionnaire and tracking form helping Laura see the full picture. We then spoke to her for an hour and gave further details as well as got some clarification and reassurance to ensure we understood everything. Once we got the tailored plan, we got to it that bedtime!

Day 1 was the toughest, but the amazing thing about babies is they break their habits in just a few days. For us, it’s much harder. I wanted to jump back into my old habits—breastfeed the baby to sleep and put her to bed happy. Luckily, the plan required equal involvement from both my husband and I. He helped me stay on track and not cave. We followed the plan closely and literally began tracking our babies every waking moment. Once I realized my baby could sleep without being breastfeed right before bed, things were easier.

Day 2 and 3 were more of

the same and on Day 4 things changed. Suddenly the baby was more willing to go to sleep.

The resistance to bedtime had dropped by half, and the good sleep habits started to form. We had two more support calls with Laura to ask questions and get feedback. She was available by email as well to answer anything that came up outside of our calls.

By the end of the 10-day training, the baby was going to bed with no resistance and sleeping through the night. We had done it—we had a baby that slept 12 hours straight!

Of course, we can’t take all the credit. Without the support and plan from Laura, we would probably still be waking up through the night to tend to a sleepless baby. At the end of the training, Laura provided us with a Sleep Handbook for ongoing issues such as teething, traveling and nap transitions—something I’m sure we will need in the coming months.

Now we just have to convince the Toddler to stay in his bed.

Luckily sleep training is available for older children too! >ÕÀ>Ê , Ã is an infant and toddler sleep consultant with WeeSleep, helping children sleep 10–12 hours a night in 10 days! She is also an Early Childhood Educator who supports loving families, healthy living and a community driven lifestyle. www.weesleep.ca www.facebook.com/ weesleepvancouver

Montessori Preschool in Dunbar We help preschoolers develop themselves to their full potential and to develop a life-long love of learning in a safe, stimulating, creative, and positive social environment.

INFORMATION SESSION FOR PARENTS SAT. FEB. 27, 3-4PM

778-840-2659 (Laurie) www.monkeyseemonkeydo.ca

Like BC Parent on Facebook for parenting tips, fun family events, useful resources and relevant deals for families in BC.

BC Parent Newsmagazine

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Caring for baby teeth is the first important step to life long oral health BC Dental Association

Baby teeth are important too K eeping your child’s baby teeth healthy and strong is important to their oral and overall health and development.

Baby teeth begin to appear around 6 months and can last until a child is 13 or 14.

“Many people think that because they fall out, baby teeth aren’t as important to look after, but this isn’t true,” says British Columbia Dental Association spokesperson Dr. Bruce Ward. “Baby teeth help your child eat a wide range of nutritious foods, are part of speech development, and they hold space for the permanent adult teeth to grow. A healthy mouth can also have a huge influence on a child’s self-confidence.”

Without proper care and attention children can suffer from dental decay (cavities).

Decay is caused when sugars in the mouth mix with plaque bacteria to create an acid that can destroy tooth enamel. The longer sugar stays in the mouth, the more acid is produced, increasing the risk of cavities.

Dental decay is painful—it can lead to infections and tooth loss. Children with dental disease may also have trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating and suffer emotional distress—feeling bad about the way they look.

The good news is that dental disease is preventable. Ensuring dental care is part of your child’s routine early on can make a big difference to your child’s oral health, advises Dr. Ward. Brushing and flossing are key, as is a regular dental exam.

Even before the first tooth appears wipe 6ÊÊLV«>Ài Ì°V>ÊUÊÜ ÌiÀÊ ÃÃÕiÊÓä£È

UÊ ÀÕà ÊÞ ÕÀÊV `½ÃÊÌiiÌ Ê>ÃÊà Ê>ÃÊÌ iÊwÀÃÌÊ tooth appears and make sure you lift the lip to brush along the gum line. Young children cannot clean their own teeth.

Brush for them when they are very young and with them as they grow older.

UÊ1ÃiÊ>ÊÃ vÌÊÌ Ì LÀÕÃ °Ê ÃiÊ> Ê>««À priate size for the age of the child.

UÊ > iÊLÀÕÃ }ÊvÕ Ê> `Ê`iÛi «Ê>ÊÀ ÕÌ i\Ê brush at a specific time (after a bath or before a book); in a specific location (on mom’s knee); or with specific cues (music, counting).

UÊ1ÃiÊ>ÊÃ > Ê> Õ ÌÊ vÊyÕ À `iÊÌ Ì «>ÃÌiÊ to protect the teeth from cavities. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps to prevent cavities. Children under the age of 3 should only use a smear (size of a grain of rice) while those over 3 can use a pea-sized amount. Encourage your children to spit out the toothpaste.

UÊ >Û ÌÞ V>ÕÃ }ÊL>VÌiÀ >ÊV> ÊÌÀ> ÃviÀÊvÀ Ê your mouth to your child’s. Avoid sharing soothers, toothbrushes or other items with your child.

UÊ,i}>À` iÃÃÊ vÊ >}i]Ê ` ÃV ÕÀ>}iÊ }À>â }Ê Ê sugary foods and drinks throughout the day or overnight. For instance, constant and slow sipping on milk-filled bottles or Set your child up for good dental health sippy cups with juice, keeps sugars in the UÊ >À }Êv ÀÊÌ iÊ ÕÌ ÊÃÌ>ÀÌÃÊi>À Þ°Ê i} Ê mouth and can lead to cavities—fill them by cleaning your baby’s mouth using a wet with water instead. cloth and gently wiping the gums to remove any leftover milk or formula from UÊ ÃiÊ i> Ì ÞÊ Ã >V ÃÊ ÃÕV Ê >ÃÊ V iiÃi]Ê whole fruits, veggies or nuts. Be aware the mouth.

your baby’s mouth with a clean, damp cloth after feeding. This establishes a routine and builds your child’s comfort with mouth care. Once the first tooth appears, you can start to brush your child’s teeth with a small, soft toothbrush.

Regular dental visits are recommended, starting from age one, to assess your child’s risk factors for decay and to monitor the development of their teeth. As dental disease is not always recognizable, a dental exam can help to address a problem before any symptoms present. This is particularly important for young children.

“For many, sensitivity or pain is the first sign a dental problem exists,” says Dr. Ward.

“Most young children, however, are not able to explain when they are in pain and the dental issue goes untreated until the parent notices another change in behavior, such as trouble sleeping. At this point, the child’s care needs may be more extensive.”

Establishing healthy habits from an early age, including regular dental exams, can start your child on the path to good oral health.

Talk to your dentist or visit yourdental health.ca to learn more.

Tips for smarter snacking UÊ-Ü>«Ê ÕÌÊÃÌ V ÞÊvÀÕ ÌÊ i>Ì iÀÊ ÀÊ }Õ ÞÊvÀÕ ÌÊà >V ÃÊÜ Ì Ê>Ê« iViÊ vÊ Ü iÊvÀÕ ÌÊ ÀÊvÀià ÊLiÀÀ iÃ°Ê ÌÊ ÞÊ ` iÃÊÌ ÃÊ ÌÊÞ ÕÀÊV `½ÃÊiÝ« ÃÕÀiÊÌ Ê ÃÕ}>ÀÊLÕÌÊ«À Û `iÃÊ ÀiÊ ÕÌÀ i ÌÃ°Ê UÊ7 iÊV> i`ÊvÀÕ ÌÊ ÃÊ> à Ê>Ê} `Ê «Ì ]ÊLiÊ>Ü>ÀiÊÌ >ÌÊ > ÞÊÛ>À iÌ iÃÊ >ÀiÊ«>V i`Ê ÊÃÕ}>ÀÞÊÃÞÀÕ«°Ê Êv ÀÊ «Ì ÃÊ«>V i`Ê Ê Ü Ê Õ Vi°Ê UÊ/ÀÞÊvÀià ÊÛi}} iÊÃÌ V ÃÊÜ Ì Ê>Êà `iÊ vÊ Õ ÕÃÊ Ê« >ViÊ vÊÃÌ>ÀV ÞÊV «ÃÊ ÀÊ«ÀiÌâi ðÊ/ iÊVÀÕ V ÞÊÛi}iÌ>L iÃÊ i «ÊÌ ÊÃÌ Õ >ÌiÊÌ iÊ«À `ÕVÌ Ê vÊÃ> Û>]ÊÜ V Ê i «ÃÊÌ ÊV i> ÊÌ iÊ ÕÌ °Ê

that some foods, such as raisins or other UÊ/ iÊv ÀÃÌÊ`i Ì> ÊÛ Ã ÌÊÃ Õ `ÊÌ> iÊ« >ViÊ dried fruit may be nutritious but can also by age one or within six months of when stick to your child’s teeth for a long time. you see the first tooth. Through regular Encourage your child to eat healthy and examinations your dentist will monitor tooth-friendly foods more often and rinse the development of your child’s teeth and with water. gums to catch problems early and prevent UÊ/ iÊi>À iÀÊ>Ê`i Ì> Ê«À L i Ê ÃÊv Õ `]Ê disease. Starting dental visits early can also the easier it is to fix. Check your child’s improve your child’s comfort with visiting mouth and visit the dentist regularly. the dentist.

Look in your child’s mouth for signs of ,i i LiÀ]ÊV `Ài Ê i>À ÊLÞÊiÝ> « i\Ê disease such as brown or yellow spots on if you look after your own teeth and gums, the teeth. Other signs that your child may your children will too.

LiÊÃÕvviÀ }ÊvÀ Ê`i Ì> Ê` Ãi>ÃiÊ V Õ`i\ BC Dental Association: www.yourdentalhealth.ca UÊÌÀ ÕL iÊÃ ii« }ÆÊ UÊ` vwVÕ ÌÞÊV Vi ÌÀ>Ì }ÆÊ> `]Ê UÊ>Û ` }ÊViÀÌ> Êv `Ã]ÊÃÕV Ê>ÃÊV `Ê`À ÃÊ and foods.

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How do I find the right preschool or daycare? ÞÊ i˜˜ˆviÀÊ Â…>Â?œ˜iĂ€

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s a parent myself, I know that ďŹ nding the right care for a child is extremely important, as well as when to start searching for care. Some daycares and other programs can have over a year waitlist to get in. Make sure to start your research early when looking for childcare. What you don’t want to happen is to be put on a long waitlist and ďŹ nally get in to ďŹ nd out this childcare facility is not what you were looking for. Consider the following ďŹ ve things when looking for the right care for your child.

Decide what kind of care you want your child to be in. There is a difference between

daycare, preschool and Montessori. You need to make sure you pick the right care that matches your child’s needs, not just your own. You may like the structure of a Montessori program, however, will your child benefit from it?

What is their care philosophy? Every daycare, preschool and Montessori will have their philosophy. Make sure you do your research and ďŹ nd out what the childcare facility’s philosophy is. If it does not match your beliefs on how to educate or care for your child, then it is not the care facility for your family. Even if the centre is beautiful, has amazing teachers and a great reputation,

you need more than this. If you are questioning their philosophy and how they run their childcare centre, it is a sign this school will not work for you or your child.

Read over their policies and procedures to make sure you share the same beliefs, especially when it comes to discipline. Do they give time outs? If so, where are they putting the child for a time out? What are their medical procedures and documentation policies? Do they have a disaster plan? Where do they take the children to play? All these questions are important when deciding on a care facility. You want to make sure you are satisďŹ ed with all of their answers.

Do a policy check.

Check their licensing reports. All childcare facilities have yearly inspections done

by Fraser Health or Coastal Health licensing ofďŹ cers. A centre will get a score on how they operate, cleanliness, staff and safety.

You can see all childcare centre scores and reports online at either www.fraserhealth.ca or www.vch.ca. If the center does not have a report or score this could mean the childcare facility is not a licensed facility.

Most locations will post pictures of their childcare facility, in-

Go for a tour or visit.

cluding staff, online. I understand that it is natural to want to see the centre and meet the teachers. However, some childcare facilities will not let you in a center for safety and security reasons. This is a good thing.

You know they will not allow strangers into the centre. Arrange to speak with the staff and see how their personalities are and get a better sense of what they are all about. All childcare facilities will allow you to come in for a tour once you have registered. At this time, you can see how the staff interact with the children and learn their program routine. If at this point, you feel this will not be the right ďŹ t for your child, you can likely still cancel your spot. Most facilities will give a 2-week trial period, especially if they did not offer a tour.

Overall, ďŹ nding a childcare provider can be a stressful process. Do the most you can in terms of research, but remember always to trust and listen to your gut. If you feel any hesitation, there could be something wrong, or it could just not be the facility for your child. There is no “rightâ€? facility. It is more about ďŹ nding the right ďŹ t for your child. i˜˜ˆviÀÊ Â…>Â?œ˜iÀÊis one of KEY’s early childhood education specialists. As a parent herself, Jennifer has a strong passion for foundational education, and believes that the early years are the most important stage of life to help prepare children for later learning and social relationships. www.keyadmissions.com

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Preschool Õ `i Lower Mainland/ Fraser Valley Advantage Preschool Burnaby, 604/435-1263 advantagepreschool.ca Alderwood House Richmond, 604/272-5023 www.alderwoodhouse.com Birchland Treehouse Preschool Port Coquitlam, 604/945-0002 www.birchlandtreehouse.com Brainbridge Bilingual Education and Fine Arts Centre Vancouver, 604/322-6830 www.brainbridge.ca Brentwood Montessori Preschool & Kindergarten Burnaby, 604/294-2671 BrightPath Kids Lower Mainland 1 888/808-2252 www.brightpathkids.com Burnaby French Language Playschool 604/432-1323 www.bflp.org

Cloverleaf Montessori Surrey, 604/574-9899 CEFA Early Learning 14 locations throughout the Lower Mainland www.cefa.ca CEFA Early Learning is a private school which offers an elite junior kindergarten program featuring a unique partnership of core subjects and fine arts that are taught through projects, activities and play. The program was designed to specifically stimulate children during the brain’s most formative years, increasing the child’s emotional, social and intellectual capacity for life.

Cornerstone Christian Academy Richmond, 604/303-9181 Council of Parent Participation Preschools 604/435-4430, 800/488-0660 www.cpppreschools.bc.ca Discovery Montessori Richmond, 604/807-9796 Discovery Quest Montessori Surrey, 604/581-1620

Canyon Heights Preschool North Van, 604/986-5597 www.canyonheightspreschool.com

Dunbar Memorial Preschool Vancouver, 604/222-6065 www.dunbarmemorialpreschool.ca

Children’s House Montessori Coquitlam, 604/931-1311 www.montessoribc.com

Early Foundations Preschool 604/444-3773 www.dsrf.org

Elite Montessori Academy Vancouver, 604/655-2045 www.elitemontessori.ca Located in Dunbar area, with brand new facility, high quality equipments as well as experienced educators, we offers enriched Montessori program for 3–6 year olds. We also have math, science and mandarin classes for children up to 9 years old.

Family Montessori School Vancouver 604/224-2633, 604/731-8810 www.familymontessori.com Gatehouse Montessori West Van, 604/925-1437 Hazelwood Early Learning Port Coquitlam, 604/377-8385 www.hazelwoodearlylearning.com Highlands PreSchool North Vancouver 604/980-1740 www.highlandspreschool.ca Inglewood Parent Participation Preschool West Van, 604/925-1888 www.inglewoodppp.ca Kids Care Preschool Vancouver, 604/325-2222 La Calypso Vancouver, 778/373-4000 www.lacalypso.org

Little Mountain Montessori Preschool Vancouver, 604/709-9621 Little People Parent Participation Preschool Vancouver, 604/261-2219 www.littlepeople.ca Little Pythagoras Academy Richmond, 604/370-0199 www.pythagorasacademy.ca Caters to parents who are looking for a sophisticated educational program for children 3 to 5 years of age that combine a dynamic academic curriculum with strong fine art components. We teach young learners that creative ideas come from within the individual and not technology. Our main goal is to encourage children to create their own authentic work by using their inner power.

Little Neighbours Preschool 604/521-5158 www.littleneighbours.com Marpole Bilingual Montessori School Co-ed, grades PS–K Vancouver 604/266-1091 www.marpolebilingualmontessori.com Our program sets a fantastic foundation for your child. With our unique approach to the daily Bilingual French Program combined with the Montessori Curriculum, your child will be prepared academically, socially, emotionally and physically.

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Preschool Guide

Marpole Bilingual Montessori

Meadow Montessori Maple Ridge, 604/465-3492 www.meadowmontessori.ca

Pacific Rim Montessori Academy Vancouver, 604/726-8428 www.pacificrimmontessori.com

Elementary & Preschool Maple Ridge, 604/465-3492 www.meadowmontessori.ca

Finearts Preschool Richmond, 604/221-0141 www.theartsconnection.ca

(Est. 1985)

Milestone Montessori Delta, 604/583-1446 www.milestonemontessori.ca Monkey See Monkey Do Montessori Vancouver, 778/371-4659 www.monkeyseemonkeydo.ca We have offered high quality programs for children ages 2.5-6 since 2007.

Children learn language arts, math, geography, music, gym, and have access to a beautiful outdoor play area. Experienced and warm teachers. Graduates have a solid academic foundation, good problem solving skills, pro-social behaviour and a love of school.

Pre-School, Junior Kindergarten & Kindergarten Celebrating Over 25 years of Montessori Teaching in the Community OUR ENRICHED MONTESSORI CURRICULUM INCLUDES:

Montessori Mews Richmond, 604/522-1351 Morning Glory Montessori Richmond, 604/272-2821 North Star Montessori Co-ed, grades PS–7 North Vancouver, 604/980-1205 www.northstarmontessori.ca

Pomme d’Api Preschool Vancouver, 604/877-1122 www.pommedapi.org Reach for the Stars Montessori Vancouver, 604/688-7827 www.reachforthestarsmontessori.com Sandcastle Park Children’s Centre Richmond, 604/274-8380 www.sandcastlepark.ca Stepping Stone Preschool Vancouver, 604/261-5315 www.steppingstonepreschool.org Sunflower Academy Vancouver, 604/222-1114 www.sunfloweracademy.com Sunshine Cove Preschool North Vancouver, 604/770-2683 www.sunshinecovepreschool.ca UBC Lluvia Preschool Vancouver, 604/822-3353 www.childcare.ubc.ca/programs/ preschool University Hill Preschool Vancouver, 604/228-8610

CELEBRATING OVER 50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

The Phonetic approach to Reading & Writing, Mathematics, Geography, Science, Music, Art, French, Yoga and a variety of Cultural subjects.

Children are required to wear school uniforms.

We offer 2-1/2 hour and 3-1/2 hour programs for 2-1/2 to 5 year olds as well as an Extended day program for 5 year olds.

Private English Tutoring, Phonics & Conversational Tutoring and French Tutoring are also offered.

1296 W 67TH AVENUE VANCOUVER, BC V6P 2T2 FOR AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL

604-266-1091 EMAIL: bilingualmontessori@hotmail.com www.marpolebilingualmontessori.com TEL:

GI VE

YO U

RC ND HILD THE GIFT OF A SECO

The ability to learn languages is highest between birth and age 6. Our French-English preschool program maximizes a child’s natural curiosity and ability to learn a second language during this important window of opportunity. & Established in 1962 & Caring, experienced & highly qualified bilingual teachers & Bright, extra-spacious classrooms & Private indoor & outdoor play areas & Introduction to French, reading, math, science and nature, music, crafts & Educational field trips Accepting Wait List Applications for SY 2016 and beyond VANCOUVER BILINGUAL PRESCHOOL 949 West 49th Avenue (at Oak St.) Vancouver, BC V5Z 2T1 Phone/Fax: 604.261.1221 vancouverbilingual@yahoo.ca

12ÊÊLV«>Ài Ì°V>ÊUÊÜ ÌiÀÊ ÃÃÕiÊÓä£È

GE UA G LAN

8 www.vancouverbilingual.com

Preschool Guide Vancouver Bilingual Preschool Vancouver, 604/261-1221 www.vancouverbilingual.com Vancouver Bilingual Preschool offers a proven English-French curriculum developed to prepare your child for a lifetime of learning and success. Our specially trained teachers are dedicated to starting children on the journey of second (or third!) language learning.

Vancouver Hebrew Academy Co-ed, grades PS–7 Vancouver, 604/264-1245 www.vhebrewacademy.com Vancouver Montessori School Co-ed, grades PS–7 Vancouver, 604/261-0315 www.vancouvermontessorischool.com Vancouver Talmud Torah Co-ed, grades PS–7 Vancouver, 604/736-7307 www.talmudtorah.com Vancouver Waldorf School Co-ed, grades PS–12 North Vancouver, 604/985-7435 www.vws.ca Wesbrook Parent Participation Preschool Vancouver info@wesbrookpreschool.com www.wesbrookpreschool.com

Westside Montessori Academy Preschool to Grade 7 Vancouver, 604/434-9611 www.westsidemontessoriacademy.ca WMA is a small school with a big heart—an established preschool through to Grade 7 since 2008.

Offering Montessori education, lower student to staff ratios and thoughtfully designed learning environments. Love of learning starts here.

Parkdale Early Childhood Centre Victoria, 250/382-0512 www.parkdalechildcare.ca

Westside Montessori Academy at the Italian Cultural Centre Vancouver, 604/434-9611 www.westsidemontessoriacademy.ca

Wiseways Preschool & Daycare Gordon Head, Victoria 250/477-1312 wisewaysoffice@gmail.com www.wisewaysvictoria.com

Westside Montessori School Vancouver, 604/731-6594 www.westsidemontessori.ca

Okanagan

Vancouver Island

BrightPath Kids Kelowna & West Kelowna 1 888/808-2252 www.brightpathkids.com

Starchild Centre Mill Bay, 250/929-3240 petra@starchildcentre.ca www.starchildcentre.ca

Heritage Christian Preschool Kelowna (Rutland area) 250/980-5604 childcare@kcc.net www.kcc.net/preschool

Queen Margaret’s School Duncan, admissions@qms.bc.ca www.qms.bc.ca

A Secret Garden Preschool Victoria, 250/380-8293 asecretgardenpreschool@shaw.ca

The Lil’ Cottage Educational Daycare Lower Mission, Kelowna Lori Ausenhus at 250/862-0763 www.lilcottagedaycare.ca Okanagan Montessori Kelowna, 250/878-0014 www.okmontessori.com Shannon Lake Preschool West Kelowna, 250/707-3223

CEFA Early Learning Kelowna, 236/420-3868 kelowna@cefa.ca www.cefa.ca CEFA Early Learning is a private school which offers an elite junior kindergarten program featuring a unique partnership of core subjects and fine arts that are taught through projects, activities and play. The program was designed to specifically

Adel Play N Discovery House Sidney Sidney, 250/655-4888 adelina.gotera@gmail.com www.adelplayndiscovery.ca Lakehill Preschool Victoria, 250/477-4141 www.lakehillpreschool.org

stimulate children during the brain’s most formative years, increasing the child’s emotional, social and intellectual capacity for life.

Willowstone Academy Kelowna, 250/764-3111 info@willowstoneacademy.com www.willowstoneacademy.com

WORLD LEADERS IN EDUCATION AGES 1-5

Now Open!

CEFA Early Learning is a full day private school that offers an elite junior kindergarten program, featuring a unique partnership of core subjects: reading, writing, math and science together with fine arts such as music, drama, dance and yoga.

The program was designed to specifically stimulate children during the brain's most formative years, increasing the child's emotional, social and intellectual capacity for life.

Accepting Applications limited spaces

Our Family is Growing! We are pleased to announce 2 new locations: CEFA Kelowna | 590 McKay Ave, Kelowna, BC V1Y 5A8 t (236) 420 3868 | kelowna@cefa.ca | www.cefa.ca

CEFA Vancouver - Cambie | 8685 Yukon St, Vancouver, BC V5X 4V1 t (604) 879 2332 | cambie@cefa.ca | www.cefa.ca

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Education & Tutoring Guide Province Wide

children learn to read and write or do math at age-appropriate levels. We’re leaders in education designed to build the skills, confidence and learning habits needed for educational success.

BC Home Learners’ Association 866/444-2299; www.bchla.bc.ca TutorSage Inc. info@tutorage.com; www.TutorSage.com TutorSage offers in-person tutoring and lessons which are affordable, flexible and on your terms. Find quality, verified tutors and lesson providers in your area!

Manage all your scheduling and payments online.

Create a free account and start browsing tutors and lesson providers today.

Voilà Learning Online and at Home tutoring across Canada 866/900-0658 HelpTheChildren@VoilaLearning.com www.VoilaLearning.com

Lower Mainland/ Fraser Valley Above Grade Level Lower Mainland 778/832-1007; www.abovegradelevel.ca After 3 Tutoring at Fraser Academy Kitsilano 604/736-5575 after3@fraseracademy.ca; www.fraseracademy.ca £\£ÊÌÕÌ À }]Ê£ ÕÀ]ÊÓ ÎÝÉÜii °Ê"ÕÀÊ«À }À> Ê i «ÃÊ

IN-HOME TUTORING

By Certified Teachers K-12 (all subjects)

KEY Admissions Vancouver info@keyadmissions.com; www.keyadmissions.com Kumon 800/222-6284 www.kumon.com Learning Disabilities Association 604/873-8139 www.ldav.ca Mathletics 1-877/467-6851 customerservice@3plearning.ca; www.mathletics.ca MPM Math 604/266-6762 www.mpmmath.com In the MPM Math Education program, elementaryschool students build problem-solving and critical thinking math abilities while developing self-confidence and independence in learning. The JELIC program, for ages 3–6 years old, is dedicated for preschoolers to solve problems independently through specially-designed logic puzzles, under the supervision of a qualified instructor. nurTutor Lower Mainland 604/449-1670; www.nurTutor.ca Oxford Learning Coquitlam 604/464-3090 Richmond 604/233-5566 South Surrey 604/575-1494 North Van 604/990-8850 Kerrisdale 604/266-6000 Kitsilano 604/563-2000 West Vancouver 604/922-5566 Burnaby 604/565-5877 www.oxfordlearning.com PD Plus Tutoring Service Ltd. 604/421-6101 director@pdplustutors.com; www.pdplustutors.com The Reading Foundation 604/222-2254; www.readingfoundation.com

Winner Marketplace Excellence Award 2015 2nd Place People’s Pick Award 2015

1-877-ITS-EASY (487-3279) ®

www.schooliseasy.com 14ÊÊLV«>Ài Ì°V>ÊUÊÜ ÌiÀÊ ÃÃÕiÊÓä£È

School Is Easy Tutoring 604/439-1790 or 1-877-ITS EASY www.schooliseasy.com Home tutoring. We are one of the largest and most respected tutoring agencies in the Lower Mainland/ Fraser Valley. We provide carefully screened certified Ìi>V iÀÃÊ Ê> ÊÃÕL iVÌÃ\Ê À>`iÃÊ£q£Ó]Ê - Ê­> Ê iÛi î]Ê special ed, study skills, gifted programs and French immersion. We are easy to work with. Reasonable rates. No upfront fees. Winner of BBB Marketplace Excellence and 2nd place People’s Pick award 2015 Sealy Tutoring Vancouver 604/612-0652 info@sealytutoring.com; www.sealytutoring.com Spirit of Math Richmond 604/304-4032; Vancouver 604/568-0018 www.spiritofmath.com Sylvan Learning £ nää 1 / www.SylvanLearning.ca From ongoing math, reading and writing tutoring to occasional assistance with homework assignments or test preparation, Sylvan has a comprehensive selection of programs to choose from. Our winning combination of personalized tutoring, a motivating rewards system and the latest technology helps ensure that your child stays engaged and challenged (but never frustrated) throughout the process. There’s no need for your child to feel overwhelmed or puzzled any lon}iÀ\ÊV iVÌÊÜ Ì Ê>Ê-Þ Û> Ê i>ÀÊÞ ÕÊÌ `>ÞÊ> `Êi ÃÕÀiÊ peace of mind with personal tutoring.

Teachers to Go Lower Mainland 1 800/428-8164 info@teacherstogoinc.com; www.TeachersToGo.ca We are a unique tutoring service that matches your child with a provincially certified teacher to tutor in your home. We create lessons tailored to your child’s learning needs and strengths while integrating a fun component to make learning fun. Leave the teaching to us and call us today!

Teachers’ Tutoring Service Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley 604/730-3410 teacher@tutor.bc.ca; www.tutor.bc.ca

TOC Education Resources 604/603-3008 www.toceducationresources.com TutorBright, Vancouver Vancouver 778/300-5000 vancouver@tutorbright.com; www.tutorbright.com

Who is your child’s mentor?

By Na W.Y.

Tutor Doctor Multiple locations in Richmond & Delta 604/943-0555 www.inhometutors.ca

Vancouver Island Oxford Learning Victoria 250/477-5550 www.oxfordlearning.com School Is Easy Tutoring Across Vancouver Island 250/483-5496 or 1-877-ITS EASY www.schooliseasy.com/vancouver-island Home tutoring. We are one of the largest and most respected tutoring agencies on Vancouver Island.

We provide carefully screened certified teachers in > ÊÃÕL iVÌÃ\Ê À>`iÃÊ£q£Ó]Ê - Ê­> Ê iÛi î]ÊëiV > Ê ed, study skills, gifted programs and French immersion. We are easy to work with. Reasonable rates. No upfront fees.

Teachers to Go Victoria 1 800/428-8164 info@teacherstogoinc.com; www.TeachersToGo.ca We are a unique tutoring service that matches your child with a provincially certified teacher to tutor in your home. We create lessons tailored to your child’s learning needs and strengths while integrating a fun component to make learning fun. Leave the teaching to us and call us today!

Okanagan 360 Learning Academy Penticton, Summerland 250/486-3238 www.360LearningAcademy.com Guardian Tutors Kelowna and surrounding area admin@guardiantutors.ca or 250/317-4040 www.guardiantutors.ca School Is Easy Tutoring Kamloops, Vernon, Kelowna, Penticton and Osoyoos.

250/938-7368 or 1-877-ITS EASY www. schooliseasy.com/okanagan Home tutoring. We are one of the largest and most respected tutoring agencies in the Okanagan. We provide carefully screened certified teachers in all ÃÕL iVÌÃ\Ê À>`iÃÊ£q£Ó]Ê - Ê­> Ê iÛi î]ÊëiV > Êi`]Ê study skills, gifted programs and French immersion.

We are easy to work with. Reasonable rates. No upfront fees.

E

very child needs a champion! In to. Mentorship often comes about through the early stages of a child’s develop- an activity your child will need some asment, their parents are usually their sistance with, or something they’re really first champion. However, as they grow and interested in. their exposure to the world increases, chilFor example, when parents approach dren will find new champions outside of tutors for support, the academic result is the home. A “champion” is someone who understandably their primary goal. Howtakes a personal interest in your child’s ever, academic performance is a natural Üi Li }\Ê >Ê « Ã Ì ÛiÊ À iÊ `i ]Ê ÌÀÕÃÌi`Ê outcome of something equally important. advisor, a source of inspiraBeyond helping the student tion and a friend—a mentor! with a subject, a strong tuA strong tutor Often, mentors for chiltor will engage and encourwill engage and dren are teachers, sports age students in such a way encourage students coaches, youth leaders and that changes the “I can’t” to in such a way that friends. As parents, we con“I can”. They help develop changes the stantly strive to provide the their interest in learning “I can’t” to “I can”. best for our children. We are and build good work ethic confronted with many deciand study habits. Tutors that à ÃÊÌ >ÌÊÜ Ê>vviVÌÊÌ i ÀÊ ÛiÃ\ÊÜ >ÌÊÃV Ê formalize mentorship goals have proven they should attend; what preparations are to produce far-reaching and sustainable needed to get into that school; what extra- results, and create life-long, independent curricular activities they join. We try not learners. When you are looking for a tuto make big mistakes that may cost our tor, keep on the look-out for the champion child later with regard to these choices. Yet, who will help your child succeed in more how often do we look for or consider their than just their schoolwork! mentors—the people who may have a pro> is the Director of Education with TutorBright Vancouver, found impact on our children’s life? providing hand-selected tutor-mentors to students in the VanWhen keeping a look-out for your child’s couver area. TutorBright’s tutor-mentors are passionate about mentors, keep an eye on the activities, education. They’re also subject experts and have great communication skills and experience in 1-to-1 teaching methods and sports and academic pursuits they belong mentorship. www.tutorbright.com.

LV«>Ài Ì°V>ÊUÊÜ ÌiÀÊ ÃÃÕiÊÓä£ÈÊÊ15

Public Francophone School Listings Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique

École des Glaciers K–2 Revelstoke 250/764-2771 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ} >V iÀÃJVÃv°LV°V> École des Sept-sommets K–7 Rossland 250/362-3395 ÌÌ«\ÉÉÃi«Ìà iÌðVÃv°LV°V> École du Pacifique K–7 Sechelt 604/885-4743 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ«>V wµÕi°VÃv°LV°V> École secondaire Chatelech 8–12 Sechelt 604/885-4743 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ«>V wµÕi°VÃv°LV°V> École Les Aiglons K–7 Squamish 604/898-3715 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ> } ðVÃv°LV°V>

SD No 93

ÌÌ«\ÉÉÛ Þ>}iÕÀðVÃv°LV°V>

École Mer-et-montagne K–7 Campbell River 250/923-3359 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ iÀiÌ Ì>} i°VÃv°LV°V>

École des Deux-rives K–8 Mission 604/820-5710 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ`iÕÝÀ ÛiðVÃv°LV°V>

École secondaire Carihi 9–12 Campbell River 250/923-3359 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ iÀiÌ Ì>} i°VÃv°LV°V>

École Océane K–7 Nanaimo 250/714-0761 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ Vi> i°VÃv°LV°V>

École La Vérendrye K–6 Chilliwack 604/858-2666 ÌÌ«\ÉÉÛiÀi `ÀÞi°VÃv°LV°V>

École secondaire de Nanaimo 8–12 Nanaimo 250/714-0761 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ Vi> i°VÃv°LV°V>

École Au-coeur-de-l’île K–12 Comox 250/339-1848 ÌÌ«\ÉÉV iÕÀ`i i°VÃv°LV°V>

École des Sentiers-alpins K–7 Nelson 250/825-4020 ÌÌ«\ÉÉÃi Ì iÀÃ> « ðVÃv°LV°V>

École du Bois-joli K–6 Delta 604/948-7007 ÌÌ«\ÉÉL Ã °VÃv°LV°V>

École André-Piolat K–12 North Vancouver 604/980-6040 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ> `Ài« >Ì°VÃv°LV°V>

École Collines-d’or K–7 Kamloops 250/579-9223 ÌÌ«\ÉÉV iÃ` À°VÃv°LV°V>

École de la Vallée-de-Pemberton K–7 Pemberton 604/932-9602 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ«i LiÀÌ °VÃv°LV°V>

École de l’Anse-au-sable K–12 Kelowna 250/764-2771 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ> Ãi>ÕÃ>L i°VÃv°LV°V>

École Entre-lacs K–8 Penticton 250/770-7691 ÌÌ«\ÉÉi ÌÀi >VðVÃv°LV°V>

École des Voyageurs K–7 Langley 604/881-0222

École secondaire de Penticton 9–12 250/770-7691 ÌÌ«\ÉÉi ÌÀi >VðVÃv°LV°V>

16ÊÊLV«>Ài Ì°V>ÊUÊÜ ÌiÀÊ ÃÃÕiÊÓä£È

École des Grands-cèdres K–6 Port Alberni 250/723-5614 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ}À> `ÃVi`ÀiðVÃv°LV°V>

École Gabrielle-Roy K–12 Surrey 604/599-6688 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ}>LÀ i iÀ Þ°VÃv°LV°V>

École des Pionniers-de-Maillardville K–12 Port Coquitlam 604/552-7915 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ« iÀðVÃv°LV°V>

École Jack-Cook K–7 Terrace 250/635-9754 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ >V V °VÃv°LV°V>

École Virtuelle 8–12 Partout en province 778/284-0909 ÌÌ«\ÉÉiV iÛ ÀÌÕi i°VÃv°LV°V>

École Rose-des-vents K–6 Vancouver 604/267-9022 ÌÌ«\ÉÉÀ Ãi`iÃÛi ÌðVÃv°LV°V>

École Côte-du-soleil K–9 Powell River 604/485-8430 ÌÌ«\ÉÉV Ìi`ÕÃ i °VÃv°LV°V>

École Anne-Hébert K–6 Vancouver 604/437-4849 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ> i iLiÀÌ°VÃv°LV°V>

École secondaire Brooks 10–12 Powell River 604/485-8430 ÌÌ«\ÉÉV Ìi`ÕÃ i °VÃv°LV°V>

École secondaire Jules-Verne 7–12 Vancouver 604/731-8378 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ Õ iÃÛiÀ i°VÃv°LV°V>

École Franco-nord K–7 Prince George 250/612-0755 ÌÌ«\ÉÉvÀ> V À`°VÃv°LV°V>

École Victor-Brodeur K–12 Victoria 250/220-6010 ÌÌ«\ÉÉLÀ `iÕÀ°VÃv°LV°V>

École secondaire Duchess-Park 8–12 Prince George 250/612-0755 ÌÌ«\ÉÉvÀ> V À`°VÃv°LV°V>

École La Passerelle K–7 Whistler 604/932-9602 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ«>ÃÃiÀi i°VÃv°LV°V>

École des Navigateurs K–7 Richmond 604/718-5629 ÌÌ«\ÉÉ >Û }>ÌiÕÀðVÃv°LV°V>

École Sophie-Morigeau K–2 Fernie 250/531-1115 ÌÌ«\ÉÉÃ « i À }i>Õ°VÃv°LV°V>

The Greater Vancouver Food Bank (GVFB) is a non-profit organization with a mission to empower people to nourish themselves by providing access to healthy food, education and training. The GVFB assists over 28,000 people each week and is committed to its vision of accessible, healthy and sustainable food for all.

To learn how you can leave a legacy that will help provide food to thousands in need, please contact Heidi MagnusonFord at 604.216.2329 or heidimf@foodbank.bc.ca.

www.foodbank.bc.ca

VanFoodBank

VanFoodBank LV«>Ài Ì°V>ÊUÊÜ ÌiÀÊ ÃÃÕiÊÓä£ÈÊÊ17

By Brett Graff

T

he editors of a popular baby website have compiled a list of the best strollers around. One such model reminded the editorial panel of a transformer, and the group collectively gushed about how it can even charge your cell phone. This stroller, like nearly all the editors’ picks, cost over $800. This may sound old-fashioned, but you might even agree—it’s perfectly fine to charge your cell phone at home.

Keep in mind, those baby website editors—and also their readers who are presumably weeks away from having babies— have every reason to be excited. Becoming a parent is the most thrilling and transforming of all life’s events. And we know it’s our jobs to protect, nurture, and safeguard our children the best we can. We’re ready to do anything and we’re prepared to buy anything. Just tell us what we need.

That’s the attitude that makes a profitÃii }Ê `ÕÃÌÀÞÊ Ã> Û>Ìi\Ê ÕÃÌ iÀÃÊ Ü Ê are emotional, inexperienced, terrified, and deeply committed to the cause for which they’re shopping. We fill our carts with infant merchandise we truly believe is critical for the child’s survival. Never mind that the human race has survived some two hundred thousand years without cell phone–charging strollers.

There is one thing that’s guaranteed to «À ÛiÊ Ì iÊ viÊ vÊ Þ ÕÀÊ V `\Ê > Ê i`ÕV>tion. And if you’re going to get off the right start when you’re baby is born and put $2500 each year toward their RESP—to get your full $500 from the government each year—you’re going to need to cut the un18ÊÊLV«>Ài Ì°V>ÊUÊÜ ÌiÀÊ ÃÃÕiÊÓä£È

necessary expenses today. The good news?

This benefits your baby in more than a purely financial sense. Because researchers have discovered that meeting a child’s most fundamental needs—the ones that promote cognitive and physical development—can be done for little money.

You can start by talking. Betty Hart and Todd Risley in 1992 visited homes of American families across socioeconomic backgrounds to examine the conversations between parents and children. They found

There are no products sold in stores to promote healthy attachment.

And this early feeling of security will continue to influence a baby’s development throughout childhood.

that wealthier parents spoke more frequently and more positively to their children.

Babies on welfare heard about 616 words per hour, while those from working-class families heard around 1,251 words per hour, and those from professional families heard roughly 2,153 words per hour. By the time the kids were three years old, there was a large word gap between the kids whose parents were professionals and those on welfare. When the kids reached third grade— ages nine and ten years old—the researchers discovered those who heard more words as babies had made greater academic advances.

They quickly concluded that the kids who

start behind will stay behind.

“We as parents can accelerate the vocabbuilding process by including the baby’s name in those sentences,” says Heather Bortfeld, a developmental psychology proviÃà ÀÊ >ÌÊ Ì iÊ 1 ÛiÀà ÌÞÊ vÊ iVÌ VÕÌ°Ê “Babies recognize their own names at about 4.5 months and can then start to use them as anchors that will put other words into context,” says Bortfeld. “Think about it Ì ÃÊÜ>Þ\ÊÜ i ÊÞ ÕÊ i>ÀÊ«i « iÊëi> }Ê>Ê language you don’t understand, it sounds like a stream of sounds that doesn’t seem to break into words,” she explains. “But if you happened to recognize one single word, say, weekend, then you can start to figure out the meaning of surrounding words. It works the same way with babies who can hone in on their names.”

When we get tired of speaking to our babies, we should just ignore them—a practice that also turns out to be highly educational. That’s because infants as young as four months of age who play solo (with an adult nearby) will learn to think creatively and problem-solve, says the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Presumably, your home has a floor, which means you’re already equipped for this activity. “Floors offer bountiful opportunities for exploration, making them superior to pricey and restrictive playpens, high chairs, or walkers,” says Dr. Gwen Wurm, a pediaÌÀ V > Ê>ÌÊ1 ÛiÀÃ ÌÞÊ vÊ > Ê iÀÊ-V Ê of Medicine. “While the kid is down there, toss him a Tupperware container and perhaps a wooden spoon. You have then pro-

vided your child with tools proven to build cognitive development,” says Dr. Wurm.

First, by playing with safe objects and interacting with their natural environments, babies are learning cause and effect. They find out that holding something the wrong way will cause it to fall. They understand that lifting something heavy is often impossible and that putting something in your mouth means you’ll have something in your mouth.

Floor play is also good exercise. “Think about it—if you’ve spent your entire life lying down on your back, guzzling milk, then trying to push up your chest or pick up a spoon becomes quite a workout,” says Dr. Wurm. Infants must learn to do this in order to crawl and walk.

Also critical for our babies is the favourable emotional bond called healthy attachment, says Dr. Wurm, which is the beneficial psychological connection between a baby and his caretaker.”

There are no products sold in stores to promote healthy attachment. And this early feeling of security will continue to influence a baby’s development throughout childhood. It’s most important for us to respond to our baby between birth and six months.

So if the baby cries, hold her. If the baby is hungry, feed her. If the baby has furiously pooped, change her.

“The kid, in turn, develops true inner security, which leads to more independence and healthier relationships,” says Dr. Wurm. The child believes the world is a safe place and is then more likely to explore new situations, leading to greater cognitive development. Higher self-esteem also helps build lasting and more trusting friendships because secure people are comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.

Don’t worry if you’re both working in jobs outside of your homes. Nannies, grandparents, and daycare professionals are excellent at holding and feeding babies, says Dr. Wurm. As parents, this is what we should be looking for when evaluating our caretakers.

If a baby under a year old is happy to see her caretaker but shortly afterward goes back to the business at hand—finger-sucking, rattle-shaking, block-building, whatever’s happening that moment—then that person is probably pretty good at attending to her needs. On the other hand, constant crying, clinging and inability to separate all signal that something is wrong.

“We spend so much time as parents focusing on all the things a baby needs,” says Dr. Wurm. “But all they really need is a loving adult in their lives who’s meeting their needs in a very basic way.”

Oh, and they also need a stroller and while it won’t need to charge your cell phone, a cup holder for coffee might be a good idea.

That’s because walking your baby for even several minutes in both morning and evening can support the circadian rhythm and that can make her smarter, says Dr. Wurm.

The circadium rhythm is a factor in the system that releases cortisol in the morning, the hormone keeping us alert and stimulated—and melatonin at night, which helps us sleep. The baby’s brain will register the natural light as brightening or turning to dusk and will respond by releasing the appropriate hormone. This strengthens sleep cycles, the time when babies’ brains develop.

Don’t worry about scorching summers or Canadian winters, because aside from weather conditions associated with flying debris, extreme climate shouldn’t stop your stroller walks, says Dr. Wurm. Babies dressed appropriately—hats and blankets or

What you won’t buy Skip these unnecessary items and stash the cash, making RESP savings a breeze.

Ipad and baby apps: ­f ää®Ê/> ÊÌ Ê Þ ÕÀÊL>LÞÊ ÃÌi>`]Ê ÀÊà « ÞÊ iÌÊ iÀÊ ÃÌi ÊÌ Ê iÀÊ >ÌÕÀ> ÊÃÕÀÀ Õ ` }Ã°Ê Stroller: ­fÇää®Ê iÌÊÞ ÕÀÊÃÌ>ÌÕÃÊà iÊ Ê Þ ÕÀÊV i}iÊÃ>Û }Ã]Ê> `Ê}iÌÊ>Ê } ÌÜi } Ì]Ê«À>VÌ V> Ê `i Êv ÀÊÞ ÕÀÊV `° Walkers and playpens: ­fxÓqf£äx®Ê ÀÃÊ vviÀÊÌ iÊLiÃÌÊ« >ViÃÊv ÀÊ iÝ« À>Ì °Ê Educational toys ­f£xqf£xä®Ê/ ÞÃÊÜ Ì Ê L }Ê } ÌÃÊÌi>V Ê ÃÌ> ÌÊ}À>Ì wV>Ì °Ê iÌÊÞ ÕÀÊL>LÞÊ ÀÊÌ `` iÀÊ« >ÞÊ Ü Ì Ê« >ÃÌ VÊv `ÊV Ì> iÀÃ]ÊÜ `i Ê Ã« ÃÊ> `ÊLi `>L iÊ« >Ìið

gauze and linen—can be outside like anyone else.

Excerpted from ÌÊ ÕÞ }Ê Ì\Ê -Ì «Ê "ÛiÀëi ` }Ê > `Ê -Ì>ÀÌÊ Raising Happier, Healthier, and More Successful Kids by Brett Graff. Available from Amazon, published by Seal Press, a member of The Perseus Books Group. @brettgraff; www.thehomeeconomist. com

Take your RESP to new heights Get an extra $1,200 with the BC Training and Education Savings Grant

Ask me how Paul J. Hendriks, Sales Representative Tel: 604 220-3441 | Paul.Hendriks@kff.ca Visit knowledgefirstfinancial.ca

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Ask an expert about

RESP’s

s parents, we want to do what’s best for our children, and part of that is ensuring they have a good education. When is comes to saving for their post-secondary education, things get confusing, especially with RESP’s. We polled our Facebook Fans to find out what they were most confused about when it came to RESP’s and got the answers from our experts!

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What are the benefits of an RESP vs. just savings?

How can the government help with my child’s RESP?

A Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) is one of the best opportunities to save for post-secondary education. The major benefits of an RESP compared to regular savings are tax-deferred growth and the opportunity for government grants. The Canada Education Savings Grant, for example, adds 20 percent on the first $2,500 contributed annually, to a maximum of $500 per child per year. Contribution room not used in a given year can be carried forward. You can contribute up to $50,000 (lifetime contribution limit) per child, and there are no taxes payable on the money earned in an RESP until it’s withdrawn. When RESP grants and earnings are withdrawn by the child for educational purposes, they are taxed at the student’s generally lower tax rate.

—Barb Stangoe, Branch Manager, TD Canada Trust, Coquitlam

Only an RESP is eligible for government grants, making it the best way to save for post-secondary education. Every Canadian child is entitled to receive up to $7,200 of grant by the end of their seventeenth year.

It is a 20% grant, so if you save $2,500 in a calendar year, you will receive $500 of Canada Education Savings Grant. There is also an additional 10–20% grant that can be matched to the first $500 you save, based upon your family net income.

Families who are receiving the National Child Benefit Supplement can boost their RESP further with the Canada Learning Bond. Eligible children will receive $500 into their RESP the first year and $100 per year till age 15 for a total of $2000.

Knowledge First Financial is proud to be at the forefront of institutions administering the new British Columbia Training and Education Savings Grant. Residents of BC born on or after January 1, 2007 will receive a $1,200 lump sum into their RESP

between their sixth and ninth birthdays.

RESPs allow you to earn tax-deferred income—a great feature that is often overlooked. The principal you save for your child is after tax dollars so you pay no tax when you withdraw it. Income earned in your plan goes directly to your child’s Education Assistance Payments; on a student’s income, there will be little or no tax to pay.

In eighteen years many parents will be in their highest income tax bracket of their lives so being able to defer that income to the kids is a huge savings. —Paul Hendriks, Sales Representative Knowledge First Financial

the plan has been open for more than 10 Ăži>Ă€Ăƒ]ĂŠĂžÂœĂ•ĂŠÂ“>Ăž\ – transfer up to $50,000 of the investment income portion of the RESP to your RRSP (or spousal RRSP) tax-free, provided you have sufďŹ cient contribution room available, or – withdraw the investment income and pay tax on it at your marginal tax rate, plus an additional tax of 20%.

The beneďŹ ciary has until December 31st of the RESP’s 36th year to receive the investment income as part of Education Assistance Payments for post-secondary education. After this date, any remaining income earned in the RESP will be paid to a postsecondary institution.

Any government education savings grant money not paid out as part of Education Assistance Payments for post-secondary education from the RESP must be returned You have several options if your child to the government. In all instances, your contributions will be returned to you taxVÂ…ÂœÂœĂƒiĂƒĂŠÂ˜ÂœĂŒĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ>ĂŒĂŒi˜`ĂŠÂŤÂœĂƒĂŒÂ‡ĂƒiVœ˜`>ÀÞ\ UĂŠ/Ă€>Â˜ĂƒviĂ€ĂŠĂŒÂ…iĂŠ, -*ĂŠĂŒÂœĂŠ>Â˜ÂœĂŒÂ…iÀÊiÂ?ˆ}ˆLÂ?iĂŠLi˜- free if the beneďŹ ciary does not attend posteďŹ ciary. Government grants may be shared secondary education. —Tannis Morris, Sales Representative, with a brother or sister of the BeneďŹ ciary.

C.S.T. Consultants Inc UĂŠ vĂŠ ĂžÂœĂ•Ă€ĂŠ V…ˆÂ?`ĂŠ ÂˆĂƒĂŠ ÂœĂ›iÀÊ ĂŒÂ…iĂŠ >}iĂŠ ÂœvĂŠ Ă“ÂŁĂŠ >˜`ĂŠ

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What happens to the RESP if my child chooses not to attend post-secondary?

Start to save for higher education —and access up to $8,400 in government grants.*

Tannis Morris Sales Representative & 6 7 &RQVXOWDQWV ,QF %UDQFK 604-837-7914 www.cstresp.com/2157 The Canadian Scholarship Trust Plan is only sold by Prospectus. Investors should read the Prospectus before making an investment decision. You can get copies of the Prospectus from www.cst.org. *The basic Canada Education Savings Grant matches RI WKH Ä&#x2020;UVW \RX FRQWULEXWH WR \RXU FKLOGèV 5(63 HDFK \HDU XS WR D OLIHWLPH PD[LPXP RI BC Training and Education Savings Grant (BCTESG) is a RQH WLPH JUDQW DYDLODEOH WR %& UHVLGHQW FKLOGUHQ ERUQ RQ RU DIWHU -DQXDU\ st &KLOGUHQ DUH HOLJLEOH IRU WKH %&7(6* RQ WKHLU VL[WK ELUWKGD\ <RX KDYH XQWLO the day before your child's ninth birthday to apply for WKH %&7(6* &RQGLWLRQV DSSO\

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Philips Wake-up Light

Lil’ Oliver’s

SoapSox Duck

Sleep is a big part of healthy lifestyles but it isn’t just about hitting REM cycles. Like stretching before and after exercise, routines before and after your sleep cycles are key to optimal sleep and overall health. Philips’ Wake-up lights are perfect for developing and nurturing proper wake-up and bedtime routines. Lower light levels at night encourage the production of melatonin—the hormone that helps you fall (and stay) asleep, while a gradual increase in light helps with waking you up. Add this fantastic light into your children’s bedtime and morning routine or keep it for yourself, either way, you’ll have a better start to the day!

A delicious, all natural snack, free of added sugar, fat, peanuts and cholesterol? Yes, please!

Li’l Oliver, pitted and pre-portioned green or black olives with no artificial flavours or colours are the perfect addition to your child’s lunch box, without the allergy concerns that come with snacks that may contain peanuts.

Available at Real Canadian Superstores www.sardofoods.com

Looking for a bath toy that won’t eventually squirt mold into the tub? SoapSox’s adorable plush friends can go from playtime to bath time! It’s 2-in-1 fun with SoapSox®, the cuddly companions you can take in the tub and use the patent-pending pocket to help you get your little one clean. Emma the Duck is from the SoapSox® Farm family.

She loves paddling around in the pond with friends and dreaming of where to travel when she gets older. For ages Birth + Available at Sears www.soapsoxkids.com

San Diego—Not just sand and surf

S

outhern California has so much more to offer than just the beach. When looking for a winter getaway consider San Diego. With attractions, beaches, sports and recreation… there is so much to do that it will keep you and your kids entertained for days. If your time is limited, here >ÀiÊ>ÊviÜÊÌ «Ê« V Ã\ San Diego Zoo: It’s world renowned for a reason. The Zoo is 100 acres in size and is home to more than 4,000 animals representing more than 800 species from around the world. View the animals in the most natural way possible, and enjoy a show or animal presentation to learn more about each. zoo. sandiegozoo.org. ,iV i `i`ÊÌ i\Ê2 days or 8 hours straight—there is a lot to see here and can be overwhelming for younger children.

Legoland: A wonderland for your legolovers! Legoland has 60 rides, shows and attractions including a new Star Wars

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exhibit. There are many rides suitable for 3 and up and if you visit during the offseason, there are very short or no lines. www.legoland.com/california. Recommendi`ÊÌ i\Ê1 day Balboa Park: A San Diego must-see, just minutes from downtown, and ranked as one of the best parks in the world. The park is home to 15 major museums, several performing arts venues, lovely gardens and many other cultural and recreational attractions. Kids crazy about cars, trains and planes or dinosaurs, planets or sports or art, flowers and animals will all find something to savour during a day in the park. www. balboapark.org. ,iV i `i`ÊÌ i\ÊDepends on how many museums you want to go to.

Be sure to visit San Diego’s website (www. sandiego.org) to find some great offers like the combo deals that save you 20% off the attractions above when bought together.

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Feb 14 North Peace Cultural Centre & Feb 16 Phoenix Theatre Feb 19 Lester Centre & Feb 20 Rem Lee Theatre Feb 22 Chuck Mobley Theatre & Feb 24 Cleland Theatre Mar 14 Key City Theatre & Mar 15 Charles Bailey Theatre Mar 17 Community Theatre & Mar 19 Bell Performing Arts Centre Mar 20 Queen Elizabeth Theatre & Mar 22 Royal Theatre Mar 23 Cowichan Performing Arts Centre & Mar 24 The Port Theatre Mar 26 Sid Williams Theatre For tickets visit

www.GreatBigShowOnTour.com BACKYARDIGANS™ and © 2004-2009 Viacom International Inc. Licensed by Nelvana Limited. MIKE THE KNIGHT © 2016 Hit (MTK) Limited, Mike The Knight™ and logo and Be A Knight Do It Right!™ are trademarks of Hit (MTK) Limited. FRANKLIN™ Kids Can Press Ltd. Franklin characters © 1986 Paulette Bourgeois and Brenda Clark. Franklin and Friends ™Corus Entertainment Inc. group of companies. MAX & RUBY™ © Rosemary Wells. NELVANA™ and CORUS™ Corus Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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