Resource Guide 2026

Important Numbers

Call 911 for Ambulance/Fire/ Police Emergency

Air or Marine Emergency 1-800-567-5111

Animal Emergencies (Nights) 604/879-7343

BC Gas Leaks & Odours

1-800-663-9911

BC Nurse Line: 8-1-1

Puts you in touch with a registered nurse, 24 hours/ day, 7 days/week canadiancarseatnetwork.com

Find a technician to verify

4 Turning Chaos into Calm

Family Fun 8 Why Starting Early Matters: The Power of Learning Multiple Languages in Preschool

Birthday Parties

Retail

Halting the Slide: 5 Simple Strategies to Prevent the Summer Reading Dip

Classes and Programs

The Camp Registration Maze: A Parent’s Survival Guide to Finding Fun and Sports Camps in BC

Summer Camps

When School Struggles Signal Something More

Resource Guide 2026/27 Volume 35, Number 1

your child’s car seat is installed correctly.

The Crisis Centre www.YouthinBC.com 1-800-Suicide, 604/872-3311

The Distress Phone Services provide confidential, nonjudgmental, free emotional support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for people experiencing feelings of distress or despair.

YouthInBC.com is an online resource where youth in distress can: get help through real-time online chat with a

Mailing Address: P.O.Box 30020, North Van, BC V7H 2Y8 email: info@bcparent.ca www.bcparent.ca Canadian Publications Mail Registration No.251836

trained volunteer, learn more about common issues and concerns (e.g. bullying, depression, etc.), find resources, and be heard by sharing experiences on the blog.

Earthquake, Flood, Dangerous Spill, Tsunami 1-800-663-3456

Emergency Preparedness www.pep.bc.ca

Help Line for Children 310-1234; www.safekidbc.ca For reporting of child abuse

Publisher/Executive Editor: Carlie Parkinson

Advertising Design & Layout: Julie Cochrane

Editorial Design & Layout: www.retrometrodesign.ca

and neglect throughout the province.

Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868

3-1-0 Mental Health Support 310-6789 (no area code needed) for emotional support, information and resources specific to mental health.

Newborn Hotline 604/737-3737 open 8:30 am–10 pm, 365 days per year, information about babies to age 2

Poison Control Centre

604/682-5050, 1-800-567-8911

Rape Crisis Line – Women Against Violence Against Women

604/255-6344 or toll free 1-877-392-7583 www.wavaw.ca

Rape Relief

604/872-8212

Telecare Crisis Line

604/852-9099, 24 hr crisis line, Christian based

Youth Against Violence Line 1-800-680-4264

Contributors: Penny Greening, Angela Wanja Gachago, Nicola Lott, Michael Doyle, Kristi Rigg, Josee Bergeron

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.

In my new line of work, I remind parents that we’re all winging it. There is no manual for parenting. But our kids don’t know that.

We’re older, bigger, equipped with a modicum of executive functioning, language, perspective, and decades of experience being human. Parents have the advantage. Until your little munchkin catches you at your worst.

You’re running on fumes. Long hours. Managing personalities. Smiling through stress. You’ve been “regulated” all day. Controlled, professional, and polished.

Then it’s 5:15 p.m. Before kids, you stayed until 6 or 7 to prove you’re in it to win it, but daycare closes at 6:00 p.m. You stay minutes past 5 o’clock to prove you’re not trying to escape, but you’re caught in the window of

When We Crack

When a parent snaps, a child doesn’t analyze stress. They sense instability. They escalate to pull you back, or shut down to protect themselves. It’s not manipulation. It’s a survival instinct.

Points for Repair

Security isn’t built on perfection. It’s built on repair. “Use your words” mom and dad. Try these:

• “I yelled. That wasn’t okay.”

• “I was overwhelmed. That wasn’t your fault.”

• “Let’s try again.” In this game, rebounding matters most.

Turning Chaos Into Calm How co-regulation

restores connection— from the perspective of a dysregulated parent

By Penny Greening

shame. If one bridge or tunnel gets backedup, your 45-minute commute will make you the worst-parent at pick-up.

You’re hungry and overwhelmed. Lunch was skipped or inhaled between emails.

Your child is hungry and overstimulated. Maybe they skipped their nap. They don’t like dinner. Your partner doesn’t love your quick-service dining bailout plan to keep some peace for yourself. And now everyone is looking at you like you’re the emotional thermostat of the house.

But you’re overheated, and you’re not even in your perimenopause era!

So you explode.

Your child, whose nervous system is still under construction, is bug-eyed, staring at your fully flooded one.

The Next 5:47 p.m.

Another long commute. Another skipped lunch.

Another dinner nobody wants.

Your child will still be human. So will you.

But maybe this time, when the heat rises, you notice it. Here’s your chance to practice a new skill:

• Red light. Pause.

• Yellow light. One cyclic* breath.

• Green light. Reset. “I can see we’re all tired.

Let’s start over.”

And your child’s nervous system feels it too. Safety. Maybe you still snap. But you bounce back. Imperfection shapes connection. Show your child what it looks like to lose your footing and find it again. That’s how chaos turns into calm, and connection survives.

The Myth of the Calm Parent

We talk a lot about dysregulated kids but not enough about dysregulated parents.

Parents who:

• Haven’t had a moment to themselves

• Are carr ying invisible stress

• Are tr ying to hold it together

It happens. No shame. But if it keeps happening, it deserves curiosity. It’s time to ask yourself some compassionate questions: What’s going on for me? What needs more support? Can I ask for help at work or at home? Is counselling covered? Is there something unaddressed I’ve pushed aside because it feels like ‘too much’?

If oxygen masks drop from the ceiling inflight, we’re told to secure ours first. Co-regulation works the same way at home. Your child’s nervous system is not designed to calm itself alone. It is designed to borrow yours. When yours is fried, the whole system is cooked. I didn’t understand that when I was busy making my employers more profitable.

High-functioners, people-pleasers and sensitive types? We’re trained to carry stress silently, to perform competence while absorbing pressure. Until the body keeps score.

Breast cancer at 42 was one wake-up call, and a wearable device that quietly documented how rarely my nervous system truly rested. And if I’m honest, this story also includes a late neurodivergent diagnosis, years after those pre-dinner explosions.

But dysregulation happens for all kinds of parents. It builds up on the inside.

From Insecure to Secure

It’s hard to overcome constant dysregulation while trying to keep your cool all the time. Now add a child whose temperament doesn’t naturally mesh with your own.

Developmental psychology calls it “goodness of fit.” I prefer “ease of fit.” An insecure fit isn’t about bad parents or bad kids.

For one parent-to-child pairing, two nervous systems colliding without repair might be:

• A cautious child who needs reassurance

• A strong-willed child who needs collaboration

• A sensitive child who needs safety

Some temperaments mesh. Some clash. Most fall somewhere in between.

For the record, we have a strong-willed daughter. I had to learn how to honour her natural temperament without losing my mind in the process. So I started working on myself first. Yes, it was hard. That’s parenting.

Adapting requires regulation

think before acting, they notice the change. Reduced friction. More safety. Less identity damage.

The bottom line on temperament is this: children thrive best when parents adapt their parenting style to meet their child where they are, instead of expecting the child to change

When children are overwhelmed they shift into fight, flight, or freeze mode. In any of these states, logic will not land.

A strong feeling of connection to mom or dad shapes the wiring of their little brains in magical ways. Connection regulates first. A steady tone, softened eyes and a calm presence. But before you can offer that, you have to reset yourself.

When adults are dysregulated we often default to control, shutdown, or escalation. But when we use the same “red light, yellow light, green light” pause we teach children to

*A cyclic breath is two consecutive nasal inhales (one deep, followed by a short sip), and a long, slow exhale through the mouth, helping to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.

Connected Co-Regulation and the Brain

The prefrontal cortex, responsible for impulse control and emotional regulation, is still developing into the mid-20s. Your child’s brain isn’t a mini adult brain. They have big feelings with limited brakes.

Take in a deep cyclic* breath, then step into repair mode. Children who experience repair internalize that big feelings can happen and connection survives.

This is a life lesson you can teach them early. It can become the blueprint for their friendships, future relationships and leadership.

• Your calm becomes their calm.

• Your repair becomes their resilience.

• Your steadiness becomes their wiring. It takes practice, but over time, repeated co-regulation becomes internal regulation.

Penny Greening is the founder of Reframe Voices, a BC nonprofit on a mission to educate parents on how to get ahead of “the monster” that is an eating disorder, before puberty and early adolescence dials up the risk.

Indoor Playzones

GOLD: The World of Kidropolis Richmond, 604/285-7529 (PLAY) kidtropolis.ca

SILVER: Mino Kids World Playground Richmond, 778/588-6450 minokidsworld.com

BRONZE: Adventure Zone and Toddler Zone Kids Market, Vancouver 604/608-6699 theadventurezone.ca

365 fundays theme park Richmond, 604/370-0093 365fundays.ca

Castle Royale West Van, 604/925-0707 castleroyale.ca

Crash Crawly’s Adventure Fun Centre Coquitlam, 604/526-1551 crash-crawlys.com

Extreme Air Park Richmond, New West, Langley 604/244-5867 richmond.extremeairpark.com

Flyoland Tsawwassen, 604/382-8221 tsawwassen-mills.flyoland.ca

Fun4Kidz Richmond, 604/220-9358 fun4kidz.ca

Go Bananas Langley, Richmond, Surrey, North Van, Chilliwack gobananasplaycenter.com 604/514-7529

The Hive Climbing North Van, Vancouver, Surrey, PoCo 604/683-4483 hiveclimbing.com

Family Fun

Outdoors

Bear Creek Train Surrey, 604/501-1232 bctrains.com

Burnaby Central Railway Burnaby, 604/291-0922 bcsme.org

Burnaby Village Museum & Carousel Burnaby, 604/293-6500 or 604/297-4565

burnabyvillagemuseum.ca

Fort Langley National Historic Site BC, 604/513-4777 parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/ langley

Jungle Jacs Port Coquitlam, 604/941-2518 junglejacs.com

Planet Lazer

Richmond, Langley, New West 604/448-9999 or 604/514-2282 planetlazer.net

Play Abby Surrey, Abbotsford 604/853-7529 playabby.com

VR Funtastic World Kids Market, Vancouver vrfuntasticworld.com

Wonderlands Tsawwassen, 604/670-3337 wonderlands.ca

Playcafes

GOLD: Petite forêt play café Vancouver, 604/731-0730 petiteforet.co

SILVER: PlayScape Café Vancouver, 604/924-7529 playscapecafe.com

BRONZE: Little Beans Play Cafe Port Moody, 604/492-0390 littlebeansplaycafe.ca

6pack Indoor Beach & CourtSide Cafe Richmond, 604/321-6800 6packbeach.com

Bounce Play Café bounceplaycafe.ca

Humanity Begins with You N Me’ Café 672-335-6858 younme.ca

George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary Delta, 604/946-6980 reifelbirdsanctuary.com

Greater Vancouver Zoo Aldergrove, 604/856-6825 gvzoo.com

Grouse Mountain North Van, 604/980-9311 grousemountain.com

Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site Steveston, 604/664-9009 gulfofgeorgiacannery.org

Historic Stewart Farm Surrey, 604/592-6956 or 604/591-4627 surrey.ca/arts-culture/ historic-stewart-farm facebook.com/HeritageSurrey

Honeybee Centre

Surrey, 604/879-6052 or 604/575-2337 honeybeecentre.com

Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre North Van, 604/990-3755 ecologycentre.ca

Maplewood Farm North Van, 604/929-5610 maplewoodfarm.bc.ca

Terra Nova Adventure Play Environment 2340 River Road, Richmond

UBC Botanical Garden Vancouver, 604/822-5858 or 604/822-4208 botanicalgarden.ubc.ca

VanDusen Botanical Garden Vancouver, 604/257-8463 or 604/873-7000 vandusengarden.org

Vancouver Canadians Baseball Vancouver, 604/872-5232 canadiansbaseball.com

Wildplay Elements Park Maple Ridge, 855/595-2251 wildplay.com Ages 5+

Museums & Points of Interest

GOLD: Science World Vancouver, 604/443-7443 or 604/443-7440 scienceworld.ca

SILVER: Vancouver Aquarium 604/659-3552 vanaqua.org

BRONZE: H.R. MacMillan Space Centre spacecentre.ca 604/738-7827

Step inside Vancouver’s Space Centre for 360° immersive planetarium shows, interactive exhibits, live science demos and unforgettable cosmic experiences for explorers of all ages.

Beaty Biodiversity Museum Vancouver, UBC 604/827-4955 beatymuseum.ubc.ca

Bill Reid Gallery Vancouver, 604/682-3455 billreidgallery.ca

Britannia Mine Museum Britannia Beach, 1-800/896-4044 britanniaminemuseum.ca

Burnaby Village Museum & Carousel Burnaby, 604/293-6500 or 604/297-4565 burnabyvillagemuseum.ca

Canadian Museum of Flight Langley, 604/532-0035 canadianflight.org

Evergreen Cultural Centre Coquitlam, 604/927-6555 evergreenculturalcentre.ca

Kids Market Vancouver, 604/689-8447 kidsmarket.ca

Museum of Anthropology Vancouver, UBC 604/827-5932 moa.ubc.ca

Museum of Surrey Surrey, 604/592-6956 surrey.ca/culture-recreation/ 2372.aspx

Royal BC Museum Victoria, 888/447-7977 or 250/354-7226 royalbcmuseum.bc.ca

Steveston Tram Richmond, 604/238-8081 richmond.ca/culture/sites/tram/ abouttram.htm

Urban Safari Rescue Society Surrey, 604/531-1100 urbansafari.ca

Advanced booking required

Vancouver Art Gallery Vancouver, 604/662-4719 or 604/662-4700 vanartgallery.bc.ca customerservice@vanartgallery. bc.ca

Vancouver Maritime Museum Vancouver, 604/257-8300 vanmaritime.com

Vancouver Police Museum Vancouver, 604/665-3346 vancouverpolicemuseum.ca

Amusement and Water Parks

GOLD: Granville Island Waterpark Vancouver, 604/257-8195 or 604/666-6655 falsecreekcc.ca/waterpark/

SILVER: Destination Cultus Water and Theme Parks cultus.com

BRONZE: Playland at the PNE Vancouver, 604/253-2311 pne.ca

Big Splash Water Slide Park Tsawwassen, 778/434-4840 bigsplashwaterpark.ca

Newton Wave Pool Surrey, 604/501-5540

Otter Co-op Outdoor Experience waterpark Aldergrove, 604/857-4299 tol.ca

Watermania Richmond, 604/448-5353 richmond.ca/parksrec/pools/ watermania

Other

Kidsworld Events, 604/308-5754 kidsworldprogram.com Ages 5–13

Why Starting Early Matters: The Power of Learning Multiple Languages in Preschool

Rethinking Language Learning in Early

By Angela Wanja Gachago

For many parents, the idea of introducing a second or even third language during preschool can feel both exciting and intimidating. Questions often arise: Will my child be confused? Will this slow down their learning? Is it better to wait until they are older? For decades, these concerns were reinforced by myths rather than evidence. Today, research from education and neuroscience paints a far more reassuring and encouraging picture. Learning additional languages in early childhood is not only safe, it is profoundly beneficial. The preschool years offer a unique developmental window when children are naturally wired to absorb language with ease, curiosity, and joy.

Debunking the Myth of “Language Confusion”

One of the most persistent misconceptions is that learning more than one language can interfere with a child’s first language. This

Childhood

belief is rooted in outdated ideologies that once equated one language with one identity, nation, or culture.

Modern research has consistently shown that bilingualism does not weaken a child’s primary language. In fact, children who grow up with more than one language often develop stronger overall language awareness. Being bilingual or multilingual is not a deficit—it is an asset. Children are not “splitting” their language ability; they are expanding it.

The Young Brain: Naturally Designed for Languages

At birth, a baby’s brain is capable of recognizing the sounds of every language in the world. Over time, the brain begins to specialize based on the sounds it hears most often. When children are exposed to multiple languages early on, their brains remain flexible and open to different sound systems.

This early flexibility makes pronuncia -

At this age, children are not burdened by fear of mistakes.

Rather than focusing on formal instruction or memorization, languagerich preschools allow children to use language.

tion, listening comprehension, and fluency easier to develop. While older children and adults can certainly learn new languages, they often do so by relying on rules and comparisons. Young children, by contrast, learn intuitively—by hearing, mimicking, and experimenting.

Why Preschool Is a Critical Window

Preschool is not just preparation for academics—it is the foundation of socialization, identity, and learning habits. It is where children begin to understand how they interact with others, how to explore new ideas, and how to exist in environments beyond home.

At this age, children are not burdened by fear of mistakes. They are not worried about grammar rules or “getting it wrong.” They play with language freely, switching between languages when needed, and learning through trial and error. This lack of pressure creates an ideal environment for language development.

Learning Through Play, Not Pressure

In early childhood, play is the primary vehicle for learning. Through play, children make sense of the world, test ideas, and develop communication skills. Language introduced through songs, stories, games, and daily routines becomes meaningful rather than mechanical.

Rather than focusing on formal instruction or memorization, language-rich preschools allow children to use language. They learn new words to express needs, emotions, and ideas. Over time, language becomes a natural tool rather than a subject to master.

Language as a Bridge to Learning

Today’s educational approaches recognize that language is not learned in isolation. Language is how children access knowledge, build relationships, and understand concepts across subjects.

Children bring all their languages into the classroom—whether spoken at home or learned elsewhere. Effective early language programs value this full linguistic repertoire, allowing children to draw connections between languages rather than suppressing one to prioritize another. This approach strengthens comprehension and confidence across the board.

Long-Term Cognitive and Social Benefits

Early exposure to multiple languages supports cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, and adaptability. Children who learn more than one language often develop a heightened awareness of patterns and differences, skills that extend well beyond language itself.

Socially, multilingual children are often more open to cultural differences and more comfortable navigating diverse environments. They learn early that there are multiple ways to express ideas and see the world.

A Skill for a Global Future

In an increasingly interconnected world, multilingualism is a valuable life skill. Researchers

The goal is not fluency by age five. The goal is curiosity, comfort, and joy.

describe language ability as linguistic capital—a resource that can open doors academically, professionally, and socially.

Starting early does not mean forcing children into rigid programs. It means giving them exposure, familiarity, and confidence that will serve them later in life. Children who grow up comfortable with more than one language are often more willing to learn additional languages as they get older.

What Parents Should Take Away

For parents considering preschools that incorporate additional languages—whether through immersion or playful exposure—the message is clear: early language learning is a gift, not a risk.

The goal is not fluency by age five. The goal is curiosity, comfort, and joy. When children learn that language is something to explore rather than fear, they carry that mindset into their future education.

In the end, starting early is about more than language. It is about giving children the confidence to communicate, connect, and thrive in a multilingual world.

Angela Wanja Gachago is a Marketing and Communications Specialist from Nairobi, Kenya. As a new mum, she brings new unique perspectives to parenthood and motherhood through her articles. Angela enjoys swimming and travelling during her free time.

Birthday Parties

Retail

Baby & Children’s

Items Store

GOLD: Westcoast Kids Vancouver, Richmond westcoastkids.ca

SILVER: Beansprouts

604/871-9782 beansprouts.ca

BRONZE: Baby enRoute Richmond, BC - 604/284-3416 babyenroute.com

Active Baby

North Vancouver, Surrey, Langley activebaby.ca

Dilly Dally Toy Store Vancouver, 604/252-9727 dillydallykids.ca

Kaboodles Toy Store Kids Market, Vancouver 604/684-0066 Vancouver, 604/558-1117 kaboodles.ca

Independent Toys & Gifts

GOLD: Granville Island Toy Company Vancouver, 604/684-0076 toycompany.ca

SILVER: Dilly Dally Toy Store Vancouver, 604/252-9727 dillydallykids.ca

BRONZE: Kaboodles Toy Store

Kids Market, Vancouver: 604/684-0066 Vancouver: 604/558-1117 kaboodles.ca

Baby enRoute Burnaby, Richmond babyenroute.com

Splash Toy Store Richmond, 604/241-0234 splashtoyshop.ca

Party People (entertainers)

GOLD: In the Company of Fairies

778/846-9622 companyoffairies.com

SILVER: Rock n’ Beau 604/970-4149 rocknbeau.com

BRONZE: Out of the Rain Character Events vancouverprincessparties.com Info@OutoftheRainEvents.com

Fairy Skye Langley, 604/209-5435 fairyskye.com

Higher Function 204/295-6435 higher-function.com

Sportball

Lower Mainland 604/688-3157 sportball.ca

Party Places (venues)

GOLD: The Arts Conservatory Richmond, 604/241-0141 theartsconservatory.ca Enjoy a stress-free party— our hosts handle setup and cleanup! Choose from fun and educational activities like cooking, art, dance and more! Party includes table covers, plates, cutlery, napkins and a backdrop with optional balloon stands, sashes and crowns!

SILVER: Adventure Zone and Toddler Zone Kids Market, Vancouver 604/608-6699 theadventurezone.ca

BRONZE: The World of Kidropolis Richmond 604/285-7529 (PLAY) kidtropolis.ca

6pack Indoor Beach Richmond, 604/321-6800 6packbeach.com

Birthday Parties at Playland Vancouver, 604/252-3663 pne.ca/groups

Burnaby Village Museum Burnaby, 604/297-4565 burnabyvillagemuseum.ca

Mino Kids World Playground Richmond, 778/588-6450 minokidsworld.com

Maplewood Farm North Van, 604/929-5610 maplewoodfarm.bc.ca/ things-to-do/birthday-parties

This World’s Ours Centre Vancouver, 604/900-3797 thisworldsours.com

Halting the Slide: 5 Simple Strategies to Prevent the Summer Reading Dip

Summer! What a relaxing and easy time to navigate as a parent…. …said no parent ever.

By Nicola Lott, M.Ed.

Summer time is a season of vacations, and fluid scheduling all set against the backdrop of warm, balmy sunbaked days. As the predictability of the school-year routine fades, parents often find themselves scrambling to keep kids entertained and gaining meaningful out-of-classroom experiences. In the shuffle, it can be incredibly hard to maintain those essential home habits like daily reading practice that keep skills sharp. Research from the Hasbrouck & Tindal fluency norms shows that the summer break does have an impact on children’s reading. Primary-aged typical readers, on average, become 20% less fluent across the summer and intermediate readers 10%. Struggling readers like those with dyslexia can have a greater loss. While most children claw back that progress in the fall, we can avoid that stressful “summer slide” by weaving a few intentional reading supports into the summer schedule that still leave plenty of room for sun and sand. Here are five family-friendly strategies to keep your children engaged and reading until the school bells ring again.

1. Find Your Literacy Guide

Some reluctant readers have just not met the right book yet. If you’re unsure what books might capture your child’s imagination, visit your local children’s librarian together. Librarians have a wealth of knowledge on what is classic and contemporary in children’s literature, and they can often direct children to high-interest books that appeal directly to their likes and reading ability. Don’t rule out graphic novel suggestions. These can be a helpful gateway to moving kids from “reading isn’t for me” to “don’t bug me, I’m reading.”

2. Gamify the Goals

Speaking of libraries, most run a Summer Reading Club. These clubs involve some kind of reading tracking in exchange for a small incentive if a certain number of books are

read. It’s okay to check out a few libraries and see what the incentive is, as they vary from library to library.

3. Visual Victories

Some kind of reading score card can be motivating for some learners who like to see their progress made visible. While there’s always the standard list, there are other fun ways to track progress. A reading scavenger hunt can make reading competitive if you have more than one child. Giving them each a list of different topics and themes to find books on can be a fun way to add competition and inquiry into reading. Another option is to give them a map of Canada, which shows the major roads and a roll of sticky dots. Tell them to chart a route across Canada from the West Coast to the East Coast. For every book read, they move 500 kilometers (or five sticky dots) closer to the Atlantic. This approach works really well for kids who aren’t motivated by competition but love imagining and adventure.

4. Find a Local Legend

Incorporating reading into trips you take is an excellent way to embed reading and learning into a vacation. Local bookstores prioritize local fiction, and finding some local stories that include fictional, historical, or Indigenous stories can keep your child reading and expanding their knowledge about the world around them.

5. Target the Foundation

If reading often turns into a power struggle or a mountain of frustration for both you and your child, it’s possible there is a hidden reading difficulty holding them back. When a child battles us, it’s usually because the task feels impossible, not because they are being difficult. If this is the case, ‘more’ reading isn’t the answer; better reading is. Summer is a unique window to identify if your child needs

a different approach. Look into resources rooted in the Science of Reading, which focuses on phonemic awareness, decoding, fluency, and comprehension. Shifting the focus to the specific areas where your child is struggling can transform reading from an effortful marathon into something that starts to feel effortless.

Set yourselves up for success. The days of summer are long, yet the months seem to pass in a flash. Amid the juggle of changing schedules and extra activities, it’s easy for eight weeks to slip by without a single book being opened. But as the research shows, two months is a long time for a young brain to be away from academics, often leading to a measurable dip in reading fluency. The key to reclaiming the summer is a bit of “front-loading.” By identifying which of these five strategies sparks your child’s interest now, you can build a consistent habit that feels like fun rather than a chore. Figuring out what motivates your child today ensures they head into the classroom this September not just “caught up,” but standing on solid ground, ready to tackle the new grade with confidence instead of spending the first month reclaiming old territory.

Nicola Lott, M.Ed., is a Program Manager at the Fraser Academy Outreach Centre (FAx), where she champions evidence-based literacy support. Nicola co-leads the FAx Summer Boost camps, designed to blend intensive literacy support with summer fun, alongside specialized 1:1 summer tutoring programs for students looking for targeted skill development that fits into busy schedules. Dedicated to the Science of Reading, educators at FAx empower families to bridge the summer learning gap through expert-led initiatives and individualized student support. Learn more at fraseracademy.ca/x/summer.

Preschools and childcare

GOLD: Renaissance Kids Richmond, 604/241-0826 renaissancekids.ca

As Richmond’s premier and largest single-location daycare, we blend Reggio Emilia, Montessori, multiple intelligence, and emergent curriculum with fine arts taught by specialized teachers. By role-modeling kindness and giving back to the community, we nurture empathy in our future leaders.

SILVER: Muddy Boot Prints East Vancouver, 604/781-3473 muddybootprints.com

BRONZE: Les Petits

Artistes Montessori lpaschool.ca 780/249-9665

Asland Learning Academy Vancouver, 604/812-2020, 604/968-4501 aslandacademy.ca

Caterpillar Fun House Daycare 1-833-386-4543 caterpillarfunhouse.com

Goodwin Academy

9 locations in Surrey goodwinacademy.ca

They strive to provide safe dependable childcare when you need it. Let them care for your child. They provide parents ease of mind; with their many safety features, extended hours, educational component, arts, open layouts, and caring staff

My Whole Earth Academy Kerrisdale, Vancouver 778/379-1858

mywholeearth.ca

They go beyond traditional preschool! They blend Montessori, Reggio, Waldorf, and the BC ELF to create personalized learning plans for every child. Their unique curriculum teaches life-skills through developmentally appropriate, project-based learning. And you’ll enjoy their flexible scheduling, parent/ teacher consultations, and deep family partnerships. Book a visit to learn more!

PJ Kids

West Van, 604/926-5972 pjkidsclub.com

Rothewood Academy Richmond, South Surrey, White Rock, 604/279-1818 rothewood.com

Rothewood Academy offers nature-inspired learning at all our schools. Sunlit classrooms and natural playgrounds provide a calming space for children to learn and grow. The Rothewood program creates a foundation for your child’s skills that will last a lifetime.

Westside Montessori Academy

Vancouver, 604/434-9611

westsidemontessoriacademy.ca

WMA’s not-for-profit mission is to provide a safe, supportive environment that nurtures every child’s natural love of learning. We are committed to providing

Education

Mulgrave School

West Van, 604/922-3223

mulgrave.com

Co-ed, grades Pre-K–12

Oak and Orca Bioregional School (OL)

Co-ed, grades K–12 Online; oakandorca.ca

A personalised, flexible approach rooted in bioregionalism, diversity, and collaboration! With a balance of inquiry and structure, compassionate teacher guidance, and a curated collection of resources, we support home learners around BC from kindergarten to graduation (Dogwood/Evergreen). They also have a brick & mortar school in Victoria. Inclusive support available.

the tools, the guides and the prepared environment to allow each child to flourish socially and academically. Limited spaces for Grades 3–7 this fall. Co-ed, grades K–7

West Point Grey Preschool Vancouver, 604/257-8140 westpointgrey.org/programs/ licensed-preschool

Independent Schools

GOLD: Westside

Montessori Academy Vancouver, 604/434-9611 westsidemontessoriacademy.ca

WMA’s not-for-profit mission is to provide a safe, supportive environment that nurtures every child’s natural love of learning. We are committed to providing the tools, the guides and the prepared environment to allow each child to flourish socially and academically. Limited spaces for Grades 3-7 this fall.

Co-ed, grades K–7

SILVER: North Star

Montessori

Co-ed, grades PS–7 North Van, 604/980-1205 northstarmontessori.ca

BRONZE: York House Vancouver,604/736-6551 yorkhouse.ca

HongDe Elementary Vancouver, 604/416-0386 hongdeschool.ca

Southpointe Academy Tsawwassen, 604/948-8826 southpointe.ca

Co-ed, grades PS–12

Urban Academy New Westminster 604/ 524-2211 urbanacademy.ca

Tutoring

GOLD: School Is Easy Tutoring

Richmond/Vancouver: 604/283-9914

Tri-Cities/Surrey: 604/439-1790

Burnaby/North & West Van: 604/900-1604 schooliseasy.com

Providing award winning in-home/online tutoring since 2002. Grades K–University (all subjects) including special ed, autism, ADHD, study skills, IB, SAT prep, university prep, French immersion, Socials, Calculus, Math, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, English, Essays, ESL etc. Free consultation.

SILVER: Gabby’s Classroom 778/829-3726 gabbysclassroom.com

BRONZE: Tutor Doctor 888/ 718-8832 tutordoctor.com

Asland Learning Academy Vancouver 604/812-2020, 604/968-4501 aslandacademy.ca

Aspire Math Academy West Van, 604/902-2217 or 604/281-0507 aspiremathacademy.com

Book Smart Tutors

Lower Mainland 604/227-2882 booksmarttutors.ca

DJ Math Tutoring 604/313-5595 djmathtutoring.ca

Edify Learning Spaces

Lower Mainland 604/ 368-3554 edifylearningspaces.com Kumon 800/222-6284 kumon.com

West Coast Centre for Learning Surrey, 778/839-5515 wccl.ca

LDS – Learn. Develop. Succeed. Vancouver, North Vancouver, and across BC 604/873-8139 ldsociety.ca

Pear Tree Education Kitsilano and Yaletown, 604/355-2155 pear-tree.ca

Renaissance Academy 604/241-0826 renaissanceacademy.ca

Renaissance Academy offers a hub of services for kids of all ages, including daycare, preschool, enrichment classes (STEM, French, Mandarin, reading & writing), before & after school care, plus Pro-D day, winter, spring & summer camps — a one-stop destination for families year-round.

Spirit of Math

West Van, Vancouver, Richmond, South Surrey 1-866/767-6284 spiritofmath.com

West Coast Centre for Learning Surrey, 778/839-5515 wccl.ca

Unique Minds Learning West Van, 604/925-6056 uniqueminds.ca

Dance

GOLD: The Arts Conservatory Richmond, 604/241-0141 theartsconservatory.ca

Ages 3+

The Arts Conservatory is a fine arts institution that delivers quality and elevated arts education. Our services are in one location with specially purposed spaces for visual arts, dance and music.With our team of professional and certified instructors, we will nurture your children’s creativity, cognitive and emotional development and foster important life skills that extend beyond the realm of art.

SILVER: Arts Umbrella Vancouver, 604/681-5268 Surrey, 604/535-1127 artsumbrella.com

Ages 2–22

Arts Umbrella Dance teaches self-expression through ballet fundamentals. From our general programming, to professional training programs, to summer intensives, our rigorous and supportive approach nurtures dancers 2–22 to achieve their full potential. At the professional level, our graduates go on to perform with some of the world’s most prestigious companies.

BRONZE: The Happening Dance Studio

thehappeningdance.com 604/690-3577

Classes and Programs

Just for Kicks School of Dance Surrey, 604/596-4161 justforkicksschoolofdance.com

Ages 3+

North Shore Academy of Dance North Van, 604/987-3814 nsad.ca

Ages 3–18

North Shore Celtic Ensemble North Van, 604/987-4063 nsce.ca

Ages 8–18

Pacific Dance Arts Vancouver, 604/738-8575 pacificdancearts.ca

Al Mozaico Flamenco Dance Academy Vancouver, Burnaby 604/671-9182 mozaicoflamenco.com

AUUC School of Dance Vancouver, 604/254-3436 auucvancouver.ca

Ages 3 to adult

Boogaloo Academy Vancouver, 604/805-0558 boogalooacademy.com

Ages 5 months+

Bright Stars Vancouver, 604/725-1607 brightstars.ca

Ages 2+

Creative Edge School of Arts Abbotsford, 604/855-3343 creativeedgebc.com

Ages 2+

Dance Co Vancouver, Arbutus & East Van, 604/736-3394 danceco.com

Ages 3+

E.J.S. School of Fine Arts Surrey, 604/596-4883 ejsfinearts.com

Ages 5+

Gabriela’s Movement Studio Richmond, 604/272-0607 movementstudio.ca

Ages 1–9

Goh Ballet Academy Vancouver, 604/872-4014 gohballet.com

Ages 4–17

hz Ballet Classique Burnaby, 604/299-9698 balletclassique.com

Ages 18 months+

Ages 3+

Panorama Dance Fleetwood Surrey: 604/599-4011 Ridge Surrey: 604/599-9351 panoramadance.com

Perform Art Studios North Van, 604/988-4420 performartstudios.com

Ages 3–18

Pink Petal Ballet North Van pinkpetal.ca

Ages 2+

Place des Arts Coquitlam, 604/664-1636 placedesarts.ca

Ages 3+

Pulse Dance Centre Port Coquitlam, 604/474-3466 onthepulse.ca

Ages 2+

Rain City Dance School Vancouver, 604/369-4440 raincitydance.com

Ages 4+

Reflection Dance Studio White Rock, 604/355-4199 reflectiondancestudio.com Ages 5+

Seymour Dance North Van, 604/929-6060 seymourdance.com

School of Music and Dance Langley, Surrey and White Rock musicanddance.org

Ages 2+

The Landing Dance Centre South Van, 604/325-8653 TheLandingDance.com

Ages 8 to adult

Tri-City Dance Centre Coquitlam, 604/523-6868 tricitydance.com Ages 3+

Tutu School North Van, 778/732-5044 tutuschool.com/northvancouver

Vancouver Phoenix International Academy of Dance Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey 778/885-3456, 604/600-8066 vpdance.ca

Ages 4+

Vancouver Tap Dance Society East Vancouver, 604/253-0293 vantapdance.com

Ages 3+

Vancouver Academy of Dance Vancouver, Richmond 604/231-8293 vancouverdance.com

Ages 3+

Wee Dance

Vancouver, New West, Surrey, White Rock, 604/720-0544 weedance.com

WestCoast Dance Fit Vancouver westcoastdancefit.com

World Dance Co Burnaby, 604/517-4644 worlddanceco.com

Ages 3+

Music

GOLD: Colourstrings Conservatory of Music 129 East 8th Ave, Vancouver colourstrings.ca 5 yrs to Adult

SILVER: The Arts Conservatory Richmond, 604/241-0141 theartsconservatory.ca

Ages 3+

At The Arts Conservatory School of Music, our programs offer introductory group music classes, music therapy and private lessons for piano, violin, guitar, drums, and voice. Guided by professional, certified instructors, students form a strong musical foundation, ignite musical creativity and build confidence.

BRONZE: School of Rock Vancouver, 778-561-4261 vancouver.schoolofrock.com Langley, 778-561-5355 langley.schoolofrock.com

School of Rock Vancouver and Langley offer exciting music camps and programs for all ages and skill levels. Students learn guitar, bass, keys, drums, and vocals through lessons, band rehearsals, and live performances, building confidence and real stage experience!

Arbutus Music Academy Vancouver arbutusmusicacademy.com

Ages 3+

BC Conservatory of Music Burnaby, 604/299-2984 bccmusic.ca

Ages 4+

BC Registered Music Teachers Association 604/733-5531 bcrmta.bc.ca

All ages

Campos Music Vancouver, 604/325-0480 camposmusic.ca

Ages 4+

Carillon Music Surrey, 604/591-1161 carillonmusicacademy.com

Ages 2.5+

Deep Cove Music North Van, 604/929-2683 deepcovemusic.com

Ages 5+

Delta Community Music School Delta, 604/946-1280 dcms.ca

Ages 5+

E.J.S. School of Fine Arts Surrey, 604/596-4883 ejsfinearts.com

Ages 4+

Jean Lyons School of Music Vancouver, 604/734-4019 jeanlyonsmusic.com

All ages

Jumpstart Music & Movement Abbotsford, Coquitlam, Ridge Meadows facebook.com/jumpstart musicandmovement/ Newborn to 5 years

FIND YOUR CREATIVITY

Purpose-built studios for every discipline empower students to train harder, dream bigger, and reach their full potential. At Arts Umbrella, young artists don’t just learn - they create alongside other dancers, actors, designers, and performers, all under one roof.

Arrive curious. Leave inspired. Register today at artsumbrella.com

Credit: Devan Francis

Classes and Programs

Kidchoir

North and West Van kidchoir.com

Ages 6–13

Langley Community Music School

604/534-2848 langleymusic.com

Ages 3 months+

Long & McQuade Music

855/588-6519

Lesson Centres: Abbotsford, Campbell River, Chilliwack, Courtenay, Duncan, Kamloops, Langford, Langley, Nanaimo, North Van, Port Coquitlam, Prince George, Richmond, Surrey, Vancouver, Victoria, White Rock long-mcquade.com/lessons

Long & McQuade offer private one-on-one lessons, customtailored to the needs and goals of the individual student as well as a variety of group lessons. Their students range from children just beginning their journey in music, to those prepping for university, from young adults who just like to sing to seniors who enjoy music and the social aspect. They offer affordable rates and a wide variety of lessons but more importantly, they are a home for anyone who loves music and wants to explore it. Their music lessons are available online and in person. All ages.

Music for Young Children

800/828-4334, myc.com

Ages 3–9 years

North Shore Celtic Ensemble North Van, 604/987-4063

nsce.ca

Ages 7+

North Shore Music Academy North Van, 604/925-3403

nsma.ca

Ages 3+

North Shore Music Together

Multiple locations in North Van 778/899-5004

northshoremusictogether.com

Ages 0–5 yrs

Oakridge Music Studio Vancouver, 604/321-1551 omusicstudios.com

Place des Arts

Coquitlam, 604/664-1636 placedesarts.ca

Ages 6 months+

Richmond Community Music School 604/272-5227

richmondmusicschool.ca

Ages 4+

School of Music and Dance Langley, Surrey, White Rock musicanddance.org

Ages 3+

School of Rock

Vancouver / Langley Vancouver, 778/561-4261

vancouver.schoolofrock.com

Langley, 778/561-5355 langley.schoolofrock.com

School of Rock Vancouver and Langley offer exciting music camps and programs for all ages and skill levels. Students learn guitar, bass, keys, drums, and vocals through lessons, band rehearsals, and live performances, building confidence and real stage experience!

Tom Lee Music Academy Lower Mainland, 604/688-8929 tomleemusic.ca

Vancouver Academy of Music Vancouver, 604/734-2301 vam.bc.ca

Ages 3.5–18

Vancouver Central School of Music Vancouver, 604/565-8999 vcsom.com

Ages 5+

Vancouver Children’s Choir 604/682-6363 vancouverchildrenschoir.ca

Girls 8–16, Boys 8–12

VSO School of Music 604/915-9300 vsoschoolofmusic.ca

Ages 0+

Vancouver Suzuki Centre vancouversuzukicentre.com

Ages 3+

Vancouver Youth Choir Vancouver, 778/776-8173 vancouveryouthchoir.com

Ages 5–24

Western Conservatory of Music Langley, 604/530-0317 westernconservatoryofmusic.ca

Ages 3+

Westside Music Together Vancouver, 778/829-6651 westsidemusictogether.ca

Ages 0+

Wonder of Learning Vancouver, 604/829-1346 wonderoflearning.ca

Ages 2.5+

Performing Arts

GOLD: The Arts

Conservatory Richmond, 604/241-0141 theartsconservatory.ca

Ages 3+

At The Arts Conservatory School of Dance, children and adults alike can explore a variety

of dance styles. Students may be invited to participate in Royal Academy of Dance ballet exams and dance competitions in the Accelerated Program or may choose to dance in our recreational Foundations Program. Our team of professional teachers encourages our students to find joy in the art of dance and provides a safe space for dancers to explore who they are as they grow!

SILVER: Arts Umbrella Theatre and Music Vancouver, 604/681-5268 Surrey, 604/535-1127 artsumbrella.com

Ages 2–22

Costumes, improv, script work, character studies, theatrical performances, and local tours! Arts Umbrella’s Theatre & Music programs nurture young performers’ creativity. Actors in our general program, intensives, troupes, and camps experience a wide range of performance styles, from Shakespeare to film acting. Be curious, be bold, be yourself.

BRONZE: TES Theatre Co. 604/700-6083 testheatrecompany.ca

Carousel Theatre for Young People Vancouver, 604/669-3410 carouseltheatre.ca

Ages 3–18

CircusWest East Vancouver, 604/252-3679 circuswest.com

Ages 8–16

E.J.S. School of Fine Arts –Musical Theatre Surrey, 604/596-4883 ejsfinearts.com Ages 7+

Gateway Academy: Acting, Musical Theatre Richmond, 604/247-4975 gatewaytheatre.com/academy Ages 6–18

Inspire Arts Academy Surrey, 604/818-3731 inspirearts.ca

Ages 5–12

JCC Performing Arts School Vancouver, 604/257-5111 jccgv.com

Ages 6+

Lights Up Musical Theatre Schools Weekly Programs Locations throughout the Lower Mainland 1-888/502-5253 lightsuptheatre.ca

Ages 3–18

Step on stage and cue the confidence! At Lights Up Musical Theatre Schools, students develop core performing arts skills through singing, dancing, and acting classes. Every child gets a chance to shine, and fun is always on the program. With new sessions starting each fall, winter, and spring, it’s never too late to make an entrance—sign up today!

Place des Arts Coquitlam, 604/664-1636 placedesarts.ca Ages 4+

Queen’s Academy of The Arts Burnaby, 778/233-8591 queensacademy.ca Ages: 4–11

Shoreline Studios (Acting) Vancouver, 604/874-9979 shoreline-studios.com/ schedule-kids Ages 5–12

Surrey SPARK Stages: Performing Arts for Kids Surrey, surrey.ca/spark Ages 0–12

Vancouver Performing Stars Vancouver, 604/671-3775 performingstars.ca

Visual Arts

GOLD: The Arts Conservatory Richmond, 604/241-0141 theartsconservatory.ca

Ages 3+

At The Arts Conservatory, our dynamic art classes inspire young learners through a unique blend of creative expression and hands-on skill-building. In thoughtfully designed studio spaces, children explore their imagination while developing strong artistic foundations. Guided by professional, certified instructors, each class is engaging, supportive, and tailored to nurture creativity alongside technique—helping students grow not only as artists but also as confident, expressive individuals with skills that extend far beyond the studio

SILVER: Arts Umbrella Media, and Applied Arts Vancouver, 604/681-5268 Surrey, 604/535-1127 artsumbrella.com

Ages 2–22

In our Visual, Media, and Applied Arts classes, young artists learn to develop ideas and reflect the world around them. Their art takes many forms—

sculptures, animations, paintings, models, movies, photos, designs, and more. From general programming to advanced classes, scholarships, portfolio building, and exhibition opportunities, there are endless ways to express your creativity.

BRONZE: Place des Arts Coquitlam, 604/664-1636 placedesarts.ca

Ages 6 months+

4 Cats Arts Studios North Van, Richmond, South Surrey, Vancouver, West Van, 4cats.com

Artmania West Van, 604/670-7592 artmaniabc.ca

Creative Edge School of Arts Abbotsford, 604/855-3343 creativeedgebc.com Ages 6+

E.J.S. School of Fine Arts Surrey, 604/596-4883 ejsfinearts.com Ages 5+

Specialty

GOLD: Pedalheads pedalheads.com 4 mths+

SILVER: Petit Architect Design for Kids Vancouver, Richmond 778/819-4119 petitarchitect.com Ages 6–14

BRONZE: Steamoji Multiple locations across the Lower Mainland steamoji.com

Asland Learning Academy Vancouver, 604/812-2020, 604/968-4501 aslandacademy.ca

BrainSTEM Learning North Van, 604/379-2767 brainstemlearning.ca Ages 4–14

Build a Biz Kids Port Moody, 604/313-9996 buildabizkids.com

Chorus and Clouds Vancouver, 604/873-0091 chorusandclouds.ca 10 months–5 years

Christianne’s Lyceum of Literature and Art Vancouver, 604/733-1356 christianneslyceum.com

Ages 1–8

Girl Guides of Canada Canada wide 1-833/433-0996 info@girlguides.ca girlguides.ca

Renaissance Academy Richmond, 604/241-0826 renaissanceacademy.ca

Ages 1+

Renaissance Academy of Learning’s unique partnership with The Arts Conservatory has created a model of childcare education that exemplifies excellence through its blend of academics and fine arts. To support parents with schoolaged children, the Spark Before and After School program has bus pick up and drop off to our center where children are taught STEM, cooking and visual arts.

The C.O.D.E. Initiative (Creating Opportunities Defining Education) Vancouver (UBC), 778/875-0548 thecodeinitiative.ca

Under the GUI – Coding for Kids Kitsilano, Burnaby, North Van, Coquitlam, 604/700-9931 utgacademy.com Ages 7–15

Young Entrepreneur Learning Labs

South Surrey/White Rock, Vancouver, Surrey, Langley, Richmond, 1-800/243-0335 yelearninglabs.com Ages 7–15

Sports

GOLD: Pedalheads Bike Camps

888-886-6464; pedalheads.com Ages 2–12

SILVER: Kuzushi Grappling

778/636-3285

kuzushigrappling.com

BRONZE: Jump Gymnastics

Vancouver: 604/559-6492

Richmond: 604/559-6492 North Van: 604/559-6492

jumpgymnastics.ca

Ages 0–7

Absolute Cheer and Tumbling Camp North Van, 604/984-4107 absolutegym.ca Ages 5–12

Academie Duello Vancouver, 604/568-9907 academieduello.com

Aquaventures Swim Centre Vancouver, 604/736-SWIM aquaventuresswim.com

Ages 6 months+

Burnaby New West Ringette New West, bnwr.ca

Ages 4–14

Club Aviva Coquitlam, 604/526-4464 clubaviva.ca

Ages 18 months+

Come Try Ringette

Burnaby, New West, Vancouver, Poco, Coquitlam, Fraser Valley, West/North Van, Richmond, Surrey, Chilliwack cometryringette.ca

Ages 4–14

Dynamo Swim Club

Burnaby, Surrey, 778/866-6604 dynamoswimclub.net

Ages 4–18

Climb Base5 North Van, 604/984-9080 climbbase5.com

Ages 6–18

FreeKick FC Vancouver, 604/551-7006 freekickfc.com

Grandview Skating Club grandviewskatingclub.com

Ages 3+

Langley Gymnastics Foundation 604/455-8845 langleygymnastics.ca

Ages 11 months+

Marina’s Swim School Richmond, Whiterock 604/818-4650 marinaswimschool.com

Momentum Ninja Port Coquitlam, 778/941-9631 momentumninja.com

Ages 1 yr+

My Gym Children’s Fitness Center Surrey, Maple Ridge, Langley, Richmond mygym.ca

Ages 6 weeks–10 yrs

Phoenix Gymnastics Vancouver, 604/737-7693 phoenixgymnastics.com

Ages 6 months+

RBL Basketball Vancouver, 604/269-0221

RBLBasketball.com

Ages 5–15

Richmond Gymnastics Association 604/278-3614 richmondgymnastics.com

Ages 18 months+

Classes and Programs

Soccer Shots

Burnaby, New West, Surrey, Coquitlam, Delta, Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, Langley soccershots.org

Sportball

604/688-3157, sportball.ca

Ages 16 months–12 yrs

Tri-Cities Gracie Jiu-Jitsu® Port Moody, 866/936-1252 tricitiesgjj.com

TumbleTown Movement Education Centre Vancouver, 604/357-7355 tumbletown.ca

Ages 4 months–8 years

UBC Active Kids Gymnastics

604/822-2027, outreach.kin.educ. ubc.ca/active-kids

Ages 18 months–18 years

Uphoria Yoga Vancouver, 604/326-2995 uphoriayoga.com

Ages 3+

Wayland Sports Maple Ridge, 604/465-9293 waylandsports.com

Ages: walking to 10 yrs

The Camp Registration Maze

A Parent’s Survival Guide to Finding Fun and Sports Camps in BC

By Michael Doyle

It started, like most parenting chaos does, with a group chat. Last February, a friend in our school’s parent group asked if anyone knew of a good soccer camp for her seven-year-old during spring break. Within minutes, the thread exploded. One parent shared a link to their municipality’s recreation site. Another mentioned a private provider she’d used two summers ago but couldn’t remember the name. Someone else chimed in that the “good one” had already filled up in January. By the end of the conversation, we had a dozen tabs open, three conflicting age ranges, and zero confirmed registrations. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever tried to line up summer or spring break camps for your kids in British Columbia, you know the drill. The options are incredible—but finding them? That’s a different story.

Here’s the thing most of us discover the hard way: BC has an absolute wealth of fun

and sports camps for kids. Municipal recreation departments alone run hundreds of programs every summer, from multi-sport sampler weeks and soccer clinics to kayaking, rock climbing, skateboarding, and everything in between. Then you’ve got private providers offering specialized programs in gymnastics, martial arts, horseback riding, swimming, tennis, and cycling. The variety is genuinely impressive.

The problem isn’t a lack of options. It’s that every single one of them lives on a different website, uses a different booking system, and opens registration on a different date. If you want to piece together a full summer of camps across a couple of providers, you’re looking at navigating maybe a dozen separate platforms—each with its own account, its own search filters, and its own quirks. Multiply that by two or three kids and you’ve got yourself a part-time job.

My co-founder Craig Frew and I are both dads in Central Saanich, and we’ve lived this frustration firsthand with our own kids. One year I spent an entire Saturday morning just trying to figure out which weeks our local rec centre was running half-day multi-sport camps versus full-day, and whether my fiveyear-old was old enough for the “Junior” stream or still stuck in the “Tiny Tot” category. By the time I had it sorted, two of the three weeks I wanted were full.

So here are some things I’ve learned along the way that might save you some headaches this summer.

Start earlier than you think. Seriously. The most popular sports camps—particularly soccer, swimming, and multi-sport programs— fill up fast. Many municipal rec departments open summer registration in March or early April. Private providers like Pedalheads and

local soccer academies often open even earlier. If there’s a specific program your kid has their heart set on, mark those registration dates on your calendar now.

Think beyond the obvious. Multi-sport camps are fantastic for younger kids who haven’t zeroed in on a favourite activity yet. But BC also has some incredible niche options. Sailing camps on the coast. Mountain biking programs in the Sea-to-Sky corridor. Skateboard camps in municipal skateparks. Archery. Fencing. Ultimate frisbee. If your kid has a quirky interest, there’s a decent chance someone in BC is running a camp for it.

Check your local rec centre first. Municipal programs are often the best value going. Cities and districts across BC run extensive summer camp programs through their parks and recreation departments, and the pricing is usually significantly lower than private providers. The trade-off is that they tend to fill up quickly and the booking systems can be clunky—but the savings are worth the effort. Don’t overlook the shoulder seasons. Spring break and Pro-D days are prime camp opportunities that a lot of parents forget about until the last minute. Many of the same providers who run summer camps also offer shorter programs during school breaks. It’s a great way to try out a new sport or activity without committing to a full summer week.

Ask other parents. This one sounds obvious, but it’s honestly the most reliable way to find hidden gems. School PACs, neighbourhood Facebook groups, and even that chaotic group chat I mentioned earlier—other parents are your best resource for finding out which camps are worth it, which ones your kids will actually enjoy, and which ones have the kind of staff that make kids want to come back year after year.

Finally, give yourself some grace. You’re not going to find the perfect camp for every single week of the summer. Some weeks might be a miss. Some registrations will close before you get to them. Your kid might come home from a camp they begged to attend and announce that it was “boring.” That’s all part of it. The goal isn’t a perfectly optimized summer schedule—it’s giving your kids the chance to try new things, stay active, make friends, and come home tired and happy.

And if the whole process still feels like navigating a maze? You’re not alone. That’s exactly the problem a lot of BC parents are trying to solve right now—and it’s getting easier every year.

Michael Doyle is the co-founder of Camp Match.ca, a free camp discovery platform built by two dads from Central Saanich. CampMatch aggregates hundreds of day camps from municipal rec departments and private providers across BC into one searchable tool.

Residential Camps

GOLD: YMCA Camp Elphinstone 604/939-9622

gv.ymca.ca Ages 7–15

SILVER: Girl Guides girlguides.ca

BRONZE: Scouts Canada 1-888-855-3336 scouts.ca

Ages 7–13

British Columbia Family French Camp (BCFFC) Shuswap Lake, Gwillim Lake and Nanaimo bcffc.com

Camp Jubilee Indian Arm, 604/937-7388 campjubilee.ca Ages 8–16

Camp Qwanoes

Vancouver Island

250/246-3014, 1-888-997-9266 qwanoes.ca Ages 8–18

A Christian camp filled with wild adventure and pure fun, sun-soaked days, new friendships, tasty food, great music, over 75 activities, and all in a spectacular setting with amazing staff from around the world... all who love kids. Life like no other awaits! Qwanoes makes it easy to come from the Lower Mainland with supervised BC Ferry rides and buses to camp.

Camp Artaban Gambier Island, 604/980-0391 campartaban.com

Ages 8–18

Camp Fircom Gambier, 604/662-7756 fircom.ca

Ages 6–16, plus Family Programs

Camp Imadene Mesachie Lake, 250/749-6606 imadene.com

Ages 7–18, plus Family Camps

Camp Pringle Shawnigan Lake, 250/472-6877 camppringle.com

Ages 6–17

Camp Suzuki: Howe Sound Howe Sound – Camp Fircom 604/732-4228, campsuzuki.org

Ages 7–13

Children’s Horse Camp –Webbs Holiday Acres Aldergrove, 604/857-1712 webbsholidayacres.ca

Ages 6–14

Debate Camp Canada Vancouver, Victoria 888/512-8154 debatecamp.com

Evans Lake Camp North of Squamish, 604/294-2267 evanslake.com

Ages 8–16

Green Bay Bible Camp West Kelowna, 250/768-5884 greenbay.bc.ca

Ages 6–14

Kawkawa Camp & Retreat Hope, 604/869-9637 kawkawa.com

Ages 7–18

Keats Camp Keats Island, 604/925-6799 keatscamps.com

Ages 7–18

Pioneer Pacific Camp Thetis Island, 250/246-9613 pioneerpacific.ca Ages 7–18

Sasamat Outdoor Centre Belcarra, 604/939-2268 sasamat.org

Ages 4–17

Stillwood Camp Cultus Lake, 1-800/507-8455 stillwood.ca

Ages 5–16

Timberline Ranch Maple Ridge, 604/463-9278 timberlineranch.com

Ages 9–16

Wyld Summer Camps and WYLD Expeditions Strathcona Park, 250/286-3122 gowyld.ca

Ages 12–18

Special Needs

Adaptive Multi-Sport Camp Cloverdale, 604/333-3520 bcwheelchairsports.com

Ages 11+

Camp Alohi Lani Port Moody alsbc.ca/programs-services/ camp-alohi-lani

For youth who have a parent or grandparent in a significant role living with ALS.

Camp Goodtimes and Teen Program campgoodtimes.org

Summer Camps

For children ages 7–15 and teens 15–18 with cancer, and their families.

Camp Kodiak Parry Sound, Ontario campkodiak.com

Ages 6–18

For children and teens with and without Learning Disabilities, ADHD and high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder

DYT Summer Camps fndc.ca

Focussing on language enhancement (ASL) and social opportunities for deaf and hard of hearing children ages 5–18.

Easter Seals Camps

604/873-1865 or 1-800/818-4483

eastersealscamps.ca Ages 6–18

For children and teens with physical and/or mental disabilities.

Empowering Steps

Club Aviva, Coquitlam 604/526-4464 empoweringsteps.ca

Camps for students with developmental challenges

Eureka Camp

604/520-1155 eurekacamp.ca

For children and adolescents with invisible disabilities.

Young Burn Survivors Camp burnfund.org/camp-for-youngburn-survivors

For young burn survivors ages 6–18

Art, Music, Drama & Dance

GOLD: Renaissance Academy

604/241-0826 renaissanceacademy.ca

Dive into creativity at our art, music, and dance summer camps! Kids will explore self-expression through handson projects, rhythm, and movement, plus an exciting field trip. Week-long, full-day (9 am–3 pm) with extended care, and hot lunch options available.

SILVER: Lights Up Musical Theatre Schools

Locations throughout the Lower Mainland. 1-888/502-5253 lightsuptheatre.ca/camps Ages 4–12

Shine a Spotlight on FUN at Lights Up Musical Theatre camps. Every kid is a born performer—no prior experience is required. Get ready for a week filled with fun and performing. Their camps teach children to work in teams, build confidence, sing, dance, act and SHINE! Sign up for a week they won’t forget!

BRONZE: Dance Co Vancouver, Arbutus & East Van 604/736-3394 danceco.com

Ages 3+

Artmania West Van, 604/670-7592 artmaniabc.ca

Arts Umbrella Summer Camps Vancouver, 604/681-5268 Surrey, 604/535-1127 artsumbrella.com/summercamp Ages 3–19

Get your creative thinking caps on, it’s time to create something new at Arts Umbrella. Summer Camp at Arts Umbrella in South Surrey and on Granville Island has half-day and fullday options for kids ages three and up. Choose from classes like Animation, Drama, Photography, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, and more.

Asland Learning Academy Vancouver, 604/812-2020, 604/968-4501

aslandacademy.ca

Boogaloo Academy 604/805-0558, Vancouver boogalooacademy.com

Camp Monarch –Music, Art & Dance North Van, 604/723-8151 monarcharts.com

Ages 5–12

ColourStrings Conservatory Musical Summer Camps Vancouver colourstrings.ca

Ages 3–10

E.J.S. School of Fine Arts

Surrey, 604/596-4883 ejsfinearts.com

Ages 5+

Evergreen Cultural Centre Coquitlam, 604/927-6555 evergreenculturalcentre.ca

Gateway Academy: Acting, Musical Theatre Richmond, 604/247-4975 gatewaytheatre.com/ academy

Ages 6–18

Goh Ballet Academy Canada

Vancouver, 604/872-4014 gohballet.com

Ages 4–7

Place des Arts Coquitlam, 604/664-1636 placedesarts.ca

Ages 5–14

School of Rock

Vancouver / Langley

Vancouver, 778/561-4261

vancouver.schoolofrock.com Langley, 778/561-5355 langley.schoolofrock.com

School of Rock Vancouver and Langley offer exciting music camps and programs for all ages and skill levels. Students learn guitar, bass, keys, drums, and vocals through lessons, band rehearsals, and live performances, building confidence and real stage experience!

Tutu School North Van, 778/732-5044 tutuschool.com/northvancouver Vancouver Performing Stars Vancouver, 604/671-3775 performingstars.ca

General Activities

GOLD: Pedalheads

Bike Camps

Locations all over Greater Vancouver, 604/874-6464 pedalheads.com Ages 2–12

SILVER: Westside

Montessori Academy

Vancouver, 604/434-9611

wmasummercamp.com

WMA’s Summer Camps are professionally led camps near 41st and Fraser for elementary school-aged children. We

make summer fun and full of excitement and discovery in spacious, airconditioned classrooms and nearby Memorial South Park.

BRONZE: Boys & Girls Club bgcbc.ca

905/477-7272 or 844/477-7272 (toll-free)

Alexandra Neighbourhood House 604/535-0015 alexhouse.net Ages 5–12

Clubhouse Kids Vancouver, 778/939-2389 clubhousekids.ca Ages 5–12

False Creek C.C. Day Camps Vancouver, 604/257-8195 falsecreekcc.ca Ages 3–14

Pear Tree Education Vancouver, East Van, Burnaby, North Van, White Rock 604/355-2155 pear-tree.ca Ages 5–14

SFU Summer Camps 778/782-4965 sfu.ca/camps Ages 5–19

Spare Time Child Care Society Vancouver sparetimesociety.org Ages 5–12

SMS Co-ed Camps Victoria, 250/479-7171 stmarg.ca Ages 6–12

Sunset Community Centre Vancouver, 604/718-6505 mysunset.net Ages 6–16

Kidtropolis’ Summer Break Kid Camp Richmond 604/285-7529 (PLAY) kidtropolis.ca Ages 6–10

West Point Grey Community Centre Summer Day Camp Vancouver, 604/257-8140 westpointgrey.org/programs/day-camps Ages 3–13 years

Wonder Camps –Renaissance Kids

Renaissance Academy Richmond, 604/241-0826 renaissanceacademy.ca

Ages 1+

Our full-day, week-long summer camps (9 am–3 pm) offer exciting themes, hands-on activities, and a fun field trip. With extended care and hot lunch options available, we provide a convenient, enriching, and adventurepacked experience for kids while supporting busy families.

YMCA

604/324-9622, gv.ymca.ca Ages 5–12

Specialty Camps

GOLD: Girl Guides girlguides.ca 833/433-0996

SILVER: Asland Learning Academy Vancouver, 604/812-2020, 604/968-4501 aslandacademy.ca

Asland Learning Academy fosters academic excellence and personal growth through flexible drop-in day camps, tutoring, and after-school programs. We offer convenient school pick-up and subjects like STEM, mathematics, French, Spanish, Chinese, 3D printing, and coding — empowering students to thrive academically and beyond.

BRONZE: West Coast Centre for Learning wccl.ca

778/839-5515

Adventure Day Camps

Grouse Mtn, North Van 604/980-9311 grousemountain.com/camps Ages 3–14

BrainSTEM Learning North Van, 604/379-2767 brainstemlearning.ca

Ages 4–14

Brain Booster

Summer Camps

Surrey, 778/839-5515 westcoastcentrefor learning.com

Ages 6–12

Cousteau Multi Specialty Camps

North Van, 604/924-2457 cousteauschool.org

Ages 3–5 & 6–9

Dive into Summer Camp at the Vancouver Aquarium 604/659-3552

vanaqua.org

Ages 4–16

Dolphin Kids™ Achievement programs 778/939-6440 dolphinkids.ca

Eaton Arrowsmith Camp Surrey, Vancouver 604/264-8327 eatonarrowsmith.com

FarmWonders Camp UBC Farm, 604/827-4048 farmwonders.ca Ages 6–14

Fraser Academy Summer Boost Camp Vancouver, 604/736-5575 fraseracademy.ca Ages 7–13

Jump Gymnastics

Vancouver (Cambie): 604/559-6492

Richmond: 604/559-6492

North Van: 604/559-6492

jumpgymnastics.ca

Ages 4–7

Langara Summer Camps Vancouver, 604/677-0198 langara.ca/summer-camps For teens 13–17 years

LEGO® Robotics Summer Camps with Daedalos Enrichment Programs 5375 University Blvd, 604/345-8603 daedalosacademy.com

Ages 6–13

Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre Mini Camps North Van, 604/990-3755 ecologycentre.ca Ages 5–12

Maplewood Farm Camp North Van, 604/929-5610 maplewoodfarm.bc.ca

Ages 8–12

Petit Architect Design for Kids Vancouver, Richmond petitarchitect.com

778/819-4119

Ages 6–14

Reframe Education Summer Sessions North Vancouver, 604/417-3300 reframeeducation.ca

Ages 5+

Richmond Nature Park Camps Richmond, 604/276-4300 richmond.ca/register

Ages 4–12

Saplings Outdoor Program & Nature School North and West Van

778/838-0335 saplingsoutdoorprogram.ca & saplingsnatureschool.ca

Sea Smart –Beach Camp Vancouver, Richmond 604/358-3001 seasmartschool.com

Ages 6–13

Sprout the Chef Cooking Camp Vancouver, Burnaby 604/505-0074 sproutingchefs.com

Ages 7–13

Steamoji Locations across the Lower Mainland steamoji.com

TWU Summer Camps Langley BC 604/513-2121 ext. 3441 twu.ca/camps Ages 4–15

Vancouver Neurotherapy Health Services Inc. Vancouver, 604/730-9600 neurofeedbackclinic.ca

Ages 3+

Sports

GOLD: Royal Soccer Club

Lower Mainland & Fraser Valley 800/427-0536 royalsoccer.com

Ages 5–13

Royal Soccer Club is the #1 grassroots summer soccer day camp in British Columbia. Host to children aged 5 to 13 across 23 locations in the Lower Mainland, we operate during July and August.

Summer Camps

SILVER: Jump Gymnastics

City Square: 604/559-6492

Richmond: 604/559-6492

North Van: 604/971-0513

jumpgymnastics.ca

Ages 4–7

BRONZE: Pedalheads

Bike Camps

Locations all over Greater Vancouver, 604/874-6464 pedalheads.com

Ages 2–12

Atlantis Swim Programs

Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam 604/874-6464 pedalheads.com

Ages 4 months+

Academie Duello Vancouver, 604/568-9907 academieduello.com

Ages 8–14

Diving Locker

Vancouver 800/DIVE-398 divinglocker.ca Ages 10+

Heroheads Multisport Camp

Vancouver, Burnaby, North Van 604/874-6464, pedalheads.com

Ages 4–8

The Hive Climbing

North Van, PoCo, Surrey, Vancouver, hiveclimbing.com

Ages 6–12

Learn to Sail

Deep Cove Yacht Club, North Van, 604/929-1009

deepcoveyc.com

Ages 4–16

MyGym

Richmond, 778/859-9680 mygym.com/richmondbc

Oval Summer Sport Camps

Richmond Olympic Oval, 778/296-1400 richmondoval.ca

Ages 4–18

Phoenix Gymnastics

Vancouver, 604/737-7693 phoenixgymnastics.com

Ages 3+

Renaissance Academy Richmond, 604/241-0826 renaissanceacademy.ca

Ages 1+

Our high-energy, full day, weeklong sports camp (9 am–3 pm) includes several field trips where kids can experience a variety of sports. With extended care and hot lunch options, we provide a fun, active, and stress-free experience.

RBL Basketball

604/269-0221 or 604/253-5295

RBLBasketball.com

Ages 5–15

Sportball

Multiple Locations

604/688-3157, sportball.ca

Ages 16 months–12 yrs

Timberline Ranch

Maple Ridge, 604/463-9278 timberlineranch.com

Ages 9–16

Total Athlete Training –Athletes in Action Langley, 604/514-2079 athletesinaction.com

Ages 14–18

TumbleTown Movement

Education Centre –Gym-venture Days Vancouver, 604/357-7355 tumbletown.ca

Ages 3–8 yrs

Twin Rivers Equestrian Centre Cloverdale, 604/574-5481 twinriversequestrian.com

UBC Sport Camps Vancouver, 604/822-6121 ubccamps.ca

Uphoria Yoga Vancouver, 604/326-2995 uphoriayoga.com

Yoga Kiddo Buttons Camp Vancouver, 604/739-9642 yogabuttons.com

Ages 3–7

Nurturing children to become the best versions of themselves!

Using child-friendly and needle-free te chniques, I help unblock and balance the flow of qi (energy), allowing the body to re store natural health and wellness.

CONDITIONS TREATED: ANXIETY, ADHD, BED-WETTING, GROWING PAINS, STOMACH ISSUES, SLEEP TROUBLES, TIC DISORDERS, NIGHTMARES . . . AND MORE.

BOOK A FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION TO SEE IF PEDIATRIC ACUPUNCTURE IS THE BEST FIT FOR YOUR CHILD

When School Struggles Signal Something More Your Guide to Psychoeducational Assessments

By Kristi Rigg, BEd, MEd

The Phone Call

For many parents, the journey begins with a conversation. A quiet moment of trying to make sense of something that doesn’t quite add up. The calls our team receives often sound similar: “My child is really bright, but they’re having such a hard time at school.” “The teacher thinks there might be a reason why my child is struggling, but we don’t know what.” “We were told an assessment might help, but I’m not really sure what that even means.”

By the time parents reach out, they’ve usually been watching their child struggle for a while. They’ve tried extra help at home, talked to teachers, adjusted expectation, and may have tried interventions such as tutoring, but something still isn’t clicking.

What we often remind parents is this: reaching out is the first step toward clarity and a practical plan.

What Is a Psychoeducational Assessment, Really?

A psychoeducational assessment isn’t a test your child passes or fails. In B.C., psychoeducational assessments are a regulated psycho-

logical health service, provided by registered psychologists, or by clinicians working under appropriate professional supervision. It’s a comprehensive evaluation of how your child learns—including thinking skills, academic abilities, processing, attention, memory, and social-emotional factors.

Here’s what I’ve seen, repeatedly: it’s not the label that hurts children. It’s not knowing why school feels so hard.

The goal isn’t to find something “wrong” with your child. It’s to understand their unique learning profile. Where their strengths are, where they struggle, and why.

Many parents worry that we’re looking for a problem to label. But really, the purpose is clarity, understanding what’s underneath the struggle and where to begin. Why does your child read fluently but can’t remember what they just read? Why do they understand math

concepts but freeze during tests? Why does school feel so much harder for them than it seems to be for other kids?

For many families, the relief comes from context—understanding what’s underneath the struggle and why certain parts of school feel so hard. That clarity usually begins with a handful of signs that parents notice long before they name them.

It’s important to understand that a psychoeducational assessment is a snapshot in time. Sometimes it identifies clear learning differences; other times, it helps rule out learning as the primary barrier and points families toward other areas to explore.

Signs It Might Be Time

Parents often tell me they noticed something long before they made the call, they just weren’t sure if it was “enough” to warrant an assessment or hoped it was something their child would simply grow out of. In some cases, a school may also recommend an assessment if a child isn’t performing at the same level as their peers.

Grades can be one sign, but not the only one. You might notice:

• A widening gap between effort and results (working incredibly hard but still falling behind)

• Homework taking far longer than expected (e.g., three hours for what should take thirty minutes)

• High stress around school (Sunday-night meltdowns, frequent worry, shutdowns)

• Negative self-talk (“I’m stupid,” “I hate school”)

• Strong verbal skills, but difficulty on paper (can explain ideas but can’t get them down)

• Increasing avoidance (stomach aches, anxiety, or refusing school)

Reassurance and encouragement from parents often aren’t enough on their own when a child is carrying this much stress. Trust your instincts, if something feels off, it’s worth exploring.

What to Expect: The Process Demystified

If you’ve never been through this before, the unknown can feel like the hardest part. Here’s what families can generally expect:

1. Intake conversation: You’ll speak with the assessment team about your child, your concerns, and their history. They may also review helpful documents such as report cards or previous testing to tailor the assessment to your child.

2. Assessment sessions: Testing typically takes place over several sessions, depending on your child’s age and stamina. The experience is designed to feel comfortable, and for many children, it’s more like puzzles and activities than a “test.”

3. Feedback and report: You’ll meet to review the results in plain language. What was found, what it may mean, and possible next steps. You’ll also receive a written report with detailed findings and evidencebased recommendations.

From there, the focus shifts from information to action, and how to use the findings to support your child at school and at home.

From Report to Real Support

A psychoeducational assessment isn’t just a document—it provides direction. The report outlines your child’s learning profile and offers recommendations based on the information gathered at that time. In many cases, the recommendations can help inform school supports—such as an Individual Education Plan (IEP), formal

accommodations, and, in some situations, eligibility for additional school-based services or funding (depending on your district and your child’s needs).

What does that look like in practice? It might include accommodations such as:

• Extended time on tests for processing challenges

• A calculator or formula sheet for math assessments

• A quiet space to work when a busy classroom feels overwhelming

• Audiobooks or speech-to-text for reading and writing demands

• Classroom strategies that build on strengths, rather than highlighting areas of difficulty

When you sit down with the school, you’re not just saying “my child is struggling.” You’re saying, “here’s what the assessment identified and what may help support their learning.”

It can also help families make supportive changes outside of school. Depending on what the assessment shows, some children may benefit from targeted skill-building, such as:

• Cognitive-based programs to strengthen learning capacity (attention, working memory, processing)

• Executive function coaching to build tools for planning, organization, and followthrough

• Structured social skills support to practise communication and navigate friendships

The right next step depends on the learner, the family, and what’s most impacting dayto-day life.

In some cases, the assessment may answer long-standing questions. In others, it may clarify what isn’t the issue and help determine the most appropriate next step.

The report also gives you language and evidence to advocate for your child. When you sit down with the school, you’re not just saying “my child is struggling.” You’re saying, “here’s what the assessment identified and what may help support their learning.”

Clear documentation often helps families and schools align on supports and accommodations. But what you share with the school is always your decision; the report belongs to you.

Addressing the Fear of Labels

I understand the hesitation. Many parents worry that a diagnosis, if one is identified, will follow their child forever. That it will limit how others see them, or how they see themselves.

But here’s what I’ve seen, repeatedly: it’s not the label that hurts children. It’s not knowing why school feels so hard.

When kids struggle without understanding how their brains work and that this may be different than their peers, they fill in the blank themselves. They decide they’re not smart enough. Not trying hard enough. Not good enough. That narrative is far more damaging than any diagnosis.

A diagnosis doesn’t define your child. It explains one part of how they learn. And not every assessment results in a diagnosis; sometimes it simply clarifies how a learner learns best and what supports will help. Many parents tell me they wish they’d had this clarity earlier.

The Conversation That Brings Clarity

I think back to those first phone calls—the parent who wasn’t sure if their child’s struggles were “enough” to warrant help. The one who wondered if they’d waited too long.

A few months later, our team often hears from families again. Their child has support at school that better matches their needs. Homework can become more manageable. And most importantly, their child may start to see themselves differently, not as someone who can’t keep up, but as someone who understands how they learn and where their strengths lie.

That shift, from confusion to clarity, from struggle to support, starts with one conversation. Clarity is possible. Sometimes it just starts with a phone call.

Kristi Rigg, BEd, MEd, is the CEO and Founder of West Coast Centre for Learning (wccl.ca) in Surrey, B.C. With over 30 years in education and a master’s in education management, she leads a team that supports neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults through neuroaffirming programs and services.

Acupuncture

Acukids

North Vancouver 778/855-2024 acukids.ca

Helping children by using needle-free and/or child-friendly acupuncture techniques to help with Allergies, Anxiety, ADHD, Bed-wetting, Growing Pains Digestive Issues, Sleep Troubles, Nightmares, Recurrent NoseBleeds and more

Chiropractor

GOLD: Pathways

Family Chiropractor Surrey, 604/372-4558 pathwayschiro.ca

SILVER: In Touch

Chiropractic Vancouver, 604/879-5566 intouchchiropractic.ca

BRONZE Jassal Chiropractic Vancouver, 604/731-3006 jassalchiropractic.com

Family Wellness

Chiropractor Vancouver, 604/566-9088 FamilyWellnessChiro.ca

The Powerhouse Chiropractic Vancouver, 604/662-3304 thepowerhousevancouver.com

Counselling

Becker Burrows & Associates Online, 250/668-8885 beckerburrows.com

Family Health

Crisis/Support Services

BC Children’s Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre

604/875-2084

Toll Free 1-800/665-1822 keltymentalhealth.ca

BC’s information source for children, youth & families. Foundry BC 1-800/784-2433 foundrybc.ca

Kids Help Phone 800/668-6868 kidshelpphone.ca

Harbourside Counseling Centre Vancouver, 604/689-9116 michelekambolis.com

Journey Therapy Online, Jessica@journey-therapy.

ca Journey-therapy.ca 778/989-1902

Moving Forward Family Services All Care Site Surrey, 778/321-3054 movingforward.help

Sharon Selby sharonselby.com

Seedlings Child and Youth Counselling and Consulting Vancouver, 604/785 4846 seedlingscounselling.com

The Compassionate Parent Coach 604/329-0865 thecompassionateparentcoach. com

The Wishing Star: Lapointe Developmental Clinic Surrey, 778/294-8732 lapointepsychology.com

Craniosacral Therapy

Connected Heart New West, 778/233-2087 cranialsacraltherapy.ca

gloWithin North Van, 778/246-2960 glowithin.ca/ craniosacral-therapy

Mama Milk Vancouver, 604/340-6684 mamamilk.ca

Parents Support Services Society 877/345-9777 parentsupportbc.ca

Sophie’s Place Child and Youth Advocacy Centre Surrey, 604/588-0727 the-centre.org/sophies-place

A child and youth advocacy centre dedicated to supporting victims of physical and/or sexual abuse up to 15 years old living in Surrey.

Fertility

Olive Fertility Centre Vancouver, 604/559-9950 olivefertility.com

Pacific Centre for Reproductive Medicine Surrey, 604/422-7276 pacificfertility.ca

Thuja Wellness Vancouver, 778/985-4970 thujawellness.com

Foster

Parenting

Vancouver Aboriginal Child and Family Services Society 604/216-7447 vacfss.com

Maternity & Infant

GOLD: Pomegranate Community Midwives Vancouver, 604/255-5556 pomegranate-midwives.com

SILVER: The Midwifery Group Vancouver, 604/877-7766 midwiferygroup.ca

BRONZE: Birth By Bloom 604/254-1100 birthbybloom.com

Bloom Community Midwives

Vancouver, 604/609-3550 bloomcommunitymidwives.com

Doula Services Association of BC 604/515-5588 bcdoulas.org

MamaBear Holistic Care Coquitlam, 778/229-6415 mamabearholisticcare.com

Pacific Post Partum Support Society

Burnaby, 855/255-7999 postpartum.org

Surrey Community Birth Program Surrey, 604/575-7275 communitybirth.ca

Westside Midwives Vancouver, 604/224-0686 westsidemidwives.com

Occupational Therapists

GOLD: Kids First Pediatric Therapy Burnaby, 778/379-5862 kidsfirstot.ca

SILVER: Nuture Learning & Development 604/327-9734 nurturelearn.ca

BRONZE: KidSkills Pediatric Occupational Therapy 778/891-9427 kidskills.ca

Monarch House

Burnaby, Surrey, Port Coquitlam, Abbotsford, 778/887-3573 monarchhouse.ca

Play 2 Learn 4 Life – Children’s Therapy Services Inc. Vancouver, 604/568-1986 play2learn4life.com

Skilled Kids Occupational Therapy 778/322-1242 skilledkids.com

Symbiosis Pediatric Therapy Surrey, 778/395-8752 symbiosispediatrictherapy.com

We Play Kids Gym Surrey, 604/385-2883 weplaykids.com

WonderKids OT Burnaby, 604/291-0078 wonderkidsot.com

Optometrists

GOLD: Integra Eyecare Management Vancouver, Burnaby 604/525-2042 integraeyecare.com

SILVER: Lynn Valley Optometry North Van, 604/987-9191 lynnvalleyoptometry.com

BRONZE: Wink Optometry 604/451-9465 winkoptometry.ca

@ 180 Optometry & Eyewear Kitsilano, 604/568-5378 180optometry.com

Della Optique Optometry & Eyewear Vancouver, 604/742-3937 dellaoptique.com

Discover Vision Therapy Burnaby, 604/291-7746 discovervisiontherapy.com

Eyelab, Doctors of Optometry Kerrisdale, 604/260-1166 helloeyelab.com

Hollyburn Eye Clinic West Van, 604/913-0135 North Van, 604/984-2020 hollyburneyeclinic.com

InSight Developmental Learning Langley, 604/455-4077 insightlearning.ca

Maple Ridge Eye Care –Optometrists

Maple Ridge, 604/463-4469 mapleridgeeyecare.ca

Mount Pleasant Optometry Centre Vancouver, 604/874-7302 aokvancouver.com

Optomeyes

West Van, 604/922-0413 optomeyes.ca

Perspective Optometry Vancouver, 604/435-3931 perspectiveoptometry.ca

West Coast Doctors of Optometry Burnaby, Langley, Richmond, Vancouver 236/427-8797 westcoastod.com

A Strong Start Lasts A Lifetime

By age five, most brain development has already taken place. The early years are a powerful window for shaping how children think, feel, learn, and connect with the world.

EARLY LEARNING HELPS BUILD:

Cooperation Skills

Enthusiasm For Lifelong Learning

Emotional, Social And Physical Growth

Learning Capabilities

Stronger Support Systems

Socialization Skills

OUR PRESCHOOLS

Richmond City Centre

Richmond Garden City

Richmond Crestwood

South Surrey

White Rock

COMING SOON

South Delta

Vancouver Marpole

Victoria Colwood

Orthodontists

GOLD: Monarch

Pediatric Dental Centre & Orthodontic Centre

Burnaby: 604/434-9060

Port Moody: 604/461-9160

Surrey: 604/589-9160

Vancouver: 604/876-9060 MonarchDentalCentre.com

Providing family friendly dental care for over 25 years. Certified Specialists in Pediatric Dentistry, offering treatment under sedation & general anesthesia. Certified Specialists in Orthodontics, offering the latest techniques including Invisalign. Building Healthy Happy Smiles that Last a Lifetime.

SILVER: Tam Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry

Vancouver 604/872-0444 Delta 604/507-8722

BRONZE: PDG Pediatric Dental Group

Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey, Delta, Coquitlam 604/PDG-1000 (604/734-1000) pdgdental.com

BC Orthodontic Group bcorthodonticsgroup.com

Clear Advantage Orthodontics

Oakridge Centre, Downtown Vancouver, 604/266-8277 clearadvantageortho.com

Coquitlam Family Orthodontics

604/229-4460 coquitlamfamilyorthodontics.com

Langley Orthodontics

604/229-4460 langleyorthodontics.com

Oakridge Orthodontics Vancouver, 604/261-8168 vancouverorthodontist.com

Ridge Meadows Family Orthodontics

Maple Ridge, 604/229-4460 ridgemeadowsorthodontics.com

Smile Town Dentistry Burnaby, 604/482-9633 smiletownburnaby.com

Viva Orthodontics

New West: 604/522-9871

S. Surrey: 604/385-0850

Surrey: 778/574-8484

Port Coquitlam: 604/552-3899 vivaortho.com

Parenting Support

Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver 604/876-2447 bigbrothersvancouver.com

Big Sisters of BC 604/873-4525 bigsisters.bc.ca

Canuck Place –A Children’s Hospice 604/731-4847 canuckplace.org

Family Support Institute of BC Society

New West, 604/540-8374 Toll free: 800/441-5403 familysupportbc.com

Inclusion BC 604/777-9100 inclusionbc.org

Parent Support Services Society of BC 604/669-1616 parentsupportbc.ca

Fraser Valley Multiple Miracle Association surreytwinclub.com

Pacific Post Partum Support Society Vancouver, 604/255-7999 postpartum.org

The Centre for Child Development Surrey: 604/584-1361 Langley: 604/533-3088 the-centre.org

Helping to overcome societal barriers for those with disabilities and empower vulnerable children and families throughout the South Fraser Region.

Vancouver Aboriginal Child and Family Services Society Toll free 1-877/982-2377 vacfss.com

Pediatric Dentists

GOLD: Playtime Dental Vancouver, South Surrey 604/731 4608 playtimedentistry.ca

SILVER: Monarch Pediatric Dental Centre & Orthodontic Centre

Burnaby: 604/430-4980

Port Moody: 604/461-4980

Surrey: 604/585-4980

Vancouver: 604/419-4980 MonarchPediatricDental.com

Monarch has been providing the best quality dental care for infants, children, and adolescents across the Lower

Mainland since 1997. Their goal is to help your family achieve optimum oral health. Building Healthy Happy Smiles that Last a Lifetime.

BRONZE: PDG Pediatric Dental Group

Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey, Delta, Coquitlam

604/PDG-1000 (604/734-1000) pdgdental.com

Just4Kids Pediatric Dentistry Surrey, 604/575-7785 j4kdentistry.com

Kits Family Dental

604/738-1816 kitsfamilydental.com A privately-owned practice by UBC-trained dentists, has served Kitsilano for 20+ years. They offer personalized, highquality care in a friendly, awardwinning, all-ages practice, with no high-pressure sales—just trusted dental services for the whole family.

Lolo Pediatric Dentistry North Van, 604/770-0890 lolosmiles.ca

Pacific Pediatric Dental Centre North Van, 604/983-2253 pacificpdc.com

Smile Town Dentistry Burnaby, 604/482-9633 smiletownburnaby.com

Tot 2 Teen Dental Vancouver, 604/569-3669 tot2teendental.com

physiotherapists

Kids Physio Group Locations across the Lower Mainland kidsphysio.ca

Kinectiv Sport + Health Maple Ridge, 604/ 465-4263 kinectiv.ca

PlayWorks Physio Port Moody, 604/492-3888 playworksphysio.com

neighbourhood houses

Cedar Cottage 4065 Victoria Dr. 604/874-4231

Collingwood 5288 Joyce St. 604/435-0323

Gordon 1019 Broughton St. 604/683-2554

Kitsilano 2325 W. 7th Ave. 604/736-3588

Kiwassa 2425 Oxford St. 604/254-5401

Little Mountain 3981 Main St. 604/879-7104

Mount Pleasant 800 E. Broadway 604/879-8208

North Shore 225 E. 2nd St., North Van 604/987-8138

South Vancouver 6470 Victoria Dr. 604/324-6212

The Centre for Child Development –Early Years Hub Newton, 604/619-9488 the-centre.org/ early-years-program Free family-focused, play-based early childhood education experience in an inclusive and welcoming setting where children (0–6 years old) and caregivers can play, read, and make friends.

safety

On the Go First Aid

Lower Mainland OnTheGoFirstAid.com

Safe Beginnings First Aid

Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley, Sea to Sky, 604/340-3790 safebeginnings.ca

Survivormate: 72-Hour Emergency Preparedness Province-wide, 855/781-7878 survivormate.com

sleep consultants

Dawn Whittaker Consulting 604/897-2997 dawnwhittaker.com

Good Night Sleep Site Coquitlam, 778/686-8717 goodnightsleepsite.com/ coquitlam

Say Yes to The Rest –Pediatric Sleep Consulting Serving all of BC 250/571-5586 sayyestotherest.com

Welcome To The Start Of Better Rest – Sleep Dreams Professional Sleep Consultants North Van, 604/985-2991 sleepdreams.ca

The Peaceful Sleeper Vancouver, 604/908-1548 thepeacefulsleeper.com

ultrasounds

Discovery 3D Ultrasounds Surrey, 778/395-8558 discovery3dultrasound.com

UC Baby 3D Ultrasound Abbotsford, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, Victoria 877/682-2229 ucbaby.ca

Digging in the Dirt: Activities and Ideas

By Josee Bergeron

In the back field of my parents’ small acreage, a miniature mountain of soft black soil sat beckoning. Although a sandbox filled with toys, a playset, and trampoline were nearby, they were all but forgotten when my children saw the pile of dirt. Little legs ran up the dusty slope and jumped back down sending pufs of earth into the air. Hands pressed deep into the rich organic matter reaching into the heart of the hill. Hoots and

hollers filled the air as they jumped, tumbled, and rolled in nature’s gold.

Most children don’t need instructions to play with dirt, mud, and sand, they just need an adult to enthusiastically say, “Go for it!” or, at the very least, look the other way. While most children don’t have enormous dirt piles to roll in, “dirty” play can still happen close to home or in nearby parks with these fun ideas.

What makes mud kitchens so wonderful, and popular, is that they’re simple, costeffective, and open-ended.

Creating a Mud Kitchen

“What are you making, Alice?” I asked, peering over my toddler’s shoulder into a pail filled with murky water, bits of grass, marigold petals, and pine cones.

“Pine cone soup… for you,” she mumbled, focused on stirring the concoction.

“Mmmmm,” I said, “looks nutritious!” She nodded and continued working in her rustic mud kitchen.

Mud kitchens have gained popularity since the early 2010s thanks to muddy play advocates from around the world, such as Professor Jan White, co-founder of Early Childhood Outdoors, and Liz Edwards, founder of Muddy Faces, who together launched Making a Mud Kitchen for International Mud Day in June 2012. This free digital booklet popularized mud kitchens around the world. What makes mud kitchens so wonderful, and popular, is that they’re simple, cost-effective, and open-ended. They “open up the outdoors,” giving children space to play, explore nature, and navigate daily life.

Discovering Dirt Isn’t Dirty

There are plenty of charming mud kitchen designs on the internet, but there’s no need to build or buy anything fancy. In fact, the best mud kitchen is the one your child plays in and is often made with things you already have on hand or items found at thrift stores.

Gather Supplies:

• Dirt and/or sand:

– Buckets filled with dirt and/or sand

– A patch of sand/dirt/mud in a yard

– A sandbox

• Water:

– Access to running water (a hose)

– Shallow containers of water

– A child-sized watering can filled with water

• Nature “ingredients”:

– Rocks, shells, pine cones, sticks, non-toxic berries, leaves, grass, and other things collected from nature for decorating and mixing mud creations.

• Work area:

– Work surface: A sturdy board placed on supports such as inverted milk crates, large planting pots, logs, bricks, and even old cable spools and set at the right height (about elbow height) for your child to work at.

– Vertical wall: A fence, wall, or board for adding hooks for pots and utensils.

– Storage: An old shelf for storing and displaying mud kitchen tools and/or some weatherproof bins for storing supplies when not in use.

• Kitchenware:

– Pots and pans

– Measuring cups and spoons

– Pie plates, muffin tins, cookie cutters

– Mixing bowls and sieve

– Cutting board

– Kitchen utensils (mixing spoon, ladle, whisk, rolling pin)

– Fun extras: Small teapot, funnel, ice cube tray, mortar and pestle

Directions:

1. Set up mud kitchen: Choose a spot in your yard or on your deck that’s easy to

access and safe for your child. Using the gathered items, arrange the work surface and organize the kitchenware and nature ingredients with your child.

2. Encourage independent muddy play: Allow your child to explore their mud kitchen, freely offering to be the “taste tester” to make the experience interactive.

3. Refresh supplies: Periodically restock the mud kitchen with seasonal ingredients or unique tools, involving your child in this process.

Josee Bergeron is the founder of Backwoods Mama. This excerpt is from her book, Beyond the Front Door © 2026. Used by permission of Morehouse Publishing, an imprint of Church Publishing, Inc.

Safety, hygiene & allergies

Parents often worry that playing in dirt will make kids sick. For healthy children, everyday dirt-and-sand play is generally fine, and can even be beneficial, when you follow a few simple basics.

• Plants & materials: Only use non-toxic plants you can ID.

• Water: Keep water shallow and change it often. Dump standing water after play.

• Sand hygiene: If you spot kitty poop in your sand pile scoop it out with a generous amount of surrounding sand and toss it in the trash. Cover sandboxes when not in use to keep animals out.

• Choose healthy soil: Use soil that’s safe for growing vegetables (easy to grab a bag at the nursery). Avoid “weed-andfeed” or heavily fertilized mixes that can irritate skin. If potting soil is dusty (perlite), lightly moisten it first.

• Avoid glass: Veer away from glass or breakable containers that could shatter if dropped. Opt instead for metal, wood or plastic.

• Handwashing (keep it simple): No need to scrub hands every time they touch mud. Just wash before eating and when you’re heading back indoors. A quick nail brush helps.

• Allergies & sensitive skin: If pollen or certain plants bother your child, avoid these and choose low-pollen add-ins.

• Small parts: For toddlers, avoid hard, tiny seeds or nuts that could be choking hazards.

• General supervision: Keep an eye on kids near any water and remind them that mud kitchen “food” isn’t for eating (they will definitely try!).