Island Parent Family Summer Guide 2015

2015

Family Summer Guide

V I C T O R I A & VA N C O U V E R I S L A N D

Experience the precision of customized vision

Protecting your child now will decrease the potential for serious eye problems later in life.

Visit us at M attick’s Farm

To help reduce UV radiation damage to your child’s eyes, consider the following: Be conscious of the daily UV index and the many sources of UV radiation, including direct sunlight and reflections from snow, water, sand and pavement.

Dr. Joslin, Dr. Morin & Associates Doctors of Optometry

Langford: #105–814 Goldstream Ave 250-474-4567 www.langfordoptometrists.com Sooke: #5–6726 West Coast Rd 250-642-4311 www.sookeoptometrists.com

New Patients Welcome

Have your child wear sun protection, such as sunglasses and a widebrimmed hat or baseball cap, when outdoors.

Teach your children to never look directly into or stare at the sun.

Keep children out of direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.

Keep children younger than six months out of direct sunlight. Use a canopy or umbrella as a sun-shield when outdoors.

Strollers • High Chairs • Car Seats • Sleep Aids Travel Beds • Suncare • Diaper Bags • Carriers Natural Skincare • Swings • And More!

Mattick’s Farm #121–5325 Cordova Bay Rd 778-265-5432 momease.ca facebook.com/MomeaseBabyBoutique

Parksville’s Premiere Event on the Beach!

SCULPTING: July 10 - 12 GATES OPEN: July 10 at 2pm EXHIBITION: July 13 to August 16 Open 9am until 9pm

Quality Foods FOR MORE INFORMATION:

parksvillebeachfest.ca us on Facebook!

FIREWORKS DISPLAY Saturday August 15, 2015

July 10 August 16, 2015

Mattick’s Farm

Advertising Feature

All the Elements of Shopping

Discover all that awaits at Mattick’s Whether you’ve never visited Mattick’s Farm or haven’t stopped by for awhile...come explore one of Greater Victoria’s premier shopping destinations – you’ll find lots to discover!

With its diverse selection of local shops and services, there’s something for everyone. An ideal place to shop for yourself or select that perfect gift for your special someone, find everything

OUR MERCHANTS Grocery, Restaurant and Specialty

• Red Barn Market • Adrienne’s Restaurant & Tea Garden • VQA Wine Shop

Fashion

• A Stable Way of Life • Lily Pad Lingerie • Sunday’s Snowflakes • Something More

Gifts and Art

• The Ladybug Boutique • The Country Gift Shoppe • Paper Chain • The Gallery

Children and Family

• Momease Baby Boutique • Toying Around • Mattick’s Farm Mini Golf

Garden Centre

• Art Knapp Garden Centre

Hair

• Cordova Hair

from women’s fashion to baby and toddler essentials, local artwork to everything you need to keep your garden growing beautifully.

The newly opened Lily Pad Lingerie joins long-time Victoria fashion favourites A Stable Way of Life, Sunday’s Snowflakes and Something More, while Toying Around is a hit with the kids and Momease Baby Boutique is popular with new and expecting parents.

Discover exceptional cards, gifts and decorative accents at The Ladybug Boutique, The Country Gift Shoppe and Paper Chain, get your new favourite haircut at Cordova Hair, then relax over a delicious meal at Adrienne’s Restaurant & Tea Garden.

Despite the name, Mattick’s is not a country farmer’s market, though you’ll find plenty of local foods at the Red Barn Market, beautiful plants and accents at Art Knapp Garden Centre, and a large selection of BC wines at the VQA Wine Shop. Weekly wine tastings showcase a different winery every Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m., pairing beautifully with a visit to the Gallery at Mattick’s Farm, featuring different local artists each month, plus monthly events with the artist.

Charming and pedestrian-friendly, the peaceful inner courtyard is the perfect place to sit in the sun and enjoy

an ice cream or coffee. The variety of welcoming shops, pathways and beautiful plantings make for a pleasant shopping experience that’s ideal for parents or grandparents with children, who will want to venture over to the 18hole mini-golf – the perfect escape on a sunny, warm day.

Summer also brings a family-focused summer music program with scheduled local musicians playing in the courtyard from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays July 4 to Aug. 30. See a listing of the performers on the Mattick’s Farm website, www.matticksfarm.com And don’t miss the 12th annual Cordova Bay Day Saturday, June 27 when families will enjoy a host of activities from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – lots of fun for everyone!

Easy to get to by car or bicycle, and with plenty of parking for both, find Mattick’s Farm at 5325 Cordova Bay Rd and along the Lochside Trail, next to Cordova Bay Golf Course.

all the elements of shopping

mattick’s farm

w w w. m a t t i c k s f a r m . c o m

Camp Contents Footholds Welcome............................................................................................3

Summer 2015

Footholds Therapy Center is happy to offer a wide variety of summer programs for all ages. Footholds camps are structured around programming and geared towards children with special needs (Autism, FASD, etc) and other emotional and psychological challenges (Anxiety/Depression). Our camps focus on empowering children and youth by building social skills and self-esteem all while meeting new friends and having fun!

Role Playing Social Camp

(12–18 Years) Mon–Fri, August 17–28, 9am–12pm, $600

MineCraft Camp (6–11 & 12–18 Years) 6–11 Years: Mon–Fri, July 13–24, 9am–12pm (at our Ross Rd location), $600 12–18 Years: Mon–Fri, August 3–14, 9am–12pm (at our Ross Rd location), $600

Fun Frogs (3–7 Years) Mon–Fri, July 13–24, 9am–12pm, $600 Young Ecologists Camp

10-Kilometre Vacation Challenge ......................................................4 Hit the Trails......................................................................................6 Gadget-Friendly Parks Canada ........................................................11 Hands-Wet, Hands-On Learning .....................................................12 7 Great Spray Parks..........................................................................16 A Parent’s Mission............................................................................18 Must-See Attractions........................................................................20 Gold Fever!.......................................................................................23 10 Fun Things to Do in Parksville-Qualicum...................................24 Teaching Books................................................................................26 Summer Calendar of Events.............................................................28 Traveling with Kids..........................................................................44 Captivating Critters..........................................................................46

(14–18 Years) Mon–Fri, July 6–10, 9am–2pm, $350

Party Directory.................................................................................48

Musical Melodies (11–18 Years)

Cooking with Sticks & Fire..............................................................50

Mon–Fri, July 13–24, 1pm–4pm (at our Ross Rd location), $680

Whimsical Wonders Camp

At Home in the Wild.......................................................................52

(3–7 Years) Mon–Fri, July 6–10, 9am–12pm, $350

Family Getaways..............................................................................54

Wacky World of Science

Details, Details.................................................................................56

(6–10 Years) Mon–Fri, August 10–14, 9am–12pm, $400

Taste Testers (6–10 Years) Mon–Fri, July 13–17, 9am–12pm, $380 Sensory Seekers (4–10 Years) Mon–Fri, August 10–21, 9am–12pm, $620

Active All-Stars (6–11 Years) Mon–Fri, August 17–28, 9am–12pm, $600

250.585.4411 www.footholds.ca

*Camps can be covered by MCFD Autism Funding. *See our website for detailed camp information.

2 Family Summer Guide

Family Summer Guide 2015 A special annual edition of Island Parent Magazine. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher.

Published by Island Parent Group, 830-A Pembroke St, Victoria, BC V8T 1H9; Tel 250-388-6905; Fax 250-388-6920; islandparent.ca, kidsinvictoria.com Publisher/Owner: Mark Warner Editor: Sue Fast Sales & Marketing: RaeLeigh Buchanan Publisher’s Assistant & Sales: Linda Frear Distribution: Ray Cutts, Ted Dawe (Mid-Island) Founders: Jim Holland & Selinde Krayenhoff Production: Eacrett Graphic Design Printed at Black Press, Victoria Cover printed at Hillside Printing ISSN 0838-5505

Cover photos for this issue were provided by the winners of our annual summer photo contest: Sarah Debruin (grand prize winner), Serena Beck, Kasey Eriksen, Sheri Kalke, Jean Pakvis, Dan Politano and Gord Rufh. Thank you all for your submissions!

Follow Us on Facebook & Twitter facebook.com/IslandParent twitter.com/IslandParent

kidsinvictoria.com

Welcome to the

Family Summer Guide 2015 S

low parenting.

What better time to get behind this recent movement than summer?

In a nutshell, slow parenting means no more rushing around from one place to the next. No more “Hurry up, kiddo,” “Let’s get going,” or “We’re going to be late!” Slow parenting means, well, slowing down and appreciating where you are and who you’re with. It means trying to balance the ‘doing’ part of life with the ‘being.’

Summer is the ideal time to let our kids just be, to welcome idleness, and to allow for time when kids will have nothing else to occupy them other than their thoughts. That’s when we start to daydream and, studies show, when we daydream, we do some of our most creative thinking. It might look lazy from the outside, but on the inside, a complicated and productive neurological process is taking place.

So this summer, let your kids take the lead.

Lie on the grass together and watch the clouds float by. Dig in the dirt. Watch the spider weave its web. Marvel at the stillness at the start of a new day. And wonder together where the sun goes when it drops below the horizon at night.

While it can be tempting to try to pack a week’s worth of summer to-do’s into one day, it’s worthwhile to slow down—even stop—and let the day proceed at its own pace.

According to a survey by the British supermarket chain, which asked 1,500 children between ages 5 and 11 to rank their favourite summer-time activities in order of preference, playing in the park or in the garden was ranked as number one. Mud pie-making, tree-climbing and feeding the ducks also came in the top 10. And no need to drive for hours—the closer to home, according to the survey, the better.

John Duffy, a clinical psychologist and author of The Available Parent advises parents to take some time just watching their children— whether they are playing, doing homework, or eating a snack.

“Take a moment to drink them in. Remember and remind yourself how remarkable your children are. That pause alone, even if momentary, can drive a shift in the pace.”

No matter what you have planned this summer—or what just happens—we hope this year’s Family Summer Guide helps you have the best summer ever. Within these pages you’ll find information on the 10-Kilometre Vacation Challenge, Hands-Wet, Hands-On Learning, numerous Vancouver Island activities and attractions, places to stay and explore, kid-friendly marine centres, walking trails suited to families, places to see animals, good summer reads, where to find seven great spray parks and much more. Check out Details, Details on the last page to find out specifics about parks, weather, ferry travel, road conditions, and tourist information. The Summer Calendar highlights what’s happening on the Island in July and August.

Just remember to factor in enough time to relax and enjoy each other’s company and our beautiful surroundings.

Happy Summer.

parkscanada.gc.ca/xplorers

parcscanada.gc.ca/xplorateurs

IslandParent.ca

Summer 2015 3

Rachel Dunstan Muller

10-Kilometre Vacation Challenge

Y

Photo: Michelle Fairbanks

ou don’t have to travel far for a great family vacation when your home base is on Vancouver Island. My own family will be testing this assertion for a few weeks this summer, temporarily restricting our travels to fall within a 10 km radius. We’re submitting to this seemingly arbitrary limit for three reasons: to reduce our fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, to get better acquainted with the recreational destinations in our own area, and to see how much fun we can have as we take on a new challenge.

To define the boundary of our challenge area, I used a tool at freemaptools.com. If you’d like to play along, go to the website and click on “Radius Around a Point on a Map” on the left sidebar, then scroll down the resulting page to “options,” and enter your desired radius distance in the “km” box. Scroll back up to input your street address in the “search for location” box, click on the map to mark the location of your house, and zoom out to see the resulting shaded circle.

A quick glance at our own shaded map assures my family that we’re in no danger of running out of things to do, see, and explore during our two-week challenge period. A circle with a radius of 10 km has an area of more than 314 km2. That’s a big chunk of land and water!

If your family is up for a 10K vacation challenge, here are some things to look for: Beaches: How many water access points can you find within a 10K radius from your home?

Consider swimmable lakes and rivers as well as ocean beaches. Are any of these areas suitable for canoeing, kayaking, tubing, or snorkeling?

Not all beaches will be marked on your map.

You may have to explore to find all the public accesses in your area.

Parks, Playgrounds & Picnic Sites: You may be surprised at how many municipal, regional and provincial parks you find in 4 Family Summer Guide

your 10K zone. How many can you locate that are new to your family? Are there any water parks? What about school playgrounds?

Where’s the best place to pack a picnic?

Trails: The best marked and most accessible trails will generally be in the regional and provincial parks. Look for ecological reserves as well— many are open to the public for low-impact activities like hiking. For more rugged trails, check online hiking forums, or ask around.

Many of my favourite local trails are in the backcountry, off of logging roads. Don’t kidsinvictoria.com

forget urban walking and cycling trails if you live in the city.

Campgrounds or Cabins: You don’t have to sleep at home during your 10K vacation. The Island is dotted with campgrounds and vacation rental properties.

Save time, money and gas by finding fun accommodation nearby. This is especially helpful if a family member needs to continue to work during the vacation period.

Fishing Spots: Considering how many bodies of water we have on and around Vancouver Island, there’s a good chance your 10K zone has some great places to fish. Make sure you get the necessary licenses and are familiar with the appropriate regulations before casting your lines. Children under 16 may fish in freshwater without a license in B.C., as long as they observe the regulations. Licenses are required for children under 16 to fish in tidal waters, but there are no fees. Visit pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca for more information on saltwater fishing, and env.gov.bc.ca/ fw for information on fishing in freshwater.

Islands:

offer exciting summer reading clubs for kids aged 12 and under. The theme in 2015 is “Build It!” Participants are eligible for weekly prizes, and are invited to fun events at their local branches. Best of all, the program is completely free.

Museums: Are there any regional museums in your 10K zone? Many offer kid-friendly summer activities. Check your museum’s website to see what they have planned this year.

Day Camps: If your school-aged children would benefit from some structure during a 10K vacation, check out the day camps available in your area.

Many organizations host day or week-long programs. Choose from fun camps offered by local churches, theatre groups, arts councils, museums, recreation centres, and nature conservancies.

Thrift Stores: If the weather isn’t co-operating, consider visiting a nearby thrift store. Look for new-toyou board games, puzzles, and/or craft supplies for a day of old-school family fun.

Does your 10K zone incorporate a smaller island or two? Hop on a ferry, and explore a whole new world!

Local Farms: Visit islandfarmfresh.com or bcfarmsandfood.com to search for working farms in your area. If your region isn’t covered by either of these websites, you may have to Google farms + your community. Many Island farms are kid-friendly, offering tours or other on-site activities to introduce families to local food production in an engaging way.

Farmers Markets: Have you visited all of the farmers markets near your home? Most feature friendly vendors, fresh air, live entertainment, and of course delicious, locally-produced food. So much more fun than shopping in a fluorescent-tubelit big box store.

Berry Patches: Scout out the best berry patches in your area. If you’ve had your fill of blackberries, look for u-pick farms for strawberries, raspberries, blueberries or gooseberries. Make jams and jellies with your kids, and freeze the leftovers for winter when local fruit is out of season.

Libraries: Both public library systems on the Island IslandParent.ca

Other Attractions: Visit your local tourist information centre for information on additional attractions in your area. Depending on where you live, you and your children might be able to go zip-lining, dig for fossils, ride a refurbished train, or view recovering wildlife. Make note of any family-friendly concerts, festivals or other special events being planned in your community as well. Chances are you’ll find all kinds of entertainment happening in your own backyard.

Wherever your travels take you and your family this summer, have a safe and fun vacation!

Rachel Dunstan Muller is the mother of five, and a children’s author. Her previous articles can be found at kidsinvictoria.com.

Summer 2015 5

Hit the Trails

Hiking and cycling trails, paths, walkways— a few of Vancouver Island’s many offerings

Summer Programs • Chinatown Drop-In Program Wednesdays from1:30–3:30pm (ages 5–12)

• Vikings Drop-In Program Fridays from 1:30–3:30pm (ages 5–12)

• Bastion Tours Thursdays & Saturdays from 12:00–12:45pm

• Wellington Cemetery Tours July 16 & Aug 20 from 10:00–10:45am

nanaimomuseum.ca 250.753.1821 program@nanaimomuseum.ca

Art Classes Drawing Painting • Sculpture Cartooning Portfolio Preparation • Day and Evening Classes • One or Two hour sessions • Technique Oriented • Ages 5 and Up

COMPLETE A PORTFOLIO COURSE – Ages 14 & Up, DESIGNED ESPECIALLY FOR YOU FOR ENTRANCE INTO: INTERIOR DESIGN, ARCHITECTURE, BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS, FASHION & MORE

Register Now for Summer Programs Artistic Statement Gallery & School of Fine Art Call Joan at 250-383-0566

www.artisticstatementgalleryandschool.com

6 Family Summer Guide

Lace up your hiking boots, grab your walking stick, a snack and a bottle of water, and head on out to enjoy the sights. The following listing includes some of our local trails and walkways—to find more in your area, visit crd.bc.ca/parks or vancouverisland.com/trails.

Greater Victoria

Sidney

Beacon Hill Park. This 74-hectare park near downtown Victoria offers trails meandering through meadows, gardens and trees, along with a petting zoo, an 18-hole putting green (bring your own putter and ball), splash park and playground. Walk up to the lookout for views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and Washington’s Olympic Mountains. Stroll past the duck ponds, and over the bridge, through beautiful gardens. The Cameron Bandshell features a variety of free concerts during the summer (for a calendar of events victoria.ca/cityvibe). beaconhillpark.ca.

Galloping Goose Regional Trail. This 60-km partly paved trail (formerly a railway line) winds from Victoria to Sooke with access points along the way. Walk, run or cycle. Start in the heart of the city, or drive out to a rural access point for more of a country experience. gallopinggoosetrail.com The 29-km Lochside Regional Trail starts in Saanich and ends at the ferry terminal in Swartz Bay. In some places trail users must share paved or gravel public roads with motor vehicles and farm vehicles. Trail maps and suggested access points/day trips are available online from the CRD website: crd.bc.ca/parks, then select “Find a Park.”

Sidney Spit Marine Park is a great destination for a day trip. Take the foot-passenger ferry from Sidney to Sidney Island (25 minutes). Explore the sandy spit at the northeast end or hike around the whole island. You’ll see tidal flats, salt marshes, rolling meadows and sandy beaches, not to mention various wildlife. Walk-in camping is also available for those who want to stay longer. The ferry leaves from Sidney Pier at the bottom of Beacon Avenue. For a day trip, from June 29-Sept 7, head over on the 10am, 11:30am, 2pm, or 4pm run, and return at 10:30am, 1pm, 3pm or 4:30pm. Extra weekend sailings. For the full schedule and rates, visit alpinegroup.ca or call 250-474-5145.

Saanich Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary consists of two distinct areas: marshy lowlands surrounding Swan Lake; and the rocky, oak-forested highlands of Christmas Hill. The 12,000-year-old lake is a rich habitat for a variety of birds and wildlife including muskrats, river otters and mink. Circle the lake along a 2.5-km trail featuring two wharves and a floating walkway, then stop in at the Nature House to see interpretive displays and more.

For more of a hike, the summit of Christmas Hill is 109 metres above sea level and gives a spectacular view of the city. Call 250-479-0211 or visit swanlake.bc.ca for info, to download a trail map or to check out the various programs for kids and families.

Metchosin/Sooke Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park in Metchosin. More than 5 kms of beautiful trails run through woodland and past lagoon and marsh.

Watch for birds as you meander down to the sandy beach. The warm water means you can actually swim in the ocean (that’s rare around here). Add a low tide and this beach becomes a paradise for skim boarders, beachcombers and swimmers alike. The Nature House at the trailhead has some great hands-on displays.

Approximately 40 minutes from downtown Victoria, on Metchosin Road. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Roche Cove Regional Park in East Sooke.

Picnic in the protected cove after an easy walk from the parking area. Wander the 7 kms of trails through cedar forest and along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail. Hike along a cool creek or climb a mossy slope for hilltop views of Roche Cove and the Sooke Basin. Roche Cove is also a good access point for the Galloping Goose Trail. Head out on Sooke Road, turn left on Gillespie Road (just past the 17 Mile Pub), which leads to the park entrance on the left. Approximately 45 minutes driving time from Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks.

East Sooke Regional Park offers 50 kms of trails along the windswept rocky coast, over dry hilltops, through dark rainforest to sheltered kidsinvictoria.com

coves. Find pocket beaches, grassy knolls, rocky bays and tidepools for exploring. Aylard Farm is popular with picnickers and those looking for an easy excursion. A 5-minute walk through open fields leads to a sandy beach. Trails head inland to hilltop views, or along the rugged, more challenging Coast Trail. From Sooke Road, turn left on Gillespie Road. Go to the end and turn left on East Sooke Road, then right on Becher Bay Road to reach the park entrance. Approximately one hour driving time from Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Along Highway 1

Free Play is a new exhibition that allows you to roll up your sleeves and participate in the artworks on display.

Come play with this highly interactive, hands-on exhibition and make your mark – on art.

On now until August 3, 2015 | aggv.ca AG766_FreePlay.indd 1

2015-05-27 1:36 PM

e m o S g rab iced tea! frappes! smoothies! i

Francis King Regional Park is 113 hectares of lush forest and wildflowers with 11 kms of gentle groomed trails. The Elsie King Trail is a forest loop of cedar boardwalk (wheelchair and stroller accessible) that includes interpretive signs and rest areas with benches and a shelter. Visit the staffed Nature House for some interesting displays. Located on Munn Road, off Prospect Lake Road, 13 kms out of downtown Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Thetis Lake. Go for a hike on the scenic trails hugging Upper and Lower Thetis lakes.

For panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding hills, follow the more challenging trails up Seymour or Scafe hills. Help protect this sensitive habitat by staying on designated trails and keeping pets on the trail. The beach area of Thetis Lake is perfect for a family picnic or swim, although it tends to be quite crowded in the summer. If you have a canoe, try an early morning or evening paddle. From the Old Island Highway, turn right on Six Mile Road which leads to the park entrance.

Pay parking: $2.25 for the day or $20 for the season. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Goldstream Provincial Park. Take a trip into the old-growth temperate rainforest, just 17 kms from downtown Victoria. Douglas fir, giant maples and Western red cedars make this park a local favourite. Goldstream offers year-round activities with its riverside trails, salmon spawning, wildflowers, ferns and lush vegetation. Visit the Nature House or look for one of the old mine shafts from the late 1800s when miners panned for gold. 250-478-9414 or naturehouse.ca.

Let the games begin!

Cowichan Valley Cowichan River Footpath. The lower stretch of the footpath, from the Cowichan Fish and Game Association clubhouse to Skutz Falls, is a well-maintained trail, beautiful at any time of the year, with many excellent picnicking spots. To access the Duncan trailhead, drive north from Victoria on the Trans-Canada Highway (#1) to Duncan. Turn left at Miller IslandParent.ca

Serious Coffee locations can be found throughout Vancouver Island and in Powell River �o �nd one near �ou go to� seriouscoffee�co� Summer 2015 7

S T A G E S Su m mer Pro g ra ms 2015 35th A n nual

Da nce I ntensive Aug ust 18 th - 29 th

Part-day program for dancers 10 years old & up

in Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop & Acrobatics

Plus

Week-long, part day

Youth Da nce Ca mps Throughout July & August for dancers 6-12 years old in Jazz, Hip Hop & Acrobatics

A nd

Week-long, morning

Preschool Dance Camps Throughout July & August for 3-5 years olds in Ballet, Jazz, Musical Theatre & Tap plus

Little Dancers Classes photos by D Haggart

are running through the summer for those 18 months to 3 years old

Come Da nce With Us

For more information call (250) 384-3267 email us at stagesdance@shaw.ca or visit us at www.stagesdance.com

Under an hour from Swartz Bay with direct daily ferries to Mayne Island

Island hopping packages now available 9 housekeeping cottages perfect for family getaways

250-539-2463 • 1-877-535-2424 bluevista@bluevistaresort.com • www.bluevistaresort.com 8

Family Summer Guide

Road and left again at Vaux Road. Follow Vaux (which changes its name to Robertson Road) for approx 6 kms to the Fish and Game Clubhouse parking lot. There is a 2.4-km circle route to Holt Creek and a 6.4-km circle route with good picnic spots. Maps for the footpath can be picked up at the Duncan Visitor Information Centre, 2896 Drinkwater Road.

Cedar Hemer Provincial Park is located on Holden Lake southeast of Nanaimo. There is a network of shady forested trails, including a main trail running alongside the lake, and a bird viewing platform overlooking a marsh, approximately one km from the parking lot.

You may see various types of ducks, Trumpeter swans, Bald eagles, turkey vultures and beavers.

From Cedar Road follow the signs to the park entrance.

Cable Bay Trail leads down through the cool forest to the ocean. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the mossy rocks, and watch for sea lions.

The beach itself is sandstone and is under water when the tide is in. Two kms of well-maintained trail is fairly steep on the way back up, so make sure young hikers don’t use up all their energy at the shore. Off Holden Corso Road (which becomes Barnes Road); watch for the sign.

This is a popular trail for dog walkers, but it doesn’t tend to be crowded.

Nanaimo Buttertubs Marsh Bird Sanctuary encompasses 49 acres of natural wetlands and grasslands. The 3.3-km loop of wide trail is level and perfect for strollers. You’ll make your way around a body of water buzzing with bird activity. Some ruins in the area, as well as the giant bleached remains of long-dead deciduous trees standing in the water give the marsh a wonderful ambience. No dogs allowed. 1780 Jingle Pot Road.

Pipers Lagoon Park past Departure Bay off Hammond Bay Road is a great place to walk, beachcomb, fly a kite or have a picnic. An isthmus extends out to a rocky headland, and twisting trails lead to seaside lookouts. Spread your blanket on the sandy beach or play Frisbee or Bocce on the field. The lagoon is home to a variety of seabirds, including sandpipers, loons, kingfishers, oyster catchers, horned grebes and great blue herons.

Neck Point Park is a short distance past Pipers Lagoon. This oceanside park includes forest, beaches, rocky cliffs and lookouts.

Explore the various trails criss-crossing the park, watch the boats on the ocean, do some beachcombing, and just enjoy the sea breezes

kidsinvictoria.com

and sparkling water. Go along Hammond Bay Road, past the turn-off to Pipers Lagoon, then turn onto Morningside Drive to access the park.

Oceanside The Top Bridge Trail in Parksville links Rathtrevor Beach with Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park on the scenic Englishman River.

The trail winds through public and private property, with a number of access points (a local favourite is at Industrial Way and Tuan Road). Enter from the Chattell Road trailhead and you’ll be at the suspension bridge over the river. The Information Centre at the south end of town will provide directions.

Craig’s Crossing (Parksville) to Long Beach Englishman River Falls Provincial Park offers a gorgeous stroll along a lush, forested trail lined with towering Douglas fir, cedar, hemlock and maple trees. Cross the two bridges and experience nature’s power as stunning waterfalls blast over rocks and descend down into the canyon.

Stamp Falls Provincial Park near Port Alberni is over 327 hectares of forests, rivers and waterfalls. Explore the 2 kms of hiking trails along the river, past fish ladders and crashing waterfalls. Starting in late August, spawning Sockeye salmon begin making their way up the Stamp River. The park is a 20-minute drive from town on Beaver Creek Road.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The stretch of Pacific Rim National Park between Ucluelet and Tofino boasts magnificent beaches and dramatic seascapes (and many tourists!).

Check in with the Tourist Information Centre at the Ucluelet-Tofino-Port Alberni Junction to find out about trails, beaches, eateries and activities, and to pay the national park fee ($19.60 per family). pc.gc.ca The Wild Pacific Trail in Pacific Rim Park.

Follow the cliff-edges along the extreme outer coast, including the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse site. You’ll be able to view the ocean’s fury from the protection of the trail and from viewing platforms situated at the best headlands along the route. You’ll also be awed by the gigantic nurse-logs, raised root systems, mosses, fungi, lichens and ferns. The trail is presently divided into three sections: Lighthouse Loop, Big Beach and Brown’s Beach.

Lighthouse Loop of the Wild Pacific Trail is 2.5 kms long and can be walked in a 30-45 minute loop using the adjoining He-Tin-Kis Park boardwalk. The trail is wide enough for 2-3 people to walk side by side. Includes frequent viewpoints and benches for watching whales, birds or catching the sunset. Visit IslandParent.ca

SUMMER FUN IN SAANICH With Victoria’s only wave pool complete with pirate ship and waterfall plus the Wibit inflatable obstacle course, tarzan swing and diving boards, Saanich Commonwealth Place has Funs Swims covered.

We’ve also got a tot pool for the little ones and hot tub, steamroom and sauna for everyone’s relaxation.

Join us for daily 1-4pm Fun Swims all summer.

The excitement never ends during the Gordon Head Recreation Centre Fun Swims running daily all summer. Challenge yourself on our H-Zillerator or Gladiator Run or try your hand at our climbing wall. The opportunities are endless and the FUN never ends! Call Gordon Head at 250-475-7100 for Fun Swim times.

G.R. Pearkes Recreation Centre's ice comes back-in on July 12. We have a variety of fun summer themed skates suitable for all ages including a Hawaiian Day and Sports Jersey Day. Join us for a variety of $3.00 drop-in skate dates - a great way to beat the summer heat!

At Cedar Hill Recreation Centre, have a blast this summer getting hands-on with racquet sports or arts!

Camps for kids and youth introduce skills and activities in a fun, supportive environment with knowledgable instructors. Try your hand at badminton, squash, ping pong, tennis and golf! Explore painting, pottery, dance, drawing and musical theatre! Options abound for sport and creative play.

At the Cedar Hill Golf Course golf and racquet camps combine professional golf instruction with a variety of racquet and other sports on our courts and fields for ages 6 to 16 years old.

Play More, Get Active, Explore Nature

Beckwith Park ‘Frog Pond’

Hours of operation are: June and September 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

July 1 to Labour Day 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Visit our website saanichparks.ca for more information.

You can find all the details at our website saanichrec.ca.

Summer 2015 9

wildpacifictrail.com for maps and descriptions of the various sections.

Comox Valley

COMPREHENSIVE FAMILY DENTISTRY family centered practice extended hours evenings and weekends the latest equipment and caring staff request an appointment online

saanichdentalgroup.com 119–1591 McKenzie Ave, Victoria

250 477 7321

info@saanichdentalgroup.com

Victoria’s favourite dentists believe a healthy smile starts early. Free first visit for children under 5.

Oak & Orca Summer Program Weekly bioregional themes & cycling trips

July 6- Aug. 28

Paradise Meadows Loop Trail at Mount Washington starts adjacent to the Raven Lodge, 800 metres past the old trailhead area. A one km trail connects into the old trail system after winding its way around meadows. The Loop Trail is an easy walk of about 4.2 kms in length (1.5 hours) through sub-alpine meadows, and is suitable for all ages. You may catch glimpses of deer, black bears, eagles and marmots. You can also take a chairlift ride to the summit where you’ll see breathtaking mountain and ocean views. Other summer activities on the mountain include biking, disc golf, bungee trampoline, guided hiking tours, mini golf and more.

Lake Helen McKenzie Loop trail also begins at the Paradise Meadows trailhead in Strathcona Park. It is an easy 8-km (2-hour) walk on a boardwalk that takes you past Battleship Lake and sub-alpine meadows, and around beautiful Lake Helen McKenzie.

The trail is well marked with some views of the mountain peaks through the alpine forest. If you’re eating a picnic lunch, make sure to protect your food from the gray jaybirds. discovermountwashington.com Lazo Marsh & Wildlife Park in the Courtenay area is a shallow wetland basin of cattail and yellow flag iris. Mallards, wigeons, wood ducks and Canada geese commonly nest here. Enjoy the forested trails through mixed woodlands and surrounding marsh. Parking and access from Lazo Road. On the north side is an easy stroller-friendly hike; the southside trails go deeper into the woods and marsh conservation area.

Filberg Park includes many paths overlooking Comox Bay. Established in 1929, the old farmstead covers over 9 acres with over 100 different trees, perennials, annuals, herb gardens and rhododendrons.The site also offers a historic lodge, picnic areas and a petting zoo.

Access from Comox Avenue.

Campbell River

Oak & Orca Bioregional School

Hands-On Home-Learning

High School At Home

Ungraded K-12 School

Pre-primary School

2738 Higgins Street (Cook & Hillside) 250-383-6609

OakandOrca.ca

10

Family Summer Guide

Ripple Rock Trail is a good hike for families (although not recommended for small children), 15.5 kms north of Campbell River, just off the Island Highway (it’s well-signed). The trail is 4 kms long and includes two patches of old-growth Douglas-fir and Sitka spruce, a sandy beach and good viewpoints. Have a picnic lunch at the top of the bluff overlooking Seymour Narrows. Easy to moderate trail with a steep section.•

kidsinvictoria.com

Gadget-Friendly Parks Canada

E

ver heard of nature nerds? They’re excited about technology and nature. They use smart phones, digital cameras and GPS devices to explore and even protect nature. Turn the whole family into nature nerds this summer at these gadget-friendly Parks Canada programs.

coordinates to hidden caches near you, enter them into your phone and begin the search. You can also purchase GPS devices for geocaching.

Until September 30, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve has two geocaching adventures set up in multiple locations: Survivor Challenge and Top 10. Complete the challenges and win a beautiful geocoin.

The Trail that goes PING!

See. Snap. Upload. Identify.

Download the app from iNaturalist.org and in minutes your family can belong to a global nature project. Take photos of plants or animals anywhere and they are instantly added to a map. Online field guides and experts from around the world help with identification.

Start by observing the bugs in your backyard.

Parks Canada’s official guided-tour app, Explora, is ready for downloading onto your smart phone. Once you’ve downloaded the app, walk the Explora trails in the national park reserve.

At certain locations, you’ll hear a “ping” and maps, photos, quizzes and unique stories pop up on your phone. These GPS-triggered trail guides are designed to get the family using all their senses to explore nature.

High Tech Treasure Hunt Most smart phones have global positioning systems (GPS). Go to geocaching.com, find the IslandParent.ca

Visit the Barnyard

Milk a goat, collect the eggs, count the chicks. Free pony ride with admission.

Open Daily 10am–4pm

relax on a trail ride

Ride for 1/2 an hour or more through beautiful forests.

Reservations recommended.

Open Year round Dawn to Dusk.

Located between Parksville & Coombs at

1692 Errington Rd Ph 250-248-2408

www.tigerlilyfarm.ca

Fun! Games! New skills!

Paddlesports Summer Camps Photo: Thierry Bodson

It’s a BioBlitz!

Get outside and join Gulf Islands National Park Reserve for a project as big as nature itself.

From 4 pm Friday July 17 to 4 pm Saturday, July 18, scientists and the public will use iNaturalist to count as many different plants and animals as we can find in the park reserve on Saturna Island. Hop on a ferry and bring the family to the Saturday drop-in programs (no registration required). Divers will even bring up creatures from the deep.

Do you have a smart phone or a digital camera? Looking for something meaningful to do with your family this summer? Register as Parks Canada BioBlitz for species surveys.

Volunteer benefits include two free nights camping (Friday and Saturday, bring your own gear), a bioblitz T-shirt and two free meals. The biggest perk of all is that you will be helping with a conservation project. Volunteers must register at ParksCanadaBioblitz2015gulf islands.eventbrite.ca or call 250-654-4000.

Barnyard & trail rides

Nature Photographers Don’t have a smart phone or a GPS device, but want to try out geocaching with your family? Parks Canada Interpreters are ready with devices to loan you for a self-guided GPS Nature Photographer Adventure. Bring a camera or phone to take photos. This program takes place in July and August on Saturdays from 11 am-2 pm at Sidney Spit on Sidney Island and Sundays from 11 am-1 pm at Winter Cove on Saturna Island. Drop-in anytime, but allow an hour to complete the adventure.

for ages 8–12 DATES: July 6–10, Aug. 10–14, Aug. 24–28 WHEN: 8:30am–12:30pm WHERE: Gorge Waterway, Vic West FEE: $225 per week INFORMATION/REGISTRATION:

youthprograms@vipaddling.com All equipment provided.

All Parks Canada programs mentioned in this article are free. For details on all the nature nerd park programs go to parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands and click on “Activities.”

Paddle fun. Paddle fit. Paddle fast.

VIP-Paddlesports-IslPar-1506.indd 1

Summer2015-06-03 2015 11 12:47 PM

Tina Kelly

Hands-Wet, Hands-On

Learning

B

y way of geography and a familial connection, I had a marine

science mentor at a very young age. A well-worn path from my grandmother’s Cordova Bay beachfront house led to my great uncle’s house next door. As a high school science teacher, he was my go-to guy for consulting tide charts—which inevitably included a lesson on the moon and the sun’s influence on the sea—and answering questions about clams and geoducks I uncovered in the sandbar. All day, I mucked about on the beach, only taking a break when called in for lunch. I realize how lucky I was to have had a childhood spent seaside and my very own science teacher just a staircase up from the beach.

Don’t have your own science or nature guru? No worries—there are many centres up and down Vancouver Island with dedicated staff, many of them volunteers, keen to share their marine knowledge.

12

Family Summer Guide

kidsinvictoria.com

Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre, Port Hardy As its name suggests, the primary focus of this Centre is to support salmonid enhancement, conservation and education initiatives on Northern Vancouver Island. Described as small but full of information, the Centre allows visitors to take a tour or to take their time exploring the exhibits. Among the highlights are many fresh water aquariums (stand inside a “donut” tank for a 360° view of its inhabitants!), a small theatre with a feature movie, a dress-up costume area (who doesn’t want to dress up as a salmon fry?), microscopes for a closer look at invertebrates and juvenile salmon, and hands-on games—the “Wheel of Life” and giant Jenga. The Centre is open 10am-5pm daily from mid-May through the end of September. Tours of the Quatse hatchery are also available. thesalmoncentre.org

Discovery Passage Aquarium, Campbell River Campbell River is known as the Salmon Capital of World. In keeping with that title, the quaint little—652 square ft.—aquarium on Campbell River’s downtown waterfront highlights this species’ importance to the town’s economy, past and present. But there is much more to the surrounding sea, and this aquarium’s tanks display what’s beneath the surface in the form of rocky pools, kelp forests, and eelgrass meadows. Look for seastars, cucumbers, snails, rockfish, sculpins and many other species, some of which you have the opportunity to feel in their touchpool.

Open daily from May through September.

Visit at the end of the season and celebrate the release of the animals back into local waters. discoverypassageaquarium.ca

Deep Bay Marine Field Station, Deep Bay Approximately one hour past Nanaimo, you’ll find Vancouver Island University’s Deep Bay Marine Field Station. This Leeds Platinum certified building was designed for research but also invites the public to join in the education daily from 10am-4pm. Two large well-stocked tanks highlight animals living in sandy and rocky ecosystems. Meander down the stairs to an indoor boardwalk (made from wood harvested from trees affected by the Mountain Pine Beetle) and you may find yourselves observing science in action; from the elevated boardwalk peer into laboratories and look for interpretive signs explaining the research happening within. Kids summer camps can be booked for a day or a whole

IslandParent.ca

Summer 2015

13

Reconnect... with nature, family, friends, colleagues, yourself

week. Drop-in guided tours are also available. viu.ca/deepbay

Ucluelet Aquarium, Ucluelet

Enjoy the most extensive resort Recreation Programs on Vancouver Island!

Family Fun Package | Kids Eat Free

Call for details!

1155 Resort Drive, Parksville, BC

Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, Bamfield

TIGH-NA-MARA.COM

Usually reserved for undergraduate and graduate students, BMSC offers the public a chance to tour the facility three times a week during the summer. Check bms.bc.ca for dates and times. Alternate times may be arranged by contacting the Centre.

1-800-663-7373 or 250-248-2072

Coming up

The Ucluelet Aquarium upgraded from a “mini-aquarium” to a large permanent facility in 2012. Like the Discovery Passage Aquarium, Ucluelet is a catch-and-release facility (the former mini-Ucluelet aquarium now houses the Discovery Passage Aquarium). In March— the beginning of the season—staff collect an abundance of species to fill their 30+ tanks (including one fresh water tank for salmon fry) and upon closing for winter, the local community comes out en masse to help release them back to the wild. Priding themselves on offering up-close and personal interactions in order to generate respect, the aquarium has scavenger hunts, numerous touchpools, and hands-on labs featuring topics from algae to squid dissections, some of which are conducted outside, free for the public. Follow them on Social Media for up to date information. uclueletaquarium.org

Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay

Twist & Shout

Conceived & Written by Alex Mustakas Orchestrations & Vocal Arrangements by Robert Foster

until Aug 29

Confessions of a Paperboy

By Doug Curtis

Aug 19 - 29

Jeeves Intervenes

From the stories of P.G. Wodehouse Adapted by Margaret Raether

Sep 11 - Oct 3

Luxurious Theatre Getaways

theatre, dinner & breakfast with accommodation at the Best Western Plus Chemainus Inn

1.800.565.7738

14 Family Summer Guide

| chemainustheatre.ca

In addition to underwater estuary life, this centre also highlights the huge diversity of local marine birds. Afterall, Cowichan Bay is one of Canada’s Important Bird Areas and much of their survival depends on a healthy marine environment. Telescopes, binoculars and a wildlife viewing platform help you spot avian species. Volunteer educators, inside and out, help you with bird identification. Get hands-on with microscopes and a touchpool well-stocked with invertebrates. For all-day immersion into marine science, register kids for a summer camp. Information on special events can be found at cowichanestuary.ca.

Goldstream Park’s Nature House, Langford Visitor attendance to Goldstream may peak during the fall salmon run, but this gem is a great place to visit anytime of year. Follow the beautiful well-kept trail from the parking lot to the nature house making sure to stop and look for interesting mosses, lichens, fungi and trees; trees both alive and dead—standing kidsinvictoria.com

What once sold pop and potato chips to swimmers in the Gorge, now teaches visitors about sea cucumbers, fish and the like. The former concession in Esquimalt Gorge Park has housed the Gorge Waterway Nature House since 2008. Open weekends during the winter, the nature house summer hours are extended to 10am-4pm Thursday-Sunday. Local marine species are featured in a tank and a touchpool.

Connections between the land and the sea can be explored through a collection of natural objects—feathers, bones, and insects—and an interactive watershed model. The nature house also hosts birthday parties and leads summer camps for youth. worldfish.org.

D

sum

A

T

O

Gorge Waterway Nature House, Esquimalt

r ca m e m

Join us for camps this summer!

ps

or laying on the forest floor—offer suitable habitat for many creatures, including insects, worms and birds. The nature house displays may show some aging but well-worn educational displays only demonstrate the number of visitors who’ve tried and loved them for so many years; effective educational tools should look well used! naturehouse.ca

BR E N T W

the musical

O

debate

atre

tennis

rugby 7s

July 5-24

FIND OUT MORE AT camps.brentwood.bc.ca HOSTED BY

Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre, Sidney The 10,000 square ft. “Aquarium of the Salish Sea,” featuring more than 25 salt water habitats, turns six this summer. Visitors during July and August can look forward to longer opening hours (10am-5pm daily) and all-day programs including talks, games, and other hands-on activities. Microscopes offer up a closer look at a variety of marine invertebrates and at the popular touchpool, visitors can shake spines with a sea urchin, tickle a cucumber or be stung—safely—by an anemone. Budding biologists can dig deeper in to their curiosities about the ocean with summer camps—Barnacle Buddies (4-6 year olds) and Salish Sea School (7-11 year olds). oceandiscovery.ca Tina Kelly is the Visitor Experience Director at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre.

IslandParent.ca

2735 Mt. Baker Road, Mill Bay, BC V0R 2P1 | T 250 743.5521 | www.brentwood.bc.ca

Family Fun!

Rose Carousel Boat Tours Birthday packages Family Discovery Walk Summer Saturday Fireworks butchartgardens.com Child & Youth 250.652.5256 12 Month Passes Summer 2015

15

Great

Photo: Jen Papp

7

Serena Beck

Spray

Parks O

n a beautiful summer day, slip on your swimsuit, slop on your sun screen, pack a picnic, and head to a spray park. Most spray parks on the Island opened on the May long weekend and will stay open until the end of September.

Photo: Melissa Evans

16

Family Summer Guide

kidsinvictoria.com

1

Centennial Spray Park

This is my favourite spray park in Langford. It is conveniently open in the evenings, so your kids can cool off before bed. It doesn’t look like much, but there are tons of sprayers that turn on at different times and spray to different heights. The only structure in the spray park is a slide—which is fun if you have a bucket to pour water down the slide.

Hours: 9am-8pm Address: 2805 Carlow Road, Langford Bathroom: Yes Concession: No

Langford City Centre Splash Park

Veteran’s Memorial Spray Park

This is a small spray park and playground but it’s still big enough to have lots of fun. It also has great lighting for an evening splash. There is a basketball court, a fountain and gazebo, too.

Hours: 9am-8:30pm Address: Goldstream Ave and Veteran’s Memorial Pkwy Bathroom: Yes Concession: No

IslandParent.ca

4

This spray park contains a huge watering can, and standing under it is the equivalent to standing under a huge shower. Since it’s located in Beacon Hill Park, there are many other activities to keep you busy while you’re there—from feeding the ducks to visiting the petting zoo or playground.

You definitely need a full day here.

Hours: 8am- dusk (late June to Labour Day) Address: Beacon Hill Park, 100 Cook Street Bathroom: Yes Concession: No

25

This spray park has a huge pirate ship in the centre that squirts water (I was a little disappointed that you can’t actually go inside it). There are lots of lounging chairs, so you can relax while your kids play. If you’re a Langford resident, admission is free. Otherwise it is $3 per child.

Hours: 10am-4pm, weather permitting Address: 1097 Langford Pkwy, Langford Bathroom: Yes Concession: Yes

3

The Watering Garden

Oak Bay Rotary Water Park

This spray park and playground have a fence around the perimeter, so your kids can explore within a boundary. The water train is lots of fun to sit in, and water usually pools in the middle of the spray area.

My son loves floating toy boats and rubber duckies under the bridges.

Hours: until June 30: weekends only 9am-5pm July to September: daily 10am-6pm Address: Carnavon Park, 2801 Henderson Road Bathroom: Yes Concession: No

6

Ladysmith Centennial Spray Park

This spray park is in front of Transfer Beach, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds by watching your kids play while you enjoy the ocean view. There is a whale structure that contains a long series of sprayers to run under and a bucket that fills up and dumps water.

There are picnic tables, benches and lots of trees for shade.

Hours: 10am-dusk Address: 200 Transfer Beach Blvd Bathroom: Yes Concession: Yes

7

Lion’s Venture Land Water Park

This is a huge playground and water park in Parksville with everything you could ever want: slides, a zip line, and swing sets including a wheel chair accessible swing. The spray park has a waterslide that goes faster than it looks. There is a whale and butterflies that spray water as well as two movable water sprayers and a lion head water fountain. New to the water park this year is a bucket that dumps water. This is the largest outdoor spray park and playground that I’ve been to and it’s great to go from playground to spray park to the beach all in one day.

Hours: 9am-8pm Address: Parksville Community Park, Corfield St N and Island Hwy E Bathroom: Yes Concession: Yes

Serena Beck works from home as a technical writer and loves spending time with her family at the beach. serenabeck.com

Summer 2015 17

A Parent’s Mission F

18 Family Summer Guide

ort Rodd Hill.

Look around you. The 360˚ panoramic view of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca provide the perfect backdrop for kids to run and explore their surroundings, while parents immerse themselves in stories from the past and grandparents relax on nearby benches.

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites make it easy for the whole family to spend valuable time together.

and reminded of the beauty of Arbutus trees when strolling down the Historic Nature Trail.

Take time to reconnect with your family over a picnic, a Frisbee or croquet game, or better yet an Airsoft Challenge. Get suited-up in military and safety gear and try your hand at target practice with a World War II replica Airsoft gun. Or pick-up an Xplorer activity book geared for children 6 to 12 and let them share with you in their own words and drawings why they like this place so much.

Children love exploring, playing and just being silly. The Fort offers endless opportunities for kids to explore strategically hidden military buildings, play hide-and-seek in underground tunnels, and participate in dress-up activities.

Inside the lighthouse, they can play new stateof-the-art video games and see if they have what it takes to steer a 19th-century schooner or a present-day naval patrol vessel into the harbour.

They will also be intrigued by an old-fashioned game of checkers—or “draughts” as the old British lighthouse keepers would say.

While children are entertained, grown-ups can redirect their attention to other interests.

History or cultural buffs with either a military or West Coast interest can wander, satisfying their curiosity. The site’s new audio tour reveals fascinating stories that capture everyone’s attention; kids love to hear about the young ones who once lived here. Those drawn to nature will be dazzled by the colour of native flowers in the Garry Oak Learning Meadow,

An annual Fort Rodd Hill pass for $24.50 will allow you to return for events including the Historical Timeline Event in June, Canada Day in July, the biggest water gun battle in August, or the antique car shows during the July and September festivals. Or, stay for an overnighter. Soldiers’ families used to camp here in the early 1900s. Now you can camp here too; the oTENTik cabins are equipped with everything you’ll need for an easy getaway.

All you’ll need to bring is your bedding and food, everything else is provided—heat and power included.

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites aren’t stodgy old museums. They are a places where families can have fun exploring while learning. And that means, parents, your mission is accomplished!

For more information on the park’s new offers this season and all other programs and events, go to parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf or call 1-866-944-1744. kidsinvictoria.com

Must-See Attractions Maybe you want to play tourist in your own town or show your visiting relatives the sights. Maybe you want to learn something new or keep the kids occupied on a rainy day. There are lots of fun and family-friendly attractions on the Island.

Victoria

Is Your Will Up To Date?

Services provided for your family: • Real Estate Transactions • Mortgage Refinancing • Wills • Powers of Attorney

Sabrina Hanousek, BA Notary Public

• Travel Consent Letters Member 250-382-8880 sabrina@notariesondouglas.com www.notariesondouglas.com 201–2610 Douglas Street, Victoria

Performing Arts School since 1980

ch o o l S e r P r e S umm C l a s spe s & s p m a C u Da n c e nths and for ages

18 mo

Even the littlest angel can dance For more information call 250-384-3267 or email us at stagesdance@shaw.ca or visit us at www.stagesdance.com 20 Family Summer Guide

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is engaging, challenging and inspiring. Along with the regular exhibitions and the gift shop, don’t miss the 28th annual TD Art Gallery PaintIn (Saturday, July 18) for Victoria’s favourite outdoor studio along Moss Street from the gallery to the ocean. A diverse range of over 150 painters, printmakers, sculptors, potters and other artists from the region will demonstrate their art and artistic process. 11am-5pm. At the Paint-In, the gallery will be open 10am-6pm, the Food and Beverage Garden from 11am9pm, and dancing to Kumbia from 5-9pm. aggv.bc.ca or 250-384-4171.

Craigdarroch Castle. Use your floor map to take a tour and learn about the Dunsmuir family’s history. Climb the 87 stairs through the 4 1⁄2 stories as you discover the castle’s 39 rooms lavishly furnished in the style of the 1890s to 1900s period. Get to the tower to see panoramic views of Victoria, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains.

Step back in time and experience the life and times of the very rich and famous. Open daily June 15-Sept 6, 9am-7pm. thecastle.ca or 250-592-5323.

IMAX Theatre in the Royal BC Museum offers an incredible immersive cinematic experience with a projected area of more than six stories high and 85' wide along with crystal-clear images and wraparound digital chair-shaking surround sound. Victoria IMAX transports you in a way no other film experience can and lets you feel like you’re part of the movie. This summer, catch Humpback Whales, Born to Be Wild, and Gold Fever, among other movies. For more details, visit imaxvictoria.com or see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

Mattick’s Farm Mini Golf offers one spacious 18-hole miniature golf (putting) course located in a beautiful treed setting next to Cordova Bay Golf Course at Mattick’s Farm, 5325 Cordova Bay Road. The course is both tranquil and beautiful as it winds through the forest floor. Be wary of the resident dragon and mind the pixies who frequent the Hobbit House and hide behind the toadstools. Visit matticksfarm.com for more information.

Miniature World, located within the Empress Hotel, has been called The Greatest Little Show On Earth, with over 80 miniature

scenes. See the world’s smallest operational sawmill, marvel at two of the world’s largest doll houses, experience one of the world’s largest model railroads, visit the wonderful world of the circus, take a spaceship to the stars, travel through the Enchanted Valley of Castles and more. 649 Humboldt Street. For more details, visit miniature world.com, or phone 250-385-9731.

It’s the summer of Gold Rush! El Dorado in BC at the Royal BC Museum. Through interactive displays, rare artifacts and an international perspective, the Gold Rush! exhibition showcases the far-reaching impact of the gold rush. Check out the dazzling Turnagain Nugget, the largest existing gold nugget from B.C., see a real stagecoach, and witness the cultural influences of gold through the Bill Reid gold box, just a sampling of the more than 400 objects on display. Also, visit the museum’s three permanent galleries that showcase the human and natural history of B.C. Open 10am-5pm (Sunday to Thursday) and from 10am-10pm on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca or 250-356-7226.

Saanich Peninsula/Sidney The Centre of the Universe is hosting Saturday night stargazing on July 18 and 25, August 1, 8, and 29, and Sept. 12 from 7:30-11pm at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, 5071 West Saanich Road. Entry gates close at 10pm and attendance is limited to 200 visitors at any one time. During the summer stargazing nights, both the Centre and the observatory will be open, with planetarium shows, lectures in the auditorium and displays.

For more information, phone 250-363-8262.

Saanich Historical Artifacts Society at 7321 Lochside Drive. Kids (and parents) can climb all over the farming equipment, see the mini railroad, a sawmill, planer mill and other artifacts at this 12-hectare site with a small lake, forest trails and pond. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on-site. Summer hours are 9:30am-4pm, June 19-Sept 17. Trains run on various days from 12-3:30pm. Book a train ride by visiting vime.ca. From Victoria, head north on the Pat Bay Highway, turn right at Island View Road, then first left onto Lochside Drive. shas.ca or 250-652-5522.

Butchart Gardens. 55 acres of breathtaking floral displays, offering spectacular views as you kidsinvictoria.com

stroll along meandering paths and expansive lawns. Explore the gardens by taking part in the self-guided Family Discovery Walk. A free worksheet guides you through the gardens and provides interesting historical details and points out features. Children can draw pictures along the way to answer questions—it’s a great way for kids to take a closer look at nature.

The Saturday evening fireworks during July and August are popular with visitors of all ages (times vary slightly as the summer progresses and it gets dark earlier, from 10:15pm in early summer to 8:45pm on Sept 5). There is musical entertainment most evenings as well as the night illuminations. The Rose Carousel in the Children’s Pavilion includes 30 animals carved from basswood. Carousel rides are $2 over the cost of admission. butchartgardens. com or 250-652-5256.

Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre in Sidney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the amazing ecosystem of the Salish Sea. Visit the touch pools to shake hands with a sea urchin, see the huge aquaria teeming with marine life, learn about essential life forms such as algae, plankton and amazing jellies. The Centre, located on the waterfront off Beacon Avenue at 9811 Seaport Place, is open daily from 10am-5pm (Canada Day-Labour Day). oceandiscovery. ca or 250-665-7511.

Westshore/Metchosin to Sooke

New Kids Dentist

Dr. Anita Gadzinska-Myers

is a Board Certified Specialist in Pediatric Dentistry and has a Fellowship in Special Needs Dentistry for children • Accepting new patients now (infants to teenagers) • Referral not needed • Member of Cleft Lip and Palate Team

Special Services:

short wait list • intravenous sedation • hospital dentistry • nitrous oxide

Victoria Pediatric Dental Centre 206–1830 Oak Bay Ave

www.victoriapediatricdentalcentre.ca

250-383-2133

Emmanuel Preschool

Emmanuel Preschool

2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road (by entrance to UVic)

Openings forHill 2013–2014 2121 Cedar Cross RoadClasses! (by entrance to UVic) Children through ininclusive, our all inclusive, Children learnlearn through play in play our all non-denominational Christian preschool. non-denominational Christian preschool.

Great facility; outdoor play area a gym rainy for day play!

Great facility; outdoor playand area andfor a gym Two teachers with ECE certification plus assistant teachers to day play!

Twochildren. teachers with ECE certification helprainy with special needs plus an assistant help with special needs A competent and caringteacher teachingtoteam! children. A competent and caring teaching team!

Opportunities: Classes for 2015–2016:

Mon / Wed / Fri morning class Mon/Wed/Fri morning class Tues / Thurs morning class Tues/Thurs morning class 5 mornings a week Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site.

5 mornings a week Explore gun batteries and underground magaPhone 250-598-0573 zines built a century ago to defend Victoria Phone 250-598-0573 preschool@emmanuelvictoria.ca and the Esquimalt Naval Base. Step inside preschool@emmanuelvictoria.ca www.emmanuelpreschool.ca the first lighthouse built on the West Coast www.emmanuelpreschool.ca and check out exhibits about ships wrecked and lives saved. Picnic on the grass or at the beach and watch the ships and wildlife while you eat. 10am-5:30pm daily. pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/ bc/fortroddhill/index.aspx or 250-478-5849.

For something different and exhilarating, try soaring at up to 60 km/hr over the forest on a zipline. AdrenaLINE Zipline Adventure Tours in Sooke offers a multistage zipline Our award winning sailing school will get course, consisting of eight distinct but linked rides, two suspension bridges, and an ATV water where the horizon is the limit! ride. There’s also Night Zipping and FullSailing to WIN! Sailing for LIFE! Moon Zipping. Trained guides emphasize safety and comfort, ensuring a ride full of thrills, awesome beauty and fond memories.

You’ll also learn about the local ecology and wildlife while zipping through the 100 acres 3475 Ripon Rd ! (250) 592-6113 of coastal temperate forest. Minimum age is 5. adrenalinezip.com or 250-642-1933. sailing@rvyc.ca ! www.rvyc.ca City Centre Park in Langford is an exciting family playland with mini-golf, a play

Discover the Sailor in You at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club!

Just off Beach Drive!

IslandParent.ca

you on the

Early bird Register pricing until April 30th Now!

Summer 2015 21

zone and a splash park for the kids. The play zone has three stories of mining-themed play equipment, where children can climb, slide, swing and crawl. Parents can relax with a coffee or snack in the parents’ section while children burn off energy under staff supervision. eagleridgecentre.com or 250-391-1738.

Cowichan Valley The Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre in Duncan is a great place to learn about Cowichan First Nations cultural traditions and legends.

Enjoy interpretive tours where you’ll learn about the legends, teachings and stories of the Cowichan Tribes, traditional artwork, carving and knitting. There are also opportunities to see First Nations dancing and sample First Nations cuisine. khowutzun.com/qccc or 250-746-8119.

The BC Forest Discovery Centre just north of Duncan. Visit this tribute to the forest that includes 100 acres of indoor and outdoor exhibits and a bird sanctuary. Ride on the narrow gauge steam train, and tour an old logging camp. Bring a picnic lunch, watch a demonstration, or come for a special event (Canada Day July 1, B.C. Day Aug 3, Labour Day celerations Sept 5, 6 and 7). Summer season from June 1-Sept 7, open 7 days a week from 10am-4:30pm. Steam locomotive on

weekends starting June 20. bcforestdiscovery centre.com or 250-715-1113.

Nanaimo Nanaimo District Museum showcases Nanaimo’s early history as a coal mining town and port, explores the impact of forestry on the region, depicts daily life in a traditional First Nations longhouse, celebrates the town’s athletes and musicians, and includes more exhibits. Children’s programs are offered during the summer. Located in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, 100 Museum Way. Open 10am-5pm daily until Sept 7. nanaimo museum.ca or 250-753-1821.

Oceanside The Coombs Country Market is along Highway 4A, on the way to Port Alberni from Parksville or Nanaimo, less than 5 minutes away from Butterfly World. Wander the market, unique shops, galleries and studios for gifts, groceries and great food. Enjoy a selection of home-cooked treats and meals, as well as international foods. There’s lots to see. Be sure to look up when you’re outside the market—the goats on the sod roof live there throughout the summer. oldcountrymarket.com.

Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park offers a variety of caving tours, from gentle explo-

Mini-Golf Mattick’s Farm

Challenging 18 Hole Course Fun for All Ages • Groups Welcome

 Birthday Parties  Family Reunions  Church Groups  Clubs/Teams

For more info see: matticksfarm.com 5325 Cordova Bay Road • 250-658-4053 22 Family Summer Guide

rations to adrenalin-pumping adventures down a 7-storey waterfall. Cave tours vary in length, and you can choose from guided or self-guided—make sure you bring warm clothing that can be layered as it’s chillier in the caves than you might expect. You can also enjoy rock climbing, canoe or kayak rentals, hiking, and more. Allow 45 minutes from Parksville, north on Highway 19 or 19A. hornelake.com, 250-248-7829. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

Port Alberni The McLean Mill National Historic Site operates the only remaining commercial steamoperated sawmill in Canada. From a viewing platform, watch raw logs being trimmed and cut into lumber for sale. Costumed docents will be on hand to guide you around the site.

There are children’s activities, a restaurant and a gift shop. Open Thursday-Sunday, 10:30am5:15pm. Also check out the Maritime Discovery Centre and the Alberni Valley Museum while in the area. alberniheritage.com.

Comox Valley Courtenay Museum. Hands-on discovery as you search for prehistoric fossils on the Puntledge River with experienced guides. Fossil tours by appointment. Summer hours until Labour Day: 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday; noon-4pm Sunday and Monday. Stop by and check out the Courtenay and District Museum and Paleontology Centre with its massive Elasmosaur exhibit. courtenaymuseum.ca or 250-334-0686.

Campbell River Campbell River Museum. See the First Nations history and art, pioneer history, a native plant garden, and learn about floathouse living and the salmon industry. Bring your lunch to enjoy in the picnic area. Open daily during the summer from 10am-5pm. crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103.

Pacific Rim The Kwisitis Visitor Centre near Tofino acts as a museum, exhibition and information center for Pacific Rim National Park. The outside deck is the perfect year-round spot to view whales, storms and surfers alike. Inside the centre, you’ll find new exhibits about the land, sea, sky and people of the area. See the First Nations canoes, tools, various works of art, and interactive displays. There is also a small gift shop and a restaurant facing the beach.

Trails lead to South Beach and Florencia Bay. pc.gc.ca/pacificrim.• kidsinvictoria.com

Gold Fever!

T

he Royal BC Museum’s major summer exhibition, Gold Rush! El Dorado in BC, tells the fascinating stories of adventure, heartbreak and social upheaval surrounding the gold rushes of the mid-1800s.

In 1858, word of gold rang out in British Columbia’s Fraser Canyon, setting off a dramatic migration of people and propelling this once remote region of western North America into the modern age.

Through original objects, archival photographs, interactive displays and more, Gold Rush! explores new perspectives on this thrilling chapter of history. From global trends to the points of view of those with

personalities with this guided tour and see some of Victoria’s legendary and lesserknown sites that served the miners of ’58.

Participants will take on the persona of a real historical figure from B.C.’s gold rushes and make choices along the walking tour route that determine their fate. Tours depart from the Royal BC Museum.

For a full schedule visit royalbcmuseum. bc.ca. Pre-registration is required. Does not include feature exhibition admission.

B.C. is known for its spectacular nature, but few of us are aware of the many species under threat. Through hands-on education, Species at Risk, the new travelling exhibi-

their hands in the dirt, the exhibition offers a new and comprehensive take on the greed and grit that would come to shape a province and unite a nation.

School may be out for summer, but there’s no reason families can’t learn a thing or two, and have fun doing it, at the Royal BC Museum.

Young prospectors—ages 7 to 11—will set out to strike it rich with Camp Gold Rush, this year’s series of interactive weeklong summer day camps at the Royal BC Museum. Campers will experience the highs and lows of the search for gold as they explore the museum galleries, head behind the scenes, and set out into the community Register online (royalbcmuseum.bc.ca) or at the Royal BC Museum box office.

For families wanting to dig deeper into Gold Rush!, come and think on your feet with the Gold Fever Trail Walking Tour.

Walk in the footsteps of early gold rush

tion from the Royal BC Museum, looks at why and how certain species are at risk, and what their loss could mean.

Housed in a re-made trailer and accompanied by skilled interpreters, Species at Risk will be a fun and illuminating mobile museum for summer camps, community museums and other partners throughout the province.

In July and August, Species at Risk travel throughout the Lower Mainland and then into the Okanagan region. See the exhibition for yourself and help give it a proper send off at Wonder Sunday, on June 28 at 1 pm.

Gold Rush! El Dorado in BC is on at the Royal BC Museum until October 31. Learn more at gold.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

IslandParent.ca

Tickets for Gold Rush! El Dorado in BC are available in advance, online or at the Royal BC Museum Box Office. For more information visit royalbcmuseum.bc.ca or call 1-888-447-7977.

Summer 2015 23

10 Fun Things to Do in Parksville-Qualicum

1

Lighthouse Country Beaches

Arrowsmith CPR Regional Trail

4

North of Qualicum Beach, the beaches become narrower, the golden sand replaced by sprawling beds of wave-washed rock.

Tougher on the toes, perhaps, but a great spot that will make an amateur marine biologist out of every member of the family. Turn over larger stones and watch the hermit crabs scuttle away. And keep your eyes peeled, these northern beaches are prime for beachcombing.

Nile Creek Estuary, near Bowser, is a rarely visited pebble beach with great views of the Chrome Island lighthouse. Sea lions, seals, cruise ships and even the rare passing pod of killer whales are among the sights, and that makes binoculars and a digital camera essential.

The historic Arrowsmith CPR Regional Trail was built in 1912 by the Canadian Pacific Railway to service guests at its Cameron Lake Resort. The trail winds uphill from Highway 4 through private forest lands to the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District’s park, which was previously a ski hill.

It takes about four hours to get to the old ski hill, and about halfway up there is a fantastic view of the lush land below. The entire trail is about 10 km with an elevation gain of 1,000 meters.

Park at the Cameron Lake day-use area and cross the highway to access the trailhead.

Qualicum Beach Heritage Forest

Horne Lake Regional Park is an excellent base camp to start your adventures. This mountain jewel boasts crystal-clear water, spectacular lakefront campsites and great family adventures.

Campers are free to explore on their own, rent canoes or kayaks, join a guided cave tour or just relax on the beach. Hike, bike, look for wildlife or drop a fishing line into a well-stocked lake.

25

Take a walk in the Heritage Forest of Qualicum Beach, 50 acres of rare remnant old growth forest— a mixture of Coastal Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar, Hemlock, Grand Fir and Sitka Spruce. Smile at the locals as you walk along the mulch trails and peer down a lush ravine into a salmon bearing stream. You will also discover rare and endangered plants, deer, and many species of birds.

Only five minutes from downtown, the Qualicum Beach Heritage Forest is protected by a Covenant to ensure that it remains as an ecological reserve, available to all for the purpose of observing and appreciating nature.

3

Parksville Beach

6

Rathtrevor Beach has long and wide tidal pools, making it ideal for the skimboarding. The area’s sheltered waters are perfect for stand up paddle boarding. At low tide, the ocean recedes almost a kilometre back from Rathtrevor’s shoreline.

7

Parksville Community Park, is home to a remarkable sandy Parksville Beach, a kid’s wonderland of swings, slides and water cannons in addition to great picnicking and beachfront choices.

Stroll the waterfront boardwalk and take in one of the many festivals that set up shop here, most notably the month long Parksville Beach Festival featuring the Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition and Exhibition, that draws nearly 100,000 visitors annually during July and August.

24 Family Summer Guide

Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Hamilton Marsh

Events & Festivals

No matter when you visit, the central Vancouver Island events calendar is bound to offer something of interest. There are over 140 annual events and festivals in Parksville Qualicum Beach alone.

Visit mypqb.ca/events for details.

8

Hamilton Marsh is located just minutes from the Town of Qualicum Beach. This beautiful wetland is 3 kilometers long and 1/2 kilometer wide—the largest wetland between Nanaimo, Cumberland, and Port Alberni and is surrounded by second growth forest.

Island Timberlands owns this land and allows access to the public on a use at your own risk basis.

Children, seniors, naturalists, and birdwatchers have long enjoyed Hamilton Marsh.

It is the largest water bird brood marsh on this part of Vancouver Island and it’s the largest body of water in the French Creek Watershed.

The woods surrounding it are also home to many red and blue listed species.

9

Cathedral GroveMacMillan Provincial Park

Cathedral Grove-MacMillan Provincial Park is located at the top end of Cameron Lake, only minutes from Qualicum Beach and Parksville on Highway 4 just beyond Coombs. Cathedral Grove is a BC Provincial Park preserving a section of lush old-growth forest that is unique to Vancouver Island. Plan to spend a few hours wandering Cathedral Grove’s trail system and gazing up at 800-year-old giant Douglas Fir trees. Cathedral Grove gives the visitor a sense of what Vancouver Island and the west coast looked like before the arrival of European settlers.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

10

Spectacular views await at this picturesque Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park filled with waterfalls, rock cliffs, shaded trails and swimming holes.

Walking trails meander through the park which straddles the Little Qualicum River.

Located just off Highway 4 where Cameron Lake empties into the Little Qualicum River over a series of rushing waterfalls, the Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park campground offers plenty of activities for families, and makes a great base of operations while visiting Cathedral Grove, the swimming beaches at Cameron Lake or accessing the Mt. Arrowsmith CPR regional trail.

Reprinted with permission from Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism. For more things to do, places to stay, and an events calendar, check out visitparksvillequalicumbeach.com kidsinvictoria.com

If you own, lease or otherwise occupy private property containing a glass-fronted gas burning fireplace, fireplace insert or heating stove, you should read this notice.

Under a court-approved class action settlement certain manufacturers are offering, free of charge, barriers intended to prevent burns from the hot glass fronts.

Further information is below.

NOTICE* OF SETTLEMENT APPROVAL AND CLAIMS PROCEDURE OF A CLASS ACTION INVOLVING CERTAIN GAS BURNING FIREPLACES, FIREPLACE INSERTS AND STOVES TO: ALL PERSONS IN CANADA WHO OWN, LEASE OR OTHERWISE OCCUPY PRIVATE PROPERTY CONTAINING A FIREPLACE FROM ONE OF THE SETTLING DEFENDANTS DESCRIBED BELOW CERTIFICATION A lawsuit commenced in British Columbia has been certified as a class action against CANADIAN HEATING PRODUCTS INC., MILES INDUSTRIES LTD., MONESSEN HEARTH CANADA, INC., and MONESSEN HEARTH SYSTEMS COMPANY (doing business as VERMONT CASTINGS GROUP) (the “Settling Defendants”), by the Supreme Court of British Columbia (the “Court”).

WHAT IS THE LAWSUIT? It is an action concerning the risk of burns from contacting the hot glass fronts of some gas burning fireplaces.

WHAT IS THE SETTLEMENT? The British Columbia Supreme Court has approved a settlement under which the Settling Defendants have agreed to provide, free of charge, barrier screens or screen kits for certain of their Fireplaces to reduce the burn risk.

WHO IS INCLUDED IN THE SETTLEMENT? Class Members are all persons in British Columbia, plus all persons elsewhere in Canada who choose to “opt in”, who have one of the Settling Defendants’ gas fireplaces, inserts or stoves (“Fireplaces”) in their home that was installed between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2014.

If you live in British Columbia and have such a Fireplace you are automatically included in the class action settlement. If you live elsewhere in Canada you may choose to opt into the settlement. You should immediately review the full legal notice in this matter to ensure that you understand your legal rights. Further details on the proposed settlement and on opting in are available via the telephone numbers and email and website addresses set out in this notice.

Claim Forms and Opt in requests MUST BE SUBMITTED

by June 6, 2016. If your communication is not received in time it may not be considered valid.

WHAT DOES COURT APPROVAL MEAN? Class Members are bound by the settlement. Notice of the proposed settlement was published in April and May, 2015. The settlement was approved by the Court on May 26, 2015.

WHERE CAN I OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION, OR OBTAIN A FIREPLACE BARRIER OR SCREEN? Class Members should contact: Crawford Class Action Services (the “Administrator”) Suite 3–505, 133 Weber Street North Waterloo, ON N2J 3G9 Toll Free: 1-877-739-8933 Fax: 1-888-842-1332 Email: fireplaceclassaction@crawco.ca DO I NEED TO PAY ANYTHING TO PARTICIPATE? No. You do not need to pay any money to participate in the settlement. Class members pay nothing. The lawyers appointed by the Court to represent the Class will be paid by the defendants under the settlement.

WHO ARE THE LAWYERS FOR THE CLASS? The following law firm represents the plaintiffs and the class, and will answer questions about the class action: Farris, Vaughan, Wills & Murphy LLP, 25th Floor, 700 West Georgia Street, Vancouver B.C. V7Y1B3 Contact fireplaceclassaction@farris.com Or Mike Wagner @ 604-661-9388 or Robert Anderson, QC @ 604-661-9372 (*) This Notice is just a summary. For more detailed information, including a list of all defendants and the definitions used in this Notice, please go to www.fireplaceclassaction.com or contact the Administrator listed above, or contact the lawyers above.

Do Not Contact the Court about this Notice.

For any questions, please contact the Administrator or the lawyers listed above

THIS NOTICE HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE BRITISH COLUMBIA SUPREME COURT IslandParent.ca

Summer 2015 25

Paisley Aiken

Teaching Books A

s the long days of summer slog by and little minds become mushy on an overdose of marshmallows, ice cream and a lack of sleep, they may appreciate being prodded into thought through some more “educational” books.

Though non-fiction books aren’t always fun to read out loud, many kids love flipping through them, looking at pictures and fact finding. I find if I leave these books lying around, the kids will often pick them up and spend time exploring, especially if there are gripping pictures.

Chris Earley has a new series of picture books meant to engage kids in the natural world. His Weird Frogs and Weird Birds (Firefly Books, 2014) books are stunning, and almost impossible to put down. Photos of frogs and birds fill the pages, displaying the animals’ colours, adaptations and distinct characteristics.

Each photo is accompanied by a short caption that explains a little about the animal. Young naturalists or artists will love flipping through this treasure.

Every Day is Malala Day, (Second Story Press, 2014) by Rosemary McCarney is a simple book

26 Family Summer Guide

that provides a gentle way to introduce ideas about inequality, activism and international differences. This is a photo-driven book and will motivate young kids to think globally and it may get them interested in learning more about what part they play in the world. While it does give some background to Malala Yousafzai—the Nobel Peace Prize-winning activist who as a young girl defied and was shot by the Taliban for demanding that girls be allowed to receive an education—the book is hopeful and motivating.

Citizen Kid has a collection of books meant to inform kids about the world around them.

Topics include the environment, water, and even micro-finance. The Red Bicycle, (Kids Can Press, 2015) by Jude Isabella, tells the story of an American boy who has outgrown his beloved red bike and decides to donate it to an organization that brings bikes to Ghana, Africa. The book shows how the bike is used in Ghana and what benefit it has. More and more organizations are empowering people in developing nations by providing bicycles, enabling them to use them for work, to get to school when they wouldn’t

otherwise be able to, and even in providing emergency relief in situations such as the recent earthquake in Nepal. The Citizen Kid books can be a little wordy, but this one is worth a read and a discussion. Perhaps it’ll even help your reader appreciate their bike a little bit more.

If you have a young boy in your house, chances are you’ve already read your share of dinosaur books. I remember one book I read over and over that was so absolutely painful each and every time (sorry to any dinosaur enthusiasts out there). The last thing you may think you need is another dinosaur book. However, your kids will like this one. Dinosaur from Head to Tail (Kids Can Press, 2015) by Stacey Roderick and Kwanchai Moriya engages kids with closeup illustrations of a small part of the dinosaur and then asking them to guess what dinosaur it belonged to. On the following page there is just enough information to satisfy young fact finders without overwhelming them. The illustrations are great, vibrant and bright. They look like they have been cut out and pasted on a backdrop. I am guessing that this book will be one of those ones that kids will want to read over and over and over again.

Down to Earth: How Kids Help Feed the World (Orca Footprints, 2013) is written by local author Nikki Tate. Tate is a well-known fiction author (and a former Book Nook columnist!)

kidsinvictoria.com

but this book is non-fiction, exploring different aspects of farming, and the impact it has on the world. Scattered throughout are little riddles to help engage kids. Some of it may be too text heavy for younger readers, but there are interesting pictures and facts that may even teach adults something new. Did you know that the chicken is the closest living relative to the Tyrannosaurus rex? This is a great book for anyone interested in animals, farming, food and sustainability.

I wouldn’t have picked Top 10 For Boys (Firefly Books, 2013) by Paul Terry for my kids, but was surprised by how many hours my kids spent poring over it when it landed in our house. I am not sure if the book can be completely classified as “educational,” but it is jam packed with facts, including things like the highest paid actors, the cities most at risk of flooding, the oldest surviving species, and the top 10 movies based on people’s lives. Touching on pretty much any topic you can think of, this book will appeal to kids with all kinds of interests.

Guided Nature Walks & Hikes, Drop-In Events, Canoeing Most are free, all are fun!

Nature Outings & Events That Pique Your Natural Curiosity For Nature Lovers of All Ages, For Every Season

There is a whole world of natural and cultural history to explore at our nature centres at Witty’s Lagoon, Francis/King and Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Parks.

Calendar of activities at crd.bc.ca/parks Capital Regional District | Regional Parks crdparks@crd.bc.ca 250.478.3344 A History of Just About Everything (Kids Can Press, 2013), by Elizabeth MacLeod, Frieda Wishinsky and Qin Leng, walks through human history from 6,000,000 BCE to 2011. It is a bit dense, and perhaps too text heavy for many, however, it does give concise, brief overviews of many of the major ideas, movements and events that have shaped our history. While kids might not sit and read it cover to cover, there are fascinating facts, explained in a kid-friendly, accessible way, that may just intrigue and grip the imagination of your reader.

Paisley Aiken reads extensively to her three energetic young boys. She is founder of The Story Studio Writing Society, a charity that grows kids’ relationships with literacy.

IslandParent.ca

Nanaimo's downtown destination for Children’s Toys and Books Specializing in books for babies, toddlers, easy to read and kids to 12 years!

Playmobil, Brio & Thomas Trains, Folkmanis Puppets, Puzzles, Craft & Science Kits, Toys from Baby to Tween!

www.childrenstreehouse.ca 306–60 Commercial St, Nanaimo

250-714-0026

childtreehouse@hotmail.com

FREE PARKING, under the convention centre. Spots #80–91 for our customers.

Summer 2015

27

Generously Sponsored by

and

Summer Calendar of Events JULY WED 1 CAnADA DAY CELEBRATIonS Victoria Celebrates Canada Day in the Inner Harbour. Programs, international food village, and spectacular fireworks. Family-friendly. VictoriaCanadaDay.ca.

Gorge Canada Day Picnic at Gorge Waterway Park and Craigflower-Kosapsom Park. Pancake breakfast, family parade, artisan market, Gorge on Art, busker’s corner, Strawberry Tea, canoe rides, kids’ activities, and music. 8:30am-4pm.

Free. gorgecanadaday.ca.

Canada Day at Fort Rodd Hill & Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site. Canada Day’s biggest birthday cake. Come join the excitement.

Live music, activities, food and snacks. Free.

10am-5:30pm. 603 Fort Rodd Hill Rd. Canada Day Celebrations in Chemainus. Petting zoo, pony rides, games, cake, live music, and more. 11am-3pm.

Canada Day Celebration at Courtenay Museum.

Cupcake walk, make a special Canada Day craft to take home, prizes, face painting, and live music. Noon-4pm.

28

Family Summer Guide

Saturna Lamb BBQ at Winter Cove, Saturna Island. Play games and win prizes. Learn traditional skills from the Coast Salish guest. Free. 10am4:30pm. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or visitparkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.

THURS 2 Seals! Seals! at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists any time between 10am-2pm to see Tower Point’s most avid sun worshippers and swimming enthusiasts—the harbour seals. Binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Park at the Olympic View Drive parking lot and follow the ‘seal signs’ to Tower Point and look for the blue tent. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

FRI 3 Feeling Crabby at Island View Beach Regional Park. Red, green, purple, hairy, hermit crabs.

Drop in between 11am-2pm to meet some of these crabs and their crusty cousins. There’ll be an aquarium, a crab craft and an opportunity to explore the beach with buckets and dip nets.

Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Look for the blue tent on the beach off Homathko Rd. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Build It! Collage at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Be inspired by this year’s Summer Reading Club theme to create your own mixed-media collage with Andrea Soos from the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Paws and Tales at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Read to a friendly dog, learn about dogs who assist people, and how to be a great dog owner with volunteers and their furry companions from the Pacific Animal Therapy Society Paws and Tales program. 10:30-11:30am. For ages 5-8. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

SAT 4 Heroes Inc. of Victoria at Esquimalt & Juan de Fuca Branch Libraries. Kapow! There’s a superhero at the library! Listen to stories and jokes, colour a superhero, and have your superhero questions answered by one or more of your favourite superhero characters. For kids and families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. Esquimalt Branch: 10:3011am; Juan de Fuca Branch: 2-2:30pm.

What’s That? Ask a Nat! at Island View Beach Regional Park. Explore low tide and all the marine critters it reveals. Borrow dip nets and ask CRD Regional Parks naturalists to identify your treasures. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Look for the blue tent on the beach off Homathko Rd. 11am-2pm drop in. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Community Carnival in Rudd Park. Come for fun music and a game-filled summer afternoon.

Kids can play carnival games for tickets and prize bags, have their face painted, play tug-o-war, or join in the sack races. By-donation concession stand. Draws with prizes for the adults. Hosted

by Lighthouse Church. lighthousechurch.ca.

Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery.

Drop-in art making program. All materials provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied

kidsinvictoria.com

by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation.

250-287-2261. crartgallery.ca.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Lego Building Workshop at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Learn Lego building techniques and design ideas in a fun interactive workshop using basic Lego bricks. For ages 10-12. 2-4pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Paws and Tales at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See FRI 3 for details. 10:30-11:30am.

For ages 5-8. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

mon 6 The Beach Rocks! at Island View Beach Regional Park. The tide is out! Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and get a glimpse of the creatures that live beneath the rocks. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd. 12:30-2pm. All ages. 250-4783344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Origami Monsters at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Join us for monster stories and crafts.

Create your own origami monster to take home using a few simple art supplies. For ages 6-9.

1:30-2:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Djembe Drumming at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Got rhythm? Try your hand at the African Djembe with Canadian percussionist Matthew Hodgins from Drumming Solutions. For ages 7-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register online at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

TUES 7 Dragon & Damselflies at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. A fun and interactive program with hands-on discovery, an outside ramble, a story and craft. 10-11:30am. Pre-registration required. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/ additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child. To register, call 250-479-0211.

3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Tap Tap Bang Bang at Oak Bay Branch Library.

Explore your world with stories, songs, and activities about building and make your own paper creation. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am.

IslandParent.ca

Pizza Storytime at Esquimalt Branch Library.

Listen to mouth-watering and fun stories about pizza—then enjoy a slice of Panago Pizza! Generous support provided by Panago Pizza for this program. For ages 5-8. 11:15am-noon. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Music in the Park at Majestic Park. Music, face painting, and crafts for kids. Bring a picnic dinner, or purchase refreshments. 6-8pm. 250-475-5408.

WED 8 Insects are Everywhere at Linley Valley (parking lot), Nanaimo. Insects are fascinating creatures from grasshoppers to dragonflies. This class is going to learn about insects and where they can be found. Are insects dangerous, helpful, or just interesting? For 3 to 6-year-olds. 10-11am. $8/ person. 250-756-5200.

Paws and Tales at Central Branch Library. See FRI 3 for details. 10:30-11:30am. For ages 5-8.

Insectmania at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. They’re creepy, they’re crawly and they’re cool. Explore the fascinating world of insects and spiders. Hands-on exploration, live bugs, crafts and games. Admission by donation.

Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

Beat the Heat at Francis/King Regional Park.

Enjoy the shade of the Redleaf maples on the universally accessible Elsie King Loop trail. Join a CRD Regional parks naturalist and check out the cedar lowlands, the lush salal understory, and the cool arbutus enclaves. Strollers and wheelchairs welcome. Meet at the parking lot off Munn Rd at 1pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

TM

Super Structures at Central Saanich Branch Library. Be wowed by facts about the world’s most amazing structures and create your own super structure out of everyday materials. For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Origami Monsters Esquimalt Branch Library. See MON 6 for details. For ages 6-9. 1:30-2:30pm.

Pow Wow—Indian Bay Singers and Dancers at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Get a sneak peek of the Yellow Wolf Pow Wow is like.

The Indian Bay Singers and Dancers are coming to share some Coast Salish/Nez Pierce pow wow drumming, songs, dances and traditions. All ages welcome. 1:30-2:30pm. 250-656-0944.

The Magician’s Nephew Retold at Oak Bay Branch Library. Enter the world of Narnia. Discover the story of the lamp-post, and how the wardrobe was made in a retelling of The Magician’s Nephew by local teacher and storyteller Agnes Bartle. For ages 5-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Djembe Drumming at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See MON 6 for details. For ages 7-12.

2:30-3:30pm.

THUR 9 Forest to Seashore at Witty’s Lagoon Regional park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and follow the water course of Bilston Creek to the shoreline of Witty’s Lagoon. Learn the legend of Sitting Lady Falls, and watch for herons feeding

Summer 2015 29

in the saltmarsh. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 10am. 8+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

I Spy With My Little Eye at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Enjoy puzzling stories and songs, play guessing games and create your own imaginative craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Imagine Your Own Robot at Central Branch Library. Learn about the cool things robots can do, listen to stories about robots, and create your own robot collage! For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875).

Amazing Origami at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Discover the joyful Art of Origami. Join local origami enthusiast Stephen Tran for lessons in paper folding—ornaments, action models or just having fun. No cutting, or gluing, just folds pure and simple. All materials provided.

Ages 7+ 1:30-2:30pm. Spaces are limited; please register by calling 250-656-0944.

Super Structures at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED 8 for details. For ages 5-12.

1:30-2:30pm.

FRI 10 Rockin’ Robots at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library.

Listen to stories and songs about robots and enjoy a fun paper craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Hoot, Howl, Hum at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. For details, see “Ongoing.”

Lego at the Library at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego. Bring your own Lego for a takehome project. For ages 7-10. 2:30-3:30pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Djembe Drumming at Oak Bay Branch Library.

30 Family Summer Guide

See MON 6 for details. For ages 7-12. 2:303:30pm.

FRI 10 – SUN 12 Nanaimo Dragonboat Festival at Maffeo Sutton Park. Pancake breakfast, candle ceremony, multicultural performances and more. nanaimodragonboat.com.

SAT 11 Heroes Inc. of Victoria at Oak Bay Branch Library.

See SAT 4 for details. For children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. 10:30-11am.

Paddlesports for Families at Vic West Community Association. Have you ever been in a dragon boat, outrigger or sprint kayak, or wanted to try?

Drop-in sessions for parents and youth aged 8-12 teach boat skills, and offer fun challenges for the whole family. All equipment provided. 1-4pm. $10/parent & child (additional family members $5/each). vipaddling.com.

Family Felting at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library.

Have a fuzzy felting experience with Renée Sala from Crafty School of Art and create your own hand-made felt sheet, felt marbles, and felted soaps to take home. For ages 5-12 and accompanying adult. 1:30-3pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Crafts for Tweens & Teens with Angel: Modern Macramé at Saanich Centennial Branch Library.

Learn basic macramé techniques and create your own simple macramé bracelet with Angel in this fun two-part workshop that won’t leave you tied up in knots. For ages 10-18. 2-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Evening Campfire at the Beach at Island View Beach Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an evening of games, stories and good old-fashioned s’mores. Bring a beach chair and meet at the campfire ring at the Island View Beach campground off Homathko Rd at 7pm.

All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

SAT 11 & SUN 12 Festival Mexicano in Centennial Square. Professional Latin music and dance performances, traditional Mexican food, craft vendors, workshops, dance lessons, games and pinatas. Noon-5pm.

Free. victoriamexicancanadian.org.

SAT 10 – SUN AUG 16 Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition at Parksville Community Park. Watch the carving on Friday at 2pm.

Judging on Sunday from 3-5pm, with winners announced at approximately 5:30pm. Gated exhibition open 9am-9pm until August 16. Bring your own buckets and shovels to create a little sandcastle magic of your own after viewing the sculptures. parksvillebeachfest.ca.

SUN 12 Saanich Strawberry Festival at Beaver Lake Park.

Enjoy an old-style family picnic at the beach, or take part in a wide range of free family activities. Stage entertainment, and children’s section.

Strawberries and Ice Cream starts at 1-3pm.

Tickets can be purchased from 11am-2:30pm for $.50/serving. 11am-3pm. Free. 250-475-5558.

Learn to Fish at Brannen Lake Dock. Learn about fish identification, conservation, handling, tackle and rod rigging. All equipment provided, and program runs rain or shine. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For children 5-15 years old. 1-3pm. Free. 250-756-5200.

mon 13 Sensational Seaweeds at Island View Beach Regional Parks. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help you discover how important marine algae is for you and me and the creatures that call them home. Seaweed-tasting optional. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd at 10am. 8+ years. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

kidsinvictoria.com

幸 LUCKY LUCKY 運V ILLAGE VILLAGE 村

Pizza Storytime at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See TUES 7 for details. For ages 5-8.

11:15am-noon.

Detective in Training at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Explore mystery stories and crack a case with a simple detective assignment.

For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

CHINESE CHINESE & & JAPANESE JAPANESE RESTAURANT RESTAURANT

luckyvillage.ca luckyvillage.ca

ラ ッ キ ー 村

Delivery 10am to 10pm

TUES 14

Greater Greater Victoria, Victoria, Langford Langford & & Colwood Colwood

Terrific Turtles at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES 7 for details. 1011:30am. Pre-registration required. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child.

To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Free Shuttle

Lunch Lunch & Dinner Dinner

Open & Canada Day All Holidays

Animal Architecture at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary will introduce us to some critters that build. Investigate why these animals build, how they build, and how they can inspire us. Ages 5+. 1:30-2:30pm. Spaces are limited; please call 250-656-0944 to register.

Buffet

778-406-2238 778-406-2238

100 100 Aldersmith Aldersmith Pl. Pl. off off Admirals Admirals Rd. Rd.

幸 LUCKY 運 VILLAGE 村

Acting Out! Endless Imagination at Oak Bay Branch Library. Explore your imagination Acting Out-style. Use improv, theatrical silliness, puppets, costumes and music in this fun program with Jennifer Callioux (Theatre B.A.) For ages 8-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

CHINESE CHINESE & & JAPANESE JAPANESE RESTAURANT RESTAURANT

luckyvillage.ca luckyvillage.ca

ラ ッ キ ー 村

Delivery 10am to 10pm

Roald Dahl

By Dramatized by Richard R. George

Greater Greater Victoria, Victoria, Langford Langford & & Colwood Colwood

Music in the Park at Brydon. See TUES 7 for details. 6-8pm. 250-475-5408.

Moon Walk at Coles Bay Regional Park. When the moon is new and the tide is low, down to Coles Bay we’ll go. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to look for marine creatures like crabs, sea stars and the elusive moon snail. Be prepared to get your feet and clothes wet (wear shorts and sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk in the parking lot off Inverness Rd at 10:30am. 5+ years.

250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Illustration by Quentin Blake

WED 15

Lunch Lunch & Dinner Dinner

Buffet

Buffet Jul 18 - Aug778-406-2238 15 chemainustheatre.ca KidzPlay

778-406-2238

100 100 Aldersmith Aldersmith Pl. Pl. off off Admirals Admirals Rd. Rd.

Join a Champion – Gorge Soccer Association Registration is currently open for the fall 2015/16 season

Origami Monsters Emily Carr Branch Library. See MON 6 for details. For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am.

Youth Soccer: 4 – 17 years old Senior Soccer: 17 – 70+ years old

Super Structures at Central Branch Library.

See WED 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 10:3011:30am.

Story Buddies: Tween Volunteers at Central Saanich Branch Library. If you want to help young children with early literacy skills, we need you!

Story Buddies tween volunteers pair with young children aged 4-6 to make an original story book.

Training provided, and upon completion, a letter outlining your volunteer hours. First-time volunteers, please complete the Tween Volunteer Referral Form and register for a Story Buddies IslandParent.ca

1.800.565.7738

Questions? info@gorgesoccer.ca Online Registration Available at:

www.gorgesoccer.ca

We are a community based soccer club providing all of its members with development, fun and a lifelong passion for the beautiful game.

We pride ourselves on being the oldest full service soccer club in Victoria, offering winter league play, free academies, spring league, winter futsal, and more! We are innovative, player-centric, responsive to our members’ needs, community-minded, and accepting of all players. A player will never be turned away due to lack of fees (external and internal grants available).

In-person Registration: Saturdays 9am–11am, Hampton Park Clubhouse (258 Hampton Road)

Summer 2015 31

Training Session. For ages 10-12. 2:15-3:30pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875).

Story Buddies: Little Buddies at Central Saanich Branch Library. Make your own original book, even if you can’t read or write yet! Story Buddies pairs young children with volunteer tweens for creative writing and illustration fun. Your Big Buddy will write down your story, and then you will illustrate it together. For ages 4-6. Please notify the GVPL in advance if your child is unable to attend. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875).

Animal Architecture at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Did you know? Animals are nature’s architects. Investigate how animals build structures and learn why they do it with staff from Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. For ages 5-10. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL. Acting Out! Endless Imagination at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See TUES 12 for details. For ages 8-12. 2:30-3:30pm.

Sno Cone Swim at Ravensong Aquatic Centre.

Join us as we turn up the tunes and turn on the sno cone machine for you to taste your favourite treat. Everyone welcome. 6:30-8pm. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks 250-752-5014 or visit rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

WED 15 – FRI 17 Vacation Bible Camp at City Lights Church. Get ready for exciting wilderness thrills in a National Park themed camp. Camp is hosted by Lighthouse Church. 1-4pm daily. 550 Obed St.

THUR 16 Rockin’ Robots at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See FRI 10 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:3am.

Origami Monsters at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See MON 6 for details. For ages 6-9.

1:30-2:30pm.

Super Structures at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm.

Science Venture: Mythbusters! at Esquimalt Branch Library. Use science to discover the truth behind wonders in our world from walking on eggs to walking on water. For ages 7-12. 1:30-3pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL.

FRI 17 Marine Day at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists for this celebration of our precious marine environment. Scuba divers will bring up creatures from the deep. Live displays. Play marine bingo, join in a beach seine, and more. Drop by any time between 10am-1pm.

Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals

K-10 Distributed Learning

or beach shoes). Meet on the main beach. Park in the main parking lot off Metchosin Rd and follow the 20-minute forest trail to the beach.

Beach access closed from Witty Beach Rd. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

French storytime for Kids at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Enjoy a French language storytime with the Victoria Chapter of Canadian Parents for French (CPF) and learn about French resources GVPL has to support emergent readers. Perfect for French Immersion families. For ages 5-8. Coffee and cookies will be served.

10:30-11:15am. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Tap Tap Bang Bang at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See TUES 7 for details. For ages 3-5.

10:30-11:30am.

Rockin’ Robots at Goudy Branch Library. See FRI 10 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:3am.

Alien Invaders at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. For details, see “Ongoing.”

Story Buddies: Tween Volunteers at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED 15 for details For ages 10-12. 2:15-3:30pm.

Creative Collage at Esquimalt Branch Library.

Use the spaces around you as inspiration to

Hands-On Home-Learning for a Sustainable World - Special Education program available

The joy of learning - naturally.

http://oakandorca.ca http://oakandorca.ca 250 383 6619 888 383 6619) 250 383(1 6609

32 Family Summer Guide

- unique hands-on learning activities - support from a certified teacher - children learn at their natural pace - NEW interest-based highschool option

kidsinvictoria.com

create your own mixed-media collage with Andrea Soos from the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Electronic Clicking Bugs at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Assemble your very own electronic clicking bug. Decorate it, then let the sumo match or fashion show begin. Inspired by Makerspace Victoria. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Story Buddies: Little Buddies at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED 15 for details. For ages 4-6.

Christmas in July at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Share the magic of Christmas Hill during a fabulous guided evening hike. Enjoy the cool breezes and listen to the chorus of birds while watching the sun set from a spectacular vantage point. Sit under the boughs of Garry Oak trees and learn the legends of Christmas Hill. Suitable for families and children over 7 years. Bring a water bottle. Free, but donations appreciated. Pre-registration required. Call 250-479-0211 to register. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

FRI 17 – SAT 18 BioBlitz on Saturna Island. Help Parks Canada find and identify as many different organisms as possible in 24 hours. Work side-by-side with experts and add to the park reserve’s official species list. Join with scientists for nature activities (no registration required), or register your family as citizen scientists at iNaturalist.org.

4pm Friday to 4pm Saturday. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744.

FRI 17 – SUN 26

soaps to take home. For ages 6-9. 10:30am-noon.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Intertidal Safari at East Point, Saturna Island.

Fish with horns, sea slugs and maybe even a giant pacific octopus. What will the divers bring up from the deep? Enjoy free ice-cream courtesy of Saturna Island Parks and Recreation. Tour the Fog Alarm Building with the Saturna Island Heritage Committee. Free. 1-4pm. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.

Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery.

Drop-in art making program. All materials provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation.

250-287-2261. crartgallery.ca.

Crafts for Tweens & Teens with Angel: Modern Macramé at Saanich Centennial Branch Library.

See SAT 11 for details. For ages 10-18. 2-3:30pm.

Summer Star Parties at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. Tour the historic Plaskett telescope, astronomy lectures and presentations, music in the dome, night sky viewing, and “constellation walks”. Limited to 200 visitors for safety reasons. No parking or stopping along West Saanich Rd adjacent to the Observatory entrance. 7:30-11pm. For more info, contact president@victoria.rasc.ca.

SUN 19 National Drowning Prevention Week Kick-Off at Westwood Lake Park, Nanaimo. Water safety awareness activities and PFD demos, displays, crafts and games. 1-3pm.

mon 20 I Spy With My Little Eye at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See THURS 9 For ages 3-5.

10:30-11:30am.

Paws and Tales at Esquimalt Branch Library. See FRI 3 for details. 10:30-11:30am. For ages 5-8.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Going Batty at Francis/King Regional Park. Drop in to the Nature Centre between 11am and 2pm and join in a batty world. Enjoy a ‘bat walk’ through the park at 11:15am or 1pm with CRD Regional Parks naturalists. Meet at the Francis/ King Nature Centre off Munn Rd. All ages.

250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Music in the Park at Beckwith Park. See TUES 7 for details. 6-8pm. 250-475-5408.

WED 22 Baby Signs with Layla: a Baby Sign Language Program at Emily Carr Branch Library. Learn the basics of using nonverbal signs with babies and toddlers. Benefits may include improved communication, fewer tantrums, and cognitive and language development. For parents, educators and children ages 0-24 months. 9:15-10am.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Victoria Symphony Storytime at Central Branch Library. See TUES 21. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11am.

Reptile Day at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Scales, slithers, snakes and smiles.

Come for the annual reptile celebration and learn about all those who are scaly. Observe fabulous reptile friends, play games, make crafts and get your face painted. Admission by donation.

Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

Make, Create, Fabricate at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Time to get creative. Jenny Ambrose from Makehouse Victoria is bringing needles, thread, fabric and loads of enthusiasm.

Learn new skills and make something beautiful with your own hands. All materials provided. Ages 5+ (with adult accompaniment). 1:30-2:30pm.

Spaces are limited; please call 250-656-0944 to register.

Victoria International Busker’s Festival in Downtown Victoria. Magicians, acrobats, fire throwers, comedians, jugglers, uni-cyclists, clowns and more. Family-friendly. Noon-10pm daily. 250661-5350. victoriabuskers.com.

Detective in Training at Oak Bay Branch Library.

See MON 13 for details. For ages 5-12. 1:302:30pm.

SAT 18

Surprising Snakes at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES 8 for details. 1011:30am. Pre-registration required. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child.

To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Story Machines: Creative Story Writing for Kids at Central Branch Library. Imagine a machine that could do just about anything. Write mini-stories about crazy gadgets and what might go wrong.

For ages 7-10. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Victoria Symphony Storytime at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Meet two Victoria Symphony musicians and their puppet friend, Kathy Cadence, and hear stories told through music. Sing along and try some child-sized instruments. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11am. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Movie Making for Teens at Central Branch Library. Make your own movie using industry methods during this two-day workshop. Learn how to write a script, create a storyboard, shoot scenes and digitally edit and upload your short film. For ages 13-18. 10am-5pm. Funded by the

TD Art Gallery Paint-In on Moss Street (from Fort Street to Dallas Rd). Includes an open house at the Art Gallery from 10am-9pm. Free. 11am4pm. 1040 Moss St. 250-384-4171. aggv.bc.ca.

French storytime for Kids at Esquimalt Branch Library. See FRI 17 for details. For ages 5-8. Coffee and cookies will be served. 10:30-11:15am.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875).

Fun with Wet Felting at Central Branch Library.

Learn about the magic of wool! Join Renée Sala from Crafty School of Art and use traditional wet felting techniques to create an owl and felted IslandParent.ca

TUES 21

WED 22 & THURS 23

Summer 2015 33

Learning

Through Play

IslandLink Library Federation. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

THUR 23 I Spy With My Little Eye at Esquimalt Branch Library. See THURS 9 For ages 3-5. 10:3011:30am.

Going Buggy at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

We love ‘em, we hate ‘em. They’re fascinating, finicky and fabulous. Drop by the tents at the main Beaver Beach between 11am and 2pm for a close-up look at some of our buggy friends and foes. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-4783344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Science Venture: Mythbusters! at Central Branch Library. See THURS 16 for details. For ages 7-12. 1:30-3pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

THURS 23 & FRI 24 Movie Making for Teens at Central Branch Library.

See TUES 22 and WED 23 for details. For ages 13-18. 10am-5pm. Generously funded by the IslandLink Library Federation.

THURS 23 – SUN 26

Discover our parent-operated cooperative preschools where children (and their parents) learn through play.

Victoria Cordova Bay Preschool

cordovabaypreschool.org

Countryside Preschool

countrysidepreschool.org goldstreampreschool.com

Goldstream Preschool Gonzales Preschool

gonzalescooppreschool.com lakehillpreschool.org

Lakehill Preschool Lambrick Park Preschool

lambrickparkpreschool.ca

Lansdowne Preschool

lansdownepreschool.com oakbaypreschool.com

Oak Bay Preschool

Call (250) 655-3333

Sidney Preschool Strawberry Vale Preschool

strawberryvalepreschool.org

Outside Victoria Errington Preschool erringtonhall.bc.ca/preschol.htm Gabriola Island Preschool www.gabriolapreschool.org Call (250) 753-1939

Nanaimo Preschool Salt Spring Island Preschool

saltspringcooppreschool.com

www.vicpa.org 34 Family Summer Guide

Nanaimo Marine Festival and International Bathtub Race in Nanaimo Harbour. Many land and water events which are interesting and often spectacular to watch. Free. 250-753-RACE (7223). bathtubbing.com.

fri 24 Illustrator Jonathon Dalton: Constructing Comics at Bruce Hutchison and Nellie McClung Branch Libraries. Develop and draw characters to create your own funny comic with award-winning BC Comic creator Jonathon Dalton. For ages 7-12.

Bruce Hutchison: 10-11:30am; Nellie McClung Branch: 2-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Rockin’ Robots at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See FRI 10 for details. For ages 3-5.

10:30-11:3am. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Incredible Insects at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. For details, see “Ongoing.”

Creatures of the Summer Night at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Check out the nightlife of Swan Lake. Look for owls, bats and other nighttime creatures. Discover how these animals are adapted to their nocturnal life. For families with children over 6 years. 8-9:30pm. $4/members; $6/non-members. Pre-registration required. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

SAT 25

lot), Nanaimo. Did you know that you can find wildlife everywhere? Learn to use your senses to find wildlife. What can you find? Learn about how wildlife can hide. 10-11am. $8/person.

250-756-5200.

Heroes Inc. of Victoria at Bruce Hutchison and Saanich Centennial Branch Libraries. See SAT 4 for details. For children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. No registration required. Bruce Hutchison Branch: 10:30-11am; Saanich Centennial Branch: 2-2:30pm.

Paddlesports for Families at Vic West Community Association. See SAT 11 for details. Drop-in sessions for parents and youth aged 8-12. All equipment provided. 1-4pm. $10/parent & child (additional family members $5/each). vipaddling.com.

Needle Felted Sculptures at Oak Bay Branch Library. Learn basic needle felting techniques to create a fuzzy creature with Renée Sala from Crafty School of Art. For ages 10-12. 1:30-3pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Summer Star Parties at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT 18 for details.

7:30-11pm. For more info, contact president@ victoria.rasc.ca.

SUN 26 Learn to Fish at Brannen Lake Dock. See SUN 12 for details. All children must be accompanied by an adult. For children 5 to 15 years old. 1-3pm.

Free. 250-756-5200.

MON 27 Tap Tap Bang Bang at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See TUES 7 for details. For ages 3-5.

10:30-11:30am.

Origami Monsters Juan de Fuca Branch Library.

See MON 6 for details. For ages 6-9. 1:302:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

African Drum and Dance at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Sing, move, drum, and discover the world of African percussion and dance in this rhythmical workshop led by Wontanara Drum & Dance. For ages 6-9. 2-2:45pm. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

TUES 28 Dashing Ducks at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES 7 for details. 1011:30am.

Tap Tap Bang Bang at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See TUES 7 for details. For ages 3-5.

10:30-11:30am.

Wildlife is Everywhere at Linley Valley (parking kidsinvictoria.com

Paws and Tales at Oak Bay Branch Library. See FRI 3 for details. 10:30-11:30am. For ages 5-8.

Rockin’ Robots at Central Branch Library. See FRI 10 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:3am.

Rascally Raccoons at Mill Hill Regional Park. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will lead you on a raccoon trail for a day in the life of these little rascals. Meet at the info kiosk in the parking lot off Atkins Ave at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #53.

250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Make a Secret Garden at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Get ready to get your hands dirty.

Our friends at Patio Gardens are coming to get you started designing and planting your own miniature secret garden. All materials provided.

Ages 5+. 1:30-2:30pm. Spaces are limited; please call 250-656-0944 to register.

Lego at the Library at Oak Bay Branch Library. See FRI 10 for details. For ages 7-10. 1:30-2:30pm.

Detective in Training at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See MON 13 for details. For ages 5-12.

1:30-2:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

Music in the Park at Hyacinth Park. See TUES 7 for details. 6-8pm. 250-475-5408.

WED 29 Something Fishy at Island View Beach Regional Park. Head down to the beach with a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to learn about the fish that make this beach their home. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes).

Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd at 10am. 5+ years.

250-478-3344.

I Spy With My Little Eye at Emily Carr Branch Library. SeeTHURS 9 For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am.

Story Machines: Creative Story Writing for Kids at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 22 for details.

For ages 7-10. 2:30-3:30pm.

African Drum and Dance at Central Branch Library. See MON 27 for details. For ages 6-9.

2-2:45pm.

Gold Rush Fever at Juan de Fuca Branch Library.

Travel back in time to BC’s Gold Rush. Explore gold rush objects and images with a Royal BC Museum expert and use old-fashioned ink to create your own imaginative journal entry. Wear your ‘painting clothes.’ For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Animal Architecture at Nellie McClung Branch Library. See WED 15 for details. For ages 5-10.

2:30-3:30pm.

Beach Day at Coles Bay Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists to explore the fascinating marine life at Coles Bay. Drop in any time between 10am-1pm to look for sea stars, crabs, moon snails and more. Park in the parking lot off Inverness Rd, follow the wooded trail for 5 minutes, and look for the naturalists at the beach. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Rockin’ Robots at Oak Bay Branch Library. See FRI 10 for details. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:3am.

Super Structures at Juan de Fuca Branch Library.

See WED 8 for details. For ages 5-12. 1:302:30pm.

Science Venture: Mythbusters! at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See THURS 16 for details. For ages 7-12. 1:30-3pm.

FRI 31 I Spy With My Little Eye at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See THURS 9 For ages 3-5.

10:30-11:30am.

Earth Heroes at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. For details, see “Ongoing.”

Origami Monsters Central Branch Library. See MON 6 for details.

DANCE !

CREATE!

EXPLORE!

PERFORM!

play!

THUR 30

DREAM!

REGISTER NOW! 250-595-7946

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RECREATION OAK BAY SUMMER CAMPS!

recreation.oakbay.ca

Join us for a Free Celebrate Canada Event!

Friday June 26, Noon-2pm Oak Bay Municipal Hall Lawn Sneak a Peek at Your Camp Leaders in Action!

IslandParent.ca

Free BBQ • Entertainment Jumping Castle • Crafts & Games!

Summer 2015 35

Story Buddies: Tween Volunteers at Oak Bay Branch Library. For ages 6-9. 1:30-2:30pm. See WED 15 for details. For ages 10-12. 2:15-3:30pm.

Little Lego at the Library at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego. Bring your own Lego for a take-home project. Parents are encouraged to attend. For ages 4-6. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Story Buddies: Little Buddies at Oak Bay Branch Library. See WED 15 for details. For ages 4-6.

2:30-3:30pm.

AUGUST BC DAY Long weekend SAT 1 Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery.

Drop-in art making program. All materials provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation.

250-287-2261. crartgallery.ca.

Bejewelled Dragons of the Pond at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for a look at the amazing world of dragonflies. Nets and field guides will be available. Meet at the Retriever Ponds kiosk off Beaver Lake Rd at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72.

250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Summer Star Parties at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. Tours of the historic Plaskett telescope, astronomy lectures and presentations, music in the dome, night sky viewing, “constellation walks.” No parking or stopping along West Saanich Rd adjacent to the Observatory entrance.

7:30-11pm. Contact president@victoria.rasc.ca.

Galey Farms Corn Maze opens at Galey Farms.

Get lost, then find your fun in Canada’s leading 6 acre corn maze. Wind your way along the paths that lead to exciting exhibits and surprises. Climb up to the trellis to get your bearings, then down the other end to explore the fully animated Ghost Town and Haunted Mansion. 4150 Blenkinsop Rd. 250-477-5713.

SUN 2 Victoria Symphony Splash in the Inner Harbour.

Music, festivities and fireworks. Be there when Tania Miller, the Victoria Symphony and a host of special guests put on a show like no other. Kids’ activities start at 1pm, music on the main stage begins at 4pm, and the Victoria Symphony takes the stage at 7:30pm. victoriasymphony.ca/splash.

TUES 4 Going Batty at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES JULY 7 for details. 1036 Family Summer Guide

11:30am. Pre-registration required. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child.

To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Tap Tap Bang Bang at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Explore your world with stories, songs, and activities about building and make your own paper creation. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Beat the Heat at Francis/King Regional Park.

Enjoy the shade of the Redleaf maples on the universally accessible Elsie King Loop trail. Join a CRD Regional parks naturalist and check out the cedar lowlands, the lush salal understory, and the cool arbutus enclaves. Strollers and wheelchairs welcome. Meet at the parking lot off Munn Rd at 1pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Pizza Storytime at Juan de Fuca Branch Library.

Listen to mouth-watering and fun stories about pizza—then enjoy a slice of Panago Pizza! Generous support provided by Panago Pizza for this program. For ages 5-8. 11:15am-noon. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Imagine Your Own Robot at Goudy Branch Library. Learn about the cool things robots can do, listen to stories about robots, and create your own robot collage! For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Animal Architecture at Oak Bay Branch Library.

Did you know? Animals are nature’s architects.

Investigate how animals build structures and learn why they do it with staff from Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. For ages 5-10.

2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

Music in the Park at Rutledge Park. Music, face painting, and crafts for kids. Bring a picnic dinner, or purchase refreshments. 6-8pm. 250-475-5408.

WED 5 Paws and Tales at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Read to a friendly dog, learn about dogs who assist people, and how to be a great dog owner with volunteers and their furry companions from the Pacific Animal Therapy Society Paws and Tales program. 10:30-11:30am. For ages 5-8. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Animal Grossology at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Are you oozing to learn about the disgusting science of grossology? Find out about slug slime, owl pellets and even the scoop on poop. Check out worms, slugs, spiders and

scum as you learn about the secret world of the revolting. Activities and crafts that will gross you out. Admission by donation. Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

Origami Monsters at Oak Bay Branch Library.

Join us for monster stories and crafts. Create your own origami monster to take home using a few simple art supplies. For ages 6-9. 1:30-2:30pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Super Structures at Esquimalt Branch Library. Be wowed by facts about the world’s most amazing structures and create your own super structure out of everyday materials. Which structure will reign supreme? For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Imagine Your Own Robot at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. See TUES Aug 4 for details. For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm.

Lego Balloon Car Racers at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Let’s build some experimental balloon-powered Lego vehicles. Ages 5+ Everyone is welcome to watch and cheer at the final races.

1:30-2:45 with racing starting at 2:15pm. Spaces are limited; please call 250-656-0944 to register.

THUR 6 I Spy With My Little Eye at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Enjoy puzzling stories and songs, play guessing games and create your own imaginative craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Rockin’ Robots at Nellie McClung Branch Library.

Listen to stories and songs about robots and enjoy a fun paper craft. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Imaginary Cities at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Use basic shapes, bright colours and a variety of materials to create your own imaginary city or landscape with Art Gallery of Greater Victoria instructor Sandi Henrich. Supplies generously provided by the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria.

For ages 6-9. 10:30-11:30am. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Snake Day at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

CRD Regional Parks has teamed up with Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary for this slithery event. Watch snake shows, hold a snake, play a snake game and more. Drop by the tents at the main Beaver Beach any time between 11am and 2pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd. bc.ca/parks.

kidsinvictoria.com

FRI 7 Water Works at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. For details, see “Ongoing.”

Lego at the Library at Esquimalt Branch Library.

Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego. Bring your own Lego for a take-home project. For ages 7-10. 1:30-2:30pm. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Super Structures at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See WED Aug 5 for details. For ages 5-12. 1:30-2:30pm.

Creative Places at Oak Bay Branch Library. Use drawing and watercolour painting techniques to create your own imaginary city or landscape with Art Gallery of Greater Victoria instructor Sandi Henrich. Supplies generously provided by the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

SAT 8 Gorge Swim Fest at Banfield Park and Esquimalt Gorge Park. Fun and games for the young and young-at-heart to raise awareness about the warmth, cleanliness and accessibility of this inland waterway. Noon-4pm. For more info, contact Jack Meredith, 250-588-2525 or John Sanderson, 250-386-3364.

Rascally Raccoons at Devonian Regional Park.

A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will lead you on a raccoon trail for a day in the life of these little rascals. Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Atkins Ave at 1pm. All ages.

BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd. bc.ca/parks.

Paddlesports for Families at Vic West Community Association. Have you ever been in a dragon boat, outrigger or sprint kayak, or wanted to try? Drop-in sessions for parents and youth aged 8-12 teach boat skills, and fun challenges for the whole family. Equipment provided. 1-4pm. $10/ parent & child (additional family members $5/ each). vipaddling.com.

Build an Accordion Book at Central Branch Library. It zigs, it zags, it stands up on its own.

Use a simple no-sew technique and build an accordion-style book with Heather Cosidetto.

For ages 7-12. 2-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

October 3, 2015 | Come ride with us!

Family friendly bike or walk fundraiser Choose your charity to support Pick a route (10, 25 or 50 km bike or 5 km walk) Raise some funds and have a fabulous time on October 3!

Last year Victoria raised over $100,000 for charities!

Hosted by The Cridge Centre for the Family www.rideforrefuge.org/locations/Victoria Ph: 250 995 6419 or jspecht@cridge.org

Lego Building Workshop at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Learn Lego building techniques and design ideas in a fun interactive workshop using basic Lego bricks. For ages 10-12. 2-4pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL. Knit Wits for Teens at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Learn the basics of knitting and create

IslandParent.ca

Summer 2015 37

a simple neckwarmer. We supply the instructions, yarn and knitting needles. For ages 13-18.

3-4:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

Summer Star Parties at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT Aug 8 for details. Limited to 200 visitors for safety reasons. No parking or stopping along West Saanich Rd adjacent to the Observatory entrance. 7:30-11pm. For more info, contact president@victoria.rasc.ca.

SAT 8 & SUN 9 Salt Spring Garlic and Music Festival at Paradise Farm. International performers join forces with top-notch local talent. Cooking demos, garlic tasting, and farm vendors. Sat: 10:30am-8pm; Sun: 10:30am-7pm. $50/weekend pass; $30/ day pass. Proceeds go towards strengthening the vibrancy of the local music scene. 255 Musgrave, Salt Spring Island. saltspringgarlicfestival.com.

SUN 9 Cadboro Bay Festival at Gyro Park. Hands-on activities, bouncy castles, pirate school, hand drumming workshops, displays, arts & crafts stations, food and fun for the entire family.

Watch professional sand sculptors create a giant sand sculpture. Free. 11am-3pm. 250-475-5558.

Learn to Fish at Brannen Lake Dock. Learn about fish identification, conservation, handling, tackle and rod rigging. All equipment provided, and program runs rain or shine. All children must be accompanied by an adult. For children 5 to 15 years old. 1-3pm. Free. 250-756-5200.

MON 10 Paws and Tales at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See WED Aug 5 for details. 10:3011:30am. For ages 5-8.

Story Buddies: Tween Volunteers at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. If you like working with children, enjoy stories, are a fluent English speaker, and want to help young children with early literacy skills, we need you! Story Buddies tween volunteers pair with young children aged 4-6 to make an original story book. The GVPL provides training and, upon completion, a letter outlining your volunteer hours. First-time volunteers, please complete the Tween Volunteer Referral Form and register for a Story Buddies Training Session.

For ages 10-12. 2:15-3:30pm. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Story Buddies: Little Buddies at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Make your own original book, even if you can’t read or write yet! Story Buddies pairs young children with volunteer tweens for creative writing and illustration fun. Your Big Buddy will write down your story, and then you will illustrate it together. For ages 4-6. 2:3038 Family Summer Guide

3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

3pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

TUES 11

Musical Storytime for School-Aged Kids at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Join Brenda from the Victoria Conservatory of Music to explore the fun of music-making and storytelling in an action-packed session. For ages 6-8; parents and caregivers welcome. 2:30-3:15pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL.

Storytime with the Snow Queen! at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Meet the Snow Queen and Snow Princess in their royal gowns at the library. Watch the Snow Sisters from Enchanted Fables recreate their favourite Frozen fairytale, make your own royal crown to take home, and pose for a photo.

For ages 5-8. 10:30-11:30am. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Super Spiders at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES JULY 7 for details.

10-11:30am.

Pizza Storytime at Esquimalt Branch Library.

See TUES Aug 4 for details. For ages 5-8.

11:15am-noon.

Music in the Park at Rutledge Park. See TUES Aug 4 for details. 6-8pm. 250-477-3673.

WED 12 Busy Beavers at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

Bring your young ones to the shores of Elk/Beaver Lake Retriever Ponds to see an active beaver lodge built by a family of beavers. Children will have a chance to learn more about this amazing mammal and its marvellous adaptations. Meet at the Retriever Ponds kiosk off Beaver Lake Rd at 10am. 10 and under. BC Transit #70 or #72.

250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Three Little Gators Puppet Show at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Can three little gators outsmart Big-Bottomed Boar? Get ready for lots of giggles and rump wiggles in this puppet show based on Helen Katteman’s fractured fairytale.

All ages welcome. 10:30-11:15am. Please call 250-656-0944 to register.

Lego at the Library at Central Branch Library.

See FRI Aug 7 for details. For ages 7-10. 1:302:30pm.

Animal Architecture at Central Saanich Branch Library. See TUES Aug 4 for details.

THUR 13 The Amazing Race at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Challenge yourself on this ‘skill-testing’ and fun jaunt through the forest. Drop by any time between 11am and 2pm and get the scoop from a CRD Regional Parks naturalist. Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72.

250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Science Venture: Mythbusters! at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Use science to discover the truth behind wonders in our world from walking on eggs to walking on water. For ages 7-12. 1:30-

FRI 14 Musical Storytime for Preschoolers at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Join Brenda from the Victoria Conservatory of Music to explore the fun of music-making and storytelling in an action-packed session. For ages 3-5; parents and caregivers welcome. 10:30-11am. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL. Herptiles at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. For details, see “Ongoing.”

Hawaiian Holidaze at Westwood Lake Park, Nanaimo. Nanaimo’s very own tropical holiday themed party. 1-3pm.

Voiceover and Book Narration at Central Branch Library. Join professional voiceover artist Matt Cowlrich for vocal fun. Read stories aloud to bring characters to life. Make a recording and play it for the group (optional).

For ages 10-12. 1:30-3:30pm. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL.

Electronic Clicking Bugs at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Assemble your very own electronic clicking bug. Decorate it, then let the sumo match or fashion show begin. Inspired by Makerspace Victoria. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm.

Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL. Creatures of the Summer Night at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Check out the nightlife of Swan Lake. Sharpen your senses to look for owls, bats and other nighttime creatures. Using a grab bag of tricks, discover how these animals are adapted to their nocturnal life.

Suitable for families with children over 6 years.

8-9:30pm. $4/members; $6/non-members.

Pre-registration required. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

SAT 15 Sing-Along Music with Professor Trainboat at Juan de Fuca Branch Library. Sing, dance and laugh with Professor Trainboat’s energetic, interactive and educational music show. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. 10:30-11:30am. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL. Sandy Shore Explore at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an intertidal exploration and discover the strange kidsinvictoria.com

and wonderful creatures that appear between the tides. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet on the main beach.

Park in the main parking lot off Metchosin Rd and follow the 20-minute forest trail to the beach. Beach access closed from Witty Beach Rd. 10:30am-noon. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery.

Drop-in art making program. All materials provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation.

250-287-2261. cratrgallery.ca.

Build an Accordion Book at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. See SAT 8 for details. For ages 7-12. 2-3:30pm.

Knit Wits for Teens at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See SAT 8 for details. For ages 13-18.

3-4:30pm.

SUN 16 What Have You Seine Today? at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists to use a seine net and see what creatures live in the deeper reaches of the ocean. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes).

Meet on the main beach. Park in the main parking lot off Metchosin Rd and follow the 20-minute forest trail to the beach. Beach access closed from Witty Beach Rd. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Tofino Lantern Festival at Tofino Botanical Gardens. Children’s lantern parade, live music and DJs, artistic dance performances, laser light show, and fire spinning. 7-10:30pm. By donation. 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy.

mon 17 Lego Mindstorms Robotics at Esquimalt and Oak Bay Branch Libraries. Build a robot using Lego Technic and then program it to use its sensors and motors to navigate around the room with Victoria Robotics Club. For ages 10-12. Esquimalt: 10am-noon; Oak Bay: 2-4pm. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Devonian Delight at Devonian Regional Park.

You get it all on this guided walk—forest, stream, wetland and ocean. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to discover, or rediscover, this regional gem. Meet at the kiosk in the parking lot off William Head Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

TUES 18 Rockin’ Rodents at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES July 7 for details. 1011:30am. Pre-registration required. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child;

IslandParent.ca

Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child.

To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Ha-bat-itat at Francis/King Regional Park. Where do bats live? What do they eat? How can you attract these amazing animals to your neck of the woods? Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to find out. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Music in the Park at Rudd Parks. See TUES Aug 4 for details. 6-8pm. 250-477-3673.

Looking for an Adventure??

WED 19 Storytime with the Snow Queen! at Central Saanich Branch Library. See TUES Aug 11 for details. For ages 5-8. 10:30-11:30am.

Astounding Amphibians at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Who breathes through their skin, swallows using their eyeballs, and hatches from gooey eggs? Discover the wonders of amphibians through games, displays and a puppet show. Admission by donation. 250-479-0211.

3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Sno Cone Swim at Ravensong Aquatic Centre.

Join us as we turn up the tunes and turn on the sno cone machine for you to taste your favourite treat. Everyone welcome. 6:30-8pm. Phone RDN, Recreation and Parks 250-752-5014 or visit rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

THUR 20 Lego Mindstorms Robotics at Nellie McClung and Bruce Hutchison Branch Libraries. See MON 17 for details. For ages 10-12. Nellie McClung: 10am-noon; Bruce Hutchison: 2-4pm.

Little Lego at the Library at Central Branch Library. Listen to stories and have fun with the library’s Lego. Bring your own Lego for a takehome project. Parents are encouraged to attend.

For ages 4-6. 10:30-11:30am. Register at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Blood and Guts at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

They’ve got pointy teeth and sharp claws, and they don’t eat tofu! Learn more about animals that make their living by eating meat. Cougars and owls and bears—oh my. See live raptor demonstrations. Drop in at the tents at the main Beaver Beach any time between 11am and 2pm.

All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Join us for an excellent summer of Pirates, Hollywood, Masterchef, Adventure, Mad Scientist and more!

Affordable Fun for Your Kids! Spectacular Weekly Themes, Awesome Day Trips, Sports, Nature, Crafts, GAMES & MORE Ages 5-12

E: saccoordinator@cridge.org ph: (250) 995 6407 www.cridge.org/childcare/ sunfun

Electronic Clicking Bugs at Oak Bay Branch Library. See FRI Aug 14 for details. For ages 10-12. 2:30-3:30pm.

FRI 21 Once Upon a Time Puppet Show at Tillicum Centre. Celebrate the end of summer with a puppet Summer 2015 39

show at Tillicum Centre! Join library puppeteers for fun-filled stories, songs and rhymes. Look for us adjacent to Cellicon and The Source. No registration required. For young children and their families. 11-11:30am.

Earth Art at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. For details, see “Ongoing.”

Extreme Whiz Bang Wrap Party at Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Celebrate a summer full of reading. Join Glenn Kachmar for a spectacular science show. Expect chemical reactions, dangerous projectiles, unusual physics, a lot of laughs, and a few surprises. Summer Reading Club prize winners will be announced, and their will be cake for everyone. All ages welcome. 1:303pm. Please call 250-656-0944 to register.

SAT 22 Paddlesports for Families at Vic West Community Association. See SAT Aug 8 for details. Dropin sessions for parents and youth aged 8-12.

All equipment provided. 1-4pm. $10/parent & child (additional family members $5/each). vipaddling.com.

Summer Reading Club Book Parade at Central Branch Library. Bring your favourite book and carry it through an easy obstacle course in the Central Branch Courtyard. Each participant will enjoy a cupcake and fun activities. Dress up like your favourite book character to be entered into a draw for a bookstore gift certificate. For ages 12 and under. Provided in partnership with Pacific Institute for Sports Excellence and Heroes, Inc. 2-3:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

Knit Wits for Teens: Basic Hats at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Take your knitting to the next level and knit a basic hat. We supply the instructions, yarn and knitting needles. For ages 13-18.

3-4:30pm. Register at gvpl.ca or call 250-940GVPL (4875) for more info.

SUN 23 Family Paddling Race Day on the Gorge. Families will have an opportunity to race in several different events: parents against kids, families against families, and mixed teams with some of VI Paddling’s very own paddlers, who will have competed at the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival.

No prior experience in dragon boating is required.

Ribbons and prizes will be awarded. Visit the Victoria West Community Association’s website to find out how to register: victoriawest.ca/index. php/community-centre/programs/child-andyouth/871-vi-paddling-family-race-day. 10am3pm. Contact youthprograms@vipaddling.com for more info about the event.

Fab Forts! at Fort Rodd Hill & Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites. Victoria’s largest squirt gun battle is coming to the Fort. Try to Storm the Fort, then join a game of Capture the Flag or test your aim with target practice. Face painting and live music throughout the day. 11am-3:30pm. $3.90/adults; $1.90/children; $9.80/family. 603 Fort Rodd Hill. 250-478-5849.

Dragonflies at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

Come eye-to-eye with a dragonfly. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and guest naturalists from the Royal BC Museum ‘field tripper series’ for a foray into the fields to hunt for dragonflies.

Field guides and nets will be provided. There is no fee for this program, but you must pre-register as space is limited. Call 250-478-3344 by August 21 for registration and meeting location details.

5+ years. crd.bc.ca/parks.

TUES 25 Amazing Raptors at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. See TUES JULY 7 for details.

10-11:30am. Pre-registration required. Members: $12 per adult/child pair, $4/additional child; Non-members: $17/pair, $6 per additional child.

To register, call 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Learn to Swim...

Register Now for Spring or Summer Lessons

Cowichan Aquatic Centre 2653 James Street 250.746.7665

Register Online at www.northcowichan.ca

40 Family Summer Guide

Cougar Capers at Francis/King Regional Park.

Investigate the life of a cougar on this informative walk and talk with a CRD Regional Parks naturalist. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

WED 26 Island View Edibles at Island View Beach Regional Park. Enjoy the bounty of the gem of a park with CRD Regional Parks naturalists and First Nations guide. Sample herbal tea and native plant jellies and participate in a fun plant challenge. Guided plant walks offered hourly beginning at 11:15am.

Meet at the blue tent in the grassy field before the campground off Homathko Rd. 11am-2pm drop in. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

THURS 27 ‘Bear’ Necessities at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park.

We can co-exist with these magnificent forest dwellers. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to learn about the natural history of the black bear. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

FRI 28 Bountiful Berries at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist on a walk to explore for blackberries, Oregon grape berries, salal berries and more. Taste jams made from some of these natural delights. No berries to take home. Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot at 1pm. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Animal Architecture at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Centre. For details, see “Ongoing.”

SAT 29 Birds of Witty’s at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park.

For the novice and intermediate birder, join CRD Regional Parks guest naturalist Geoffrey Newell for a glimpse of some of the birds at Witty’s Lagoon in their fall migration. Bird watching is one of the fastest growing hobbies in North America. Bring binoculars if you have them. Meet at Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 9am. 9+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55.

250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Beach Snoop at Low Tide at Coles Bay Regional Park. When the tide goes out, an exciting world comes into view. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help you discover the creatures that make Coles Bay their special home. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the info kiosk in the parking lot off Inverness Rd, off Ardmore Dr at 10:30am. All ages. 250478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. kidsinvictoria.com

Super Saturdays at the Campbell River Art Gallery.

Drop-in art making program. All materials provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. 1-3pm. Admission by donation.

250-287-2261. cracrtgallery.ca.

Knit Wits for Teens: Basic Hats at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. See SAT 22 for details. For ages 13-18. 3-4:30pm.

Summer Star Parties at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT Aug 8 for details. Limited to 200 visitors for safety reasons. No parking or stopping along West Saanich Rd adjacent to the Observatory entrance. 7:30-11pm. For more info, contact president@victoria.rasc.ca.

OPEN

ONGOING BABIES, TODDLERS & PRESCHOOL

April-June Weekends & Statutory Holidays July & August Every Day September Weekends & Holidays

12 pm - 5 pm 11 am - 6 pm 12 pm - 5 pm

2207 Millstream Road, Victoria (250) 474-1961 allfun.bc.ca westernspeedway.net

Drop-in Storytimes at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Caregivers are welcome and encouraged to participate. Storytimes are free and drop-in.

Please come early to find a space. For a complete schedule of drop-in programs, visit gvpl.ca, or call the library for more info.

Summer Storytime at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Bring your littlest ones to the library on Thursday mornings for songs, rhymes, stories and movement. Stay for a snack and some socializing afterwards. Ages 0-5. Thursdays July 9-August 20, 10:15-11am. 250-656-0944.

CHILDREN Summer Reading Club 2015: Build It! at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Take part in GVPL’s Summer Reading Club. Whether you’re reading at home or on holidays, you can keep track of your reading and enjoy some incentives along the way. Staying in town? You’re invited to come for a selection of amazing library programs at branches throughout Greater Victoria. Make sure to register online for special programs and drop by your local library to pick up a self-paced reading record. For kids 12 and under. For info about the club, or to register for programs, check out gvpl.ca/src, or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Summer Reading Buddies at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Reading Buddies pairs children who need extra reading practice with teen volunteers for fun literacy-based activities. Little Buddies and Big Buddies meet for an hour daily for one week. Week-long sessions are available between July 13 and August 21 at different branch libraries throughout the summer. For children in Grades 2 to 4. Space is limited. Register online at gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

IslandParent.ca

Summer 2015 41

Summer Reading Club—Build It at Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Keep reading all summer long with the Build it SRC. Kids can pick up their reading logs, record their summer reading, and earn a medal. Programs, contests, crafts and fun for children ages 0-12 years. Starts June 25th. For more info, call 250-656-0944, or email Sidney@virl.bc.ca.

Summer Challenge at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Choose from 24 fabulous library-related activities that you can do whenever you like throughout the summer. Every challenge completed will earn you an entry into prize draws.

Everyone welcome. July 2-August 27, during opening hours. Call the library, or visit gvpl.ca/ summerchallenge for more info.

Summer Swims at Bowen Park Kin Outdoor Pool, Nanaimo. Come swim in the heated pool. 1-3pm every day until September 4. $3. 250-753-8176.

KinPool.ca.

Waterparks in Nanaimo. Open to the public 9am-8pm June to September. Departure Bay Centennial Park, Deverill Square Park, Harewood Centennial Park, Mansfield Park. All children should use parks under adult supervision. Hours subject to change. Free.

Playground Programs in Nanaimo. Drop in for free family fun. Monday and Tuesday, July 6-August

25, 10am-3pm at Mansfield Park, Carmanah Park, and Fairview Community School. Thursday and Friday, July 9-August 28, 10am-3pm at Rockridge Park, Country Hills Park, and Mansfield Park. 5-12 years old. 250-756-5200.

Nature Explorers at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. A series of 2-hour classes 1-3pm Fridays. Each class explores a different nature theme through activities, hikes experiments and more. Pre-registration required. $12/members; $18/non-members. 250-479-0211.

YOUTH Teen Volunteers Needed at the Greater Victoria Public Library. If you like working with children, enjoy reading, are a fluent English speaker and want to help emerging readers, the GVPL needs you! Volunteer for one or two hours per afternoon for one or more weeks this summer. Week-long sessions are available between July 13 and August 21 at different branch libraries throughout the summer. For ages 13-18. Register online at gvpl. ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Be a GVPL Tech Buddy at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Use your skills with computers and other new technologies to connect with someone in your community and earn volunteer hours. First-time volunteers, please complete the Teen Volunteer Referral Form and register for the

Teen Tech Buddy Training Session. July 14-17, 1:40-3pm. Register at gvpl.ca.

Teen Book Review Club at the Greater Victoria Public Library. All that and a bag of chips! Pick up your free book and a bag of chips at any GVPL branch. Review the book online, and return for free refills on the books all summer. July 2-August 27, during opening hours. For ages 13-18. Call the library, or visit gvpl.ca/teenbook for more info.

Teen Summer Challenge at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Want to win an iPad Mini? Do you like photography? Playing games? Making your own? Express your creativity by taking on the Teen Summer Challenge. Besides the grand prize, there are $50 Chapters gift cards up for grabs. Complete tasks, earn points, do cool stuff, and increase your chances. Are you up for the challenge? Ages 13-18. 250-656-0944.

FAMILIES Brentwood Bay and Tod Inlet Boat Tours from Butchart Gardens. Enjoy a 45-minute natural adventure exploring the history and wildlife of Tod Inlet and the local waters of Brentwood Bay. Boats depart from the dock every half hour starting at 11am daily (11:30am on Fireworks Saturdays). Admission to Butchart Gardens required. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. butchartgardens.com.

Register Now!

vikescamps.com | 250.472.4000 42  Family Summer Guide

kidsinvictoria.com

Geocaching on Sidney, Pender, Saturna, and Vancouver Island. Embark on a self-guided adventure to experience the park’s cultural and natural hotspots. Choose from a family-friendly treasure hunt or a more strenuous route. Each visitor to complete a route receives a limited edition geocoin. Free. Until September 30th.

1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.

Family Fun Nights in the Park in Nanaimo. Enjoy games, music, crafts, and other activities with your family. Wednesdays 3-8pm. July: Country Hills, Carmanah, and Mansfield Parks. August: Mansfield Park, Rock Ridge Park, and Fairview Community School.

Campfire Magic at McDonald Campground, Sidney. Join an interpreter and guest presenters for songs, stories, s’mores and more. Bring a flashlight, and a mug for hot chocolate. For families with children 12 and under. Please park at the adjacent Blue Heron Park and follow the signs to the campground. Meet at the group campfire ring. Free. Fridays 7-8pm in July and August.

Call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/ gulf for more info.

Sunset Wildlife Watch at East Point, Saturna Island.

Discover the wildlife of the Salish Sea and relax in the peaceful East Point sunset. Dress warmly and bring blankets, chairs and flashlights. Enjoy the talents of island musicians and storytellers.

IslandParent.ca

Meet out at the point (5 minute walk). Fridays 8-9pm in July and August. Free. For more info 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.

Recyclistas Bicycle Repair Classes at Recyclistas Bike Shop. Affordable classes twice weekly. Learn how to safely and effectively fix, maintain and rebuild bicycles. Thursdays 4-7pm, and Saturdays 1-4pm. $25/adults; $13/youth 10-18. Preregister by calling 250-418-8867. recyclistas.ca.

Victoria: A Jewish Legacy at Congregation Emanuel. Explore Canada’s oldest Synagogue in continuous use. Learn about this structure’s vibrant history. Thursdays 1pm in July and August. $10/adults; children 12 and under free.

1461 Blanshard St. congregationemanuel.ca/ tours.html.

Drop-in Saturdays at Sidney Spit, Sidney Island.

Get away to a tropical island for the day. Something for everyone—beautiful sandy beaches, nature crafts, and nets and buckets to borrow for beach fun. For a self-guided adventure, pick up your Xplorers booklet or try geocaching. Come for the day, bring your camera and a picnic. Drop in any time, but allow one hour to complete the adventure. Free. Saturdays 11am-2pm in July and August. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulfislands.

Orca News at East Point, Saturna Island. A short,

engaging update on the endangered southern resident killer whales. East Point is a prime spot for land-based whale watching. Bring a blanket or a chair. Meet out at the point (5 minute walk).

Saturdays 2-2:30pm in July and August. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada. gc.ca/gulfislands.

Concerts in the Park at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Dance, theatre and musical performances as well as community events.

Bring a blanket, or your personal lawn chair and enjoy and afternoon of free entertainment.

1:30-3:20pm, Friday, Saturday, Sundays and holiday Mondays until September 11. victoria.ca.

Moss St. Market at Sir James Douglas School.

Local organic produce, delicious food, handcrafted products and live music. Children’s activity tent. Saturdays 10am-2pm until Oct. mossstreetmarket.com.

Family Sundays at Winter Cove, Saturna Island.

Choose from two self-guided GPS Adventures: Nature Photographers or, new this summer, Nature Camera Pros. We supply the GPS devices.

You bring cameras and a picnic. Pick up your Explorers booklet. Do a nature craft. Something for everyone. Drop in any time between 11am and 1pm, but allow one hour to complete an adventure. Free. For more info, call 1-866-9441744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.•

Summer 2015 43

Julie Duhame

Traveling with Kids Travelling with children takes a little planning. Consider these tips to make your next holiday safe and relaxing for the whole family.

Healthy Families, Happy Families

Child, Youth & Family Public Health South Island Health Units Esquimalt Gulf Islands

250-519-5311 250-539-3099

(toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

Peninsula Saanich Saltspring Island Sooke Victoria West Shore

250-544-2400 250-519-5100 250-538-4880 250-642-5464 250-388-2200 250-519-3490

Central Island Health Units Duncan 250-709-3050 Ladysmith 250-755-3342 Lake Cowichan 250-749-6878 Nanaimo 250-755-3342 Nanaimo Princess Royal 250-755-3342 Parksville/Qualicum 250-947-8242 Port Alberni 250-731-1315 Tofino 250-725-4020

North Island Health Units Campbell River Courtenay Kyuquot Health Ctr ‘Namgis Health Ctr Port Hardy

250-850-2110 250-331-8520 250-332-5289 250-974-5522 250-902-6071

www.viha.ca/prevention_services/

44 Family Summer Guide

Imagine the Trip Through Your Child’s Eyes. Anticipate your child’s needs and limits. Hours spent driving or flying, hectic schedules, delayed meals and disrupted routines are hard on everyone, but especially on children.

One way to help calm stress is to explain the unknown. Mark off on a calendar when you are leaving, show pictures and describe what you will see and eat, where you will sleep, and what the climate, noise and crowds will be like.

Bring a bag of activities and diversions. Familiar toys and comfort items—plus a surprise or two—are reassuring. Favourites include crayons and paper, puzzles, books and music.

Play games together. Remember “I Spy With My Little Eye”? Also, songs, rhymes and made-up stories not only pass the time but make happy childhood memories.

Bring snacks. Children can find it hard to wait for meals or to enjoy unfamiliar foods. Bring snacks and water Fruit, veggies, rice cakes, dried fruit, fruit cups, applesauce, crackers or small boxes of dry cereal are healthy, yummy and portable.

Road Trips. Check your child’s weight to ensure they are in the right car seat. In B.C., children must be in a rear-facing car seat until they are one year and at least 20 lbs. After their first birthday, toddlers weighing 20-40 lbs ride in a forward-facing car seat. Booster seats are for children over 40 lbs until they reach their ninth birthday, or are 4'9" in height. Car seat laws vary among provinces and countries so know the rules of where you are going. If you are flying and need a car seat at your destination, it may be possible to rent one. Safety standards could be lower outside Canada so you might find it best to bring your own.

Airplane Trips. Check your airline’s regulations for travelling with children. Generally, children under two years travel free on a parent’s lap. If you prefer not to have a busy baby on your lap, ask if you can reserve a bassinet—a miniature crib that attaches to the airplane for babies up to 12.5kgs (27.5lbs). You can also buy a seat for your child, but if they are under two years old, you will need to bring their car seat. It must fit within the armrests of the airplane seat, be secured with the seat belt, and be approved for use by Transport Canada (look for the maple leaf mark).

Children two to 12 years old are not required to be in a child car seat. Consider a harness restraint system for toddlers and older children; a harness

keeps children safely in their seats and fits better than a regular seatbelt.

Health Needs. Complete a family health check: • Check that your child is up to date with all immunizations. For international travel, find out if your child needs extra immunizations or if any immunizations should be given early.

• Bring prescription medication in its original labeled container and a copy of the prescription.

• Remember your health care card and any extended health plan cards.

• Assemble a traveler’s first aid kit, including favourite band-aids, anti-motion sickness tablets, antihistamines, fever medicine, and insect repellant.

Remember that hand washing is your most important defense against illness: wash hands frequently, especially before eating and use hand sanitizer for quick clean-ups.

Travelling in the Heat. Keep children well-hydrated and cool. Young children do not sweat and regulate heat as well as adults and can quickly suffer from dehydration, heat stroke and shock. Also: • Stay out of midday and direct sun. Play in the shade.

• Give lots of fluids, breast milk or water.

Once a child is thirsty they are already getting dehydrated.

• Wear UVA/UVB sun block with SPF of at least 30, re-apply often, and wear a widebrimmed hat.

• Never leave a child in a parked car—on a hot day the temperature inside a closed car can reach 50° C (122° F) within 10 minutes.

• Cover car seats with a blanket when parked in the hot sun. Metal buckles on car seat straps can cause a burn when heated.

Scheduling. Don’t over-schedule. Coordinate travel with naps and meals and allow extra time for rest and unstructured play. Remember that while you can do your best to prepare for a relaxing holiday, the unexpected does happen— try to roll with it. Happy travels!

For more information see the Traveler’s series at healthlinkbc.ca/healthfiles/series.stm.

Julie Duhame is a Public Health Nurse at the Peninsula Health Unit, Vancouver Island Health Authority, South Island. Originally published in the 2010 Family Summer Guide kidsinvictoria.com

HAN SCOO D P CREA ED ICE M NO W AVAIL ABLE !

PLAYZONE | MINI GOLF | INFLATABLES | SUMMER CAMPS | FOOD SERVICES | SPLASH PARK

250.391.1738 | 1089 Langford Pkwy | www.citycentrepark.ca

IslandParent.ca

Summer 2015 45

Photo: Belinde Fontes • belindafontes.com

Captivating

N

Critters

ever mind the scientific studies that show how interacting with animals can elevate a person’s levels of serotonin and dopamine, which can act as a natural relaxant. Or that the companionship of an animal can offer comfort, help ease anxiety, and build self-confidence in children. Most of us already know—on an intuitive level, at least—that interacting with animals is somehow good for our health. Thankfully, Vancouver Island is loaded with options for introducing kids to furry, woolly, feathered, potbellied or even six- or eight-legged friends. Visit any or all of the following places to connect with some of the creatures that share the Island with us.

46 Family Summer Guide

kidsinvictoria.com

Victoria Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is an inexpensive and fun way to spend an afternoon outdoors with the kids. The farm’s goats, sheep, bunnies, peacocks, potbellied pigs, miniature horses and other animals are perennial family favourites. Visit the goat petting area and take part in the renowned goat stampedes at 10:10am and 5:10pm. Open daily 10am-5pm, weather permitting. Admission by donation.

Enter Beacon Hill Park from Douglas Street (turn left across from Simcoe Street). beacon hillchildrensfarm.ca Victoria Bug Zoo offers visitors an opportunity to view and experience multi-legged creatures from around the world in a safe, fun and friendly atmosphere. Get up close and personal with live giant walkingsticks, alien-eyed praying mantids, hairy tarantulas and glow-in-the-dark scorpions, to name a few.

Discover over 60 fascinating species including Canada’s largest ant farm. No matter whether you just look or are adventurous enough to hold some of the residents, you can’t help but be fascinated by this array of arachnids and friends. 631 Courtney Street, one block north of the Empress Hotel. victoriabugzoo. ca or 250-384-BUGS(2847).

Saanich/Sidney Dan’s Farm and Country Market at 2030 Bear Hill Road in Saanich is not just a source for local produce and baked goods, but also boasts a petting farm for the kids. Stop by to stock up on berries, figs and tomatoes and visit the ducks, chickens, goats, pigs, rabbits and more. Open daily 8:30am-5:30pm. dansfarm. ca. 250-652-9100.

Galey Farms Corn Maze, Market and Railway in the Blenkinsop Valley is fun for all ages. Work your way through the corn maze (open August 1) and find the Old West Town, take a hayride around the farm, learn about the history of farming, visit the petting farm filled with fuzzy friends, have fun at the playground and visit the market. 4150 Blenkinsop Road.

Open daily 10am-4pm. galeyfarms.net or 250-477-5713.

Although the Saanich Fair is not a farm, if your kids like to visit and pet farm animals, you’ll want to mark this event on your calendar.

There are 4H displays and demos, and animals to ponder and pet such as horses, donkeys, llamas, alpacas, goats, pigs, cattle, rabbits and more. There’s also food, entertainment, a midway, exhibits such as quilts, needle arts, flowers, vegetables, photography, and more. Sept 5, 6 & 7 at the fairgrounds at 1528 Stellys Cross Road. Gates open 8am-9pm. saanichfair.ca.

The Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre in SidIslandParent.ca

ney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the amazing ecosystem of the Salish Sea. Colourful aquarium habitats teem with marine life. Hundreds of fish, invertebrates and marine plants recreate the ocean and give you an underwater view that most people never see. At the touch tanks, use the one finger rule to shake hands with an urchin and be tickled by a sea star. 9811 Seaport Place. Open daily 10am-5pm. oceandiscovery. ca or 250-665-7511.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Enjoy the beauty of hundreds of exotic butterflies flying free in their own tropical rainforest environment. Wander through the orchid exhibit or carnivorous plant section. You’ll also see colourful fish and tropical birds. The on-site naturalists are full of fascinating facts and will answer your questions. 1461 Benvenuto Avenue in Brentwood Bay. Open daily 10am5pm. butterflygardens.com or 250-652-3822.

Duncan The Raptors, 10 minutes north of Duncan, invites you to meet some of the coolest birds in the world during one of the daily flying demonstrations (at 1:30pm). You can see a variety of raptors—eagles, falcons, owls, vultures and hawks—showcase their incredible flight and hunting skills free and out in the open. Many other up-close learning experiences are available. Open daily 11am-4:30pm. 1877 Herd Road. pnwraptors.com or 250-746-0372.

Parksville Little Qualicum Cheeseworks is just north of Parksville. Wander LQC’s Morningstar Farm, meet the small herd of Holstein, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, and Canadienne dairy cows and see how yummy, artisanal local cheeses are made. Visit the calf pens, the pigsty, the store, picnic area and more. Guided tours can be arranged for groups of 8 or more, or you can take your own self-guided tour around the 68 acres of beautiful working farm. Open daily 9am5pm. 403 Lowrys Road. morningstarfarm.ca or 250-954-3931.

Errington Tiger Lily Farm is located in Errington between Parksville and Coombs. At the Barn Yard you can visit lovable, huggable rabbits, portly pigs, daffy ducks, and even shy sheep. At feeding time you can help hold the bottle for the calf. Or learn how to milk a goat. Go for a trail ride and enjoy the old-time experience of horseback riding (phone ahead to book).

Admission prices include a pony ride for the kids. Open daily 10am-4pm. 1692 Errington Road. If you’re heading north from Nanaimo,

turn left onto Errington Road and follow the signs. tigerlilyfarm.ca or 250-248-2408.

Coombs The World Parrot Refuge is the largest free-flight parrot refuge in the world and is home to over 800 parrots. The refuge is an educational facility that provides a “home for life” to previously owned parrots. Bring your camera and video camera as these are colourful and talkative creatures. Located 2 minutes from the Coombs Country Market. Open daily 10am-4pm. worldparrotrefuge.org North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA), off Highway 4A near Coombs, is a rehabilitation facility, especially for raptors and black bears. The goal is to care for these animals and eventually reintroduce them into their natural environment. See magnificent eagles through one-way glass in the largest flight cage of its kind in Canada. You can also view bears, owls, falcons, hawks, swans and ravens. NIWRA offers activities and educational programs for the whole family. 1240 Leffler Road. Open daily 9am-5pm. niwra. org or 250-248-8534.

Butterfly World & Gardens, just past Coombs on Highway 4A. Stroll among hundreds of free-flying exotic butterflies, tropical birds and hummingbirds in the indoor tropical jungle. You’ll also see hundreds of exotic living orchids landscaped in a beautiful indoor water garden, a turtle pond, the Big Bug Jungle and gift shop. Open daily 10am-4pm. natureworld.com or 250-248-7026.

Comox/Courtenay The Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park on nine acres of waterfront in Comox has gardens, a tearoom, and the Hands-On Farm which is open daily to the public, 10am-4pm during the summer months. Come talk, walk and squawk with the animals, including Tennessee fainting goats, chickens, ducks, sheep, rabbits and more. Admission of $5/family helps to offset the cost of housing the animals. The farm is closed due to the Filberg Festival from July 28-August 7. filberg.com, 250-339-2715.

Seaview Game Farm in Black Creek (north of Courtenay) runs hour-long tours, starting June 20, at 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm and 3pm.

Ride on a tractor cart to visit the animals on this interactive tour of the mini farm. Feed and pet the chickens, llamas, peacocks, pigs, alpaca, Walk through the greenhouses and gardens and see what’s sprouting. If you’re not in a rush, rent the Yurt, (or “dwelling place”), and stay over night just a few metres from the ocean and public beach access. seaviewgamefarm. com or 250-337-5182.• Summer 2015 47

Party Directory Hassle Free Parties for kids & families

You’ll Flip Over Our Birthday Parties

You provide the space and food…

* Greater Victoria’s newest, largest and cleanest facility with hassle free parking for you and your guests * * Large private party rooms * * Experienced Qualified Fun Coaches * * 3 Trampolines & 40ft Tumble Trac * * Awesome Foam Pit *

We’ll provide an hour of fun with puppet shows and play

250-383-FLIP

250 472 3546 www.puppetbooth.homestead.com

www.lionspridegymnastics.com Located in Langford

paint your own ceramics studio

Dirt Bike Birthday Parties We supply everything: Bike • Gear • Riding Lesson for ages 6yrs to adults over 30 bikes to choose from

Westshore Motocross Park No experience necessary

250-896-5544

2207 Millstream Rd, Langford

New! Glass Fusion Birthday Parties!

Create a glass sun catcher or dish!

See website or phone (250)818-4543 for more details

250 590 8088 westshoremx.com 2207 Millstream Road Victoria, BC V9B 0J7 Tel: 250.590.8088 Cel: 250.893.9547

& MINI GOLF w w w.citycentrepark.ca

Langford’s #1 Party Destination m Playzone

Book Yo at Cit ur Next Pa y Cen to Ride r Learn tre Pa tywith Us! rk to you by SG POWER brought OR We C We offer a complete line of entry level dirt bikes, 50cc, an B90cc rinnongclutch and 80cc,110cc, 125cc 4 Pa 70cc, theAllbikes strokes with clutches. safety gear is supplied, from t playz rty o boots to Y helmets and everything in between. This 1.5 onephour LearnO Ride ! with Us course includes the basics of art to U yrenta ls.ca

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250.391.1738 | www.citycentrepark.ca | 1089 Langford Pkwy 48 Family Summer Guide

kidsinvictoria.com

Party Directory Birthday Parties! ~ Laser Tag ~ Human Hamster Balls ~ Booger Wars ~ Video Game Theatre ~ U:Launchers ~ Foam Party

ctoria

::

We bring the Fun2U!

Gym & Bouncy Castle, themed parties: creative kids, girl power and preschool parties from Princesses to Pirates!

Gymnastics

at Henderson Recreation Centre!

Birthdays, school funfairs, fundraising, festivals, teen groups, church groups, summer camps, sports teams, corporate groups

Call Alicia 250-661-2219 Email games2uvictoria@gmail.com Global @ www.g2u.com Facebook @ Games2u Victoria

Birthday Parties

Call 250-370-7200

Pool, Skate, or Soccer parties at Oak Bay Recreation Centre!

Call 250-595-SWIM (7946)

www.recreation.oakbay.ca

Come Fly With Us! Par-T-Perfect

Party sizes up to 18 kids

(250) 386-JUMP (5867) www.par-t-perfect.com • Indoor facility options for all your bouncy castle and inflatable requirements • School fairs/festivals and picnics • At home/indoor theme parties, i.e. Teddy Bear stuffing, craft parties • Free gift for birthday child when you mention this ad • Costumed facepainters and balloon twisters, i.e. princesses, pirates, ragdoll style clowns • Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

We supply table top cover, napkins, hats, streamers and balloons Optional character

Fun Sketches Caricatures

Two certified instructors and a host Optional character

Are you planning a birthday party? Are you looking for something exciting and new? If you are then Fun Sketches is right for you! Book Fun Sketches to make your next birthday party or summer event a time to remember with a unique keepsake to cherish for years to come.

Gymnastics games and music

Optional character

www.funsketches.com 250-589-­2607

Free t-shirt

Optional character

G Y M

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GYMNASTICS Birthday Parties

G Y M

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Our great instructors will treat you to an action packed two hours of fun and fitness in our great facility!

A

A S T I C S

0th

4 sary r Annive 2013 1973–

• 2 large decorated birthday rooms • Free T-shirt for birthday child, invitations for up to 10 children • The ONLY Inflatable Climbing Mountain with trampoline in town • Party Time now offered for many different groups (schools, daycare centres)

Book Early: 250-479-6424

#208 – 721 Vanalman Ave

(Broadmead & Royal Oak Area)

www.falcongymnastics.com

IslandParent.ca

Funtime Inflatables Vancouver Island’s #1 choice for party rentals

250-474-0597

Foam landing pit and 40' long trampoline

Optional character

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Party participants can win a FREE month

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Available Saturday & Sunday Afternoons

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We offer the largest selection of inflatables on Vancouver Island—trust your party or special event to the experts—the original bouncy castle company, serving Vancouver Island since 1990.

www.funtimeinflatables.ca

www.victoriagymnastics.com

250-380-2442 Summer 2015 49

Kathy Humphrey

Offering a wide variety of quality items for babies, kids, moms and moms to be at a fraction of the cost of new.

424 Craigflower Rd

Cooking with Sticks & Fire

K

ids love to run wild every now and then— to let their inner petits sauvages fly free, breathe fresh air, and climb random things all day long. That’s what summer is for: summer, and camping. All winter long they are cooped up in clothes and institutions, busy learning some things and doing a lot of sitting still.

When the weather gets warmer, finally, they want to get out for some warm air and an appropriate amount of sunshine, and to step out

You choose the stick—green wood, nontoxic. Scouting lore says that if the stick tastes bitter then it shouldn’t be used, and if it has a semi-sweet taste then it’s safe. I prefer to ask someone who knows these things, or bring my own toasting stick, unless there’s an obvious apple tree around. If it’s a stick from nature, you whittle the ends to a sharp point, removing enough bark to make a clean surface (and remembering to tell your very eager assistant

Victoria BC

(250) 382-5225 Over 100 new items added daily!

Does your child have difficulty reading?

• can’t read words just read earlier • letter reversal • symptoms of dyslexia • “sounds out” words but can not blend them correctly • confuses similar sounding words • avoids reading/poor speller I offer an effective program that works!

Call for more information or to arrange your individualized one-on-one tutoring solution.

Brenda Osadchy 778-440-0997

totallearningservices2014@gmail.com 50 Family Summer Guide

Monday-Friday 9:30-5:00 Saturday 10:00-5:00

of the routine as much as possible. Camping is the perfect forum for this, not the least because it allows the adults attached to the children to have some time in nature, as well. Day camping is still camping, but there’s no need to feel stress around lack of Gortex, fleece or tents.

Vancouver Island offers a plethora of easily accessible, toilet facility-enhanced spots set in the midst of old growth and ocean, and many of these places offer day-use sites as well.

Days and days of endless sunshine keep our frowns turned around, but they also dry out the ground and can put a damper on campfire plans. Portable barbeques offer an alternative.

Kids often haven’t had the chance to do a lot of cooking, and what better place to start than with a sharp stick over an open fire?

that even you weren’t allowed to whittle when you were still six years old. Then you need a fire. More foraging, this time for small sticks, dry spanish moss, and larger bits of deadwood for when it’s going.

When the fire burns down a bit, then the cooking can begin! It may take forever (or several tries, at least, because it’s quite hard to scrape ash effectively off hot dogs, and the eggs are very touchy), but there’s no rush at all. That’s truly the best part of summer: there is no rush. There’s plenty of time to sit back, hang out, and let our wild sides out.

Hot Dogs You already know how (but don’t forget tofu dogs, or other different things to try, and they’re much better not burnt to a crisp). kidsinvictoria.com

Marshmallows

Workshops Crafty Parties Drop-In Sewing Local Design Fabrics & Notions

Ditto (everyone knows s’mores, already, too).

778.432.2294 themakehouse.ca Make • Create • Fabricate themakehousevic

Toasted Cheese (Getting slightly less obvious here!)

A chunk of cheese, such as Cheddar or Gouda Crackers, ready at hand Pierce the cheese, carefully, with a very sharp stick. Toast it until gorgeously gooey and melty: smear over crackers and share as delicious appetizers, paired with grapes or crisp apple slices.

Roasted Egg 1 egg (ideally) You will need a very thin stick with a very sharp end. Using a tool with a sharp point, or a nail, carefully pierce holes in each end of the egg. Thread the stick through, and hold over the glowing embers, turning occasionally and slowly, until it’s done. (It takes a few minutes, and you will know because the feel and weight of the egg will be different from when you started.) Allow to cool slightly, and peel. Use as you would any hard-cooked egg.

833 1/2 Fort Street Victoria, BC V8W 1H6

themakehousevictoria

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Finlayson St.

St.

IslandParent.ca

Evolving With Your Family Needs

s Dougla

Kathy Humphrey lives in Victoria with her husband and two children. She tries to see cooking for a family not as a chore but as a creative outlet.

program • lovely rural location connecting children to nature

5575 West Saanich Rd (across from Red Barn Market) 250 592 4411 imhsenroll@gmail.com www.islandmontessori.com

Damper 1 cup self-raising flour 1 tsp sugar pinch salt 1 Tbsp butter 1⁄2–1 cups milk Mix flour, sugar and salt together. Rub butter into dry ingredients with fingers until it’s crumbly. Stir in milk slowly, only adding enough to get a soft, sticky dough. Divide dough into two even portions. Wind around the end of a clean stick. Cook over low flames, or coals, until well toasted (golden brown and pulling away from the stick a bit). Spread with Nutella or jam for a hot, home-away from home baked snack.

themakehousevic

Larch St.

T.J.’S

(Under Sleep Country in the REAR)

Summer 2015 51

Advertisers Directory All Fun................................... 41 Oak & Orca.....................10, 32 Art Gallery of Gr Victoria....... 7 OCEAN 98.5, The................... 19 Artistic Statement.................... 6 Park Sands........................... IBC Ballet Victoria....................... IBC Parks Canada.......................... 3 BC SPCA................................. 53 Parksville Beach Festival.......IFC Beacon Hill

Pizzeria Prima Strada........... 55

Children’s Farm............ Insert Recreation Oak Bay.............. 35

Ana Simeon

At Home in the Wild T

he other day, in breaking ground for new vegetable beds in my backyard, I found an empty wasps’ nest—a delicate honeycomb of hexagonal chambers. And just this morning on the porch steps, there was an owl pellet with a mouse tail in it. Mice are at home around here, nibbling on cedar seeds, sheltering in the tangle of grasses between the trees, bustling about on

Road—buttercup, zucchini, Tom, Ana, lupin, mouse, owl and thousands of others—occupy appropriate ecological niches and participate in the exchange of energy and nutrients unique to this place. The Japanese Maple in our front yard is an introduced species, planted by the first homeowner in 1913. For many decades now it has been as self-sufficient as any native

mouse errands in pursuit of mouse happiness.

So too are the owls and hawks, keeping the ancient predator-prey balance in the midst of the urban hubbub.

Here on the Island, we all live on the edge of the wild. Perhaps all humans do, as the wild swirls through our very genome. We carefully plant and fertilize seedlings to “create,” as we call it in typical uppity human fashion, a flower border or a kitchen garden. Yet the seedlings would perish without the free gifts of thousands of wild soil-dwelling creatures: bacteria, nematodes, beetles, worms. Imported or native, wild or domestic, all members of the biotic community on our corner of Fernwood

tree, subsisting on rainfall and sunlight and soil minerals. By contrast, our three salal shrubs, grown from native seed and then transplanted, require regular watering until they are established, which can take years. Which is wild and which is domestic?

A short bike ride to Vic West, and the display of wild nature in the city becomes even more resplendent. Sipping a latté on the terrace of Café Fantastico, I observe a dozen species in less than half an hour. A male Bewick’s Wren daringly claims a lamppost for a singing perch, then flits back into the bushes. A raccoon saunters across the shipyard parking lot. Gulls wheel and swallows swoop; geese honk as they

Blue Vista................................. 8 Regal Photography................ 23 Brentwood College................. 15 Royal BC Museum................. 26 Butchart Gardens.................. 15 Royal Victoria Yacht Club...... 21 Chemainus Community Schools.............................. 18

Saanich Commonwealth Place............................ Insert

Chemainus DBA..................... 43 Saanich Dental...................... 10 Chemainus Theatre..........14, 31 Saanich Fair...................... Insert The Children’s Treehouse....... 27 Saanich Recreation.................. 9 City Centre Park................... 45 Sailor Jack............................. 50 Crawford Class Action

Serious Coffee.......................... 7

Services............................. 25 Stages.................................8, 20 CRD Parks.............................. 27 Sylvan Learning..................... 41 The Cridge.......................37, 39 The Raptors...................... Insert Dr. Joslin, Dr. Morin

Thrifty Foods......................... 29

& Associates......................IFC Tiger Lily Farms.................... 11 Dwight School................... Insert Tigh Na Mara........................ 14 Elizabeth Buckley.................. BC TJ’s The Kiddies Store........... 51 Emmanuel Preschool............. 21 Tom Lee Music...................... 41 Footholds Therapy................... 2 Total Learning....................... 50 Gordon Head Recreation...... 55 UVic Vikes............................... 42 Gorge Soccer......................... 31 Vancouver Island High School at Vancouver

Baby Fair.......................... 45

Island University............... 54 Van Island Cooperative Preschool Association....... 34

Photo: Caspar Davis

Hillside Mall............................. 3

Horne Lake Caves............ Insert Vancouver Island IMAX.................................. Insert

Paddle Sports................... 11

Intrepid Theatre............... Insert Victoria Academy of Ballet..... 4 Island Farms.......................... 28 Victoria Bug Zoo.............. Insert Island Montessori.................. 51 Victoria Flying Club............... 37 KATS....................................... 53 Victoria Kids’ Consignment.... 56 Lifestyle Markets.................... 32 Victoria Pediatric Dental....... 21 Lucky Village.......................... 31 Victoria Recreation............... IBC Mad Science............................. 4 Victoria Voyagers............... Insert The Makehouse...................... 51 VIHA....................................... 46 Mattick’s Farm...................1, 22 Vitamin Shop......................... 17 Momease Baby Boutique.......IFC West View Plumbing Mothering Touch...................... 5

& Heating......................... 55

Nanaimo Museum.................... 6 West-Mont School.................. 53 North Cowichan Parks.......... 40 Westshore Parks & Notaries on Douglas............. 20

Recreation.................... Insert

52 Family Summer Guide

kidsinvictoria.com

fly past. At my feet, a fledgling Chipping Sparrow, nearly adult-sized, follows his mom around, shrugging his shoulders and screeching pitifully, even though there are plenty of crumbs he could pick up for himself—a well-practiced drill that the harried mom falls

FREE SUMMER TENNIS LESSONS FOR KIDS IN-NEED

Such a small thing, feeling happy to see a bird in one’s own yard.

Yet such a big thing, a convergence of many gifts.

To be held at Central Park Courts— next to Crystal Pool.

To be held at Banfield Park Courts— next to Vic West Community Centre.

1. In conjunction with Victoria Parks and Recreation.

Mondays: July 6 to Aug 24 (no class Aug 3), 4 to 6 pm

1. In conjunction with Vic West Community Centre.

Wednesdays: July 8 to Aug 26, 4 to 6 pm

for again and again. (Any similarity to readers’ own parenting experiences is a product of convergent evolution.)

Back in Fernwood, I decide the grass could do with a mow. I keep an ear out for the songbirds as I swing the scythe in a wide arc, cutting a swathe with each Tai Chi-like step. A series of trills rises above the chatter of chickadees and bushtits, a bright red gorget flashes among the leafage: a House Finch, the male of a pair that nests somewhere on the property. A moment, and he’s gone, leaving a sense of intense aliveness—in me, around me—reverberating for many minutes.

Such a small thing, feeling happy to see a bird in one’s own yard. Yet such a big thing, a convergence of many gifts. There is economic privilege, that great unmentionable, which even when worked for, flows mostly from circumstances beyond our deserving. But not even the wealthy can enjoy a rich diversity of life if it is paved over or exterminated by pesticides. The fact that we live in a city where museums and coffee shops and shipyards exist cheek-by-jowl with Great Blue Herons, resident and migratory songbirds, and the occasional black bear, is a gift that cannot be bought. It comes to us from the labour of those who came before—the Lekwungen people, who preserved the bounty of the land through countless generations, and in the more recent past, the people who worked to protect our drinking watershed, create urban parks, regulate pesticides. It behooves us all to follow their example and continue their work.

Ana Simeon is a writer and activist in Victoria.

She works for Sierra Club BC, the province’s oldest environmental group.

IslandParent.ca

— All equipment provided —

Once again KATS will be offering free instruction to the children of families with financial challenges at various locations in Victoria. Below you will find dates, times, and locations. Please contact us (preferably by email) for further info.

2. In conjunction with Quadra Village Community Centre.

Thursdays: July 9 to Aug 27, 4 to 6 pm

2. In conjunction with Burnside/Gorge Community Centre.

Mondays: July 6 to Aug 31 (no class Aug 3), 4 to 6 pm

For further information on KATS Visit our website: www.KidsAtTennis.ca Email us at: tenniskids@shaw.ca Call us at: 250-412-1406

BC SPCA Summer Camps

Victoria,*Comox, Nanaimo Campbell River, Cowichan Ages: 7-11

*one week each for ages 6& 7, 12&13 only The other seven weeks for ages 8-11.

Join us for summer camps filled with animal-themed games, activities, crafts, guest speakers, and some hands-on time with animals.

For more information and to register: spca.bc.ca/camp

Summer 2015 53

Family Getaways Feel like packing up and getting away from it all? Here are some ideas to help you with your family holiday. Enjoy seeing new sites or visiting old favourites as you leave the household chores behind.

Bring your family to Blue Vista Resort and start a new tradition.

Located steps from Bennett Bay and the Gulf Island National Reserve with its beaches and shoreline walks on Mayne Island, this Tourism BC Approved Accommodation has been catering to families for over three decades. With nine individualized housekeeping cottages to choose from and a quiet lawn with barbecues, picnic tables and a children’s play area, this small family-run resort invites you to join a tradition many families have been enjoying for years. Cabins start at under $100/night. Visit bluevistaresort.com for rates and details.

1

2

Check out the best in Canada!

Visit Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park and give your family a trip to remember. There is something for everyone—learn about the crystals, fossils and mysterious marble caverns on a fun and adventurous guided tour.

Or self-explore the smaller but more rugged caves with a map and rented helmet with headlamp. For those that prefer their adventure above ground, check Canada’s only Cave Theatre, Cave Museum and Interpretive Centre, or try a 2-hour outdoor rock rappel session.

Nearby canoe rentals and lakefront camping make Horne Lake an outdoor-lover’s dream.

3

Park Sands Beach Resort is a family-oriented RV park and campground, located downtown, on the sandy shores of Parksville Bay, beside the Community Park, with its fabulous playground, water-spray park and BMX/skateboard park.

Families have been coming here for generations to enjoy the wide expanse of sandy beach, the surrounding natural beauty, numerous recreational opportunities, like hiking, biking and golf, and our central location, which makes for easy day trips to other Island destinations. parksands.com.

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort in Parksville offers the most extensive resort recreational programs on Vancouver Island. Enjoy Kids & Family programs including: swimming and tennis lessons; flow yoga; cosmic bowling; Foodie Tour; Teen Club; Sand Sculpture Contest; Build Your Own Bear; Kids Club Drop In and so much more—we have something to suit everyone’s interests! Rediscover the natural choice for your next family getaway. tigh-na-mara.com.

1-800-663-7373•

4

Start your journey here Come do high school at university!

The High School at VIU is Nanaimo’s best kept secret!

A BC certified independent high school uniquely situated on a university campus.

The High School at VIU provides an opportunity to do your high school studies in a university setting and have access to all university resources and amenities. Experience small class sizes, individual attention, and opportunities for intercultural understanding.

Accepting students for grades 10 to 12 from the local area. #startyourjourneyhere

250.740.6317 highschool@viu.ca viu.ca/highschool 54 Family Summer Guide

kidsinvictoria.com

Full Year French Education CHILDREN AGED 3-5YRS

Full Year French Education for preschoolers combines all our favourite activities, games, crafts, and songs with the addition of French language skills development.

Sept 2015 to June 2016 Tu 12:30–2:30pm $41/month Th 12:30–2:30pm $41/month Please contact Chris Filler at 250-475-7107 or Chris.Filler@saanich.ca for more information or to register.

Reliable

— An Expert You Can Trust — Quality Work WCB Insured Competitive Rates Specializing in:

Renovations New Construction Custom Showers Hot Water Tanks Fixture Replacements Contact me today for a quote:

Travis Warren 250-886-2141 travismwarren@gmail.com IslandParent.ca

Summer 2015 55

Details, Details

Capital Regional District Parks & Trails

To find out more about travelling on Vancouver Island, visit the following websites or contact or visit the organizations.

Website: crd.bc.ca/parks Find out about 33 regional parks and trails on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands: maps, activities, rules regarding pets, feature hikes, nature programs.

Tourist Information

Visitor Info Centres

Island Weather

Tourism Vancouver Island Website: vancouverisland.travel You’ll find maps and a distance chart, information about accommodations, camping, tours, attractions, festivals, events, entertainment, parks and outdoor activities in various communities. Request free Travel Guides, view them online, or sign up for the email newsletter. Tourism Vancouver Island is on Facebook.

Sign up to log in and stay updated.

Tourism Victoria Visitor Info Centre Website: tourismvictoria.com 812 Wharf Street, Victoria 250-953-2033 Toll Free: 1-800-663-3883 Find maps, a calendar of events, a vacation guide, things to do and see, accommodation information and more.

Visitor info centres are in many communities, often located along main routes. During July and August, most centres are open 9am-5pm.

Also, most have websites with great information and links. To do some pre-trip planning, look online to find the location of specific centres (hellobc.com). Or just wait to pick up brochures and ideas when you’re on the road.

The Weather Network Website: weather.ca For weather forecasts, select “British Columbia” and click on a specific town or city, from Bamfield to Zeballos.

Marine Weather Website: weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/marine Click on the appropriate region for marine conditions and forecasts.

56 Family Summer Guide

BC Parks Discover Camping Reservation Service Website: discovercamping.ca Toll free: 1-800-689-9025 You can use the Discover Camping website to view campsite availability, reserve a site and manage your bookings. Most campsite reservations can be made up to 3 months in advance and no later than 2 days prior to your arrival date. You can also find out about service fees in the various parks and download a brochure for easy reference.

Road Conditions Drive BC Website: drivebc.ca Toll free 1-800-550-4997 For highway cams, incidents and conditions.

Ferry Information BC Ferries Information Website: bcferries.com Toll free: 1-888-BC-FERRY For routes, rates or schedules, to make a reservation or check traffic conditions.

kidsinvictoria.com

Summer camp for children ages 3 to 6 June 22nd to June 26th from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm Dates July 6th to July 24th Junior and Senior programs For more info and registration visit balletvictoria.ca 250-380-6063 www.balletvictoria.ca Paul Destrooper - Artistic Director

Hang out with us this summer!

Summer Camps at Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre victoria.ca/recreation 250.361.0732

Canada’s first STEaM Middle School opening September 2015

Elizabeth Buckley Middle School NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Hands-on, discovery-based learning infused with Science, Technology, Engineering, rts & Math.

Watch your child fall in love with learning.

STEAMschool.ca

info@steamschool.ca

250.995.6425