Family Summer Guide 2019

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Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 31 Years

FAMILY SUMMER GUIDE

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Jul 12 - A Parksvilug 18 le BC This year’s theme

Competition Jul 12―14 (doors open to public Jul 12 @ 2 pm) Exhibition Jul 15―Aug 18 Tim Hortons Summer Concert Series Jul 19―Aug 17 Fri & Sat 6:30―8:30 pm Art in the Park Jul 27 & 28 Coast Capital Savings Sculpture Light Up! Aug 16 & 17 Quality Foods Festival of Lights Aug 17 KidFest Aug 18

2 Family Summer Guide

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

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Must-See Attractions Indoors and out, these Island favourites offer a summer’s worth of fun.

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5

Family Adventures in Island Parks

Welcome

Get ready for summer adventures.

Plan a trip to Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.

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Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises

A world premiere at Royal BC Museum.

SUE FAST

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Party Directory

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Learning at the Fort Schools out…and the lessons are easy.

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The Salad Days of Summer Salads in a snap.

EMILLIE PARRISH

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Captivating Critters

Summer Photos

A sample from our annual Family Summer Guide photo contest.

Walk, talk and interact with the animals.

Measles Immunization

Making sure your kids’ shots are up-to-date.

GLENN DREXHAGE

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Details, Details

The who-what-where guide to planning your summer.

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On the Cover

Hit the Trails

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Summer sauntering.

Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 31 Years

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FAMILY SUMMER GUIDE

Cover photos for this issue were provided by the winners of our annual summer photo contest: Andrea Bingham (grand prize winner) of Owen M (5), Colin Beck of John B (6), Jen Papp of Jacob C (5), Andrea Bingham of Charlotte M (7), Mandy Auger of Sophia A.B. (6), Serena Beck of Elizabeth B (4), and Rhiza Celeste of Ed Rhian C. (6).

Thank you all for your submissions.

10 Tips for Travelling with Special Needs Kids How to cut the chaos and enjoy the ride.

YVONNE BLOMER

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Family Calendar

Jim Schneider Publisher publisher@islandparent.ca Sue Fast Editor editor@islandparent.ca Linda Frear Account Manager/Office Manager linda@islandparent.ca Kristine Wickheim Account Manager kristine@islandparent.ca Island Parent Magazine, published by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a monthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on resources and businesses for Vancouver Island families. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher.

No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. Annual mail subscriptions (12 issues) are available for $35 (GST included). Canadian Publication Mail Product Sales Agreement 40051398. ISSN 0838-5505.

4 Family Summer Guide

Island Parent Magazine

830–A Pembroke St Victoria, BC V8T 1H9 250-388-6905 islandparent.ca

IslandParent.ca

Welcome to the

Family Summer Guide 2019

A

h, summer. School’s out and the warmer, longer days stretch out before us like a sandy beach at low tide.

Although few of us will have two month’s worth of free time ahead—what with work schedules, summer camps, out-of-town guests, and life in general— we can still factor in some free time.

With a little bit of planning, you can check off the must-do’s on your family’s summer bucket list and clear the way for adventure.

Always wanted to see the tidal pools at Botanical Beach? Or the goats on the roof in Coombs? Have you ever swum with the salmon? Or seen the “bonsai” tree growing out of a submerged log at Fairy Lake?

Now’s the time.

Just keep in mind: one of the tempta-

tions when you’re on holiday is to zoom from one destination—or one activity— to the next, vowing to stop and relax once you’re there. But remember, half of the fun of summer holidays is spontaneity, giving in to the moment. So if your days start getting too busy, slow down and let some things slide. If you’re on a road trip and your kids are getting restless in the back seat or there’s something you’d love to see up close instead of from a distance just speeding by, stop.

This summer, with Vancouver Island as the backdrop, take time to enjoy the scenery and warm weather with your family. Climb a tree in one of the Island’s many provincial parks, float on an airmattress on a sun-warmed lake, or jump through a sprinkler in your backyard.

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 everything from Family Adventures in Islands Parks, 10 Tips for Travelling with Special Needs Kids, and Summer Salads, to numerous Vancouver Island activities and attractions, places to explore, walking trails suited to families, places to visit animals, photos from our annual summer photo contest, and more.

Check out Details, Details on the last page to find out specifics about parks, 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.

Creating beautiful smiles New patients always welcome Call or email us today and our dental team would be happy to assist you with an appointment

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152 – 2945 Jacklin Road • 250-474-2296 • www.westshoredental.com IslandParent.ca

July 2019 5

Photo of John B (6) by Serena Beck r

Summer E

Photos

very entry into Island Parent’s annual Family Summer Guide photo contest was cover worthy, but they wouldn’t all fit! So here is a sampling of some of the beautiful, summery photos we received. Thank you to everyone who entered.

The winner of Island Parent’s photo contest—and the Flying Squirrel Bounce Party for 10—is Andrea Bingham for her photo of Owen M (5), shown on the cover. The accompanying photos are of John B (6)

by Colin Beck, Jacob C (5) by Jen Papp, Charlotte M (7) by Andrea Bingham, Ed Rhian C (6) by Rhiza Celeste, Elizabeth B (4) by Serena Beck, and Sophia AB (6) by Mandy Auger. One more reader’s photo was used in our Captivating Critters feature on page 14: Isabelle W (6)

by Krystle Walker.

Photo of Leon L (5) and Adam Walker, by Yvonne Mendel

Photo of Becca P (5) by Bar

bara Pilling

Photo of Liam M (7), by Dana Milne

Photo of Sophia AB (6), by Mandy Auge

Photo of Isabelle W (6) and Eleanor WC

Photo of Mackinley R (6) and Glen D, by

Photo of Matthew S Ashley Howard

(2), by Gypsy Siegner

Photo by Melissa Pellegrin

(5) by Krystle Walker

Photo of Connor

D (8), by Debbi De Pape

, by Krista McLain Photo of Ryker M (8)

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 reasons to check out the following attractions on the Island.

VICTORIA The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is engaging, challenging and inspiring.

Along with regular exhibitions and the gift shop, don’t miss the 32nd annual TD Art Gallery Paint-In (Saturday, July 20) for Victoria’s favourite outdoor studio along Moss Street from the gallery to the ocean. A diverse range of over 170 painters, printmakers, sculptors, potters and other artists from the region will demonstrate their art and artistic process from 11am-4pm. Gallery open 10am-5pm.

Food and family-friendly Beer Garden 11am-6pm. aggv.bc.ca or 250-384-4171.

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 really there.

This summer, catch Vocanoes: the Fires of Creation, Great Bear Rainforest, and Superpower Dogs, among other movies.

Visit imaxvictoria.com.

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 8 Family Summer Guide

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.

Miniature World, located within the Empress Hotel, has been called The Greatest Little Show On Earth, with over 85 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 miniatureworld. com, or phone 250-385-9731.

It’s the summer of Maya: the Great Jaguar Rises at the Royal BC Museum. This exhibition features Maya civilization past and present. On the heels of last year’s record-breaking Egypt: The Time of Pharaohs, this major new feature spotlights the mystery, legacy and resilience of another of the world’s great civilizations: the Maya of Central America. Discover a powerful culture that rose in the tropical rainforests of Guatemala thousands of years ago, and learn how science and belief shaped the Maya identity from ancient times to present day. 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 250356-7226.

PENINSULA The Centre of the Universe is hosting Saturday Summer Star Parties on July 6, 13, 20, and 27, August 3, 10, 17, and 24, and 31, at 7:30pm at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, 5071 West Saanich Road. During the summer stargazing nights, both the Centre and the Observatory will be open, with planetarium shows, lectures in the auditorium and displays. Entry gates close at 10pm and attendance is limited and admission is by ticket only. Tickets are free and will be available during the week preceding each Saturday evening from the EventBrite site at summerstarparties.eventbrite.ca.

Saanich Historical Artifacts Society at 7321 Lochside Drive. Kids (and parents) can climb on 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 9am-4pm. Trains run on various days in July and August. For dates and to book a train ride, visit vime. ca. From Victoria, head north on the Pat IslandParent.ca

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 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 Aug 31). 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 Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and

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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. There are a variety of workshops and classes to choose from, guided tours, scavenger hunts, Tot Tuesdays, and Sea Shirt Sundays, along with other kids’ activities. The Centre, located on the waterfront off Beacon Avenue at 9811 Seaport Place, is open daily from 10am5pm (until Sept 2). salishseacentre.org or 250-665-7511.

WESTSHORE Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site.

Explore gun batteries and underground magazines built a century ago to defend Victoria and the Esquimalt Naval Base.

Step inside the first lighthouse built on the West Coast 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-5pm daily. For information, visit pc.gc.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill/ index.aspx or 250-478-5849.

Westshore Motocross Park offers dirt bike riding, rentals and lessons for age 4 years and up. From 50cc auto with training wheels to 125/250cc full size bikes, dirt bike riding is easy and fun. The dirt track, maintained for beginners, leisure dirt bike riders and MX racers is open Tuesday-Friday 11am-8pm or dusk, Saturday 10am-4pm, Sunday and Monday by calling ahead. 2207 Millstream Road in Langford. Visit westshoremx.com or phone 250-590-8088.

City Centre Park in Langford is an exciting family playland with mini-golf, a play zone and a splash park for the kids. The play zone has three stories of miningthemed 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.

DUNCAN & AREA The BC Forest Discovery Centre just north of Duncan. Check out the indoor and outdoor exhibits and a bird sanctuary. Ride on the narrow gauge steam train, and tour an old logging camp.

July 2019 9

Bring a picnic lunch, watch a demonstration, or come for a special event (Canada Day, B.C. Day, Labour Day celerations).

Summer season until Sept 2, open 7 days a week from 10am-4:30pm. Steam locomotive on weekends. 250-715-1113 or bcforestdiscoverycentre.com.

NANAIMO & AREA Celebrate the region at Nanaimo District Museum with stories that intersect local and national history. Highlights include Nanaimo in 1867, the E&N Railway, WWI home front experience in Nanaimo, the Battle of Vimy Ridge centennial plus a look at past community centennial celebrations. The 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. 10am5pm daily until Sept 2. nanaimomuseum. ca or 250-753-1821.

The Coombs Old 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.

also playing

AIRCRAFT CARRIER CUBA and more

250-480-4887 • imaxvictoria.com IMAX® is a registered trademark of IMAX Corporation.

10 Family Summer Guide

Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park offers a variety of caving tours, from gentle explorations 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. 3905 Horne Lake Caves Road. Allow 45 minutes from Parksville, north on Highway 19 or 19A. hornelake. com, 250-248-7829.

The McLean Mill National Historic Site operates the only remaining commercial steam-operated 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. Ride the rails (limited schedule) on the Alberni Pacific Railway from the Historical Alberni Train Station in downtown Port Alberni through the Alberni Valley and over three wooden trestles before arriving at McLean Mill Historic Park. Total excursion time, 4 hours. There you’ll find children’s activities, a restaurant and a gift shop. For hours and the train schedule, visit mcleanmill.ca.

COURTENAY/COMOX & AREA 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: 10am5pm Monday to Saturday; noon-4pm Sunday. 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 Museum. The museum’s award-winning puppet theatre proIslandParent.ca

gram returns once again to explore the history of Campbell River with help from various beloved characters including Fred Nunns, Roderick Haig-Brown, and even the infamous Ripple Rock. Shows start Tuesday July 2 and will be performed every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30am and 1:30pm until August 29. $2/person; children 2 and under are free. Also see the First Nations history and art, pioneer history, and learn about floathouse living and the salmon industry. Bring your lunch to enjoy in the picnic area. Open daily during the summer from 10am5pm. crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103.

975 Fort Street, Victoria motheringtouch.ca - 250-595-4905

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. Open daily from 9:30am-7pm until Sept 2. Trails lead to South Beach and Florencia Bay. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/ pacificrim/activ/activkwisitis •

IslandParent.ca

Get into the waves and on to the Wibit! Victoria’s only wave pool with a 10m waterslide, diving boards, Wibit inflatable, rope swing and loads of fun! Enjoy 4 ozone treated pools, steamroom, sauna and swirlpool. Family changerooms and family rate of just $13.25.

Birthday party packages, library, café and free parking. This world class facility is a ‘must-visit’ for out of town guests!

4636 Elk Lake Drive saanichrec.ca 250-475-7600

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Family Adventures in Island Parks Vancouver Island

Camping is a wonderful way to relax and connect with nature, but it can be daunting to take on without some experience in your back pocket. Whether it’s been a few years since you’ve pitched a tent or you’re brand new to it, the Learn-to-Camp event at McDonald Campground in Sidney will help you build the confidence to enjoy all the Park Reserve has to offer. Join Mountain Equipment Co-op and Parks Canada staff to learn the fundamental skills and to sample some tasty camping food on July 27. Registration is required for this overnight experience. Camping gear is provided for use during the event.

Seize the Saturday at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea! Were Bill Nye and James Bond your childhood heroes? Parks Canada staff are onsite to give you and your kids a chance to tap into both as Science Secret Agents. Something has gone missing and time is running out! Delight in the action at 2pm (entrance fee applies.)

12 Family Summer Guide

For folks craving some campfire time with their little ones, McDonald Campground Saturday Nights has special occasions in store for Saturday nights at 7pm. Coast Salish knowledge holder MENETIYE Elliot and a Parks Canada Interpreter will be sharing stories, songs, and s’mores. Expect smiles as well! If you aren’t camping, park at the adjacent Blue Heron Park and bring a flashlight to find us at the group campfire ring. On July 27, a special edition of Coast Salish Campfires features stories about Indigenous cultures, local histories, and clam gardens to capture the imagination. What is a clam garden you ask? For millennia, Coast Salish peoples have built

IslandParent.ca

rock walls at special beaches that stretch the low-tide line to harvest clams and much more. Come and learn all about it!

interpreter. Exercise on a short walk and unwind at stops with gorgeous views. Wear shoes suitable for trail walking.

On Sundays, grab your curiosity cap and a picnic lunch and Sidney Island drop in to Saturna’s Winter Cove between 10am to 1pm. The Get away from it all and plan an excursion to Sidney Spit! whole family will find clues along the trail to help solve the Find our roving park interpreter on Sundays between 10:30am mystery and discover animals of the national park reserve. and 1pm for the inside scoop on the plants and animals that Finally, glimpse the wonders of the Salish Sea at the Intertidcall Sidney Island home. al Safari on Parks Day, July 20, anytime between 1 and 4pm.

If you want to make a weekend of it, book your campsite at Join Parks Canada Interpreters and the Saturna Island Marine Sidney Spit and enjoy a beautiful sandy beaches, geocaching ad- Research and Education Society to learn all about the wonders ventures, winding hiking trails, and spectacular bird watching. of the marine life of the Salish Sea. Divers will bring creatures up from the deep, the Parks and Recreation office will be servSaturna Island ing free ice cream, and the Heritage Committee will be giving Saturna is a fabulous place to plan a family weekend gettours of the landmark fog alarm building. away. Book a backcountry campsite at Narvaez Bay and pitch your tent next to a peaceful bay and a heritage orchard.

Pender Island Head to East Point on Friday for a truly special sunset exFamilies of night owls shouldn’t miss “Nuit Blanche” (8pm perience. From 8pm onwards, you’ll spend the evening under to Midnight, August 9) at Roesland, Pender Island, where bats, the spell of island musicians and storytellers, discovering the bioluminescence, and stargazing will light up the senses. Meet wildlife of the Salish Sea with a Parks Canada interpreter. The guest experts who will help track glowing creatures, spot disnight sky’s vista at East Point will make for a spectacular motant galaxies, and identify different bat species based on live ment and a lasting memory. Be sure to dress warmly and bring recordings of their sounds. Book your campsite now at one of along blankets, chairs, and flashlights for ultimate coziness.

Gulf Islands National Park Reserve’s three campgrounds on On Saturdays meet at East Point at 3pm to take part in a Pender Island. If stepping back in time is more your speed, visit Whale Trail Walk. Learn skills to make you a better whale the 110 year-old Roesland resort and take a trip back in time at watcher. Get inside stories about local whales from the park the Pender Islands Museum. Visit with volunteer museum hosts or enjoy a picnic, the scenery, and some R&R on the porch.

Whichever adventure suits your family best, take a cue from your young ones and embrace a little childlike wonder.

Unless indicated otherwise, events don’t require pre-registration, are free, and welcome visitors of all ages. Travel to Saturna, Mayne and Pender Islands is by BC Ferries and to Sidney Island by Alpine Ferry. The recurring weekly programs run in July and August.

Discover Gulf Islands National Park Reserve this summer.

For more information visit the 2019 Events Calendar at pc.gc.ca.

IslandParent.ca

July 2019 13

Photo of Isabelle W (6), by Krystle Walker

Captivating

Critters

N

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.

14 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

VICTORIA Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is an inexpensive and fun way to spend an afternoon outdoors with the, er, kids. The farm’s goats, sheep, rabbits, 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 10am5pm, weather permitting. Admission by donation. Enter Beacon Hill Park from Douglas Street (turn left across from Simcoe Street). beaconhillchildrensfarm.ca.

Millstream Miniature Llamas offers a guided tour of the farm. The tour includes an explanation of why llamas are special, the history of llamas in North and South America, how llamas interact with people and with each other, a discussion of the uses of llamas today, a chance to meet several llamas, experience a “llama kiss,” and feel the fibre. Phone to arrange a tour. $10/adult, $5/child aged 12 and under. Visit the farm studio for roving, yarn, dryer balls, hand-knitted and Peruvian goods. 355 Atkins Ave. millstream-minis.com or 250-478-9969.

Victoria Bug Zoo lets visitors 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 roughly 50 fascinating species including Canada’s largest ant farm. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hold some of the residents, an array of arachnids and friends. 11am-4pm Mon-Fri, 11am-5pm Sat-Sun. 631 Courtney Street, one block north of the Empress Hotel. 250-384BUGS(2847) or victoriabugzoo.ca.

PENINSULA Dan’s Farm and Country Market at 2030 Bear Hill Road in Saanich is not just a source for local produce, baked goods, and poultry raised using organic prin-

ciples, but also boasts a petting farm for the kids. Visit the ducks, chickens, goats, rabbits and more, then stock up on berries, figs and tomatoes. Bring along a picnic lunch and for dessert, treat yourself to an ice-cream cone. Open daily 8:30am5:30pm. dansfarm.ca.

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 4-H 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. Aug 31, Sept 1 and 2 at the fairgrounds at 1528 Stellys Cross Road.

Gates open 8am-9pm. saanichfair.ca.

The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the ecosystem of the Salish Sea. Colourful aquarium habitats teem with marine life for you to observe. Hundreds of fish, invertebrates and marine plants recreate the ocean and give you a seldom-seen underwater view. At the touch tanks, use the one finger rule to shake hands with an urchin and be tickled by a sea star.

Spend some time with the Oceaneers as they introduce you to hands-on/handswet learning. 9811 Seaport Place. Open daily 10am-5pm. salishseacentre.org or 250-665-7511.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Enjoy the beauty of thousands of exotic butterflies (up to 70 species) 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. On-site naturalists are full of fascinating facts and will answer your questions. 1461 Benvenuto Avenue in Brentwood Bay. Open daily (starting July 1) 9:30am-5pm (explore until 6pm). butterflygardens.com or 250-652-3822.

Community Board Art Gallery of Greater Victoria aggv.ca

Camp Pringle CampPringle.com

GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon runvictoriamarathon.com

Lindsay Trowell, Counsellor & Parenting Specialist lindsaytrowell.com

Mothering Touch motheringtouch.ca

Phoenix Theatre phoenixtheatres.ca

Royal BC Museum royalbcmuseum.bc.ca

Victoria Children’s Choir VictoriaChildrensChoir.ca

Victoria Conservatory of Music vcm.bc.ca Enquire about brochure or magazine distribution in Greater Victoria:

sales@islandparent.ca IslandParent.ca

July 2019 15

DUNCAN & AREA 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 11:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm). 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 10:30am-5pm. 1877 Herd Road. pnwraptors.com or 250-746-0372.

NANAIMO & AREA 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 90 acres of beautiful working farm. Open daily 9am-6pm. Daily milking at 4pm. 403 Lowrys Road. morningstarfarm.ca or 250-954-3931.

Tiger Lily Farm is located in Errington between Parksville and Coombs. 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 (every hour on the half hour). Or count chicks. 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 250-2482408.

North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre (NIWRC), 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 eagles through one-way glass in the largest flight cage of its kind in Canada. View bears, owls, falcons, hawks, swans and ravens. NIWRA offers activities and educational programs for the whole family. 1240 Leffler Road.

Open daily 9am-4:30pm (gates close at 5pm). niwra.org or 250-248-8534.

Butterfly World, just past Coombs on Highway 4A. Stroll among hundreds of free-flying exotic butterflies in the indoor tropical jungle. You’ll also see hundreds of exotic living orchids landscaped in a beautiful indoor water garden, a turtle pond, and gift shop. Open seven days a week from 10am-4pm. 1080 Winchester Road. butterflyworldcoombs.com or 250-248-7026.

COURTENAY/COMOX & AREA 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. Come talk, walk and squawk with the animals, including a miniature horse, a cow calf, pigs, sheep, ducks, 16 Family Summer Guide

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rabbits and more. Admission of $5/family helps to offset the cost of housing the animals. Note: Filberg Park, including the Hands-on Farm, will be closed July 30-August 1 for Filberg Festival set up and closed August 6-7 for the Festival take down. filberg.com, 250-339-3276.

Seaview Game Farm in Black Creek (north of Courtenay) runs hour-long tours, running July and August, at 10:30am and 2pm, reservations required.

Take the tractor cart to visit the animals on an interactive tour of the mini farm.

Feed and pet the chickens, llamas, peacocks, pigs, alpaca, Highland cattle, goats and sheep. Walk through the greenhouses and gardens and see what’s sprouting.

Visit the onsite market and coffee shop.

A picnic and play area provide even more fun. If you’re not in a rush, rent the Yurt and stay over night just a few metres from the ocean and public beach access.

1392 Seaview Road. seaviewgamefarm. com or 250-337-5182.

Summer Fun!

Night Illuminations Firework Saturdays Rose Carousel Boat Tours Family Discovery Walk

butchartgardens.com 250.652.5256

PACIFIC RIM Visit Ucluelet Aquarium, Canada’s first catch-and-release aquarium, where you’ll get an up-close-and-personal encounter with a diversity of local marine life. The touch tanks provide an interactive and fun, hands on, learning environment, and the displays are full of beautiful, interesting creatures and are always changing. Learn about the local marine ecosystems at the mini aquarium, and help raise awareness about local marine biodiversity and promote respect for the ocean environment. 180 Main Street.

Open every day, including holidays, from 10am-5pm. uclueletaquarium.org or 250726-2782.• IslandParent.ca

July 2019 17

Hit the Trails 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 list includes some of our local trails and walkways— to find more in your area, visit crd.bc.ca/parks or vancouverisland.com/trails.

VICTORIA Beacon Hill Park. This 200-acre park steps from downtown Victoria offers trails meandering through meadows, gardens and trees, along with a petting zoo, an 18-hole putting green (bring your own clubs and balls), 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, over a bridge, through beautiful gardens, and find what was once the world’s tallest free-standing totem pole.

The Cameron Bandshell features a variety of free concerts during the summer (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. It also intersects with the E&N Rail TrailHumpback Connector, the new 17km cycling and pedestrian trail. Start the Goose 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 18 Family Summer Guide

starts in Saanich and ends at the ferry terminal in Swartz Bay. In some places trail visitors 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.”

PENINSULA 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 and cross the new 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.

Sidney Spit Marine Park is a great destination for a day trip. Take the footpassenger 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.

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those who want to stay longer. From July 1-Sept 2, the ferry leaves Sidney Marina at 10am, 11:30am, 2pm, or 4pm (5:30pm Friday and Saturday only), and returns from Sidney Spit at 10:30am, 1pm, 3pm or 4:30pm (6pm Friday and Saturday only). Group reservations available. For more information, visit alpinegroup.ca or call 250-474-5145.

WESTSHORE Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park in Metchosin. More than 5 kms of beautiful trails run through woodland, 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 IslandParent.ca

July 2019 19

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 at 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.

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.

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 (noon4pm Saturdays, Sundays and holiday Mondays) for some interesting displays.

East Sooke Regional Park offers 50 kms Located on Munn Road, off Prospect of trails along the windswept rocky coast, Lake Road, 13 kms out of downtown over dry hilltops, through dark rainforest Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks. to sheltered coves. Find pocket beaches,

20  Family Summer Guide

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 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. 250-4789414 or goldstreampark.com.

IslandParent.ca

DUNCAN & AREA 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 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 2.4km circle route to Holt Creek and a 6.4km circle route with good picnic spots. Maps for the footpath can be picked up at the Duncan Visitor Info Centre.

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 1 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.

IslandParent.ca

July 2019 21

NANAIMO & AREA Buttertubs Marsh Bird Sanctuary encompasses 49 acres of natural wetlands and grasslands. The 3.3km 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-

22 Family Summer Guide

crossing the park, watch the boats on the ocean, do some beachcombing, and just enjoy the sea breezes and sparkling water.

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

The Top Bridge Trail in Parksville links Rathtrevor Beach with Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park on the scenic Englishman River. The trail is 5km each way and 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.

Cathedral Grove-MacMillan Park is a day-use park just past Cameron Lake on Highway 4. View some of the largest and oldest trees on Vancouver Island, including over-800-year-old giants and lush vegetation on the interpretive trail system that winds through the park. Many species of wildlife use the old-growth forest as their home including several types of woodpeckers, owls, insects, reptiles, am-

phibians, deer, elk, black bear and cougar. Cathedral Grove is approximately 20 minutes from Parksville.

Stamp River 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.

COURTENAY/COMOX & AREA Paradise Meadows Loop Trail at Mount Washington starts adjacent to the Raven Lodge, 800 metres past the old trailhead area. A 1 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 sum-

IslandParent.ca

mer 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 8km (2hour) 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.

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.

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 8 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.

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 nest here. Enjoy forested trails through mixed woodlands and surrounding marsh. ParkPACIFIC RIM ing and access from Lazo Road. On the north side is an easy stroller-friendly hike; Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. southside trails go deeper into the woods The stretch of Pacific Rim National Park and marsh conservation area. between Ucluelet and Tofino boasts magnificent beaches and dramatic seascapes (and many tourists!). Check in with the Tourist Information Centre at the IslandParent.ca

Ucluelet-Tofino-Port Alberni Junction to find out about trails, beaches, eateries and activities.

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 can be walked in two main sections: Lighthouse Loop and Big Beach.

Then you can leave the wind-sculpted coastline to visit the largest trees in the area at Ancient Cedars grove.

Lighthouse Loop, part of the Wild Pacific Trail and 2.6 kms long, can be walked in a 30-45 minute loop using the adjoining He-Tin-Kis Park boardwalk. The trail includes frequent viewpoints and benches for watching whales, birds or catching the sunset. The Bog Interpretive Trail is open, a 300m interpretive loop (within the Loop!). wildpacifictrail.com for maps and descriptions of the various sections.• July 2019 23

10 Tips for Travelling with Special Needs Kids

C

olwyn signs “airplane” and says “Mexico.”

I say, “Oh nope, we are going on a road trip this summer or camping.”

In my head I curse myself for having introduced this whole travel thing when he was wee, because now we are trying to not fly. Not go to Mexico, preserve the planet by taking fewer flights. But Colwyn, he loves airplanes and family vacations, swimming pools, the beach, buffets, meeting cousins, hotels. He loves it all—to a point.

Colwyn has Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) and Autism Spectrum Disorder, he’s relatively nonverbal and as he gets bigger is beginning to explore his independence. Born with low muscle tone, he’s come a long way but still fatigues easily, especially in heat and surrounded by chaos and people.

He likes to travel, though he also feels homesick after about two or so weeks, at which point he begins to count down the days. He likes routine but is okay with small adjustments to it. He’s an awesome travelling companion, who needs a few things put in place.

There are always epic failures, but here are my Top 10 Tips for travelling with a special needs kid:

24 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

1. Know what your kid needs and likes.

When Colwyn was a baby, with low tone, our team at the Queen Alexandra Hospital made a memory foam mattress that fit in my suitcase and doubled as a bed for his first trip to the UK and Italy. He grew out of the suitcase while we travelled but fit nicely into a drawer.

When he was four, we went on a crosscountry camping trip. Though everyone said we’d get to Kamloops in a day, it took us three with stops for bush pees, short hikes, snacks in cafes, and explorations of small towns. A few years ago the whole family (grandparents, aunty, cousins) went to Disneyland. We decided, after much deliberation (the cost!), to stay at the Disneyland hotel so that we could enter the park in the morning but return to the hotel easily for swims, reading and quiet time. Last summer, we rented a car rather than travel by train to provide that necessary down time in an enclosed, private but moving space.

2. Ease anxiety.

One way to ease anxiety is to travel to smaller airports—this tip comes from a friend whose daughter startles and fears sudden loud noises and actions, but smaller airports lessen the possibility of these occurrences. When visiting California, they fly into Oakland and use the hotel shuttle service to get to the hotel fast, have a rest and swim, and use the shuttle service to then send one of the adults to get the rental car. This relieves a ton of early-travel woe. At airport check in you can also be flagged to fast-track customs and security, shortening time in lines. Also, pack lots of distractions. For flying we take ear plugs, calmness pills, snacks, a back-up device in case his iPad goes kaput, books, colouring, fiddles, chewlery, mints, gum and Garfield, which serves as cuddle, pillow, companion, rock. And us, for lying on, holding hands with, low quiet conversations, singing of songs, hands over ears, and reminders to yawn when his ears hurt during landing.

3. Practice.

One family I spoke with takes opportunities at Victoria Airport, when it is quiet, to practice going through the full security check with their son. This way, he’ll have done it a few times when his number does randomly come up, and hopefully will go through the procedure easily.

IslandParent.ca

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Recently a friend told me that her 23-year-old British niece is coming to visit. Her niece is visually impaired and has autism. She has a loud voice. To prepare her for the flight from Heathrow to Vancouver they took a weekend trip to Scotland when my friend was visiting England. As a blind person, the sensation of take off and flying was immense. The presentation by the flight attendants on safety made her wonder if they were going to crash. The ear popping during the landing was tremendous—she wondered if she’d go deaf. Once flying, she relaxed, and said, “We are flying!” and all the passengers clapped!

We have had a family goal of going on an overnight hiking trip, so every weekend we practice hiking, and lengthening the distance Colwyn can go. He carries a pack sometimes, we take snacks and meander on these practice walks, slowly working our way toward a hiking vacation.

end aisle in a packed cathedral with a fidgety, chatty, ready to howl kiddo with no way to get out. We were all on the verge of panic. He finally fell asleep (jetlag) before the play began, but we still envisioned having to climb over people to escape. I had seen people seated in accessible seating on the floor below, and will remember to ask next time.

4. Use services.

6. Plan rest days.

Airports have wheelchair and golf cart services to get you to your gate quickly and easily. If your child’s anxiety is on the rise, don’t be shy to use these services. We learned this as our parents aged and needed more support. In fact, my father-inlaw was taken from our hotel in Puerto Vallarta, all the way through to the airplane with assistance at no extra charge. Disneyland offers a wide range of support for people with diverse needs. We could gain quick access to rides, had a wheelchair for my mom (which Colwyn sometimes talked her out of for his turn) and more (disneyland.disney.go.com/en-ca/guest-services/guests-with-disabilities/). I had a major Aha! moment in Chester Cathedral where we were seated down a narrow, dead-

5. Have back ups for your back-up plans.

This could also be a reminder to be flexible. Now which anecdote to share? That time Colwyn silenced the entire Maui airport at midnight with an epic scream or that time we cancelled our booking in London and stayed on with friends in Oxford because he was finished with crowds and heat and I could not fathom how we’d cope with the train, subway, dragging our luggage and him through London? Hmm. Maybe you get the picture?

Allow for days when you don’t have anything on or where you take it slow. For Colwyn this is especially important if it is hot. I longed to do a short walk between two small villages in England, carrying all we needed for an overnight. We picked a trail near Bath and started at a café near the canal with drinks and conversations, relaxing into the day. We budgeted all day to go the eight kilometers. For much of the way, Colwyn wondered why we weren’t going back to the car. On arrival, we split the party, Colwyn and dad napped in a field while I found accommodation.

7. Keep it light.

On another trip, after being on the road for over two weeks,

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we arrived in Whitehorse ready for a few nights in a hotel. Colwyn had picked up some unusual habits, such as pressing his nose to people. We were working on diverting this behaviour, and a bit tense about it. In the elevator, Colwyn leaned toward a biker in a leather jacket and pressed his nose to the man.

“Sheesh,” he said, “Do I smell bad? I’ve been on the road a while.” We laughed, and quickly explained. To which the biker gave a shy grin and a fist punch to Colwyn’s happy stomping reply. We may not always know how Colwyn will react to new things, or experiences or people. Often, he is curious, mostly he has no filter, so whatever he is thinking, happens. Our job is to roll with it or to anticipate—usually he surprised us.

8. Go with the flow— with behaviours.

Try not to be too embarrassed. On our trip to England last summer, we were in a lot of pubs with cousins. Colwyn loved meeting his cousins. He also touched their food and took to howling like a wolf, especially when the mood at the table shifted, when people were getting ready to leave. Though nonverbal, he wanted to be a part of the energy, so he’d howl. “Oh, he’s fine,” my cousin John said on several occasions. “It’s noisy in here already.”

From alpacas to miniature goats, tropical birds and miniature pigs, we have all kinds of fuzzy, furry, feathered creatures, including a goat petting area and the famous goat stampedes. The farm is open seasonally. Please call us for dates and hours. Don’t forget your camera!

Circle Drive, Beacon Hill Park 250-381-2532 beaconhillchildrensfarm.ca bhcfvictoria@gmail.com

9. Don’t not travel.

We have had the luxury and privilege to do a fair amount of travel, often with our extended family. Before Colwyn was born and spent his first three weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Victoria General, we’d already been discussing a trip to England and Italy. My parents were on board. Everything paused or fell away when Colwyn was born. He was finally home and began feeding from a bottle, so we looked at the dates again, sat at our kitchen table, and called my parents.

Four adults and one new baby…surely we could do it.

10. Make memories.

I find that kids and parents enjoy a trip best if you talk it up before and continue afterward. Sure, there may have been a few near-disasters—that time our boat stopped working in the middle of Shuswap Lake—but we swam every day and played games and it was great. Framing the trip both before and after makes a difference in how it is remembered. For Colwyn, we make Pictello stories on his iPad, which he reads over and over.

I try to make photo books as well through Mix Book or other online companies. He reads these books, and they reinforce his love of family, adventure and travel, leading sometimes to a day of constant, “I want to go by airplane to Mexico” while he signs “airplane” and I shake my head.

The Raptors, located in the heart of the Cowichan Valley, offers compelling and interactive experiences with a variety of birds of prey species including eagles, hawks, owls, falcons and more!

Get closer than you ever imagined to these intelligent, majestic predators during our daily flying demonstrations, educational talks and hands-on encounters.

Open Daily from 10:30am to 5:00pm.

Flying Demos at 11:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm.

1877 Herd Road, Duncan 250-746-0372 the-raptors.com

Yvonne Blomer is a Victoria writer and the past Poet Laureate of Victoria. Her most recent books are Sugar Ride: Cycling from Hanoi to Kuala Lumpur and Regugium: Poems for the Pacific.

IslandParent.ca

July 2019 27

JULY/AUGUSTFAMILYCALENDAR For more information and calendar updates throughout the month visit IslandParent.ca

JULY

Canada Day Celebration

1 MONDAY

Canada Day Events Canada Day Celebration in the Inner Harbour

V

Coast Capital Living Flag on the legislature lawn with 2,300 free red and white t-shirts available.

Performers, activity tents, food vendors, and interactive fun for the whole family, culminating in fireworks over Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Free. canadadayvictoria.ca

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11:30am at Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo Face painting, crafts, games, bouncy castles, kayaking, roving entertainers, food vendors, balloon animals, and interactive booths. Free.

C

Canada Day Canada Day 10am at BC Forest Discovery Centre 2892 Drinkwater Rd Steam train rides, crafts, BBQ and more. $5.

10am in Comox Valley Parade, Ducky 500 (duck race), free swim, MuD seum open house, kids’ activities and more. Free. courtenay.ca/EN/main/canada-day.html

Canada Day Celebration

V

1pm at Royal BC Museum Canada Day D 675 Bellevue Street 11am at Waterwheel Park, Chemainus Come and try your hand at egg-and-spoon races, 9799 Waterwheel Crescent the beanbag toss and other old-fashioned fun for Gorge Canada Day Picnic V Tasty treats, a petting zoo, pony rides, a bouncy the whole family. The event takes place on the 8:30am at Craigflower-Kosapsom Park castle, games, live music and much more. Free. museum grounds beside the historic Helmcken Pancake breakfast, parade, artisan market, Gorge House and St. Ann’s Schoolhouse. Free. on Art, Strawberry Tea, games, road hockey, Canada Day N royalbcmuseum.bc.ca bouncy castles and face painting, live entertain1pm at Transfer Beach, Ladysmith ment and more. Free.

Kids games and activities, live music, a giant Sidney Days: Canada Day Celebration P gorgecanadaday.ca cake, and more. Free.

11:30am in Downtown Sidney & Iroquois Park Come on down and wave to Slider in the Canada Canada Day Celebration W Canada Day 2019 N Day Parade at 11:30am in Downtown Sidney.

10am at Fort Rodd Hill 8:30am at Qualicum Beach Legion Continue the Canada Day celebrations at Iroquois Clap your hands, or dance yourself silly to the live & Veterans Way Park with face painting and inflatable fun. Free. music throughout the day. Be a kid again, jump Pancake Breakfast, parade, music, activities, panoramarecreation.ca in and take part in all the fun activities. Enjoy the street dance and more. Free. food and snacks at the concession, but remember to leave a bit of room for a piece of the huge cake. Free.

Music Therapy Summer Camp W At the Victoria Conservatory of Music V Victoria & Area D Duncan & Area 210-1314 Lakepoint Way P Peninsula N Nanaimo & Area W Westshore C Courtenay/Comox For children with special needs. Free. vcm.bc.ca

FREE FAMILY PROGRAMMING

Thursday 6:00 – 8:00 PM JULY 11 – AUGUST 22

Wednesdays 6:00 – 7:30 PM JULY 10 – AUGUST 21

Royal Bay Beachpark

A new story & trail each week.

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westshorerecreation.ca | 250-478-8384 IslandParent.ca

2 TUESDAY P

Open Air Library

10am at Iroquois Park 2295 Ocean Ave Read books, visit with others and enjoy the outdoor park facilities with your family. Take one book home with you when you leave. Free. southislandliteracy.com

3 WEDNESDAY N

Starlight Skate

6:30pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre Come out and enjoy the soft light “stars” and passive LED glow lights. A great time for families after dinner. Regular admission.

P

Evening Campground Program 7pm at Island View Beach Regional Park Games, stories and songs. Bring a beach chair and meet at the campfire ring at Island View Beach campground, off Homathko Rd. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

4 THURSDAY Once Upon a StoryWalk

W

10:30am at Juan de Fuca Branch Library Individual pages of a storybook, mounted on sign posts, are placed outdoors in a circuit. Children follow the narrative by visiting each sign post in sequence. After the StoryWalk, come to the library for a craft. Free. gvpl.ca

Play in the Park Launch Party 5:30pm at Centennial Park, Sidney Interactive play, face painting, group games, inflatable fun. BBQ provided by donation. panoramarecreation.ca

6 SATURDAY W

Marine Day

11am at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park See what creatures scuba divers bring up from the deep, see live displays, join in a beach seine, guided walks, and more. Free.

P crd.bc.ca/parks

Passport to Nature: Nature Sketch

Foundation for a morning of sketching. Free. conservancy.bc.ca

V

Vic West Fest Noon at Banfield Park Come out and meet your neighbours. Children’s activities, live music, water activities and more.

Free.

V Family Movie Night

9 am at Ayum Creek Regional Park Reserve Laidlaw Rd Join TLC and Leanne Cadden from The Bateman

P

6pm at Panorama Recreation Watch a family movie on the giant screen. Popcorn provided. Feel free to come in pjs. Free. panoramarecreation.ca

O’Brien School of Irish Dancing Registration Open!

www.obrienirishdance.com

24 years of teaching beginners to champions IslandParent.ca

July 2019 29

6/7 SATURDAY/SUNDAY 34th Wooden Boat Festival

D

9am at Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre 1761 Cowichan Bay Rd Pancake breakfast, boat races, children’s fishing derby, kids’ boat building, live entertainment, salmon BBQ and more. Free. classicboats.org

8 MONDAY V

Giggles and Wiggles

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

saanichdentalgroup.com

10:30am at Nellie McClung Branch Library Little listeners with extra energy will enjoy actionfilled stories, songs and rhymes followed by free play and stations. Free. gvpl.ca

Music Therapy Summer Camp

N

At Nanaimo Conservatory of Music 375 Selby Street, Nanaimo See MON 1 for details. Free. vcm.bc.ca

9 TUESDAY

119–1591 McKenzie Ave, Victoria  250 477 7321 info@saanichdentalgroup.com

Terrific Turtles

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

10am at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Road Includes hands-on discovery, an outside stroll, story and craft. Fee. swanlake.bc.ca

V

P

Open Air Library 10am at Iroquois Park 2295 Ocean Ave See TUES 2 for details. Free. southislandliteracy.com

Organic Stone-Ground Rooibos Tea with Beetroot & Raspberry

SRC Artist/ Author—Jami Gigot

10 WEDNESDAY V

Incredible Inverts

Pick up your copy of Island Parent at any Serious Coffee café 5P öOE POF OFBS ZPV HP UP TFSJPVTDPòFF DPN 30  Family Summer Guide

P

10:30 at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Visiting all the fantastical places you can create inside your own head. Join Summer Reading Club 2019 official illustrator Jami Gigot for a behind the scenes look at the making of the SRC artwork.

Ages 6-12 years. Please register. virl.bc.ca

Noon at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Rd They’re creepy, they’re crawly and they’re cool.

Explore the fascinating world of insects, spiders and other invertebrates. Hands-on exploration, live bugs, crafts and games. Donation. swanlake.bc.ca

IslandParent.ca

Story Walk Wednesday

V

6pm at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park Experience a nature walk while stopping to enjoy an illustrated children’s book. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will be there to bring the story to life. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

11 THURSDAY Happy Herons

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12 FRIDAY Make a Bath Bomb

14 SUNDAY P Seals! Seals!

1:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Learn about herbs and make your own bath bomb with Liza from Ravenhill Farm. All materials provided. Ages 9-12 years. Please register. virl.bc.ca

13 SATURDAY

W

10am at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park See Tower Point’s most avid sun worshippers and swimming enthusiasts—the harbour seal. Binoculars and spotting scopes are provided. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

N

Learn to Fish

10:30am at Westwood Lake Jetty 10am at Island View Beach Regional Park Family Nature Sketch V Join the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and Discover what makes Great Blue Herons happy.

10am at Francis/King Regional Park learn the basics of freshwater fishing. Fishing Enjoy activities, role-play and more to learn about Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and an art rods provided. Rain or shine. Parent participation these experts of the air and water. 5 years and teacher from the Robert Bateman Centre to learn required. 5-15 years. Free. under. Free. the basics of nature journaling as you discover crd.bc.ca/parks the plants and animals of the forest on a beautiful National Drowning Prevention N walk along the accessible Elsie/King Trail. Fee. Week Kick-Off Meet a Police Dog P crd.bc.ca/parks 1pm at Westwood Lake 10:30am at Sidney/North Saanich Swim to Survive challenge and other water Branch Library Not Just for the Birds N safety-related activities. Regular admission.

What is it like to be a police dog? Find out! Pre1pm at Miner’s Cottage sented by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. All Jinglepot Entrance to Buttertubs Silly Boat Regatta N ages welcome. Please register.

Use binoculars to help spot and identify birds.

8am at Maffeo Sutton Park virl.bc.ca Learn about the most common local species Teams build a boat out of recycled or recyclable and create a pine cone feeder to take home to materials and race them in the inner harbour. encourage birds to visit your back yard. Parent Dancers, performers, crafts and education participation required. 5-12 years. Fee. booths. Funds raised support the Nanaimo Child Development Centre. Free.

Here at Sutubra Naturals & Organics, we bring you nothing but the best quality baby and child products for every day use.

Located at Hillside Shopping Centre (N. Dairy Rd. Entrance)

www.sutubrabeauty.com | 250-999-8038 naturalbeautyvic@gmail.com

IslandParent.ca

July 2019 31

Summer Kids Camps 2019 In Cowichan Bay

15 MONDAY Music Therapy Summer Camp

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Sensational Seaweeds

Day Programs & Overnight Camps

Register online now at cowichanbaykayaking.com 250-597-3031 info@cowichanbaykayaking.com Life Skills for: People Engaged And Communicating Effectively

A series about growing beyond our personal filters while gaining skills to create dialogue and build understanding,

When Relationships Matter.

To learn more:

office@dialogueandresolutionservices.ca or call 250-383-4412

dialogueandresolutionservices.ca Funded by the Province of British Columbia and the City of Colwood

The Freya-Sophia Waldorf Store

10am at Island View Beach Regional Park Discover how important marine algae is for you, me and the creatures that call them home. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). 5+ years. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

16 TUESDAY V

Daring Dragonflies 10am at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Road Includes hands-on discovery, an outside stroll, story and craft. Fee. swanlake.bc.ca

V

Once Upon a StoryWalk 10:30am at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library See THURS 4 for details. Rain or shine; please dress appropriately. Free. gvpl.ca

V

Giggles and Wiggles

10:30am at Saanich Centennial Branch Library See MON 8 for details. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. gvpl.ca

P

Moon Walk

10am at Coles Bay Regional Park Did you know one of North America’s largest marine snails lives at this regional park? Look for crabs, sea stars and the elusive moon snail. Includes wading in the water, so be prepared to get your feet and clothes wet. 5+ years. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

P

Open Air Library

Beautiful selection of books, organic wool clothing, wooden toys, silks, dolls, cards, prints, painting and handwork supplies.

STEINER BOOKSTORE: Extensive Selection of Inspiring Books and Resources ~ For Children, Parents, Teachers, Carers , Homeschoolers and Students of Life (SOL) 250-597-4763 ~ Located in the Sol-Centre, 5380 Hwy. 1, Duncan, BC CALL OR CHECK ONLINE FOR OUR SUMMER HOURS Find us on Facebook@freyasophiawaldorfstore - Follow us on Instagram

32 Family Summer Guide

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At Victoria Conservatory of Music 900 Johnson Street See MON 1 for details. Free. vcm.bc.ca

10am at Iroquois Park 2295 Ocean Ave See TUES 2 for details. Free. southislandliteracy.com

Booksmack at the Open Air Library

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10:30am at Iroquois Park 2295 Ocean Ave Come watch community literacy lovers as they race against the clock to tell you all about their favorite books. Something for all ages. Free. southislandliteracy.com IslandParent.ca

Photo: Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

17 WEDNESDAY Nature Invented It!

19 FRIDAY P Coast Capital Free Skate

1:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Nature is an inspiration for many of the innovation and inventions that humans depend upon. From Velcro to flippers to sonar, explore how nature did it first. Presented by Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Ages 6-12 years. Please register. virl.bc.ca

18 THURSDAY Turtle Tails

4:15pm at Cliff McNabb Arena Skate and helmet rentals included. Free.

20 SATURDAY 32nd TD Art Gallery Paint-In

3pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre N Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission.

22 MONDAY Giggles and Wiggles V 10:30am at Juan de Fuca Branch Library

10am at Art Gallery of Greater Victoria Moss St to Dallas Rd. Free. aggv.ca

V Coast Capital Free Swim

N

Glow in the Dark Skate

N

V

See MON 8 for details. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. gvpl.ca

23

7pm at Kin Pool, Nanaimo TUESDAY Admission to pool only; weight room not included.

Free.

Dabbling Ducks V recreation.nanaimo.ca 10am at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Road Includes hands-on discovery, an outside stroll, SUNDAY story and craft. Fee. DigiLab: Drop-in V Family Nature Sketch V swanlake.bc.ca 6:30pm at Central Branch Library 10am at Francis/King Regional Park Explore your artistic side with crafting supplies See SAT 13 for details. Fee. and try new technologies like filmmaking equipcrd.bc.ca/parks ment and Makey Makey kits. Ages 13-18. Free. gvpl.ca 1pm at Matheson Lake Regional Park Explore the lake looking for signs of the western painted turtle, the only native pond turtle left in BC. Meet at the Matheson Lake parking lot at the end of Matheson Lake Rd. 5+ years. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

IslandParent.ca

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July 2019  33

The Chronicles of Narnia

ONGOING:

Preschool V

Family Storytime Greater Victoria Public Libraries Fun-filled stories, songs, rhymes and puppets. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult.

Drop-in until July 26. gvpl.ca

V

Stay & Play Greater Victoria Public Libraries Enjoy social time and free play following Family Storytime. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Drop-in until July 24. gvpl.ca

by C.S. Lewis adapted by Melissa Young

JUL 13 - AUG 11

V

Baby Time Greater Victoria Public Libraries Learn songs, rhymes and fingerplays to use with your baby every day.

For babies 0-15 months and parent or caregiver. Drop-in until July 27. gvpl.ca

V

Kindergym Drop-In

1.800.565.7738 chemainustheatre.ca

10am at Gordon Head Recreation Centre, 4100 Lambrick Way Tuesday, Thursdays & Saturdays. A movement program designed for children and their caregiver to play together. Balls, hoops, ride-on toys, climbers and mats allow children to creatively explore. Songs and circle time. Get active together for life. $3/child. saanich.ca

N

LaFF Mornings Mondays 9:30am–noon at Aggie Hall, Ladysmith Play-based learning stations to explore and enjoy, including a reading centre, craft area, Brio train table, snack table and more. Meet other parents, health and social service providers.

250-210-0870

34  Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

and foes with bug shows, activities, crafts and more. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

29 MONDAY P

Sensational Seaweeds 10am at Island View Beach Regional Park Discover how important marine algae is for you, me, and the creatures that call them home. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). 5+ years. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

30 TUESDAY P

Stuffie Sleepover 6:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Bring your own stuffie to a special Pajama Party storytime. Then, leave your stuffie overnight for WEDNESDAY THURSDAY a sleepover. Pick it up any time after 2pm the Reptile Day V Going Buggy V next day (or week). You’ll take home some phoNoon at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature 11am at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park tographs of the sleepover fun. Ages 4-9 years.

Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Rd We love ’em, we hate ’em. They’re fascinating, Please register.

Join in the fun of this popular annual celebration finicky and fabulous. Drop by the tents at the virl.bc.ca of our scaly friends. Featuring lots of live reptiles, main Beaver Beach between 11am and 2pm for crafts, games and more. Donation. a close-up look at some of our buggy friends swanlake.bc.ca Photo: Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

24

25

SUMMER CAMPS

SOCCER • VIKES ADVENTURERS • SWIMMING VIKES SPORTS • TRACK & FIELD • and more!

Presented by

IslandParent.ca

Supported by

REGISTER NOW! vikescamps.com

July 2019 35

W

Life on the Rocks

10am at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park When the tide goes out, an exciting world comes into view. Discover the creatures that make Witty’s Lagoon their special home. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

31 WEDNESDAY

AUGUST

accompanied by an adult. Rain or shine; please dress appropriately. Free. gvpl.ca

1 THURSDAY

V Creatures of the Summer Night

Giggles and Wiggles 10:30am at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library See MON JULY 8 for details. For young children and their families; children under 3 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. gvpl.ca

P Evening Campground Program

Beach Day

10am at Coles Bay Regional Park Crabs, sea stars, moon snails and more. Explore the beach at low tide and learn about the amazing creatures that call it home. This event includes wading in the water, so be prepared to get your feet and clothes wet (wear shorts and sandals or beach shoes). All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

P

Potter-Tastic Party

1:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Potter fans unite! We’re celebrating Harry Potter and J.K Rowling’s birthdays. There will be all kinds of Hogwarts fun and birthday cake (of course!). Come in your best wizarding gear.

Age 6 years and up. Please register. virl.bc.ca

P

7pm at Island View Beach Regional Park An evening of activities and games to learn about what critters are up to this time of day. Bring a beach chair and meet at the campfire ring at Island View Beach campground, off Homathko Rd. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

2 FRIDAY V

Once Upon a StoryWalk

10:30am at Juan de Fuca Branch Library Individual pages of a storybook, mounted on sign posts, are placed outdoors in a circuit. Children follow the narrative by visiting each sign post in sequence. After the StoryWalk, come to the library for a craft. Everyone welcome; children must be

Large Headline to go here Smaller sub-heading to go here

V

8pm at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Road Sharpen your senses to look for owls, bats and other nighttime creatures. Using a grab bag of tricks, you’ll discover how these animals are adapted to their nocturnal life. Pre-registration required. $9/members; $10/non-members. swanlake.bc.ca

P

Going Crabby

12:30pm at Island View Beach Regional Park Meet some of the crabs and their cousins that make Island View Beach their special home.

Intertidal exploration to discover these creatures up close and personal. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

3 SATURDAY P

Moon Walk

1pm at Coles Bay Regional Park Did you know one of North America’s largest marine snails live at this regional park? Look for marine creatures like crabs, sea stars and the elusive moon snail. Includes wading in the water, so be prepared to get your feet and clothes wet (wear shorts and sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Inverness Rd. 5+ years. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

4 SUNDAY Victoria Symphony Splash

V

In Victoria Inner Harbour From a floating stage in the Inner Harbour, the Victoria Symphony Orchestra and special guests will perform, ending with a grand finale performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture—with fireworks of course. Free. victoriasymphony.ca

Seals! Seals!

W

1pm at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park See Tower Point’s most avid sun worshippers and swimming enthusiasts—the harbour seal. Binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Meet at Tower Point parking lot off Olympic View Dr. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

www.peppapig.com Peppa Pig © Astley Baker Davies Ltd / Entertainment One UK Ltd 2003. All Rights Reserved.

36 Family Summer Guide PP ad Template Generic splats INT.indd 1

19/11/2014 09:32

IslandParent.ca

Reading Outdoors T

he Open Air Library will run this summer at Iroquois Park on Lochside Drive in Sidney on various Tuesdays at 10 a.m. throughout July and August. Volunteers will spread out picnic blankets, chairs and a generous selection of books. The books are sorted by age at the beginning of each day, but they happily migrate between blankets as readers of all ages find the perfect spot to sit. The best part is, that when it’s time to go, every reader can take home a book, no strings attached.

The Open Air Library has a soft, quiet focus with muted conversation offset by the occasional wiggly version of “Wheels on The Bus” or “Eensy Weensy Spider” accompanied by live guitar. There’s a Booksmack event in partnership with the Greater Victoria Public Library and Sidney/North Saanich Library. And, if attention spans shrink, there is a green space nearby, including a spray park, playground and a bin of balls.

Literacy and community come together at the Open Air Library through the sharing and exploration of new ideas and perspectives. Even when we read alone, we

Summer Camp: July

July 22–25 | 9:30am–12:30pm | Instructor: Julia Dillon-Davis

During four morning sessions, participants are introduced to acting for camera, auditioning for film and TV, and what it’s like to be on set. Each day actors will explore their creativity through improv games, scene creation and characterization.

Summer Camp: August

are part of a community of minds with the author and the characters of that book. The social element of reading adds to our depth of understanding about what we’ve read. It is an opportunity for sharing joy, new concepts, conversation and maybe even a new friendship.

Visit the Open Air Library this summer on select Tuesday mornings in Sidney. For dates visit southislandliteracy.com.

– Carol Whitehouse

Dirt Bike Rides at Westshore Motocross Park.

Rentals, lessons and parties for all ages. No experience necessary.

2207 Millstream Road, Langford 250-590-8088 westshoremx.com

August 12–15 | 9:30am–12:30pm | Instructor: Julia Dillon-Davis These classes offer participants a chance to explore scenes and practice auditioning skills in a tight timeframe. Actors will receive feedback on their work and get to practice applying direction and new approaches.

Each workshop will also include games and scene creation.

Also check out our ongoing

Kids Classes

Saturdays 12:30pm–3pm with Instructor: Julia Dillon-Davis 202–734 Aldebury St

vadarts.com

250.580.2588 IslandParent.ca

July 2019 37

6 TUESDAY

Story Walk Wednesday

W flying insects that are found at this time of year.

6pm at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park Busy Beavers V Get outside and experience a nature walk while 10am at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature stopping to enjoy an illustrated children’s book Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Road along the Lagoon Trail to Sitting Lady Falls. Free.

Includes hands-on discovery, an outside still, story crd.bc.ca/parks and craft. Fee. swanlake.bc.ca Starlight Skate N 6:30pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre Open Air Library P Come out and enjoy the soft light “stars” and 10am at Iroquois Park passive LED glow lights. A great time for families 2295 Ocean Ave after dinner. Regular admission.

Read books, visit with others and enjoy the outdoor park facilities with your family. Take one FRIDAY book home with you when you leave. Free. southislandliteracy.com Hawaiian Holidaze N 1pm at Westwood Lake Enjoy a wide variety of tropical-themed games WEDNESDAY and activities for the whole family. Regular admisBirds of Prey V sion.

Noon at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Rd SUNDAY Birds of prey have amazing adaptations from keen eyesight to stealth and speed. Come find Early Evening Bat Exploration V out more during this fabulous feathered event, 7pm at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park play games, make crafts, and even get the Explore the weird and wonderful world of bats. chance to examine an owl pellet. Donation.

Hopefully you will get a chance to see them in swanlake.bc.ca action as they swoop through the air feeding on

9

7

11

Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

N

Learn to Fish

10:30am at Westwood Lake Jetty Join the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and learn the basics of freshwater fishing. Fishing rods provided. Rain or shine. Parent participation required. 5-15 years. Free.

13 TUESDAY V

Wild Woodpeckers

10am at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Road Includes hands-on discovery, an outside still, story and craft. Fee. swanlake.bc.ca

P

Open Air Library

10am at Iroquois Park 2295 Ocean Ave Read books, visit with others and enjoy the outdoor park facilities with your family. Take one book home with you when you leave. Free. southislandliteracy.com

Vancouver Island’s Only Coding School For Kids!

Coding is a new fundamental skill. Under The GUI is Vancouver Island’s first Coding school for kids 7 to 17. No experience necessary. GUI (gooey) is the Graphical User Interface—getting under it kids learn valuable skills as they express their imagination and creativity.

3 reasons why KIDS love Under the GUI:

3 reasons why PARENTS love Under the GUI:

Coding their own video games and apps

Changing kids’ Screen-Time into a productive learning experience

Learning through problem solving and creativity

Giving kids real job skills for the 21st Century

Small classes of friends the same age!

Our teachers are Tech professionals

Victoria.principal@underthegui.com

underthegui.com/about 778-967-2150 38 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Stuffie Campout ONGOING: Family 6:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich

P

Branch Library Bring Vic your Westown Toystuffie Library and gather outside ’round our (fake) campfire for W stories, 9:30am songs at HighPoint then leaveCommunity your stuffieChurch for an overnight adventure. Pick up anytime 949 Fullerton after 2pm Avethe next day. Special musical guest Nancy Dobbs. Ages 4-9 Every years. other Please Saturday. register.

Borrow toys, games and play materials on a regular virl.bc.ca basis. Current stock for ages 6 mos-12 yrs. Fee. 250-383-6290 | dawn@pointful.ca

14 WEDNESDAY

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Circles Maya: A safe, The supportive Greatplace Jaguar to meet Rises others in a similar P situation and to share 1:30pm information at Sidney/North and resources.

Saanich Branch Library Imagine 250-384-8042 a day in the | parentsupportbc.ca life of the ancient Maya through storytelling and a hands-on activity with the Royal BC Museum. Ages 6-12 years. Please register.

Parent Support Circles virl.bc.ca Parenting isn’t always easy. Sometimes it helps to talk things through with other parents. At the Parent Support Services Society of BC, they believe that every parent is the expert of her/his own family.

FRIDAY 250-384-8042 | parentsupportbc.ca

16

Family Nature Sketch 10am Drop-In at Witty’s Science Lagoon Studio Regional Parks

W

N

Learn Tuesdays the basics 3–4:30pm of nature at NS3 journaling Science as you Studio explore the beach at low tide.

Materials #101–4355 provided.

Jingle5+ Pot years.

Rd, Nanaimo Fee. crd.bc.ca/parks Build Lego creations, then program them to move using drag and drop software. Students can also explore the many hands-on science exhibits and experiments.

SATURDAY nanaimoscience.org

17

Zine Daze: A Zine and Art Fair 11am Family at Central Frolics Branch Library

V

N

Zinesters, 5:45pm at artists, Frankprintmakers Jameson Community and publishers Centre will come together in a showcase 810of 6th local Ave, creativity.

Ladysmith Art and zine workshops will take place throughout the Drop day.inEveryone right afterwelcome. work to burn Free.off some energy and get ready for bed. gvpl.ca Play with balls and tunnels, run around and meet a new friend. 0-6 years.

250-210-0870

Saanichton Family Festival 9am Playatin Saanichton the Park Fairgrounds

P

V

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites March or run; spy or signal your position; climb or go underground at Fort Rodd Hill, a 100-year-old coast artillery fort. Then steer a ship; sound the fog horn; master the games inside Fisgard, the oldest lighthouse on the west coast. Participate in spectacular special events planned for the summer, pick-up an Xplorer activity book and stay overnight in one of our new oTENTik tents. These special places, only 15 minutes west of downtown Victoria, are so cool. Admission is FREE for youth age 17 and under.

250-478-5849 pc.gc.ca/fortroddhill Facebook.com/FortRoddFisgardNHS Twitter.com/FortRoddFisgard

Grandparent I S L A N D

S U M M E R 2 0 1 8

Games, 4pm atprizes, Oswald inflatable Park obstacle course and vendors from the Peninsula Country 3051 Cedar Market.

HillFree.

Rd. panoramarecreation.ca Bring the whole family for some fun in the sun. Get active and connect with your neighbours. Tuesdays in July & August. May be cancelled due to weather.

SUNDAY oaklandscommunitycentre.com

Here & There 10 Things to Do with Your Grandkids

18

Bejewelled Dragons of the Pond 1pm Concerts at Elk/Beaver in theLake Park Regional Park

V

N

An12:30pm up closeatand Maffeo personal Sutton lookPark at the & amazing world of dragonflies as they zig Bowen and zag Park in search Amphitheatre, of their prey Nanaimo across the wetlands. Nets and field guides Bring awill lawn be chair, available andfor picnic use.and Free. enjoy some awesome musical entercrd.bc.ca/parks tainment. Free. nanaimo.ca

Glow in the Dark Skate 3pm Playatin Nanaimo the Park Ice Centre

N

P

Skate 5:30pm in anatatmosphere Various Parks of dimmed in Sidney lighting and special effects. Regular admission.

Interactive play, face painting, group games, inflatable fun. Every evening through July & August. panoramarecreation.ca MONDAY

19

Celebrating Family Heritage

Pick up a copy of

Island Grandparent Available wherever you find Island Parent

IslandParent.ca

July 2019 39

info@madscienceisland.com SCHOOL PROGRAMS BIRTHDAY PARTIES SCIENCE CAMPS SHOWS

Book on-line

ONGOING:

Children V

Sketchy Thursdays

Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm at Central Branch Library Victoria Bring your sketchbook, pencils and pens and join Nate Davis for an evening of sketching. Open to all ages and abilities. Drop-in. Until June 27.

BC Summer Reading Club All Greater Victoria Public Libraries Imagine the possibilities with a free, self-paced program that encourages children to read (or be read to) throughout the summer. Whether you’re reading at home or on holidays, you can track your daily reading on your reading record and enjoy weekly incentives along the way. Beginning June 27, drop by your local library to pick up a reading record. For ages 12 and under. gvpl.ca

V

Oaklands Outdoor Playgroup

9:30am at Oaklands Park Free play, snack, crafts, and circle time. Coffee, tea and snack provided. 0-5 years. Monday & Thursday in July & August. $3/suggested donation.

V

Museum Tots

250-391-1814

Fun with science every day

vancouverisland.madscience.org Bleiddyn del Villar Bellis Artistic Director Fellow & Examiner CC-CICB Enrico Cecchetti Final Diploma

Saturdays 11am at Maritime Museum 634 Humboldt St , Victoria A weekly program introducing children 2-5 to the fun world of museum learning. New theme each week, allowing children to learn through crafts, play, games, song, and dance.

250-385-4222

P

Summer Storytime

10:30 at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Bring your littlest ones to the library for stories, songs, rhymes and lots of movement. All ages welcome. Drop in. Thursdays, July 4—August 15. virl.bc.ca

N

Everyone Welcome Swims At Bowen Park Kin Outdoor Pool Saturdays & Sundays 1-3pm June 1-September 1. Come swim in the heated pool. $3. nanaimowhiterapids.ca Kinder Camp Ages 4-6 July 2-5 Mornings Junior Summer Intensive Ages 7-13 Full day two week program in ballet, jazz, contemporary and pre-pointe

2019 Children’s Summer Ballet Camps

N

Silly Summer Saturdays 3-5pm at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre Bring your silly and funny side to the pool for summer-themed games and other silly and funny events. July 6-August 24. recreation.nanaimo.ca

Super Summer Sundays

N

3-5pm at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre Superior summertime swimming. Come and have a blast. July 7-August 25. recreation.nanaimo.ca

Photo credit: David Cooper

July 8-19

Playground Program

N

In Various Neighbourhood Playgrounds, Nanaimo Drop in to a neighbourhood park for games, arts, crafts and sports. 10am-3:30pm. Monday-Friday, Harewood Centennial & Mansfield Park; Monday-Wednesday, Groveland & Country Hills Park; Thursday & Friday, Westdale/Leslie & Hawthorne Park.

250-590-6752 admin@victoriaacademyofballet.ca victoriaacademyofballet.ca

40 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Bear Necessities

W

10am at East Sooke Regional Park We can co-exist with these magnificent forest dwellers. Learn about the life of the black bear.

Meet at the kiosk in the Aylard Farm parking lot off Beecher Bay Rd. 5+ years. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

Serving the Families of Vancouver Island for Over 23 Years The Kiddies Store

20 TUESDAY Slithering Snakes

V

10am at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Road Includes hands-on discovery, an outside still, story and craft. Fee. swanlake.bc.ca

P

Open Air Library

10am at Iroquois Park 2295 Ocean Ave Read books, visit with others and enjoy the outdoor park facilities with your family. Take one book home with you when you leave. Free. southislandliteracy.com

LILA STROLLER – Single or Sibling Use • One Hand Fold • Infant Ready • All Wheel Suspension • Available in Four Colours

• Reversible Stroller Liner (fleece and 3D mesh) • Parent Cup Holder, Boot Cover, Bug Net, Rainshield & Maxi Cosi Adaptors Included • Duo Mode Allows for Multiple Configurations

21 WEDNESDAY V

Story Walk Wednesday

Entrance off Larch St.

T.J.’S

SUMMER STUDIO P

1:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Join artist Jennifer Witvliet and create beautiful lanterns that you can carry in the Salish Sea Lantern Festival. All materials provided. Thanks to ArtSEA. Ages 6-12 years. Please register. virl.bc.ca

Join us in the AGGV Studio for inspiring art camps this summer! Connect with cool new ideas, techniques and experiment with the creative process.

Camps are for a wide range of ages and are inspired by current Gallery exhibitions.

REGISTER TODAY AT:

aggv.ca/learn/aggv-studio 250.384.4171 or at 1040 Moss St

IslandParent.ca

Larch St.

V

6pm at Francis/King Regional Park Get outside and experience a nature walk along your favourite user-friendly trail while stopping to enjoy an illustrated children’s book. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will be there to bring the story to life. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre off Munn Rd. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

Make Your Own Lantern

Finlayson St.

St.

Noon at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan lake Road What makes a wetland such a great place to enjoy and protect? Find out with hands-on exploration, pond dipping for live wetland creatures, crafts and games. All ages event. Donation. swanlake.bc.ca

3045–C Douglas St., Victoria, BC V8T 4N2 250-386-2229 www.tjskids.com

Douglas

Wild for Wetlands

AG108_Island_Parent_2019_Family_Summer_Guide.indd 1

FOR MORE INFO ABOUT ART CLASSES & CAMPS, EMAIL:

aggv.ca

studio@aggv.ca

July 2019-06-11 2019 41 11:42 AM

22 THURSDAY Leif David—SRC Wrap-Up Party

tricks, you’ll discover how these animals are adapted to their nocturnal life. Fee. P swanlake.bc.ca

2:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library You’re invited to the Summer Reading Club WrapUp Party! Leif David entertains with a world of imagination where the impossible is possible!

Watch as drawings come to life and pictures leap off the page. There will be prizes, cake and lots of fun for everyone. All ages welcome. Please register. virl.bc.ca

N

Coast Capital Free Skate 4:15pm at Cliff McNabb Arena Skate and helmet rentals included. Free.

24 SATURDAY W

Tree-mendous Trees

1pm at Devonian Regional Park Unlock the mysteries of trees on a fun forest adventure with a CRD Regional Parks naturalist.

Photo: Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

Barnyard & Trail Rides 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.

Located between Parksville & Coombs at

1692 Errington Rd Ph 250-248-2408

www.tigerlilyfarm.ca

42 Family Summer Guide

23 FRIDAY Cougar Capers

Follow clues and riddles along the trails to meet Devonian’s giants. 5+ years. Free.

V crd.bc.ca/parks

1pm at Francis/King Regional Park They leap, they climb, and they even purr. Come investigate the mysterious 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. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

Creatures of the Summer Night 8pm at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary, 3873 Swan Lake Road Sharpen your senses to look for owls, bats and other nighttime creatures. Using a grab bag of

25 SUNDAY Community Water Battle

P

2pm at Panorama Recreation Grab your super soakers and beat the heat.

Water fights and games for all ages. Plunge into the dunk tank, take a turn on the slip and slide, V and cool down with some cool treats. Bring your buckets, water guns, neighbours and friends. panoramarecreation.ca

IslandParent.ca

P

Evening Campground Program

7pm at Island View Beach Regional Park Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for stories and a beach stroll. Bring a beach chair and meet at the campfire ring at Island View Beach campground, off Homathko Rd. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

Vancouver Island’s Largest Independent Toy Store

27 TUESDAY V

Bug Buddies 10am at Mill Hill Regional Park What’s that bug? Bring your preschooler to explore the wonderful world of insects. Search for grasshoppers, wood bugs and other not-socreepy crawlies. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

koolandchild.com

29 THURSDAY Crab-tastik!

#102 – 2517 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo 888.390.1775 P

10am at Island View Beach Regional Park Red, green, purple, hairy and hermit crabs. This bustling marine habitat has them all. Drop by any time between 10am and 1pm to meet some of these crabs and their cousins up close and personal. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

30 FRIDAY Sandy Shore Explore

W

10am at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park Discover the strange and wonderful creatures that appear between the tides. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes).

Park at the main entrance off Metchosin Rd. Meet at the Witty’s Beach kiosk at the end of the Beach Trail. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

31 SATURDAY The Beach Rocks

W

10am at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park The tide is out. Get a glimpse of the creatures that live beneath the rocks. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Park at the main entrance off Metchosin Rd. Meet at the Witty’s Beach kiosk at the end of the Beach Trail.

All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks

Coast Capital Free Swim

N

7pm at Kin Pool Admission to pool only; weight room not included.

Free. recreation.nanaimo.ca

IslandParent.ca

July 2019 43

Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises J

aguars, monkeys, and jungles, oh my!

If you’re looking for a memorable family-friendly outing this summer, put the Royal BC Museum’s new exhibition, Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises, at the top of your list.

It’s a rare exhibition that appeals across the ages, and this one—a world premiere—includes rich soundscapes, interactive games, colorful videos, and touchable artifacts along with more traditional displays.

This exhibit highlights Maya civilization past and present, and includes hundreds of extraordinary artifacts never before seen outside of Guatemala.

glass-wearing folk saint. Point out the colorful custom-made carpeting and ask them to notice how and when it changes underfoot. Point out the glyphs on the main exhibition poster (and impress with your knowledge of the meaning: The Maya people come to the seashore), then search for more glyphs carved on sculptures inside the exhibition.

While you’re there…

1. Take a walk through the jungle.

The Maya civilization was once the world’s most advanced, and the thick Mesoamerican jungles may still hide ancient Maya temples and villages. As they walk through the leaf-lined jungle corridor just past the temple entrance, have the kids listen for unique animal sounds: they’ll hear jaguar roars, quetzal bird song, and monkey cries.

2. Sneak in some stealth learning.

Who doesn’t love a good true/false quiz? Watch for the colorful lift-the-flap panels at the end of the jungle corridor and test everyone’s knowledge about ancient Maya culture. (Is it true that Maya claimed the world would end in 2012? You’ll have to play the game to find out!) There’s also a fun Dress a Maya King puzzle that helps identify the hallmarks of Maya royalty, and a Help Ixchel Make Drinking Chocolate picture puzzle that teaches the steps involved in making the traditional Maya cocoa drink.

3. Touch the artifacts. Please.

Especially for pre-readers and kinesthetic learners, the ability to touch an assortment of 3D models of magnificent (and definitely off-limits!) artifacts such as a king’s jade mask, an ancient hieroglyphic panel, and a Jaguar Man sculpture is particularly appealing. Kids can also try to lift the giant rubber ball used to play the ancient game of pok ta pok. Players wore protective clothing and leather pieces to protect their hips, elbows and knees—the only places that were allowed to touch the heavy ball. Contemporary Maya have revived the game, with a World Cup competition that attracts teams from Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico and Belize.

Bonus tip: 4. Spend some quality time in front of a screen— The exhibition is accessible for the mobility-impaired, and or two. braille is included in some of the object labels. If you want to There are engaging videos throughout the exhibition, many featuring young children in contemporary Maya settings. Watch for films about life in ancient Maya culture, and videos highlighting modern markets, folk rituals and landscapes.

5. Create your own scavenger hunt.

Give the kids something to search for, whether it’s the dramatic Jaguar Man sculpture or Maximon, the colorful sun44 Family Summer Guide

take home a souvenir, remember that most of the toys, textiles, jewelry and baskets are handmade in Guatemala by fair-trade collectives benefitting disadvantaged women and their families.

The money raised goes to support the Royal BC Museum’s future exhibitions.

Maya: The Great Jaguar Rises closes Dec. 31, 2019. For more information and tickets, visit royalbcmuseum.com/maya.

IslandParent.ca

Swan Lake

BIG

christmas hill n a t u r e

s a n c t u a r y

3873 Swan Lake Road, Victoria, B.C. Canada, V8X 3W1 | www.swanlake.bc.ca | 250-479-0211

IslandParent.ca

July 2019  45

Learning at the Fort I

sn’t the feeling of freedom when on holidays exciting? For children it means, no more classes, homework, and exams. For grown-ups, it means no more projects, meetings, and reports.

Summer holidays are a time to relax, play and enjoy this freedom. Yet, we can still learn a thing or two along the way— especially at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites.

This year, Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites are offering a suite of fun summer programs for visitors of all ages. Programs share fascinating stories of folks who once lived at the fort and at the lighthouse. They also explore local Coastal Defense systems and marine navigation, along with the site’s human history, native plants and wildlife.

From June to September, some of the programs offered weekly include: • 1906–Canada Takes Over • Tales by the Sea • Airsoft Challenge • Meet the Big Guns • Suited for Military Life • Sweet History: Ice cream program • Fort for the Fishes • Enlisting the underdogs • Firepower Dress-up in period uniform. Create beach art or poke around tide pools by the lighthouse and see what the tides brought in. Hear how young Canadian women played important roles

What if, while breathing in the salty sea air, you are transported back in time to hear stories about the oldest lighthouse on the west coast of Canada? Who looked after it, but was never recognized for their work? Who shot himself in the eye, but survived? Who was the first lighthouse keeper, but not the first to make the lighthouse home?

What if, while gathered around Parks Canada’s historic interpreters in period uniform, you experience the loudest history lesson ever? Learn when firepower replaced swords, when No. 4 Lee-Enfield rifles were first used, and when World War II BREN light machine guns took over.

For those with a sweet tooth, you can also discover how dessert recipes evolved because of rationing. Learn what families did to ensure their cakes stayed fluffy and their ice cream stayed sweet without the most crucial ingredients available.

46 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

during World War II, and see how they contributed both at home and in uniform.

Treat yourself to ice cream you won’t find at your local grocery store, and see how delicious unusual ingredients can make the smoothest and tastiest treats.

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites also hosts special events that will please the whole family.

• On July 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Canada Day is the Fort’s biggest celebration of the year, with Victoria’s largest birthday cake to top it off! Be a kid again and take part in all the fun activities.

• On July 20 and 21, Parks Canada and Mountain Equipment Co-op will host “Learn-to Camp.” Rally a few friends for their first camping trip. Challenge them to a race to see who will master the tentbuilding puzzle first. Reservation required.

• On July 27-28, sleepover at the Fort at Camp-in Movie. Instead of a drive-in movie experience, you can watch films on the big screen within the Fort walls and even pitch a tent if you’d like to stay overnight. Reservation required.

• On August 9, come to the Fort to Star Gaze. Peer into the early night sky to witness this year’s Perseid Meteor Shower.

Reservation required.

• On August 17 from noon-4 p.m., prepare to get wet at Water Gun Wars.

Kids of all ages now know that Victoria’s largest water gun battle always takes place at Fort Rodd Hill.

• On September 21 from 7-9:30 p.m. drop by for an exclusive, after-dark guided Lantern Tour. See the gun batteries by lantern light and eavesdrop on re-enactors in uniform going about the daily activities of garrison life. Reservation required.

We are happy to offer adventurous, inclusive and quality programs for the community. We welcome landlubbers, Olympic dreamers and everyone in between!

Royal Vic Yacht Club 1/4H

Our classes start at 4 years old all the way through to adults! Join us on the water!

ROYAL VICTORIA YACHT CLUB

250 592 6113 - sailing@rvyc.ca - www.rvyc.bc.ca

The full summer program schedule along with the calendar of special events can be found on the Parks Canada Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse NHS webpage under Things to Do (pc.gc.ca/ en/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill/activ/activ5) or call 250-478-5849. Admission for youth 17 and under is free. Adult admission only $3.90. Spend quality time with your loved ones this summer and learn a few things along the way.

Event schedules may vary, for more information, visit parkscanada.gc.ca/fortroddhill or call 250478-5849.

IslandParent.ca

July 2019 47

The Salad Days of

S

Summer

ummer is the perfect season for salads—and not just because fresh vegetables are abundant and in season. Salads are ideal for picnics, barbecues and impromptu beach parties. The non-lettuce varieties of salad can be made in advance and will last several days in the fridge.

Here are three salad-based meals that are popular with kids and packed full of vegetables. They are also fairly quick to prepare—especially if you get some young helpers to do the chopping while you put everything together. I recommend making double batches so that you have plenty of leftovers. These are the sorts of salads that improve with time.

Mexi Bean Salad (Total prep time: 15 minutes) This salad is a cross between a bean salad and a really hearty salsa. You can serve it straight up, as a dip for corn chips or as a filling for a wrap. If you are making it in advance, I recommend leaving out the avocado or adding it right before serving because it will go brown quickly. Otherwise, the flavour of this salad will only improve over time, making it picnic-perfect.

1 can black beans 1 can kidney beans 1 can cannellini beans 1 large red bell pepper 6 spring onions 4 roma tomatoes 1⁄4 cup olive oil 1⁄4 cup cider vinegar 11⁄2 Tbsp lemon juice 11⁄2 tsp salt, to taste 1⁄2 tsp garlic powder 11⁄2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp smoked paprika (or chili powder if you like a bit of heat) 1⁄2 tsp ground black pepper, to taste 2 avocados 1⁄4 cup cilantro 48 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

My children LOVE taco salad. It is a great way to feed them lots of fresh veggies because they always have seconds!

This salad builds on the Mexi Bean Salad (above) so make a double batch of the bean salad and serve it both ways.

Salad Dressing: 2 tbsp ketchup 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce 1⁄4 tsp dry mustard (or 1 tsp Dijon mustard) 1⁄4 cup oil 2 tbsp white vinegar A pinch of salt A dash of hot sauce (if you like the heat) Salad: 1⁄2 batch of Mexi bean salad (see above) 1 small head of lettuce 1⁄4 cup grated cheese 1⁄3 bag of corn chips.

1. Mix the salad dressing and place it in a salad bowl with 1⁄2 of the Mexi Bean Salad (save the other half for a picnic lunch!). Add the avocado and cilantro right to the salad bowl as well.

2. Wash and rip up the lettuce.

3. Toss the salad.

4. Crunch the corn chips so that they are bite-sized pieces. This is a perfect job for kids—they love crushing corn chips.

5. Top the salad with grated cheese and crunched corn chips, then serve immediately.

1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp dried parsley 1 tsp salt and pepper, to taste

This salad tastes sort of like a BLT salad, but the bacon is replaced by chunks of hot dogs. However, if you are planning on serving this salad to young children, switch the hot dogs for bacon to avoid a chocking hazard.

Try this salad as a follow up meal after a barbecue. Barbecued hot dogs are more flavourful than boiled ones, so cook a few extras with this salad in mind.

Salad: 1 package of pasta 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 coloured pepper 6 green onions 4 roma tomatoes 1 cup of mozzarella 5 cooked hot dogs handful of freshly minced basil Salad Dressing: 1⁄2 cup of olive oil 1⁄4 cup of cider vinegar 1 tsp of lemon juice 1 tsp of Dijon mustard

1. Boil the pasta until cooked. Drain and toss with the olive oil, then set aside to cool.

2. Mix all of the salad dressing ingredients together to make a simple Italian dressing. Or if you already have a bottle of Italian dressing in your fridge, then add 1 cup to a large salad bowl.

3. Dice the pepper, tomatoes and spring onions. Mix them into the salad dressing to marinade.

4. When the pasta has cooled, add it to the vegetables.

5. Cut the mozzarella into cubes and chop the hot dogs into small pieces. Add them to the salad bowl.

6. Toss everything together. Taste and adjust salt as needed. If you are using store-bought salad dressing you may need to add quite a bit of salt.

Emillie Parrish loves having adventures with her two busy children. She lives in Victoria and is the author of the fermentation-based blog fermentingforfoodies.com.

Located in the famous Fairmont EMPRESS HOTEL

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Over 85 exciting miniature dioramas and displays RATED “GEM ATTRACTION” BY THE AAA ! OPEN DAILY ®

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Taco Salad (Prep time, in addition to the salad above: 10 minutes)

Hot Dog Pasta Salad (Total Time: 20 minutes)

Government St

1. Drain and rinse each of the cans of beans and place together in a large bowl.

2. Chop the red pepper, spring onions and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and add to the beans.

3. Add the oil, vinegar, lemon juice and spices to the beans. Toss everything to coat. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

4. The flavour will be best if the salad is chilled for 3–4 hours before serving.

5. Right before serving, add chopped avocado and cilantro.

Belleville St

Land of Castles

Circus World

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649 Humboldt St., Victoria, BC Canada • 250-385-9731 • www.miniatureworld.com

IslandParent.ca

July 2019 49

H A PPYFA M I LI ES H E A LTH YFA M I LI ES

Measles Immunizations Are your kids’ up to date?

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 250-544-2400 Saanich 250-519-5100 Saltspring Island 250-538-4880 Sooke 250-519-3487 Victoria 250-388-2200 West Shore 250-519-3490

Central Island Health Units Duncan Ladysmith Lake Cowichan Nanaimo Nanaimo Princess Royal Parksville/ Qualicum

250-709-3050 250-755-3342 250-749-6878 250-755-3342 250-739-5845

Port Alberni Tofino

250-731-1315 250-725-4020

250-947-8242

North Island Health Units Campbell River 250-850-2110 Courtenay 250-331-8520 Kyuquot Health Ctr 250-332-5289 ‘Namgis Health Ctr 250-974-5522 Port Hardy 250-902-6071

islandhealth.ca/our-locations/ health-unit-locations 50 Family Summer Guide

I

t’s summertime! The sun is shining, the kids are out of school—and you’ve just realized that they missed out on the measles immunization catch-up campaign. You still have plenty of time to prepare for this fall, when mandatory immunization reporting will be required for school-aged children.

The catch-up campaign, which ran from April through June 2019, was launched by the B.C. government as part of an effort to ensure that all school-age kids—from kindergarten through Grade 12—were up-to-date with their measles immunizations. There have been cases reported in Canada and several countries are experiencing outbreaks right now. In B.C., there were 29 lab-confirmed cases of measles from January to May 2019, including eight in the Island Health region.

Children are among the most vulnerable to measles, a highly contagious disease that spreads through the air.

Symptoms include fever, runny nose, sore throat, cough, diarrhea and red eyes. After a few days a rash appears first on the face, spreads to the chest and then to the entire body. Complications include pneumonia, brain inflammation, convulsions, deafness, brain damage and death.

B.C.’s measles immunization catch-up campaign was delivered by the province’s health authorities, including Island Health. The campaign offered immunization clinics at schools and local public health units. As part of this outreach, Island Health contacted parents of eligible children who were not up-to-date for measles immunizations. The program provided immunizations for those kids who had not begun or not completed their series of immunizations. Families have embraced the opportunity to get up-to-date on their immunizations and more than 9,000 measles immunizations have been administered across the Island Health region since February 2019.

“We know from the overall numbers that we’re immunizing more children against measles in all the age categories compared to last year,” says Dr. Dee Hoyano, Medical Health Officer, Island

Health. “Immunizing your child is one of the most important things you can do to protect their health. Parents are bringing their kids in to be immunized because they want them to stay healthy and to protect others from contracting a serious preventable illness.”

The voluntary program was intended to help parents report their child’s immunization status as well as catch up with getting their children protected. It will also help prepare parents for mandatory reporting of immunization status for school-aged children, which is planned for fall 2019. Details to be announced.

Measles catch-up at Island Health by the numbers: • More than 9,000 measles immunizations administered between February and May 2019, which is double compared to the previous year.

• There are more than 93,000 students in the Island Health region (kindergarten to Grade 12); about 24 per cent of them have not completed their measles immunization series.

• 104,000 letters were sent home with students, April 2019.

To prepare for mandatory reporting requirements this fall, here are steps you can take to follow up on immunizations for your children: • If you don’t have a copy of your child’s immunization records, check immunizebc.ca/tips-locating-immunization-records for tips on locating the information.

• If past immunizations were provided by another health care provider, such as a family doctor, contact the office to request the information. Please note that parents of older children may not be able to request immunization records on their child’s behalf.

• If your children need immunization updates, check the immunization schedule for young children (aged 0-6) and IslandParent.ca

school-aged children, available at immunizebc.ca/vaccine-schedules.

• Call your local health unit, family doctor or pharmacist (for children aged 5 and older) to confirm immunization availability and to book an appointment (you can sign up for appointment reminders at immunizebc.ca/reminders).

• If your child develops symptoms, please contact your health care provider before you visit your provider’s office so they can take precautions to prevent the transmission of measles to others.

Remember to bring your child’s care card or BC ID to the appointment. Also, please note that children and youth under 19 are able to consent to medical treatment, such as immunization, on their own as long as the health-care provider is sure the treatment is in the child’s best interest and the child understands the treatment, its risks and its benefits.

When you’re done, keep your immunization records in a secure location. You can also keep a digital record on an app, such as CANImmunize.

Want more info? Here’s a listing of some helpful resources: • Call 8-1-1 for information anytime or visit healthlinkbc.ca • Learn about measles at immunizebc. ca/measles • For current measles updates, visit islandhealth.ca/measles-updates You can also call one of our measles information lines: • South Island: 250-544-7676 ext.

27545 • Nanaimo/Ladysmith/Gabriola: 250755-3388 • Courtenay/Comox Valley: 250-3318599 • Campbell River and area: 250-8502120 • Mt. Waddington/Port Hardy: 250902-6079 • For the Cowichan Valley, AlberniClayoquot and other communities not included above, please contact your local public health unit. Visit islandhealth.ca/ our-locations/health-unit-locations for more information.

Glenn Drexhage is a Population and Public Health Advisor with Island Health’s Communications, Planning and Partnerships team. He lives in Nanaimo with his young family, and has a background in journalism and CHI L D YOU TH & FAMI LY communications.

PU BL I C HE ALTH IslandParent.ca

ctoria

Gymnastics Boys & girls, ages 2 through adult, beginner through advanced

Monthly payments with no further obligation—cancel any time

Morning, afternoon & evening classes seven days a week Start anyOptional time – continuous character enrollment

8:1 class ratio guaranteed Trial classes available Make-ups for missed classes

Optional character Optional character

victoriagymnastics.com

Optional character

DOWNTOWN VICTORIA

2051 Store St Optional character

250-380-2442

Optional character

TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

Celebrating 39 Years of Excellence!

NEW IN WESTSHORE

520 Mt View Ave

778-265-6414

ADVERTISERSDIRECTORY Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre...................................... IFC Art Gallery...................................... 41 Beacon Hill Petting Farm.............. 27 Butchart Gardens.......................... 17 Butterfly Gardens........................IBC Camp Pringle.................................19 Chemainus Theatre...................... 34 Coastal Bliss................................. 32 Dialogue Resolution..................... 32 Fort Rodd Hill................................ 39 Freya Sofia Waldorf Store............ 32 Galey Farms................................... 3 Habitat for Humanity.................... 43 IMAX..............................................10 Island Circus................................. 42 Kool & Child.................................. 43 Lifestyles.......................................21 Mad Science................................. 40

Miniature World............................ 49 Momease..................................... IFC Mothering Touch............................11 NIL TU,O........................................19 North Island Wildlife Recovery..... 43 Oak and Orca..........................21, 34 O’Brian School of Irish Dancing... 29 Parksville Beach Festival............. IFC PISE.............................................. 53 The Raptors.................................. 27 Royal BC Museum......................... 17 Royal Victoria Yacht Club..............47 Saanich Commonwealth Place......11 Saanich Dental............................. 30 Saanich Fair.................................. 54 Serious Coffee.............................. 30 Stages........................................... 26 Sutubra.......................................... 31 Swan Lake.................................... 46

Sylvan Learning............................ 25 Tiger Lily Farms............................ 42 TJ’s The Kiddies Store................... 41 Tom Lee Music...............................47 Under the GUI.............................. 38 UVic Vikes.................................... 35 Victoria Academy of Ballet........... 40 Victoria Academy of Dramatic Arts.............................37 Victoria Baby & Family Fair.......... 36 Victoria Bug Zoo............................47 Victoria Gymnastics.......................51 Victoria Rowing Club.................... 25 VIHA.............................................. 50 Westmont Montessori...................51 Westshore Dental........................... 5 Westshore Moto X.........................37 Westshore Parks & Recreation..........................BC, 28

July 2019 51

PARTYDIRECTORY

ctoria Gymnastics

G Y M

FALCON

GYMNASTICS Birthday Parties

G

Birthday Parties

birthday parties

Y

for all ages!

M

N Celebrate your birthday with us!

N

Come Fly With Us!

Our great instructors will treat you to an action packed two hours of fun and fitness in our great facility!

A

Party sizes up to 18 kids

A S

45thsary

r Annive 2018 1973–

• 2 large decorated birthday rooms

S

T

• Free T-shirt for birthday child, invitations for up to 10 children

T

I

• The ONLY Inflatable Climbing Mountain with trampoline in town

I

C S

Book Early: 250-479-6424

#208 – 721 Vanalman Ave

(Broadmead & Royal Oak Area)

www.falcongymnastics.com

C S

2 Great Locations!

We supply table top cover, napkins, hats, streamers and balloons

Swim bounce , cook golf, create & more!

Optional character

Two certified instructors and a host Optional character

Henderson Recreation Centre Call 250-370-7200 Oak Bay Recreation Centre Call 250-595-SWIM (7946) recreation.oakbay.ca

Let us save you time

& energy with fun, memorable, high quality party favours Delivered right to your door!

Gymnastics games and music

Optional character

Free t-shirt Foam landing pit and 40' long trampoline

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Party participants can win a FREE month

Available Saturday & Sunday Afternoons Optional character

TWO GREAT LOCATIONS

www.thegoodiebags.ca 1 .800 . 815. 8910 What could you do with

more time?

52 Family Summer Guide

2051 Store St, Victoria

250-380-2442

520 Mt View Ave, Colwood

778-265-6414

victoriagymnastics.com IslandParent.ca

What are you doing this summer?

Take a PLAYcation with PISE!

SUMMER

CAMPS Ages 3 - 18 PISE.ca/summer-camps PLAY YOUR WAY TO: IslandParent.ca

CONFIDENCE

SKILL DEVELOPMENT

FUN, TEAM WORK & COOPERATION

RESPECT

July 2019  53

INCLUSIVITY

Details, Details

To find out more about travelling on Vancouver Island, visit the following websites or contact or visit the organizations.

Tourist Information

BC Parks

Tourism Vancouver Island Website: vancouverisland.travel Find things to do, places to stay or sign up for the email newsletter. You’ll find maps and a distance chart, information about accommodations, camping, tours, attractions, festivals, events, entertainment, parks and outdoor activities in various communities.

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 (3 reservations per transaction) and manage your bookings. Most campsite reservations can be made up to 4 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.

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 info and more.

Visitor Info Centres You’ll find visitor info centres in most 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.

Parks Canada Gulf Islands National Park Reserve Website: reservation.pc.gc.ca Toll free: 1-877-737-3783 (Reservations)

1-866-944-1744 (Information) View campsite availability, reserve a site, manage your bookings, and find out about park reserve programs and events.

Capital Regional District Parks & Trails 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.

Road Conditions Drive BC Website: drivebc.ca For highway cams, incidents and conditions.

Toll free 1-800-550-4997

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.

Gates: 8am–9pm Daily • Monday 8am–6pm $13 for Adults • $8 for Seniors & Youths • FREE for kids 6 and under Ride ‘em all day Midway Wristbands: $40 Free Parking & Nightly Entertainment • No Alcohol • No Dogs 54 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

IslandParent.ca

July 2019  55

FAMILY PROGRAMMING

Wednesdays NO 6:00 – 7:30 PM COST JULY 10 – AUGUST 21

Thursday NO COST 6:00 – 8:00 PM

JULY 11 – AUGUST 22

A new story & trail each week.

Royal Bay Beachpark

F����� Golf PASS Family (Max 4) 2 Adults Anytime 9 Holes

$

40+.0tax0

Beginners and families will have fun learning the game in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

FA M I LY

D RO P-I N & PASSE S Drop-In Fees Family (Max of 5 People)

3 Month Family Pass* Valid for 3 months from purchase date.

Family Annual Pass* Valid for 12 months from purchase date.

SINGLE

10’S

Includes Tax

Before Tax

$13.25

$113.58 $280

$93.33 a month

Pass Holders have access to • • • • • •

$770 $64.17 a month

A family is 2 Adults & 3 Children or 1 Adult & 4 Children

westshorerecreation.ca | 250-478-8384

Public Swimming Sauna Steam Room Water Fit Classes Weight Room Weight Training Drop-in Classes

• • • • •

Fitness Drop-In Classes Discount on a selection of Specialty Fitness Classes and Yoga Drop-in Sports Programs Public Skating Sessions Duffer Hockey