Family Summer Guide 2020

Summer 2020

Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 32 Years

@home edition

Family rs Photo Contest Winne

r e m m Su Guide

Join us In-Centre or Online for a Summer of Learning!

Keep the Learning Going!

We are now open for both online and in-person instruction—whatever is right for your family. Although we're excited to return to seeing families in our centres, our online tutoring is also available!

Personalized In-Centre Tutoring: Our expert teachers can provide face-to-face support, following BC Health mandated guidelines to ensure the safety of your child.

Online Tutoring: Personalized support from our same great teachers, just in the comfort and safety of your home.

And we can get started today! Call us to set up your child's assessment and get going again with learning!

Sylvan Victoria 250-477-3212

2  Island Parent @Home

Sylvan Westshore 250-590-6211

GET STARTED FOR $95!

Act now and get the Sylvan Insight Assessment for just $95 AND we'll include a *FREE hour of instruction Available at participating centres only. Free hour of instruction available on enrollment only. Cannot be combined with any other coupon or offer. Expires 7/31/20.

Sylvan Nanaimo 250-758-1526

IslandParent.ca

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary

Swan Lake Swan c h r i s t mLake as hill a n t ui l a r c nhart iusr te ms a s ch ly

n a t u r e

s a n c t u a r y

WE MISSED YOU! Wrinkles the Western painted turtle, Wendell the Pacific chorus frog, the Honeybee colony, and staff want to welcome you back to the Swan Lake Nature House! The Nature House is now open Monday to Friday from 11 am to 3 pm but we hope to extend hours soon. Admission is by donation as always but we do need your support to help keep us open. Please visit our website at www.swanlake.bc.ca or call 250-479-0211 for the most up to date information on hours and to find out about upcoming programs.

In order to maintain health protocols, we are limiting numbers of visitors in at any one time inside the Nature house. Please follow the posted information when you visit and respect the physical distancing measures in place, which include directional arrows and ducky foot prints to show the way. If you are sick, please stay home. We look forward to you visiting when you are well again.

Parking lots and trails around Swan Lake and up Christmas Hill are open from dawn until dusk. Please maintain physical distance of 2 meters when encountering other visitors and remember to kind to each other and to nature. Hope to see you soon!

IslandParent.ca

Family Summer Guide 2020  3

Ta b l e o f C o n t e n ts

5

14

Welcome

Get ready for summer adventures.

Sue Fast

6

Summer Photos

A sample from our annual Family Summer Guide photo contest.

10 Top Things to Do in the Cowichan Region From biking, train rides and tubing to beaches, waterfalls and raptors, there’s lots to see and do in Cowichan.

Jill Nessel

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Captivating Critters

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Kid-friendly Camping

Walk, talk and interact with the animals.

Camping adventures on Vancouver Island.

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Preschool Directory

For the Love of Water

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serena beck

Hit the Trails

Splishing, splashing and keeping cool.

Summer sauntering.

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Six Ways to Celebrate Island Trails Enjoying and protecting our wild places— and each other.

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A Summer of Stories

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Staying Safe in BC Parks

Protocols and guidelines to help keep park visitors safe.

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

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OntheCover SUMMER 2020

Vancouver Island’s Parenting Resource for 32 Years

@home edition

Building collective memories through storytelling.

40

Island of Inspiration

The Greater Victoria Public Library’s favourite books about the islands—by island writers.

44

Details, Details

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

Family Calendar

26

Barbecuing

Beyond hot dogs and burgers.

Emillie Parrish

FAMILY Photo Contest Winners

ERIDE SUMMGU

Tate M (7). Photo by Ashley Marston Photography, ashleymarstonphotography.com Inset: grand prize winner of our annual summer photo contest.

Maya M (21⁄2). Photo by Mim Mills and Arin Ringwald

Island Parent is a proud member of

BC 4 Island Parent @Home

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Kid-friendly Ways to (Re)Engage with the Royal BC Museum

The Museum’s phased approach to re-opening.

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.

Island Parent Magazine 250-388-6905 islandparent.ca

IslandParent.ca

Welcome to the

Family Summer Guide 2020 A re we there yet?

Those four words, often heard from the backseat of the family car during a summer road trip, could just as easily describe how many parents are feeling right now after navigating the past few months of being stuck at home while trying to keep the kids busy, learning and entertained.

Now that BC is in Phase 3 of its restart plan, we’re allowed to travel within the province but are also encouraged to stay close to home. Lucky for us, Vancouver Island offers endless possibilities to explore.

Most campgrounds are open. Provincial and national parks, too. Museums, galleries and local attractions are gradually reopening. Beaches are beckoning, lakesides, too. Feel like a hike? You’re in luck. Most trails, for ambling, hiking and biking are open. So let’s get out there!

Even lying on the grass under a shady tree feels like an exotic escape these days.

Whatever your preference—packing a lunch and taking

off for a day trip, or hitting the road and venturing further afield—imagine the possibilities and turn them into a reality. The fresh air and sunshine await.

No matter what you have planned this summer—or what just happens—we hope this year’s Family Summer Guide helps you have a great summer. Within these pages you’ll find information on kid-friendly camping, staying safe in BC parks, 10 things to do in the Cowichan Region, numerous Vancouver Island activities and attractions, places to explore, the benefits of barbecuing, walking trails suited to families, places to see animals, good summer reads, six ways to celebrate Island trails and much more.

Check out Details, Details on the last page to find out the latest information on travel recommendations and social distancing, parks, weather, ferry travel and tourist resources. The Summer Calendar highlights some of 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.

Youth Transit Passes Sign Up Online Today Youth 18 years of age and under living in the municipality of Victoria can now apply online for their free monthly transit pass.

This new online option allows youth or their parents to provide their information without having to visit City Hall and have their passes for June, July and August mailed to their home.

IslandParent.ca

victoria.ca/transit Family Summer Guide 2020 5

Photo of Maya M (21⁄2) by Mim Mills & Arin Ringwald

Photo of Evie P (10) by Kirsten Pizarro

Photo of Evie P (10) by Kirsten Pizarro

Summer Photos

Every 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. The winner of Island Parent’s photo contest—and the Pacific FC youth jersey—are Mim Mills and Arin Ringwald for their photo of Maya M (21⁄2), shown in the inset on the cover.

Photo of Keenan B (4) by Laura Barron

Photo of Talia B (2) by Laura Barron

Photo of John B (6) by Serena Beck

Photo of Keenan B (4) by Laura Barron

Photo of (L–R) Alicia B (8), Lily J (9) & John B (6) by Serena Beck

Photo of Elizabeth B (4) by Serena Beck

Photo of Evie P (10) by Kirsten Pizarro Photo of Matthew S (3) & William S (5)

by Gypsy Siegner

Photo of Beckett K (13) by Tia Krogstad

Photo of Owen M (5) by Andrea Bingham

Photo of William S (5) by Gypsy Siegner

Photo of Beckett K (13) by Tia Krogstad

Photo of Charlotte M (7) by Andrea Bingham

Photo of Bryn R (8) & William S (5)

by Gypsy Siegner

Photo of Beckett K (13) by Tia Krogstad

Photo of Jasper M (2) & Charlotte M (7)

by Andrea Bingham

Kid-friendly Camping Summertime. What to do with the kids that’s safe and won’t bankrupt the family? Luckily, the glories of British Columbia’s diverse and beautiful landscapes and temperate summer weather offer a host of affordable camping adventures that can be tailored to almost any budget.

C

amping is an easy, safe way to get kids outdoors where they can learn something of the world around them and have an opportunity for the kind of free play that stimulates imaginations. Child psychologists have long advocated the value of unstructured play where kids can take risks without the requirement that they achieve some goal set by adults or the rules of organized sport.

What better place than a beach, for example, where children can collect shells, dig holes, build sand castles, splash in shallow pools or construct forts from driftwood?

Getting outdoors is more than an inexpensive relief valve for parents; it contributes to kids’ tool kits for understanding the world around them, creating their own context within it, finding leadership roles for themselves, reducing stress and spontaneously learning to solve problems cooperatively. Research shows that kids who feel confident outdoors are most likely to become competent adults with both healthy lifestyles and the ability to empathize with others.

So here’s a small sampling of the many easily accessible kid-friendly Island campgrounds, within a half day’s drive.

There are day-use facilities at these camp-

8 Island Parent @Home

grounds, too, so daytrips are equally feasible.

The following list includes provincial parks only, although there are plenty of private facilities that are equally kidfriendly. You can survey the private facilities on offer at travel-british-columbia. com and if you want to adventure farther afield than Vancouver Island, you can look up parks and make reservations at gocampingbc.com for every region of the province.

French Beach

The beach here is almost two kilometres long. Views are spectacular across Juan de Fuca Strait to the Olympic Mountains and seals, sea lions and whales visit the waters. If a sea is running, you can take a quick trip to Jordan River or walk in to Sombrio Beach and watch the surfers. There’s hiking on Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Tide pools at Botanical Beach offer endless exploring— just be prepared for rain.

Goldstream

This little river tumbles through a deep canyon to an estuary that’s still in its natural state and home to eagles, ospreys, ravens and other birds. The nature cen-

tre is temporarily closed, but that could change so check for updates at naturehouse.ca. There’s a spectacular waterfall that cascades almost 50 metres down a cliff face and the chance to spot rare amphibians like the red-legged frog.

Gordon Bay

On Cowichan Lake, northwest of Duncan, this campground is ideal for kids.

The sandy beach is great for lounging on a sunny afternoon and the water is almost always warm enough—the valley has the highest average temperature in Canada—for family swimming. There are walking and hiking trails through old

growth forest and lots of birds to watch, including the raucous blue Stellar’s jay and plenty of waterfowl. For teens there’s windsurfing, kayaking and waterskiing.

Fishing is good in the fall. And a short drive away in Duncan is the kid-friendly B.C. Forest Discovery Centre.

The Kiddies Store SINCE

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Rathtrevor Beach

tjskids.com 250-386-2229

This is a mid-Island paradise for kids of almost any age. At low tide, almost a kilometre of sandy beach is exposed leaving shallow pools in which flatfish dart, crabs scuttle, clams squirt and sand dollars are scattered everywhere. The tide rolls back in over sand flats that have been baking in the sun all day and the water warms up to temperatures that are ideal for paddling.

Finlayson St.

St.

3045–C Douglas St. Victoria, BC

Current Hours Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm Douglas

Miners once brought their families here for an outing away from the industrial grime when Nanaimo was a coal mining centre. Today you can catch a ferry for the 10-minute trip across the harbour.

It’s an easy walk around the island with its sandstone beaches and sandy coves where kids can play. And you can find an ice cream cone at the 1930’s dance pavilion. Campsites are limited here, though, so reserve early. Sidetrips include Petroglyph Park and its ancient stone carvings, an old coal mine at Morden Colliery Historic Site, the cemetery where kids can learn about Nanaimo’s mine disasters from the old tombstones, the Bastion fur trade fort and the Nanaimo Sports Hall of Fame which is not far from the ferry landing.

Dedicated to providing Vancouver Island families with high-quality infant and toddler products at affordable prices for over 25 years

Larch St.

Entrance off Larch St.

T.J.’s

Fun, Interactive Online Classes and Groups!

Miracle Beach

Midway between Courtenay and Campbell River, this is another sandy paradise for kids that features a play-

Even COVID can’t stop us!

Classes Online (live, interactive, local) Childbirth Preparation & Refreshers Baby Care & Infant First Aid Cloth Diapering Workshop Baby-Wearing Workshop Dogs-and-Babies Workshop

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Groups Online Parents-and-Babies Chat - 1-2pm Mon-Fri Find the link on our website

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Breastpump sales & rentals Nursing bras and tops Cloth diapers and accessories Baby Carriers Baby Clothes, Books and Toys

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

Family Summer Guide 2020 9

CITY ADVENTURE DAY CAMP FOR YOUTH & ADULTS WITH DIVERSE ABILITIES AGE GROUPS 12-18 & 19-49 AUGUST 2020

Sign up for one day or as many as you can!

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DROP-OFF LOCATION UPTOWN OUTDOOR MALL SAANICH ROAD

ground, hot showers and a big family picnic area by the shore.

A bit farther north is the Oyster River with estuary trails that lead to another beach, this one wild and undomesticated, with sea grass, wild roses and bleached tangles of driftwood that sweep north behind what was once a UBC experimental dairy farm. At Courtenay, the museum features a prehistoric plesiosaur. At Campbell River there’s another kind of dinosaur—a steam-powered donkey engine at the district museum.

Englishman River Falls

The river in this park thunders through deep canyons and over two spectacular waterfalls. A perpetual mist waters fern gardens that nestle in the rock walls in primeval splendour.

Downstream, the torrent suddenly spills into a clear, tranquil pool that invites a refreshing plunge on a hot summer day. Just up the road is Coombs with its knick-knack and souvenir shops and the world-famous sod roof with grazing goats. A little farther north, kids can visit the Horne Lake Caves for a guided spelunking adventure.

Little Qualicum Falls

Toys, games and puzzles for all ages

koolandchild.com

#102 – 2517 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo 888.390.1775 10 Island Parent @Home

World-famous Cathedral Grove, renowned for stand of Douglas fir and western red cedar that date from the time of William Shakespeare, is nearby, so is a sandy swimming beach on Cameron Lake. Well-groomed trails permit safe viewing of an impressive waterfall and there’s pleasant hiking in the cool woods around the campground. A short drive west is the Alberni Valley where the last and only steam-powered sawmill is still in operation and there’s a pleasant quay with souvenir shops and inexpensive eateries.• IslandParent.ca

Health & Safety Guidelines As we get back into our provincial parks, it is critical that we continue to abide by the guidelines and recommendations of the Provincial Health Officer which includes non-essential travel.

• Please visit parks close to home.

• Visitors are expected to respect any facility or area closures and to follow the physical distancing requirements set out by the PHO. • Visitors should bring their own hand sanitizer are asked to practice appropriate hygiene. If you are sick, please visit another time.

• BC Parks is doing everything it can to ensure parks are safe. We are all in this together, and we are counting on everyone to do their part so parks can remain open.

Additional Information Specific parks: bcparks.ca BC Parks Re–Opening Frequently Asked Questions: bcparks.ca/covid-19/questions-answers/ COVID-19 information, visit the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC): covid-19.bccdc.ca/ BC’s response to COVID-19 and BC’s Restart Plan: gov.bc.ca/covid19 Provincial Health Officer and Ministry of Health News: news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Safety Outdoors Make your camping trip a learning moment that kids can carry with them into adulthood.

This is the time to teach them the practical outdoor safety basics and make them into a routine.

For Kids:

1. Get the kids to check the weather before you leave and to report and discuss what to expect.

2. Help the kids put together a personal checklist and to assemble their own small backpack with minimal survival gear.

Include one day’s water, some energy bars, a warm outer garment (preferably waterproof), a compact space blanket, a small LED flashlight and a whistle. A fully charged cell phone is good if there’s service.

Insist that they always carry their own pack.

3. Impress upon the kids that nobody ever hikes alone.

4. Have a plan and have the kids review what they must do if they should get lost or separated—stop; stay put; stay dry; signal with their whistle every five minutes until located.

5. Make them responsible for sunscreen and bug spray. (But carry a spare supply!)

IslandParent.ca

For Parents:

1. Make a plan and stick to it. Always check the weather before leaving. Don’t arrive at your campsite after dark.

2. Carry a map and a compass. Even wilderness experts get lost. A hand-held GPS is great but not so great if the batteries run down or you drop it in a creek.

3. Carry adequate clothing for sudden and surprising changes in the weather. Your outer shell should be rain proof. Avoid cotton garments—wool or synthetics will keep you warm even when wet.

4. Carry enough emergency rations for everyone in the group in the event of the unforeseen.

5. Carry a first aid kit.

6. On a hike, adults always take point and tail-end Charlie—kids in between. Never let them out of sight and on the trail keep distances between hikers to a maximum of 10-15 steps.

7. At the beach, kids never go near the water without a parent close by, too. Familiarize yourself with the threat of rogue waves—nobody goes on the rocks anywhere near the surf. Familiarize yourself with currents and tidal conditions before any playing, even at the water’s edge.

8. The chance of a dangerous encounter with wildlife is very small but bears, cougars, wolves and coyotes do share B.C., so be aware. You can review safety guidelines at the BC Parks wildlife safety website: bcparks.ca/explore/wild_gen.html 9. While hiking, a light tarp and parachute cord is a good idea for quick shelter in an emergency.

10. Make sure somebody knows where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Be realistic about your schedule—kids will want time to explore.

Family Summer Guide 2020 11

Staying Safe in BC Parks BC Parks has put protocols in place, including enhanced cleaning measures, to ensure campers and day-use visitors remain safe while getting back outdoors. Keeping our parks and campgrounds safe is a collective responsibility. As the new camping season gets underway, BC Parks staff and park operators asks visitors to adhere to physical distancing and posted guidelines while visiting parks and campgrounds.

1. Feeling sick? Park visits can wait.

Stay home if you have: • A cough, fever or any symptoms of illness, • Recently returned from travel outside of Canada?

• Been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 14 days.

Follow the orders of the Provincial Health Officer and for more information visit bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19.

2. Stay local.

While we all look forward to future road trips and exploring new parks, for now, we ask that you stay close to home, avoid non-essential travel, and enjoy where you live.

This is not the time for long distance travel for recreationalpurposes.

Many of our parks and protected areas are adjacent to rural, remote, and First Nations communities. As you plan your summer, please be mindful that these smaller communities may not be able to manage increases in out of town visitors.

You may also find amenities such as groceries and gas unavailable. As you head out for your camping trip, make adjustments: • Stock up on groceries close to home—bring a cooler and extra ice to help you make the journey.

• Refuel your vehicle before you leave home and sanitizeyour hands after refueling.

5. Keep nature serene and your hands clean.

Clean hands help keep everyone safe. Wash your hands frequently, especially when coming and going from your campsite.

Follow these hand-hygiene guidelines: • Lather up with soap and warm water.

• Wash your hands for 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing “happy birthday” twice).

• Use an alcohol-based sanitizer when hand washing is not an option.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth withunwashed hands.

• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue rather than your hands.

Immediately dispose of used tissues in a waste bin or bag and clean your hands right away.

Y u m

3

3. Stay safe.

A

As we get outside, remember to play it safe this summer.

Refer to posted signs and follow the direction of park operators and staff—they are as invested in your safety as you are.

Take extra caution in day use areas and on hiking trails to reduce risk and avoid injury. Recreate within your skill level so as not to put others in emergency response, search and rescue and our health care system at risk.

R o y

T r s r

4. Limit touch points and keep your distance.

Keep yourself and others safe by limiting touch points.

• Be mindful of high-touch areas and objects within the park (e.g., hand rails, garbage lids, wayfinding maps).

• Sanitize your hands after coming into contact with common areas or avoid touching altogether.

Although we’ve moved outside, physical distancing still has a role to play in safe outdoor recreation. Practice physical distancing in campgrounds and day use areas by: • Lining up two metres apart at washrooms, shower buildings and taps.

• Maintaining two metres of distance when setting up at the beach.

• Visiting day use areas of the park early in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds.

• Modeling good trail etiquette by maintaining distance between other hikers and making room for others to pass.

Please note: Due to social distancing, maximum occupancy of vehicle campsites is 8 people.

12 Island Parent @Home

4

6. Use common sense in common areas.

Limit your time in common areas and be considerate of other campers.

When it comes to washrooms and shower facilities, please work together 1. FEELING SICK? PARK VISITS CAN WAIT. to adhere to the posted limit for the building.

When inside, givehave: each other a lot of space—think the length of a Stay home if you hockey stick or a pool noodle. know how much children enjoy playing in groups and on play WeAallcough, fever or any symptoms of illness, grounds. Parents are expected to help their children navigate physical distancing guidelines and adhere to posted signs of andCanada; facility closures.

Recently returned from travel outside or Younger children should be accompanied by a parent or adult when

K

Been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 14 days.

IslandParent.ca

A a d

Follow the orders of the Provincial Health Officer and for

using common facilities and areas. Bring along sanitizing wipes and any other supplies you may need to keep tiny hands safe.

Enhanced cleaning measures are in place for common facilities, but we can all do our part to keep our common areas and frequently used spaces clean.

Above all, we ask that you practice patience, kindness and consideration as campers, park operators, and BC Parks staff all navigate this new way of camping, together.

7. Set up your campsite for success.

• Pack the essentials, including waste bags, disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, plain soap, a wash basin, tissues, and flip flops for the shower. Extra items to consider may include gloves for disposing of waste in common receptacles, or non-medical grade masks for use in common areas, depending on your comfort level.

• When you arrive, explore your new space by reviewing campsite boundaries with your children. Keep all camping equipment, tents, vehicles, RVs only on your campsite pad.

• Maintain your social “bubble” by keeping two metres of distance from those not in your camping party whenever possible.

• Keep your socializing safe by limiting visitors to your campsite.

• Please note, in support of public health recommendations of social distancing, the maximum occupancy for a campsite is 8 people at any given time, including daytime visitors and overnight campers.

• Up your hand-hygiene game by setting up a hand washing station at your campsite. Bring along a large water cooler with a faucet or spout and eco-friendly hand soap. Set this up on the edge of your campsite’s picnic table for easy access.

Make a habit of washing or sanitizing your hands: • When entering or exiting your campsite • Before and after eating • Before preparing or handling food • Before handling clean or dirty dishes • Campsite picnic tables are high touch surfaces and should be cleaned before and after each use.

We can all do our part to help keep campgrounds clean. As always, campers are expected to keep the campsite clean during their stay and leave no trace upon departure.

Follow the in-park signs and posted information for additional information and park-specific guidelines.

From BC Parks Canada. For more information, visit bcparks.ca.

IslandParent.ca

Family Summer Guide 2020 13

10 Top Things to Do in the Cowichan Region For updates and changes to hours of operation at the following family-friendly attractions, please double check each website before venturing out.

1. All Aboard at the BC Forest Discovery Centre

Take a trip through the past, present and future on 100 acres just waiting to be explored! Forestry and logging take an important place in history and our present-day-lives, all captured in the Forests Forever interactive exhibit at this renowned museum. No visit is complete without a locomotive ride across the spectacular grounds, and over the Somenos Lake trestle. Plan on lunch from the concessions, or bring your own picnic. bcforestdiscoverycentre.com

2. Walk among the Totems

Proudly living up to its name “The City of Totems,” Duncan has over 40 beautifully carved totems scattered throughout the city, just waiting for you to take a self-guided walking tour.

Embark on a journey of culture and history by following the yellow footprints, or take a virtual tour with an interactive map. Take as long as you want, and stop along the way at any of the downtown businesses for a drink, treat, lunch, or to browse the toy shop and other unique stores you’ll only find in Duncan. downtownduncan.ca

3. Gear up for biking

Bring your bikes and ride the trails!

Hundreds of kilometres of trails for all levels of ability. Enjoy the lush forests, the vistas, waterfalls, and the adrenaline.

Camps and clinics for kids 8-14 are available at Next Level Riding nextlevelriding. ca, and taught by professionals. Need a bike rental to get started? Check out Cycle Therapy in Duncan cycletherapy.ca to get on a bike and start seeing the sights of Cowichan from a whole new perspective.

to be discovered. Come build your own tiny boat or folding camp stool in the workshop with museum volunteers, or take part in camp activities that include crabbing off the dock, arts and crafts, boat building, water safety, and more. classicboats.org Wet your whistle and feed your “sole” at nearby Rock Cod Cafe for a truly Cowichan Bay experience. rockcodcafe.com

4. Let your wonder soar with The Raptors

Be amazed at the intimate setting of the outdoor show of birds of prey to see the untethered flights of swooping and diving. This powerful and profound experience will help your family develop a new connection to these birds and their environment. Get up close and personal with 1:1 programs like the Hawk Walk, or look in to the eyes of an owl. Wander the grounds to see the 18 different families of birds waiting to show off for you in the nature of Duncan. pnwraptors.com

5. Get wet on the Cowichan River

Dive into the fun of tubing down the Cowichan River with a leisurely but exhilarating floating experience. It’s Vancouver Island’s best kept secret for cooling off in the slow-moving, crystal clear waters of the Cowichan River. Jump in with your own floatie, or give the guys at The Tube Shack a call for licensed and insured tube rentals and complimentary shuttle back to Lake Cowichan. Soak up the scenery and keep the kids entertained and refreshed. cowichanriver.com

6. Ahoy! From the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre

Originally an oceanfront boat-building workshop, this gorgeously restored building is now a museum and home to a variety of boats on display, along with the heritage of boat-building just waiting

7. Hunt for fairies at Merridale Cidery & Distillery

Merridale’s 20-acre apple orchard in Cobble Hill is home to a mystical walk, where children (and their leashed pets!) will enjoy looking for the gnomes, dryads, hobgoblins and dwarves who have made their homes amongst the apple trees. While you may not catch a glimpse of the creatures themselves, you’ll certainly see their adorable abodes and crafty activities. This lovely stroll can be done in about 20 minute—just enough time to feel the sunshine, enjoy the peace and quiet and start think about a refreshing beverage or a bite to eat in Merridale’s restaurant. Step into their spacious indoor-outdoor eatery with lots of fresh air seating that opens onto their orchard.

Enjoy a leisurely bite of kid-friendly favourites and even a non-alcoholic flight served just like ones grown-ups get. Throughout the summer weekends, watch for pop-up BBQs in the courtyard. merridale.ca IslandParent.ca

8. Spend the day at Transfer Beach

One of Ladysmith’s gems, Transfer Beach is a seaside park that will keep the little ones entertained for hours. Swimming, spray parks, playgrounds, and sheltered picnic areas—all surrounded by flora and fauna, viewpoints and lookouts. Pick up a game of basketball, horseshoes or sand volleyball then grab a bite and drink at the concessions and food trucks. This beach has it all, and is centrally located right off Trans Canada highway. ladysmith.ca

9. Change your view of the world at Hand of Man

Step inside this 17,000-square-foot museum of some of the most interesting personal collections in the world. Every bit of wall space is covered with a treasure, artifact, oddity, or piece of culture and history. Every piece tells its own story. Don’t be surprised if the owner curator Jim Shockey sidles up alongside you, and starts talking about his incredible world-wide adventures over the last 40 years. This museum is a rarity and treasure all to itself. handofmanmuseum.com

SUMMER

CAMPS PLAY YOUR WAY TO:

10. Fall in love with Stocking Creek Falls

This gentle waterfall is situated just north of Chemainus, in the seaside community of Saltair. Part of the Cowichan Valley Trail, this easy path to the waterfall is full of wildlife, birds, trees, flowers and fresh air. Pick a salmonberry along the way, and count all the owls in the tall trees. Enter Stocking Creek Park from Chemainus Rd. cvrd.bc.ca •

Jill Nessel is Executive Director at Tourism Cowichan. For more information, visit TourismCowichan.com.

IslandParent.ca

CONFIDENCE

SKILL DEVELOPMENT

FUN, TEAM WORK & COOPERATION

RESPECT

INCLUSIVITY

pise.ca/summer-camps

Spring programs also available!

Visit pise.ca/kids-programs for more information.

Family Summer Guide 2020 15

Captivating

N

Critters

ever mind the scientific studies that show how interacting with animals can elevate a person’s levels of serotonin and dopamine, which can act as a natural relaxant. Or that the companionship of an animal can offer comfort, help ease anxiety, and build self-confidence in children. Most of us already know—on an intuitive level, at least—that interacting with animals is somehow good for our health. Thankfully, Vancouver Island is loaded with options for introducing kids to furry, woolly, feathered, potbellied or even six- or eight-legged friends. Visit any or all of the following places to connect with some of the creatures that share the Island with us.

Victoria

Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is closed, likely for the rest of the season, but you can peek at some of the animals through the fence and keep up-to-date on their shenanigans via the Farm’s social media sites. See videos of the goats trying out their new slide and enjoying their ramp. Consider donating to their online fundraising to help raise $72,000, the amount it costs for feed, hay, sawdust and vet care for a full year. To donate to the campaign and for updates, visit beaconhillchildrensfarm.ca.

Millstream Miniature Llamas offers a guided tour of the farm for families and small groups. 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. $15/adult, $10/child aged 12 and under. Visit the farm studio for roving, yarn, dryer balls, handknitted and Peruvian goods. 355 Atkins Ave. millstream-minis.com Victoria Bug Zoo is open to a limited number of guests. Masks are required. See 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. Noon-3pm daily. 631 Courtney Street, one block north of the Empress Hotel. To guarantee your spot at the time you’d like, book your one-hour visit online at victoriabugzoo.ca.

IslandParent.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 principles, 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 8:30am-5:30pm. dansfarm.ca This year’s 152nd Saanich Fair will look and feel different in response to COVID-19. The show must go on—and will! Educational and entertaining activities will be available online with some socially-distant safe activities at the Saanich Fairground over the Labour Day weekend, including a farmers’ market.

For updates, check saanichfair.ca.

The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney is a state-ofthe-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the ecosystem of the Salish Sea. The Centre is gradually re-opening and welcomes visitors on Saturday and Sunday from 10am4:30pm. Spend a moment with calming, drifting jellies. Take a peek at invertebrates of all shapes and colours. Stand beside giant whale skulls and bones. 9811 Seaport Place. salishseacentre.org 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. The on-site naturalists are full of fascinating facts and will answer your questions. 1461 Benvenuto Avenue in Brentwood Bay. Open daily from 10am-4pm with the last admission into the facility at 3pm. Group bookings are only allowed between 8-10am. butterflygardens.com

Duncan & Area The Raptors, 10 minutes north of Duncan, invites you to meet some of the coolest birds in the world during a 2-hour prebooked session from 1-3pm daily (and an additonal session

on Saturdays from 10am-noon). Tickets must be purchased in advance online. There will be meet and greets with some of the newly hatched babies and residents, a flying demonstration, and a new experience meeting the parrots and Gaston the Marabou Stork.1877 Herd Road. pnwraptors.com

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. 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. 403 Lowrys Road. morningstarfarm.ca Tiger Lily Farm is located in Errington between Parksville and Coombs. Visit lovable, huggable rabbits, portly pigs, daffy ducks, and even shy sheep. The farm will not be offering pony rides or trail rides this year or bottle feeding the animals in order to maintain physical distancing. 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 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 9am4:30pm. niwra.org

Pacific Rim Visit Ucluelet Aquarium, Canada’s first catch-and-release aquarium, where you’ll find a diversity of local marine life. The touch tanks will be covered for animal care purposes as soap and disinfectants are harmful to the health of fish and invertebrates. 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 10am5pm. uclueletaquarium.org • Family Summer Guide 2020 17

City of Victoria

Summer Camps (Ages 5 – 14 Years)

Summer Camps Registration Update The City of Victoria is actively planning new outdoor summer camps at Royal Athletic Park in place of camps at the Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre, some of which have been cancelled. Our camp programs will look a bit different this summer. The new park-based camps are available for registration starting June 12 along with many specialty camps.

Royal Athletic Park is a multi-purpose stadium with natural grass where camps can be spread out to ensure compliance with public health requirements such as physical distancing. Adaptations have been made to normal operations, including: •

Enhanced COVID-19 summer camp policies and procedures have been implemented

•

All camps will be offered entirely outdoors

•

Group sizes have been reduced

•

Camp days have been extended to 7.5 hours (no extended care offerings)

•

Out trips have been reduced to walkable outdoor sites

•

No swimming activities

The safety of our patrons, their families and our staff is our top priority, and we are committed to offering a fun summer camp experience. These camps have been developed following guidelines and protocols issued by the Provincial Health Authority, Island Health, WorkSafeBC and the BC Recreation and Parks Association.

ALL SUMMER LONG ROYAL ATHLETIC PARK CAMPS

OUTDOOR RECREATION CAMPS

RAP Outdoor Camp

8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

6-8yrs

RAP Outdoor Camp

9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

6-8yrs

RAP Outdoor Camp

8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

RAP Outdoor Camp

9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Explorers Intro to Kayak & Outrigger

various times

9-14yrs

9-12yrs

Intro to Kayaking

9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

8-12yrs

9-12yrs

Kayaking Essentials

9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

8-12yrs

Sail – Wet Feet

9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

4-6yrs

Sail – Opti Basic

various times

7-10yrs

Sail – Opti Advanced

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

7-10yrs

DRAMA CAMP WITH THEATRE SKAM Weekly starting July 13

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

6-8yrs & 9-12yrs

Sail – Opti Fast

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

7-10yrs

Sail – CANSail Basic

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

11-18yrs

Sail – CANSail Advanced

9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

11-18yrs

WEEKLY JUN 29 – JUL 3

AUG 4 – 7

16533

Soccertron

Full Day

6-9yrs

14216

Soccertron

Full Day

10-14yrs

14387

Byte Camp: 3D Animation

11-14yrs

14388 14410

Richardson Sport Multi Sport Camp Byte Camp: Claymation Movie Production Growing Young Farmers

6-10yrs 9-12yrs 4-6yrs

14231

Byte Camp: Introduction to Coding World Cup Soccer Camp (Half Day)

6-12yrs

Engineering for Kids: Harry Potter

7-11yrs

14279

Earth Sciences

7-11yrs

14411

Growing Young Farmers

14863

14393 14413

9-12yrs

Engineering for Kids: Robotic Games

8-12yrs

Earth Sciences

7-11yrs

Richardson Sport Multi Sport Camp Byte Camp: 3D Printing and Design Growing Young Farmers

6-10yrs 11-14yrs 7-9yrs

14204

Soccertron

Full Day

6-9yrs

16532

Soccertron

Full Day

10-14yrs

14394

Byte Camp: 3D Video Game Design

11-14yrs

Engineering for Kids: Junior Robotics & The Great Outdoors

5.5-7yrs

14869 14854

14226

9-12yrs

AUG 17 – 21

4-6yrs

JUL 20 – 24

Byte Camp: Introduction to Coding Level II

AUG 10 – 14 14225

JUL 13 – 17 14389

14866 14521

JUL 6 – 10 14228

14392

Growing Young Farmers

7-9yrs

AUG 24 – 28

Richardson Sport Multi Sport Camp

6-10yrs

14376

Tennis Camp

8-12yrs

14390

2D Animation on Tablet

9-12yrs

14873

14864

Engineering for Kids: Minecraft Galactic Crafting

Byte Camp: Introduction to Coding

9-12yrs

14412

Growing Young Farmers

8-12yrs 4-6yrs

14872

Engineering for Kids: LEGO Challenge + Under Construction 5.5-7yrs

JUL 27 – 31 14212

Tennis Camp

14391

Byte Camp: 2D Video Game Design

14865 14519

8-12yrs 11-14yrs

Engineering for Kids: Minecraft Redstone

8-12yrs

Earth Sciences

7-11yrs

All camps are subject to change due to COVID-19 restrictions.

250.361.0732 (9 a.m. - 12 p.m. M-F) victoria.ca/recreation camps@victoria.ca

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. Re-opened in May, AGGV will offer free admission to all visitors until July 5. Social distancing measures will still be in place in the galleries. This year’s 33rd TD Art Gallery Paint-In has been cancelled, but the organizers are looking at alternative options to share local artists’ work with the public and will provide updates at aggv.ca.

IMAX Theatre in the Royal BC Museum is temporarily closed but is still offering online video content thanks to Giant Screen Films. Some of the latest releases include: Dinosaurs of Antartctica, Hidden Pacific; Cuba: Journeys to the Heart of the Caribbean; Oceans 3D; Aircraft Carrier: City at Sea; Incredible Predators; and Mysteries of China. To view the film catalogue online, visit gsfilms.com. For ongoing updates on Royal BC Museum’s IMAX Theatre operations, visit imaxvictoria.com.

Mattick’s Farm Mini Golf is temporarily closed, but the market remains open. Stop by for an ice cream cone from Adrienne’s Ice Cream and choose from a rainbow of flavours. Social distancing indoor and outdoor seating along with take out and curbside pick up available. Or grab picnic ingredients from Red Barn Market and cycle the nearby Lochside Trail to a shady spot for a picturesque lunch break. Visit matticksfarm.com.

Miniature World, located within the Empress Hotel, is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am-4pm. The Greatest Little Show On Earth features 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.

20 Island Parent @Home

Royal BC Museum is taking a phased approach to re-opening the galleries. Wildlife Photographer of the Year and the second floor Natural History gallery are now open. The First Peoples gallery will open August 1. The Becoming BC gallery will open September 7 and will complete the full re-opening of the museum galleries. The revised hours of operation are: Saturday to Tuesday and Thursday from 10am-6pm and Friday 10am-8pm.

Closed to the public on Wednesday. Entrance is through the main doors facing Belleville Street (across from the Fairmont Empress Hotel). royalbcmuseum.bc.ca Now in its 12th year, Theatre SKAM’S annual outdoor festival SKAMpede is fun for the whole family. A series of short 10-minute shows are presented along the Galloping Goose Trail starting at the Hub at 11 Esquimalt Road. Audiences travel from show to show either on cycling or walking tours. Theatre SKAM’s goal is to create a safe 2020 festival while still providing free entertainment to the community of Victoria. This year, all audience members must pre-book tour spot at skam.ca/ skampede2020.

Peninsula Butchart Gardens is open daily from 11am to 3pm, following protocols to allow for physical distancing, capacity monitoring and sanitary precautions. The 2020 summer fireworks displays

have been cancelled. Check the website for further information on both present and future happenings. butchartgardens.com or 250-652-5256.

Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the amazing ecosystem of the Salish Sea. ‘Normal’ might not look very normal these days. However, perhaps the little things like a visit to see your favourite Salish Sea critter might make your day feel a little less strange. As the Centre gradually re-opens to the public, it is important to work together to keep the Centre a safe space for yourself, other visitors, staff and volunteers. The Centre, located on the waterfront off Beacon Avenue at 9811 Seaport Place, is open Friday through Sunday from 10am-4:30pm. salishseacentre.org

Westshore Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site has limited access to visitor facilities and services. Visits are self-guided only. What’s open: parking lot, public washrooms in the parking lot, Upper Battery, Lower Battery, Belmont Battery, the beach, the nature trail (one way only), red chairs and picnic tables (bring a table cloth). Picnic on the grass or at the beach and watch the ships and wildlife while you eat. What’s closed: the Welcome Centre, all historic buildings, the causeway to Fisgard Lighthouse, Fisgard Lighthouse, oTENTiks, and all camping reservations until further notice, the historic field—closed due to invasive species management, the Garry Oak Learning Meadow, all washrooms

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites Let your imagination run wild! Explore Fort Rodd Hill—a 100-year-old coast artillery fort—and feel history come alive at Fisgard—the oldest lighthouse on the west coast! Connect to nature at this beautiful coastal location, just 20 minutes west of downtown Victoria.

Visit our website regularly for up-to-date information on what is open, what is closed, and how to be safe when you visit.

Free admission for youth 17 and under.

Adult $7.90; Senior $6.60.

pc.gc.ca/fortroddhill 250-478-5849

Facebook.com/FortRoddFisgardNHS Twitter.com/FortRoddFisgard

IslandParent.ca

Family Summer Guide 2020 21

onsite, with the exception of the parking lot public washrooms. All special events and interpretive activities are cancelled until further notice. 10am-5pm daily. For information, visit pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/bc/ fortroddhill.

Westshore Motocross Park has reopened its track. Day riding passes are available for members first, maximum 50 people/day. If rider limits have not been met, additional riders will be accepted at the gate. Phone ahead. No spectators, with the exception of minor riders—parents of minor riders must also pre-register online and sign waivers. Come prepared with your own pen, hand sanitizer, toilet paper, tools, snacks and anything else you may need. Masks encouraged. Open Nanaimo & Area Wednesday 11am-6pm, Thurs/Fri 11am8pm. 2207 Millstream Road in Langford. Nanaimo District Museum is providwestshoremx.com ing two types of opportunities to visit the museum this summer: Self-Guided City Centre Park in Langford has and Bubble Buddies visits. Self-Guided opened some facilities. There’s Mini-Golf, allows you self-paced exploration of the now open from 9am-9pm daily, drop-in museum. Bubble Buddies lets you explore ice skating at Westhills Arena, snacks the museum with an exclusive guide. The at City Centre Grille and bowling at Museum Gallery (entry by timed admisLangford Lanes. Playzone is temporarily sion only) and the gift shop are open. The closed. eagleridgecentre.com or 250-391- Bastion remains closed, but the cannon 1738. firings take place on a modified schedule: Fridays, Saturdays and Stat Holidays at noon. Modified summer hours: Gift Duncan & Area Shop, Wednesday to Sunday from 10am4pm; Museum Gallery, Bubble Buddies BC Forest Discovery Centre just north Program 10am-noon, self-guided timed of Duncan. Check out the indoor and entry from 1-4pm. Book time slots ahead outdoor exhibits and a bird sanctuary. of time. Located in the Vancouver Island Ride on the narrow gauge steam train, Conference Centre, 100 Museum Way. and tour an old logging camp. Starting nanaimomuseum.ca June 25, you’ll have access to all historical buildings, limited concession and Coombs Old Country Market is along train rides. Open Thursday to Monday Highway 4A, on the way to Port Alberni from 10am-4pm. Steam locomotive on from Parksville or Nanaimo. Wander weekends. bcforestdiscoverycentre.com 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. The Market is open from 9am-7pm, Billy G’s Donut Shop is open from 10am-sell out, and The Creamery for killer ice cream is open from 9am-6pm. oldcountrymarket.com Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park is open but with limited operations. The Cave Park is taking bookings for cave tours which are now being run under the new COVID protocols. Trails are open and cave tours are available by reservation only. Online reservations close 24 hours prior to tour. Face masks mandatory. 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, hiking, and more.

3905 Horne Lake Caves Road. Allow 45 minutes from Parksville, north on Highway 19 or 19A. hornelake.com McLean Mill National Historic Site will be operating under enhanced COVID-19 measures. Open for self-guided tours with maps available outside the administration office. The Mill will also be offering guided tours in limited group sizes.

Dates and times to be confirmed. Gift shop and Stem Pot Cafe are open daily, hours to be confirmed. Campground is open, with online booking available. mcleanmill.ca

IslandParent.ca

Courtenay/Comox & Area Courtenay Museum is closed temporarily. To view the museum’s YouTube Channel to learn more about the museum, about fossil collections and explore with some of the scientists who have been involved with discoveries and exhibits at the Courtenay and District Museum, visit courtenaymuseum.ca Take flight with Mt. Washington’s newest adventure, the Eagle’s Flight ZipTour.

Enjoy the rush of freedom as you fly down the face of the mountain reaching speeds up to 100 km/hr. The ZipTour will utilize outdoor spaces and large indoor spaces for safe operations throughout each point of your tour in summer 2020. Guides and guests will maintain 6ft distancing, sanitization, and use of PPE when appropriate. Book in advance online or over the phone to ensure availability. mountwashington.ca

Now Available from the Rising Circus

BOOK YOURS TODAY

Circus Birthday Telegrams

Children of all ages will love their own private Stilt Walking Circus Show right in their own front or back yard!

Entertaining! Comedy! Wonder!

Available in the Greater Victoria Area and up to Duncan, BC

For more information visit therisingcircus.com/parties

WE WOOLLY MISSED YOU!

THE ROYAL BC MUSEUM REOPENS JUNE 19 We’ve given our health and safety program the mammoth treatment. Our phased opening includes new hours and timed tickets.

Plan your visit at rbcm.ca

Campbell River Museum. The museum is celebrating parades—online! We might not be able to celebrate Canada Day with a live parade this year, but we can visit Campbell River Museum’s virtual Canada Day Parade along with some others.

Lucky for us, local photographers made a point of photographing almost every parade from the years 1948 to 1963.

So take in a few of the floats during the first week of July when the Museum celebrates Canada Day. See First Nations history and art, pioneer history, and learn about floathouse living and the salmon industry in person at the Museum. Bring your lunch to enjoy in the picnic area.

Open daily during the summer from 10am-5pm. crmuseum.ca • IslandParent.ca

Family Summer Guide 2020 23

July/AugustFamilyCalendar For more information and calendar updates throughout the month visit IslandParent.ca

JULY

2 Thursday to 10 Friday Lego Exhibition 8am–6pm at Sidney Museum, 2423 Beacon Ave Themes include Star Wars, Minecraft, Friends, Harry Potter, Batman and vintage sets! Guess how many bricks were used to build the giant Lego Tower or challenge yourself with a scavenger hunt. Entry by timed admission with limited capacity. Admission by donation. sidneymuseum.ca

8 Wednesday RBCM@Home (Kids): Orca Storytime 11–11:30am. Author Mark Leiren-Young reads from his new books—Orcas of the Salish Sea and Orcas Everywhere, sharing stories about the endangered southern residents and answering questions about orcas everywhere. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/rbcmhome-kids

10 Friday StoryWalk® 10am–2pm at Beban Park Altrusa Playground A free, self-guided interactive park and activity Story Walk while you read Duck on a Bike by author David Shannon. Altrusa Club of Nanaimo will be handing out free books and snacks to kids. nanaimo.ca/recreation-parks/parks-events/ parks-recreation-and-culture-summer-activities

11 Saturday & 12 Sunday SKAMpede—Unstoppable FREE fun!

12pm–5pm on the Galloping Goose Trail Short 10-minute shows presented by Theatre SKAM along the Galloping Goose, starting at 11 Esquimalt Road. Audiences travel from show to show on cycling or walking tours. You must prebook tour spots on the Eventbrite page. skam.ca/skampede2020

15 Wednesday RBCM@Home (Kids): Book Illustration 11–11:30am. Meet artist/ illustrator Ellen Rooney and make illustrations of your own. Through the process explore how to make drawings using collage technique, as well as the importance of representing diversity in what we create. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/rbcmhome-kids

17 Friday

paleontology Dr. Victoria Arbour and curator of botany Dr. Ken Marr on a virtual walk back in time. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/learn/outreach/ rbcmoutside

28 Tuesday RBCM@Home with Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre 12–12:30pm. A virtual road trip to Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre in Burnaby. Culture, Education and Programs Coordinator Carolyn Nakagawa will share highlights and what’s new. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/rbcmhome

August

15 Saturday & 16 Sunday Folktoria 10am–7pm at Centennial Square, Victoria Two days of multicultural celebration with performing arts, ethnic food and kid-friendly crafts. facebook.com/Folkathome

InFrinGinG Dance Festival Backyard Dances 5–6pm. We provide the music; you provide the dance. A full-on, fun, family experience of moving joy edited into a short clip of life in Nanaimo. crimsoncoastdance.org/events-calendar

22 Wednesday RBCM@Outside: Living Fossils at Beacon Hill Park, Victoria 2–2:30pm. Dawn redwoods, sequoias, gingkos, magnolias and araucarias (monkey puzzle trees) were common during the age of dinosaurs, but are relatively rare today. Many of these species can be found in Beacon Hill Park. Join curator of

19 Wednesday RBCM@Outside: Parks Canada on Saturna Island 2–2:45pm. Join us at East Point on Saturna Island. We will virtually journey to Gulf Islands National Park Reserve to meet with Parks Canada Interpreter Athena George for a guided walk along this scenic coastline. We’ll learn about southern resident orcas and Moby Doll, one of the first whales captured for captivity. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/learn/outreach/ rbcmoutside

FREE FAMILY PROGRAMMING

StoryWalk

®

A new story and trail each week.

S����� ���n� �et��l� a� 24 Island Parent @Home

Wednesdays 6:30 – 7:30 PM July 15 – August 19 westshorerecreation.ca | 250-478-8384 IslandParent.ca

Markets

Celebrating 70 years of experiences that last a lifetime!

Duncan Farmer’s Market Tuesdays, 9am–2pm at 200 Craig St All products are locally grown and produced.

Plenty of fresh foods and artisan wares.

Island Roots Limited Physical Outdoor Market Wednesdays, 2–6pm next to Cliff McNab Arena, Nanaimo Fewer than normal vendors, with essential items only, will be well spaced to ensure no contact.

No music, no onsite coffee or kids play area and no samples. Entry limited to ensure physical distancing. You are asked to make your purchases without touching products or vendors’ tables and leave promptly to make room for other shoppers. islandrootsmarket.com

Esquimalt Farmers Market

Camp Pringle is open for DaybCamps this summer! e s ’ t Visit our website for details on registration, transportation options e s l e ineplace and COVID-19 iprotocols at our facility. e m r t t th ese u h o LicensedgChildcare • Summer Camp • Rentals t d h n i u k o CampPringle.com T h r e f u l &• 250-743-2189 • info@camppringle.com car Through these times let’s be ThroughThrough these times let’stimes be careful & kind out there these let’s be careful & kind out there careful & kind out there

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Summer Programs

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Farm Fresh Fridays Fridays, 11am–3pm at 1701 Douglas St, Victoria Every Friday the market will be filled with locallygrown produce and fruits, fresh-cut local flowers, handcrafted soaps and prepared foods. facebook.com/FarmFreshFridaysYYJ

James Bay Farmer’s Market Saturdays, 9am–6pm at the corner of Menzies and Superior A wide variety of produce from local farmers, locally made foods and crafts. The market will operate under strict new regulations from the BC Centre for Disease Control and VIHA during COVID 19. No food sampling or live music until further notice. Social distancing of 2 metres and extra hygiene practices will be in effect. jamesbaymarket.com

Sooke Country Market Saturdays, 10am–12pm at John Phillips Park Join your favourite vendors at our new location on Otter Point Road in John Philips Park, just below the Firehall. Parking in the municipal hall parking lot. Bus stop located just past the firehall.

For those with mobility issues, parking will be designated on Otter Point Road beside the park. facebook.com/sookecountrymarket IslandParent.ca

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Come Dance With U Call (250) 384-3267, email: stagesdance@shaw.ca Comewww.stagesdance.com Dance With U or visit us atFamily Summer Guide 2020 25

or visit us at www.stagesdance.com

Call (250) 384-3267, email: stagesdance@shaw.ca or visit us at www.stagesdance.com

Barbecuing:

Beyond Hot Dogs & Burgers

T

his summer, more than any other, will be the summer of barbecues. As we practice social distancing, barbecues and picnics give us an opportunity to see our friends and family in an outdoor space that offers plenty of room for maintaining the necessary two metres of distance.

However, it doesn’t mean that all you can eat is hot dogs and hamburgers. Here is a healthy and delicious three-course meal that is quick and easy to prepare. So get out, enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, and start grilling.

Barbecue Pizza (Prep time: 15 minutes, Cook time: 10 minutes) Pizza is always fun. And making barbecued pizza is even more fun!

The intense heat and smokey flavour makes it the closest thing to a traditional wood fired oven. Get your kids to help prepare the toppings and choose their own assortment. Making pizza is a great way to get them interested in cooking.

Pizza Toppings 1 can pizza sauce Grated cheese Tomatoes, onions, peppers, olives Pepperoni Barbecued Pizza 1 ball of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) 1⁄4 cup olive oil 1. Prepare all of the pizza toppings in advance. You need them available when the pizza crust is ready. Choose a mix of your favourite toppings. Set up your toppings on a platter next to the barbecue, with separate piles of toppings for each individual pizza.

2. Roll out your pizza dough. It’s easier to make a few smaller pizzas rather than one large pizza so aim for 10 inches or less.

3. Have the grill hot and ready to go. Brush one side of the pizza dough with olive oil. Lay the pizza dough on the gill with the olive oil side down.

4. Close the lid and let the dough cook for 2 minutes.

5. Check the crust, it should have some grill marks on it, but you don’t want it to be crisp.

6. Brush the top of the crust with olive oil, then flip it over (so the freshly oiled side is down). Quickly spread out the sauce, add the toppings and cheese. You want to do this quickly, which is why everything needs to be ready to go in advance.

7. Close the lid again and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes. Check a few times to make sure that the pizza isn’t burning.

8. Remove from the barbecue and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

26 Island Parent @Home

Grilled Caesar Salad (Total time: 15 minutes) One of my neighbours served this at a potluck last summer and it was a huge hit. It’s very quick, easy and impressive. If you want to turn it into a meal, then add some grilled chicken or tofu.

Salad Dressing: cup olive oil 1⁄4 cup of mayonna ise 1⁄4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese 2 Tbsp lemon juice 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard 1 clove of garlic 1⁄ 2

Salad: 3 hearts of romaine lettuce 3 Tbsp olive oil Pinch of salt and pepper (to taste) 2 cups of croutons 1⁄2 cup of fresh grated Parmesan cheese 1. Place all of the salad dressing ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Using mayonnaise reduces the risk involved with raw eggs.

2. Slice the romaine lettuce in half, lengthwise.

3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

4. Place the cut side down on the barbecue and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. You want grill marks, but don’t want to completely wilt the lettuce.

5. Remove the romaine from the barbecue, drizzle with the salad dressing and top with croutons and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with a knife and a fork.

IslandParent.ca

Occupational Therapy Just for Kids • Telehealth Online Visits • In-Person in Victoria

Canadian Children’s Therapy 250-818-2034 canadianchildrenstherapy.ca

Grilled Peaches & Ice Cream (Total Time: 15 minutes) Enjoying fresh Okanagan peaches is one of my favourite parts of summer. A quick few minutes on the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the peaches for a healthy and delicious treat. Be sure to use ripe juicy peaches for the best flavour.

4 ripe peaches 2 Tbsp vegetable oil 1 pint vanilla ice cream 1. Slice the peaches in half and remove the pits.

2. Brush with oil and grill, cut side down, for 4 minutes with the lid open.

3. Flip and grill for another 4 to 6 minutes. At this point the peaches will be very soft, almost falling apart. Use a spatula to gently move from the grill to a bowl or plate.

4. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Emillie Parrish writes from Victoria and Saturna Island. She is the author of the Pacific Northwest lifestyle blog BerriesAndBarnacles. com.

IslandParent.ca

Family Summer Guide 2020 27

Kid-friendly Ways to (Re)Engage with the Royal BC Museum

I

t’s been a summer certainty for generations of Island families: a visit to the Royal BC Museum to catch a blockbuster feature exhibition and snap the annual group photo in front of the Woolly Mammoth. So it’s happy news that even this year—after months of concern, caution and closure—the tradition can indeed continue: slowly, safely, with a little more advance planning and a lot more physical distancing.

While the much-anticipated feature exhibition—Orcas: Our Shared Future—has been rescheduled to May 21, 2021, there are still plenty of kid-friendly ways to (re)engage with the Royal BC Museum this summer:

1. Wildlife Photographer of the Year

This ever-popular annual exhibition—originally scheduled to close at the end of March—has been extended until September 7, 2020. Now in its 55th year, the exhibition comes from the Natural History Museum in London and showcases 100 outstanding nature photographs from around the world.

(You’ll need to secure a timed ticket—there will be strict visitor limits in place.) To help your family get the most from the experience, be sure to read art and images curator India Young’s blog post on how to look at art.

2. The Galleries.

The Natural History gallery on the second floor—home to everyone’s favourite Woolly Mammoth—will be the first to reopen to visitors on June 19, followed by the First Peoples gallery on the third floor on August 1, and the Becoming BC gallery on September 7. (The phased roll-out includes— ahem—mammoth health and safety enhancements, such as one-way traffic systems, abundant hand-washing and sanitizer stations, enhanced cleaning protocols, and mandatory physical distancing requirements.) The good news: family memberships encourage return visits, and current members will have their passes appropriately extended to reflect the museum closure. (And when the littles get hungry: the food trucks will be open again for physically distanced outdoor dining!)

3. RBCM @ Home (Kids)

Spurred by the COVID-19 closure, the museum’s Learning team expanded their digital programming to include a themed virtual playdate for kids—and their care-givers!—every Wednesday. There are plenty of other ways to explore BC’s natural and human history, whether you’re browsing from your sofa or tackling a little summer schooling at your kitchen table. Check out the complete list of online offerings here: https://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/engage-us-home 28 Island Parent @Home

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4. Digital Summer Camps

The Royal BC Museum’s popular summer camps are cancelled this summer—at least, in person. While details are still in development, there are plans for week-long digital summer camps in August. Be sure to bookmark the Camps page for up-to-date information, or follow on social media (@royalbcmuseum on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram) for late-breaking news on these sessions!

5. Royal BC Museum Publishing

Did you know the Royal BC Museum publishes books about BC’s natural and human history? Pack along a field guide to enrich your family’s nature walks and learn to identify Indigenous food plants, invasive plant species, collectible plants, and coastal marine mammals. Or dive deep into the magic, myths and ecology of orcas with Spirits of the Coast, the beautiful companion publication to the temporarily postponed feature exhibition. Look for these educational titles online or at your favourite bookstore: • Spirits of the Coast: Orcas in Science Art and History • Food Plants of Coastal First Peoples • Plant Collecting for the Amateur • Aliens Among Us: Invasive Animals and Plants in British Columbia • Marine Mammals of British Columbia

For more information and tickets, visit royalbcmuseum.com.

IslandParent.ca

Family Summer Guide 2020 29

Preschool&ChildcareDirectory ESQUIMALT

SAANICH

Island Kids Academy Esquimalt.....250-381-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). Enriched Curriculum.

Includes Music Classes and Character Development using the Virtues Project. Wait list being taken.

Islandkids.ca.

Camosun College Child Care Services.......................................... 250-370-4880 Quality licensed facilities on both campuses providing children, newborn to 5 years, with rich early learning experiences in a learn through play environment. camosun.ca/childcare.

La Pré-Maternelle Appletree Preschool........................ 250-479-0292 French immersion preschool. Group child care programs. 30 months to school age. Christian centre. prematernelleappletree.com.

Carrot Seed Preschool...................250-658-2331 Where children can discover, imagine, construct and learn through play. Wondrous natural playground. carrotseedpreschool.com.

If you’d like to be listed in the Preschool & Child Care Directory, please email linda@islandparent.ca

METCHOSIN Metchosin Cooperative Preschool...................................... 250-478-9241 Play Explore Learn and Grow in beautiful rural Metchosin. Morning programs available for 3 and 4 year olds.

Contact our ECEs at metchosinpreschool@gmail.com.

• Licensed programs, for children 3–5 years • Flexible part-time schedules • Supported spaces available • 2, 3 and 4 hour morning or afternoon classes Encouraging your child’s development and learning through play and exploration Fullobeans.ca 250-360-1148 E: fullobeans@snplace.org

OAK BAY

Island Montessori House........... 250-592-4411 Inclusive, integrated and nurturing Preschool and Before/After School Care programs. Lovely rural setting with a focus on nature and outdoor environmental activities. islandmontessori.com.

Oak Bay Preschool........................250-592-1922 Oak Bay Preschool is a co-op preschool, using a playbased curriculum with qualified ECE and ECEA. We use a balance of indoor and outdoor classrooms to enrich your child’s preschool experience. Learn more at oakbaypreschool.com.

Recreation Oak Bay.......................250-370-7200 Offers full day Daycare and half day Preschool for children ages 3-5 years old. Before and after school care for Willows Elementary and afterschool care for Campus View Elementary is also offered.

Please contact childcare@oakbay.ca or call for more information.

Child Care

Resource & Referral Funded by the Province of BC

Your community’s best source of child care information and resources.

30 Island Parent @Home

Pre-School Junior Kindergarten PacificChristian.ca 250-479-4532 Educational Excellence to the Glory of God

Ready Set Grow Preschool............. 250-472-1530 Join our learning through play preschool located in Hillcrest Elem. Our caring ECEs offer an enriched Program for 3-4 hour, 2-5 days a week and help with kindergarten transition. heoscmanager@gmail.com.

St. Joseph’s Early Learning Centre... 250-479-1237 A Christian childcare centre offering daycare and preschool programs for 3-5 year olds. Children learn through play-based and emergent curriculum in a warm and nurturing environment.

St. Margaret’s School Jr. Kindergarten................................. 250-479-7171 Apply now for our Early Learning (JK and Kindergarten) Programs. Early learning at SMS is a curriculum-based program for 3 and 4 year olds. admissions@stmarg.ca.

Wiseways Child Care Centre.......250-477-1312 Established, quality, licensed, Christian centre for 3-5 year olds. Experienced ECEs, cheerful spacious facilities, large playground. Subsidized fees welcome. Call for a tour. Wisewaysvictoria.com.

Looking for child care?

Need help with the Affordable Child Care Benefit?

Taking care of children?

Need child care training?

Call your local Child Care Resource & Referral for free referrals and resources.

Victoria & Gulf Islands: 250-382-7000 or 1-800-750-1868 Sooke: 250-642-5152 West Shore: 250-940-4882 Cowichan Valley: 250-746-4135 local 231 PacificCare (Ladysmith north): 250-756-2022 or 1-888-480-2273

gov.bc.ca/ChildCareResourceReferralCentres IslandParent.ca

Sidney Sidney Preschool............................. 250-655-3333 We are a licensed co-operative preschool with a philosophy of learning through play! Four and six hour programs available for children ages 2.5-5.

Celebrating 48 years! sidneypreschool.com.

VICTORIA

Victoria Montessori...................... 250-380-0534 Unique, innovative learning environment combining the best of Montessori and Learning Through Play. Open year round. 30mths–K. victoriamontessori.com.

VIEW ROYAL Island Kids Academy View Royal...250-727-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). Enriched Curriculum.

Includes Music Classes and Character Development using the Virtues Project. Wait list being taken.

Islandkids.ca.

v Comprehensive programs for Preschool through Grade 10 v Delivering academic excellence through music, dance, drama and visual arts v Outstanding educators, locations and facilities

JLC Victoria Japanese Preschool The only Japanese Immersion Preschool on the Island opens at Craigflower Schoolhouse. Offering the best environment for preschoolers to learn Japanese language and culture as natural as possible. jlcvictoria.com.

www.ArtsCalibre.ca 250.382.3533 Castleview Child Care................... 250-595-5355 Learning Through Play & Discovery. Licensed nonprofit, ECE staff. Since 1958. Morning or full-time care. castleviewchildcarecentre.com.

Centennial Day Care..................... 250-386-6832 Exceptional childcare and education 35+ years. Nature inspired, play based program. NEW central, “green” building. centennialdaycare.ca.

Christ Church Cathedral Childcare.......................................250-383-5132 ECE and specialist teachers provide an outstanding all day licensed program for 2.5–5 year olds at our Fairfield and NEW Gordon Head (Fall 2019) locations. cathedralschool.ca.

The Sir James Douglas Playschool................................250-389-0500 Fun, creative and educational ECE program for 3-5 year olds to grow and develop life long skills. Come play and learn in our bright and modern centre in Fairfield. sjdoutofschoolclub.com.

Queen of Angels Early Learning Centre..................... 250-701-0433 Our Centre is a lively, happy place for 3-5 year olds where children are encouraged to be confident, independent learners in a nurturing and safe environment.

Sunrise Waldorf School Preschool....250-743-7253 In a warm environment, this nature and play-based program enlivens and nurtures the growing child. sunrisewaldorfschool.org.

Nanaimo

Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12

Learn more today! 250-390-2201 AspengroveSchool.ca N a n a i m o’ s J K–1 2 In t e r n at i o n a l B ac c a l au r e at e Wo r l d S c h o o l

DUNCAN Duncan Christian School Early Learning Centre.....................250-746-3654 The first step in providing your child with everything they need to become a confident, capable learner in a Christ-centered, community focussed environment.

International Montessori Academy of Canada......................... 250-737-1119 Elementary K–12. Offers an enriching environment for preschool children 2-4.9 years with potty training. Nurturing young minds, keeping the spirit free. intmontessori.ca.

Queen Margaret’s School................ 250-746-4185 Early Childhood Education Program. Co-ed nurturing curriculum to develop the whole child. Healthy snacks and lunch provided. qms.bc.ca.

Qualicum Beach Little Star Children’s Centre.......... 250-752-4554 Little Gems Infant and Toddler Care..................................250-228-5437 Mother, Daughter owned and operated. Earth friendly preschool education inspired by nature. Infused with fun and creative daily yoga practices! Licensed group care. Enthusiastic ECE instructors. littlestardaycare.ca.

Port Alberni John Paul II Catholic School...........250-723-0637 “Where children grow and learn through play.” We provide a program that will inspire development physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively, creatively and spiritually.

Nestled on 4 acres of lush west coast forest, our Award winning, Nature based program will not disappoint!

While firmly embracing the Reggio-Emila (Italy) Philosophy our dedicated team of educators use the environment as the third teacher as we encourage your child throughout their day.

Our purpose built facilities have been handmade using the trees from our forest. We have recently expanded to our new Spirit Bear Lodge located right next door!

Programs for Infants/Toddlers/Pre-school Age.

lexieslittlebears.ca 250-590-3603

BC Award of Excellence in Childcare & Prime Minister’s Award of Excellence in Early Childhood Education.

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Family Summer Guide 2020 31

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, 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. beaconhillpark.ca

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. Once the footpassenger ferry service has resumed, (possibly early July), board in Sidney and travel to Sidney Island (25 minutes). Explore the sandy spit at the northeast end

dise for skim boarders, beachcombers and swimmers alike. The Nature House at the trailhead has some great displays.

Check for opening hours. On Metchosin Road, approximately 40 minutes from downtown Victoria. 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

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 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 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 (open on a limited schedule) 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 32 Island Parent @Home

or hike around the whole island. You’ll see tidal flats, salt marshes, rolling meadows and sandy beaches, not to mention various wildlife. Walk-in camping is also available for those who want to stay longer. For updates on the ferry service, now operated by Sidney Whale Watching, visit sidneywhalewatching.com.

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 low tide and this beach becomes a para-

forest and along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail. Hike along a cool creek or climb a mossy slope for hilltop views of Roche Cove and the Sooke Basin.

Roche Cove is also a good access point for the Galloping Goose Trail. Head out on Sooke Road, turn left on Gillespie Road (just past the 17 Mile Pub), which leads to the park entrance on the left.

Approximately 45 minutes driving time from Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks East Sooke Regional Park offers 50 kms of trails along the windswept rocky coast, over dry hilltops, through dark rainforest to sheltered coves. Find pocket beaches, grassy knolls, rocky bays and tidepools for exploring. Aylard Farm is popular with picnickers and those looking for an IslandParent.ca

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. Located on Munn Road, off Prospect Lake Road, 13 kms out of downtown Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks Thetis Lake. Hike scenic trails hugging Upper and Lower Thetis lakes. For panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding hills, follow more challenging trails up Seymour or Scafe hills. 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 picnic or swim, although it tends to be crowded in summer. If you have a canoe, try an early morning or evening paddle.

From 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.

The Freya-Sophia Waldorf

Natural Childhood Store Books, Toys, Clothing ~ Art & Handwork Supplies

250-597-4763 ~ 3, 5380 Hwy. 1 ~ in the Sol-Centre, Duncan

Check facebook for updates and current hours during the COVID crisis. Blessings to every one.

Extensive selection of beautiful and inspiring books; Organic wool clothing for babies, children and adults; Wooden toys, puzzles, games, silks, dolls, calendars, cards and prints; Art, painting, knitting, felting and handwork supplies. Committed to providing WaldorfInspired resources to parents, educators, carers, homeschoolers and students of life!

We also carry a full line of Uriel Home Remedies & Biodynamic Preparations.

Online orders and no-contact pickup: email freyasophiawaldorfstore@gmail.com

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 IslandParent.ca

Family Summer Guide 2020  33

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 2.4-km circle route to Holt Creek and a 6.4-km circle route with good picnic spots. Maps can be picked up at Duncan Visitor Information 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.

Nanaimo & Area Buttertubs Marsh Bird Sanctuary encompasses 49 acres of natural wetlands and grasslands. The 3.3-km loop of wide trail is level and perfect for strollers.

You’ll make your way around a body of water buzzing with bird activity. Some ruins in the area, as well as the giant bleached remains of long-dead deciduous trees standing in the water give the marsh a wonderful ambience. No dogs allowed.

1780 Jingle Pot Road.

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

Neck Point Park is a short distance past Pipers Lagoon. This oceanside park includes forest, beaches, rocky cliffs and lookouts. Explore the various trails crisscrossing 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. 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 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, 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 to see breathtaking mountain and ocean views. Other activities include biking, disc golf, bungee trampoline, guided hiking tours, mini golf and more.

Lake Helen McKenzie Loop Trail also begins at the Paradise Meadows trailhead in Strathcona Park. It is an easy 8-km (2-hour) walk on a boardwalk that takes you past Battleship Lake and sub-alpine meadows, and around beautiful Lake Helen McKenzie. The trail is well marked with some views of the mountain peaks through the alpine forest. If you’re eating a picnic lunch, make sure to protect your food from the gray jaybirds. discovermountwashington.com Lazo Marsh & Wildlife Park in the Courtenay area is a shallow wetland basin of cattail and yellow flag iris. Mallards, wigeons, wood ducks and Canada geese commonly nest here. Enjoy the forested trails through mixed woodlands and surrounding marsh. Parking and access from Lazo Road. On the north side is an easy stroller-friendly hike; the southside trails go deeper into the woods and marsh conservation area. comoxvalleyrd.ca/parks

IslandParent.ca

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 and picnic areas. Access from Comox Avenue. filberg.com 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.

Pacific Rim Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

The stretch of Pacific Rim National Park between Ucluelet and Tofino boasts magnificent beaches and dramatic seascapes (and a few tourists!). Check in with the Tourist Information Centre at the Uclue-

let-Tofino-Port Alberni Junction to find out about trails, beaches, eateries and activities. pc.gc.ca The Wild Pacific Trail in Pacific Rim Park. Follow cliff-edges along the extreme outer coast, including the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse site. You’ll 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 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 leave the 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 sections.•

West Coast Rhythmic Gymnastics Recreational, Pre-competitive and Competitive Programming

Summer Camp Registration Now Open August 24th to 28th ~ Ages 5+

Fall 2020 Registration Now Open (Ages 3+)

westcoastrhythmics.ca info@westcoastrhythmics.ca 778 817 0366 IslandParent.ca

Family Summer Guide 2020 35

Six Ways to Celebrate Island Trails Parks and recreation sites are open across B.C. This summer, British Columbians will be able to camp—close to home and throughout the province.

We’re blessed with an incredible network of recreational trails across the province. But with so many of us heading out, responsible recreation is more important than ever. So it’s a great time to revisit the most important principles for protecting our wild places, while you head out for your nature fix.

1. Plan ahead, be prepared.

Planning ahead is the start of any great trip. That’s especially true right now, with more people are getting outside and trying to practice physical distancing at the same time. Before you head out, make sure you: • Have checked for closures at BC

36 Island Parent @Home

Parks or Recreation Sites and Trails BC. Remember some trails, parks, and facilities are still closed, and those closures should be respected.

• If possible, plan to visit a quieter trail, or at a quieter time.

• Don’t head out in large groups; 2-6 people is perfect.

• Like always, plan for the weather and bring all the gear you need to stay safe and deal with emergencies.

2. Bring your clean trip kit.

This is a new one: the BC Government is asking everyone to bring a “clean trip kit” when they visit parks and trails.

IslandParent.ca

A “clean trip kit” includes disposable gloves, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.

Remember, washrooms and visitor centres might be closed, so you need to be prepared to stay clean and safe.

3. Pack it in, pack it out.

Like always, it’s crucial to pack out what you pack in. Garbage, gloves, toilet paper—whatever arrives at the trailhead with you should leave with you.

Remember, there might not be garbage cans or garbage collection in parks right now. And there’s likely to be more trash than ever, especially with people bringing gloves and other PPE to the trails. So take responsibility for your own trash and keep the trails clean for other users.

4. Stick to the trail.

Sticking to the trail protects the delicate ecosystems and habitats that surround trails. Wherever possible, only walk and ride on established trails. At the same time, it’s important to maintain 2 metres of physical distancing wherever possible. That means keeping an eye on who else is using the trails and planning

ahead. Look for open spaces where you can pass on the trail without damaging plants and wildlife.

5. Share the trails.

The parks and trails are going to be busy this summer. Hikers, bikers, runners, horses—everyone’s excited to be out. So it’s especially important to be respectful, considerate, and kind when you’re outside. Give way to equestrians—and hikers, if you’re on a bike— and move to the right to let people pass.

And of course, say hi, be friendly, and communicate clearly with everyone you meet.

6. Stay informed.

Finally, stay up to date with the latest information. BC Parks, Recreation Sites and Trails BC, and the BC Centre for Disease Control all have the latest guidelines and provincial health orders.

Reprinted with permission from the Outdoor Recreation Council of BC. For more information, visit orcbc.ca.

Healthy Families, Happy Families

Child, Youth & Family Public Health South Island Health Units

Esquimalt Gulf Islands

250-519-5311 250-539-3099

Peninsula Saanich Saltspring Island Sooke Victoria West Shore

250-544-2400 250-519-5100 250-538-4880 250-519-3487 250-388-2200 250-519-3490

(toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

Central Island Health Units

Duncan Ladysmith Lake Cowichan Nanaimo Nanaimo Princess Royal Parksville/Qualicum Port Alberni Tofino

250-709-3050 250-755-3342 250-749-6878 250-755-3342 250-739-5845 250-947-8242 250-731-1315 250-725-4020

North Island Health Units

Campbell River Courtenay Kyuquot Health Ctr ‘Namgis Health Ctr Port Hardy

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

islandhealth.ca/our-locations/ health-unit-locations Changes with BC Medical Services Plan premiums mean that families eligible for partial payment of some medical services and access to some income-based programs now must apply for Supplementary Benefits through the Government of BC. Applications can be done online and take approximately 15 minutes.

Families who previously qualified for MSP Premium Assistance should not need to re-apply if taxes are completed yearly. It is advised to confirm coverage before proceeding with treatment to avoid paying out of pocket.

For more information, visit gov.bc.ca/gov/ content/health/health-drug-coverage/msp/ bc-residents/benefits/services-covered-bymsp/supplementary-benefits

Family Summer Guide 2020 37

A Summer of Stories

T

he weeks and months since mid-March have been a period of adaptation. Modifying routines has looked different for different people, with some experiencing more changes and challenges than others. Luckily, we were encouraged by Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry to spend time outdoors, given the many physical and mental health benefits of doing so.

While cases of COVID-19 remain low, we can continue to use this time enjoy the fresh air, the shade of trees, the therapeutic feel of sand under bare feet that many of us are fortunate to have access to. It is also a fitting time to connect and share stories about our experiences over the past few months.

Reading storybooks is a fun and valuable activity, but telling our own stories helps us process our experiences. Our lives consist of stories, which help us connect to ourselves, to our loved ones and to our peers. They help us to make meaning of our surroundings.

Here, are a few tips to weave more storytelling and sharing into your family routine:

It is important for kids to recount their daily outdoors experiences no matter if they spent time playing freely or did more conscious observational activities. What your child shares does not have to be elaborate but making the time and providing a safe space for that sharing is vital. Your child may also enjoy retelling their story through a drawing, journal with sketches, words, poems or even leaf rubbings.

Plan for conscious nature observation.

Create new traditions at the campfire this year.

Prior to spending time outside, plan for an activity that will invite more intentional observation of nature using the senses.

Try observational scavenger hunts and sit spots. Make time after each experience or after returning home to let your child share with others what they saw, heard, smelled and felt. Sharing these experiences helps to expand our emotional and experiential vocabulary!

Get creative.

Did your child find a particular bug or bird fascinating? Turn that being into the protagonist of a story. Imagine where that being had come from and where it was headed. Imagine the community that it is part of and where it lives. Think of ways in which you are connected to that one being through others, maybe a favourite plant or tree.

Kids love inventing stories! You can also create new tales on the spot and have your child help in the process. Don’t be worried if you start a story before knowing what the ending will be.

If you plan to go camping, consider creating stories based on past outdoor experiences to share around the campfire. There is something timeless about staring into a fire and taking turns telling tales and listening to others recount theirs. Oral storytelling is important in many cultures, including in the cultures of Indigenous peoples across what is now known as Vancouver Island. It can be a useful way to pass on lessons. Telling compelling stories is a skill that takes practice, though we can prob-

ably all think of someone we know who excels at it. It’s never too late to start improving.

Reflect on stories from changing times.

COVID-19 brought new experiences and, in many cases, new opportunities for how we organize our time. Did you try planting a garden on your balcony or in your yard? Perhaps you learned about aphids or caterpillars who enjoy eating your lettuce as much as you do! Did you notice more birds in your neighbourhood? Did you walk more often close to home? What effect did spending time outside have on your family this spring as compared to other years?

It’s easy to revert to old habits and routines, so take time this summer to discuss with your family the positive aspects of the past months. Remembering and reflecting on them will help both you and your children form memories of this unique time period. Reflect on experiences that would be good additions to your family routines and calendar in the coming months, or perhaps next spring, and plan accordingly.

Stories are a way to process and a way to build collective memories. They are a powerful and priceless way to bond and make sense of time and our place in it. They allow us to move forward with a sense of connection to others and to place, with deeper roots to ground us.

What stories will you tell?

Written by Sierra Club BC Education Team.

For information, visit sierraclub.bc.ca/education.

S TAG E S Summer Programs

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gh l r&e (250) 384-3267, Tlherto’us e cPrograms Summer atr etfhu Call e b Email: Running &r estagesdance@shaw.ca, August e t ’ sThiso uJuly l kind ut the s Running or visit us at t i m e n d o July & August k iThis se es

im the eful & hese t & t h h Com g g u ro Come Dance ou e car here eful Come Dance r r a c h e ThD b t e T b ere l e t ’ sa t’s d out h t e l t n u With Us kin With Us With k i n d o ce CallU (250) 384-3267, sDance Call (250) 384-3267, Call (250) 384-3267, Come www.stagesdance.com

Email:stagesdance@shaw.ca, stagesdance@shaw.ca, Email: Email: stagesdance@shaw.ca,or visit us at www.stagesdance.com or visit us at or visit us at www.stagesdance.com www.stagesdance.com Call (250) 384-3267, Email: stagesdance@shaw.ca, orFamily visit us at Summer Guide 2020 39 www.stagesdance.com

With Us

Island of Inspiration B

A young child skates, bakes and milks the cow while the moon wondrously transforms above. The moon is a silver pond when seen through the trees.

When they tend the cow, the moon is the milk at the bottom of the pail.

ald eagles soaring overhead; grey whales breaching in rich waters; immense Douglas firs reaching for the stars. The natural beauty of Vancouver Island and the surrounding islands offers a feast of inspiration for all.

Below, librarians from the Greater Victoria Public Library share some of their favourite books about the islands, all written by island writers. After reading, kids can look out their windows and behold the land and creatures of these stories, right before their very eyes. These books will instill pride of place and open little eyes and hearts to the beauty that surrounds them in our West Coast paradise.

Primary (5–8 years) Scallywag on the Salish Sea by Sara Cassidy and Mike Deas The Greasy Lobster, a pirate ship run by the notorious Captain Gallows, is no place for a kid. But when a young orphan arrives on board, the boy has no choice but to take the captain’s orders and get to work.

book is a celebration of summer vacation and West Coast island life. Every day is different on Gran’s island in the Salish Sea, as granddaughter climbs bigleaf maples, eats blackberries, explores tide pools and examines ancient petroglyphs.

A West Coast Summer by Caroline Woodward and Carol Evans Pairing beautiful watercolours with a lilting rhyming story, A West Coast Summer tells of a timeless, idyllic season where “cedars smell so sweet beside the shore.”

The Moon is a Silver Pond by Sara Cassidy and Josee Bisaillon

Early Readers (0–5 years) One Eagle Soaring by Roy Henry Vickers and Robert Budd This book introduces toddlers and young children to numbers and counting with the help of West Coast animals—from a single eagle aloft to a pair of swimming whales to a group of 10 dozing marmots.

Island in the Salish Sea by Sheryl McFarlane and Leslie Redhead This gorgeously illustrated picture 40 Island Parent @Home

Robert Bateman: The Boy Who Painted Nature by Margriet Ruurs and Robert Bateman This book follows the story of a young boy who achieves his dream of painting the world around him and becomes one of Canada’s most beloved artists.

Nootka Sound in Harmony: Aboriginal Connections by Spencer SheehanKalina and Kim Nixon Métis author Spencer Sheehan-Kalina uses poetry to capture the beauty of IslandParent.ca

an artist is born and an aching hole in one girl’s heart begins to heal.

The Vegetable Museum by Michelle Mulder Thirteen-year-old Chloë left her whole life back in Montreal, including her mom and her best friend. Now she’s stuck in Victoria with her dad and estranged grandfather, Uli, who recently had a stroke. When Chloë agrees to help Uli look after his garden, she’s determined to find out why he and her dad didn’t speak to each other for years.

BC Summer Reading Club at Your Local Library

The Monster Sisters and the Mystery of the Unlocked Cave by Gareth Gaudin When a quiet seaside town is suddenly overrun by hundreds of giant monsters, two young sisters are the only ones prepared to take care of the situation.

Nootka Sound and the animals that live there. Each verse of this beautifully illustrated book is accompanied by Indigenous connections to the poem’s content.

Explore our universe page by page with the BC Summer Reading Club!

Kids 12 and under will be inspired to read all summer and enjoy activities

Middle Grade (8–12 years)

along the way. The aim is to encour-

A Day of Signs and Wonders by Kit Pearson Inspired by the childhood of acclaimed Canadian artist Emily Carr, A Day of Signs and Wonders offers a sensitive and insightful look at friendship, family and the foundations of an artist, drawn over the course of a single day—a day in which a comet appears,

age kids to read 20 minutes a day, every day, all summer long. In midAugust, kids can visit a library location to pick up their prize: a brand new book or a BC Summer Reading Club medal.

Orcas Everywhere: The Mystery and History of Killer Whales by Mark Leiren-Young This nonfiction book for middle readers takes a deep dive into the lives of orcas (also known as killer whales). The book is illustrated with archival and contemporary photographs.

New this year, young readers and their parents can sign up for the online club and earn virtual badges.

BC Summer Reading Club reading records are also available at Grab and Go stations at select GVPL

For Greater Victoria Public Library’s complete list of 100 exceptional picture books for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, visit gvpl.ca/100books.

branches. Visit gvpl.ca/src to get started.

Family Summer Guide 2020 41

bag toss with or to splat on the side of your house. Have a competition for throwing a balloon the farthest or highest.

Make A Waterfall

Kids can have fun pouring water with watering cans and buckets to create their own mini waterfalls. This can also be a great way to encourage your kids to water the garden, too. Strainers and colanders work for this, too. They also make a great showers for LEGO figures, Barbies and Playmobil dolls.

Sprinkler

For the Love of Water

M

y son loves water. Most kids are happy playing with water.

Here are some fun ideas for water play for kids of all ages—without even having to leave your yard! Remember to always supervise your kids to keep them safe around water.

Water Tables for Toddlers

You’ll find some great water tables out there with pinwheels, waterwheels, and even umbrellas over the tables to provide some shade. My kids enjoyed our water table from ages 2 to 4. You don’t even need a water table. You can use buckets or a shallow kiddie pool with funnels and toys.

Water Balloons

The crocheted and knit water balloons can be fun too, but they are not as satisfying for my kids as actual real water balloons. However, the crocheted balloons are environmentally friendlier (since they are reusable) and are sort of like throwing a wet washcloth or sponge. They can be fun to play bean

42 Island Parent @Home

There are many different sprinklers out there from beach ball style to an Octopus or even a standard sprinkler.

Try running through with a favourite doll or while holding hands with a sibling, too. My kids love to go under while holding their umbrellas.

Slip n’ Slide

A little bit of dish soap can create a faster Slip n’ Slide. A hill can turn it into a waterslide too. You may even be

PSP Community Recreation Summer Camps!

Sun Seekers Summer Camp! (5–7 Years) Nature Adventurers (5–7 Years) Fun Seekers Summer Camp! (7–9 Years) Adventure Seekers Summer Camp! (9–14 Years) Sports and Splash Camp (7–14 Years) Top Chef Camp (8–14 Years)

Week / Date Week 1: Week 2: Week 3: Week 4: Week 5: Week 6: Week 7: Week 8: Week 9: Week 10:

June 29–July 3 July 6–10 July 13–17 July 20–24 July 27–31 August 3–7 August 10–14 August 17–21 August 24–28 Aug 31–Sept 4

Register by calling

250-363-1009

EXHIBITION OPEN JUNE 19–SEPT 7 We are pleased to welcome you back to enjoy this extraordinary exhibition!

able to slide down on a floaty. Be careful to go one at a time and slide on your bum.

© Stefan Christmann

GET YOUR TIMED TICKET AT RBCM.CA/WPY

Kiddie Pool

Grab some rubber duckies, toy boats, kitchen funnels, your goggles and head into your kiddie pool. If you can, fill it with warm water to turn it into your hot tub. Perhaps, you head through the chilly sprinkler and then warm up in your kiddie pool. Make it a challenge to see if your entire family can fit into the pool. See who can create the biggest waves.

You can also have an old-fashioned water fight with buckets, squirt guns, or empty containers such as dish soap bottles. Ensure you wear sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and long sleeved sun shirts.

It’s also a good idea to avoid the hottest part of the day, too. Happy splashing.

Serena Beck works full-time as a Technical Writer. She loves to write, travel, and swim at the beach with family and friends.

IslandParent.ca

Family Summer Guide 2020 43

Details, Details

Don’t leave home without ’em! To find out more about travelling on Vancouver Island, visit the following websites or contact the organizations.

COVID-19 Info The Province has created a dedicated phone service to provide British Columbians with nonmedical information about COVID-19, including the latest information on travel recommendations and social distancing. Information is available in more than 110 languages, seven days a week between 7:30am–8pm, at 1-888-COVID19 (1-888-268-4319) or via text message at 1-888-2684319.

are maps and a distance chart, information about camping, tours, attractions, parks and outdoor activities in various communities.

Tourism Victoria Visitor Info Centre Website: tourismvictoria.com 812 Wharf Street, Victoria 250-953-2033 Toll Free: 1-800-663-3883 Victoria Visitor Centre is re-opening on July 1.

BC Parks

Tourist Information Tourism Vancouver Island Website: vancouverisland.travel Find things to do close to home or sign up for the enewsletter. There

Discover Camping Reservation Service Website: discovercamping.ca Toll free: 1-800-689-9025 Use the Discover Camping website

to view campsite availability, reserve a site 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.

Capital Regional District Parks & Trails

Parks Canada

Ferry Information

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.

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.

Website: crd.bc.ca/parks Find out about regional parks and trails on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands: maps, activities, rules regarding pets, feature hikes, nature programs.

SUMMER CAMPS Develop skills, meet new friends, explore creativity and experience exciting activities in a fun, safe and positive environment.

RECREATION SPORT DEVELOPMENT HIGH PERFORMANCE CLIMBING & OUTDOOR Presented by

Supported by

In the event that our camps program is unable to operate due to concerns related to COVID-19, full refunds will be provided.

44 Island Parent @Home

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN See complete camps listings online:

vikescamps.com IslandParent.ca

SMS CO-ED SUMMER CAMPS 2020 St. Margaret’s School co-ed summer camps offer a variety of safe and fun activities for students ages 5 – 17.

• Sports • Yoga & Wellness • Social Justice • Improv • Theatre • STEM • Math • French • Writing • Reading • ELL

To register online visit:

www.stmarg.ca/programs/ summer-camps

@islandparent We’re on Instagram!

Follow Us & WIN: A Collection of Children’s Books

Contest Closes July 15, 2020

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Family Summer Guide 2020 45