August 2018 Island Parent

Island Parent Celebrating

30 Years

The Resource Publication for vancouver Island Parents

August 2018

10 things to do Before Summer Ends

Education

Schools & Educational Services

Everything you need for back to school!

Curiosity • Diversity Exploration • Nature Play-Oriented Learning

OPEN HOUSE Thurs, August 30, 1–4 pm CLOTHING • SHOES • STROLLERS • CAR SEATS • TOYS • BOOKS SLEEP AIDS • FURNITURE • SKINCARE • DIAPER BAGS

3905 Haro Road, Victoria BC 1581 Hillside Ave, Victoria

778•265•5651

Across the street from Hillside Centre

SHOP ONLINE AT MOMEASE.CA!

250-477-3731 arbutusgrove.ca

I s l and Sw im m i ng Swimming is a Life Skill!

Let us teach your child how to be a great swimmer Programs for 6 - 12 year olds

Available at: Juan de Fuca Recreation Saanich Commonwealth Place Fun, Fitness, and Friendship for Life!

For more information on our Island Swim Skills programs contact:

www.islandswimming.com

Email: info@islandswimming.com Phone: (250) 744 5536

I belong here, finding balance.

DON’T MISS OUT! Registration opens at 6am August 8, online, telephone & in-person Online and printed guide available August 3.

ACTIVE LIVING GUIDE

Effective September to December 2018

Cedar Hill Recreation Centre G. R. Pearkes Recreation Centre Gordon Head Recreation Centre Saanich Commonwealth Place

250-475-7121 250-475-5400 250-475-7100 250-475-7600

IslandParent.ca

JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

saanich.ca/alg August 2018 3

12 10 Things to Do Before Summer Ends

Brookes Westshore An independent, co-educational Day and Boarding School for Grades 6 through 12.

Features 12 10 Things to Do

Brookes Westshore opening September 2018 Located at 1945 Sooke Road

Columns 5 Sue Fast:

Editor’s Note Before Summer Ends 16 Back to School Buying Guide 44 Emillie Parrish: 18 Schools & Educational Services Cooking With Kids 46 Sarah Milligan: 28 Games, Toys & Play Is There an App for This? for Toddlers 49 David Leach: 30 Kelly Cleave: Dadspeak Be Mindful of Your Motivation 31 Ashley Degraaf: Hugging 50 Areli Hermanson & Janelle Hatch: 41 Jeanne Petit-Humphries: Healthy Families, Happy Families Popping Bubbles 48 Serena Beck: 52 Christina Van Starkenburg: Fairies Can’t Fly in the Rain

Book Nook 58 Laura Trunkey: Maternity & Beyond In Every Issue Island Parent Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 60 Sean Rangel: Party Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Nature Notes Family Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Family Services Directory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54, 55 62 Allison Rees: Preschool & Child Care Directory . . . . . . . . . . . 56, 57 Cut It Out! Business & Professional Directory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

(by Royal Roads University)

Offering the IB Diploma and BC Dogwood Diploma Information and tours available 250.929.0506 admissions@ westshore.brookes.org

westshore.brookes.org

Sue Fast

Linda Frear

Editor editor@islandparent.ca

Island Parent Magazine 830–A Pembroke Street Victoria, BC V8T 1H9 250-388-6905 islandparent.ca

RaeLeigh Buchanan

Mark Warner

Office Manager & Sales sales@islandparent.ca

Advertising Consultant raeleigh@islandparent.ca

Publisher/Owner publisher@islandparent.ca

Design & Layout Eacrett Graphic Design

Printed by Black Press

ISSN 0838-5505

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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.

On the Cover

Olivia (8). Photo by Erin Wallis Photography, erinwallis.com

4 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

tributed to the ever-popular Is There an App for This? column, sharing her antics raising two young kids, and for just over a year, Erin Skillen has penned Post-Married Mommy, the much-loved column documenting Erin’s fearless, insightful and engaging dispatches from single-parenthood. We will miss each of you and wish you well.

Thanksgiving in August

E

ven though Thanksgiving is a couple months away, it’s never too early to give thanks. And, if you trust the latest research, not only is it never too early, but it’s never too much; you can never over do gratitude.

Even though I know this, and can list several of the benefits of “practicing gratitude,” I sometimes forget to translate feelings of thanks into words.

No job is more important than raising children.

Sure, there are lots of important jobs— doctors, health care professionals, teachers, scientists, to name only a few—but none, if you ask me, is more important than raising happy, healthy kids.

To that end, Island Parent Magazine has—for more than 30 years—strived to support parents in their job raising children.

And to inspire community.

Helping Island Parent achieve these goals

have been countless contributors: from our writers, people in the community, and those in child care and teaching professions to various service providers, businesses and our advertisers. Island Parent is here because of—and for—you.

The magazine provides a forum for people caring for and raising children to come together to share stories, ideas, laughter, tears and a bit of ourselves. It is a place where we are reminded that we are all in this—raising the next generation—together.

So it is with gratitude, and sadness, that we bid a fond farewell to Diana Hurschler, Erin Skillen, and Ashley Degraaf. For more than seven years, Diana Hurschler has shared both her medical expertise—as a registered nurse, childbirth educator, certified breastfeeding counselor—and her experience as a mother of four in the informative and inspiring column New Parent Pages. For almost two years, Ashley Degraaf has con-

Sue Fast Editor’s Note

We are happy to welcome Christina Van Starkenburg who is taking over the Book Nook column and Serena Beck who, starting next month, will contribute to Is There an App for This?

So thank you to all of the contributors— past and present. Here’s to continuing to grow a strong parenting community where everyone feels valued, supported and welcome. We couldn’t do it without you: the readers, writers, advertisers and the supportive parenting community.

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

Westshore Dental Centre

Mon – Thurs: 7:30 am – 7:30 pm Fri: 7:30 am – 5:00 pm Sat: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

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

August 2018 5

Where you live your own learning.

Victoria’s only inquiry-based, interdisciplinary middle school is personalized learning at its best.

Our cornerstone methodology is designed to educate through competencies and lead learners to engage in their own learning. Students discover the power of their unique voices, construct their own knowledge, and gain critical thinking skills.

Now Enrolling

A few spots left for September Live Your Own Learning

Victoria’s interdisciplinary middle school with a cornerstone inquiry-methodology fostering learner engagement and inspiration.

Independent Middle School Grade 6 to 8

PARENT INFO SESSIONS in August Learn more on our website: www.arcacademy.ca

6 Island Parent Magazine

Island Parent Notes 2018 First Nation Cultural Art Showcase

Experience an immersive art experience where artists will have the opportunity to engage with the public in the outdoor upper plaza of the Royal BC Museum for a week starting July 30 and then showcase their art work at a two-week art show event in September.

The artists selected for the 2018 First Nation Cultural Art Showcase are: brothers Dave and Johnathan Jacobson of Tsaxis First Nation in Fort Rupert, Tom Hunt Jr. of Wei-Wai-Kum First Nation in Campbell River, Toni Frank of Shishalh First Nation in Sechelt, and the Good Family from Snuneymux First Nation in Nanaimo.

The First Nation Cultural Art Showcase allows the public to interact, engage and learn from the artists in manner that allows for open discussion and reflection, says Professor Jack Lohman CBE, Royal BC Museum CEO. So this summer, immerse yourself in the culture of some of Vancouver Island’s First Nations communities. To learn more about the program, visit timberwest.com/timberwest-announces-vancouver-island-firstnation-cultural-art-showcase-program.

Entitled: Understanding Impulsivity & Motor Activity in Children

Would your child like to participate in a University of Victoria study? If so, consider “Entitled: Understanding impulsivity and motor activity in children with and without ADHD.” Many children experience difficulties with attention, impulsivity, and activity levels, which interfere with their ability to focus, self-regulate, and achieve goals. UVic is seeking children ages 6-13 years with a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD or ADD) and children who are suspected of having ADHD but who do not have a formal diagnosis. The study will provide a better understanding of difficulties with focus, impulsivity, and motor activity in children to help inform the challenges faced by children with ADHD, with the goal of providing more effective services and treatments. Children will complete some activities on the computer and paper and pencil tasks at the University of Victoria Child Development Lab, and will be provided with a small thank you prize for their participation, including being entered into a draw to win an iPad mini.

IslandParent.ca

Parents will receive a monetary thank you for their time and will be reimbursed for any parking costs. For more information, please contact Dr. Sarah Macoun’s team at macounlab@uvic.ca or 250-472-4195 (Child Development Lab). This study has been approved by the University of Victoria Human Research Ethics Board.

The Arc: Academy of Inquiry

In September, the doors will open on Canada’s second inquiry-based school—using the same model as Jeff Hopkins’ Pacific School of Innovation and Inquiry (PSII) located in downtown Victoria. The Arc: Academy of Inquiry school will be located on the grounds of the Cridge Centre for the Family and will accommodate students in grades 6-8.

The school’s philosophy is responsive to the shift today’s young people need to survive and thrive in a fast-changing world. Inquiry is a mindset which inspires a student to find and explore their own interests, says Arc founder Tom Hudock.

“This kind of student-driven learning is how kids are naturally motivated from birth. Yet somehow over the past century we’ve really allowed schooling to move us away from this natural state of curiosity and motivation.”

The inquiry approach is associated with greater self-esteem, resilience and socioemotional competence in students.

Arc Academy is an inquiry-based, interdisciplinary school where learners continue to meet Core Competencies set by the BC Ministry of Education.

Arc Academy will involve entrepreneurs, educators, mental health practitioners, and other community experts to support students with their inquiries and to form a community around the school. “Learning happens outside the four walls of a school and we want to invite the depth of knowledge from Victoria mentors in,” says Hudock.

Opportunities exist for philanthropic contributions and investor relations to play an active role in the establishment of the Arc Academy Foundation. For more information, contact Tom Hudock by email at tom@arcacademy.ca or call 250-213-8779.

of Hope. As a Little Fox Run host, you will have the creativity to plan a route and determine how you would like to fundraise.

The children could make a wish and throw their donations into a “Wishing Well” or participate in a “Loonie Parade” as you map out Terry’s route with loonies on a giant map of Canada. Foundation staff will provide

you with free promotional material—stickers, tattoos, pledge forms, and posters. Join in continuing Terry’s battle against cancer and be a part of his dream of finding a cure. If you are interested in registering your preschool or daycare for the 2018 Little Fox Run, please call 1-888-836-9786 or email Gayle.Sison@terryfoxrun.org.

Learn to Fish Program

The Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC is continuing the summer Learn to Fish programs for Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. The free Learn to Fish sessions take place at locations in regional parks and urban lakes for local and visiting youth and their families. This month’s Learn to Fish locations include: Lake Ida Anne, Langford (August 1, 6-8pm), Waterski Beach, Elk Lake (August 2, 6-8pm), Beaver Lake, Port McNeill (August 4, 10am-noon), McIvor Lake, Campbell River (August 5, 10am-noon), Gordon Bay Provincial Park, (August 7, 10:30am-12:30pm), Horne Lake Regional Park (August 11, 10am-noon), Westwood Lake Park Nanaimo (August 12, 10:30am-12:30pm), Fuller Lake, Chemainus (August 13, 6-8pm), Gordon Bay Provincial Park, (August 14, 10:30am-12:30pm), Glen Lake Park, Langford (August 15, 6-8pm), Waterski Beach, Elk Lake (August 16, 6-8pm), Horne Lake Regional Park (August 18, 10am-noon), St. Mary Lake, Salt Spring Island (August 20, 11am-1pm), and Gordon Bay Provincial Park, (August 21, 10:30am-12:30pm).

Learn to Fish events are hosted on a drop-in basis for kids ages 5 and older, with accompanying adults, at provincial park locations. Participants are asked to arrive on time for the sessions as fishing techniques and ethics are taught in advance of the hands-on portion. Pre-registration is required. Children under 16 do not require a freshwater fishing licence to participate.

For a complete listing of Learn to Fish programs throughout Vancouver Island, visit gofishbc.com.

The Little Fox Run

The Terry Fox Foundation is looking for daycares and preschools to host their very own Little Fox Run. This fun-filled event teaches children the value of giving, raises cancer awareness, and provides kids with the opportunity to be a part of the Marathon IslandParent.ca

August 2018 7

Is Your Child’s Face Developing Well?

Does your child breathe through his/her mouth?

Does your child suffer from allergies?

Does your child have any oral habit such as thumb or finger sucking?

Does your child have an untreated tongue tie?

Does your child have crowded teeth?

Does your child have jaws that seem too far forward or back?

Early Intervention can have far reaching benefits.

Straight Teeth the Natural Way

Myobrace® treatment focuses on addressing the underlying causes of poor facial and dental development and can unlock your child’s healthy growth and development.

HOW MYOBRACE® WORKS • Promotes breathing through the nose

Before

• Corrects tongue positioning • Retrains the lips and cheeks • Corrects poor swallowing habits

After 6 months

Saanich Dental Group Free Consultation: 250-477-7321 info@saanichdentalgroup.com (for children under 12)

Victoria City Rowing Club

excels in providing high quality rowing experiences for all ages and abilities. Here is your chance to learn to row and enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Elk Lake this spring (break) and summer.

Youth Programs 11-17 Half day beginner and intermediate camps during spring break and summer and full day camps during the summer.

Adult Programs 18+ Beginner - Intermediate - Novice - Club - Competitive Challenge your collegues and friend in the Community Corporate Rowing Challenge and raise funds for KidSport Victoria

website: www.vcrc.bc.ca email: vcrcprograms@gmail.com

8 Island Parent Magazine

Spend an Evening with Elephants

Help celebrate World Elephant Day at the Robert Bateman Centre on Sunday, August from 7-8:30pm. Learn about elephant conservation and the urgent plight of Asian and African elephants in a special presentation by World Elephant Day founder, Patricia Sims. Sims is the founder of World Elephant Day, the global awareness campaign that brings attention to the critical threats facing elephants. She has led and managed the annual World Elephant Day campaign, which has participants in over 50 countries and is recognized by over 100 wildlife organizations. Now in its sixth year, the annual World Elephant Day campaign reaches millions of people across the globe through events, public awareness, and social media outreach.

The event includes the award-winning 30-minute documentary “Return to the Forest” narrated by William Shatner.

Admission is $10 with proceeds benefiting World Elephant Day and the Bateman Foundation. The Robert Bateman Centre, 470 Belleville St. For information, visit batemancentre.org.

Teaching Virtues

How do you teach virtues and good character to children? The Virtues Project, a multi-faith teaching concept started by Salt Spring Island residents and now a global initiative in more than 100 countries, is the basis for an upcoming workshop at Christ Church Cathedral.

Facilitator Patricia Crossley has seen the method influence bullies, rebellious teens, and young people lacking self-esteem and courage during her years as an educator in Kenya. She is leading a three-part Virtues Project workshop for parents and grandparents August 17 from 2-4:30pm, followed by two evening sessions on August 20 and 27 from 6-8:30 pm. The cost for the three sessions is $30.

A former school principal in Vancouver, Crossley first went to Kenya in 2001 as an agent for charity for girls’ education and then worked for over a decade in the country as education secretary for over 70 Kenyan schools. She heard about the Virtues Project from a chaplain in Victoria. She began in Kenya with a workshop for nine teachers.

After Kenya’s 2007 election, the country was on the brink of civil war, and that’s when the project grew out of the schools to be used by the public. Now they have trained over 3000 teachers and more than IslandParent.ca

3000 community members to interact with children in a different way.

The Virtues Project teaches adults to model virtues and nurture them in their children, said Crossley, a trained master facilitator for Virtues Project International (VPI). To register for the program, contact Christ Church Cathedral at knewman@ christchurchcathedral.bc.ca.

Victoria Classic Boat Festival

This Labour Day Weekend (Friday, August 31-Sunday, September 2) sees the return of the Victoria Classic Boat Festival to Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Over 100 boats are expected to descend on Victoria and visitors are welcome to tour the docks to view these historic vessels. This year’s Festival will focus on the important role of the Merchant Marine during WW2.

This year’s festival will feature activities, speakers, and events surrounding the role of B.C.’s fishing vessels, yachts, and shipyards that played an important role on the ‘home front’ of WW2. The Maritime Museum of British Columbia will collaborate with Parks Canada, who will be on-site with a special floating exhibit on Home Port Heroes.

Along with the floating exhibit and the many classic boats that will be on display, including WW2-era boats Merry Chase and Midnight Sun, the Festival is also hosting a number of new family-friendly activities including craft workshops, musical performances, Pirate School, Wooden Boat model building, and face painting. Acclaimed yacht designer Ron Holland and the Festival’s Honourary Commodore and curator of The Nauticapedia, John MacFarlane, are also scheduled to speak at the event. For information visit mmbc.bc.ca/news-andevents/classic-boat-festival/

Family-friendly Rifflandia

Rifflandia loves kids and has always welcomed and encouraged parents to bring their children to the festival. Picture this: you and your child barefoot in the grass, getting your boogie on under the sun—with sunscreen and a hat, of course. To that end, organizers created Kidlandia: an area in Royal Athletic Park made specifically for families, complete with comfortable couches and chairs, baby changing stations, art classes for children, and games galore.

In the past, Rifflandia has partnered with organizations such as Shyness and Bloom, Mothering Touch, UsedVictoria, and The Makehouse to bring you exactly what IslandParent.ca

Nurturing young minds. Keeping the spirit free.

International Montessori Academies of Canada Preschool Kindergarten/elementary Strong Montessori academics/small classes French immersion/art and science

IMAC Montessori Academy

2375 Koksilah Road, Duncan 250-737-1119 www.intmontessori.ca August 2018 9

you need to enjoy the festival with your family—a relaxed space for both children and parents.

Give Rifflandia a try. It’ll be at Royal Athletic Park from Thursday, September 13-Sunday, September 16, and for Rifflandia’s eleventh year (this baby’s growing up!) the more the merrier. Children 12 and under get into Rifflandia’s general admission area for free. All parents/guardians must apply for their child(ren)’s free Park Pass.

Please note, children will need a purchased VIP ticket if their parents have VIP tickets.

New this year: free hearing protection for every child who attends Rifflandia. For information, visit rifflandia.com.

Aboriginal Communities: Active for Life

The Aboriginal Communities: Active for Life resource and accompanying fullday workshop were created with guidance from Indigenous leaders throughout the country, with the purpose of inspiring community leaders looking for culturally tailored resources that act as a vehicle toward individual and community holistic development.

10 Island Parent Magazine

The resource and workshop supports these individual champions as they embark on a journey to develop sustainable quality sport and physical activity programs, build collaborative relationships, and re-engage their community members into active and healthy lifestyles. The resource provides participants with: An understanding of the importance of physical activity, and an introduction to the concept of physical literacy, which is the development of movement skills, confidence to participate, and motivation and enjoyment to be Active for Life.

A feeling of empowerment to support and deliver quality sport and physical literacy enriched programs in their communities Tools, resources, and action plans to help get their communities more active Aboriginal Communities: Active for Life is available in both English and French at: sportforlife.ca/portfolio-view/aboriginalcommunities-active-for-life or sportpourlavie.ca/portfolio-view/communautes-autochtones-vie-active.

Discover Boating

Whether on vacation or staycation, keep these boating tips from Discover Boating in mind this summer.

Take a class. Sign up for a boating lesson to hone your powerboating, sailing or watersport skills. There are on-water training courses, watersports camps, youth boating programs and more.

Rent a boat. Rental options are available on most waterways and provide hourly or daily access to a variety of boat types. Rental outfitters should provide tutorials on operating a boat, share safety instructions and offer suggestions on destinations. A Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) is required to operate a boat. Also, peer-to-peer rentals, allowing you to rent someone else’s boat, usually includes insurance coverage and captains for hire.

Share the fun. You don’t need to own a boat to join a boat club. Clubs and shared ownership programs allow you to share a boat with others, split the costs and book your time on the boat online. These clubs and programs also maintain, clean, insure and store the boats and many provide onwater training.

IslandParent.ca

Float your own boat. Chart your own course to boat ownership by visiting DiscoverBoating.ca where you’ll find a boat selector and loan calculator to help you determine your boating budget and identify the different types of boats that fit your lifestyle and interests.

Find ways to get on the water by using Discover Boating’s Get on the Water tool at discoverboating.ca. Enter your postal code to find rentals, classes, boat clubs and more close to home.

Bicycles for Humanity

The Victoria Chapter of Bicycles for Humanity will send your unwanted bikes to one of the poorest countries on earth—Malawi, in southeast Africa. The group’s work supports grassroots projects that improve access to healthcare, education, water, food, and employment.

Help empower the world’s poorest people by donating a bike. The group’s 10th container of 450 bikes destined for Malawi is almost full, but bikes are always welcome for container #11.

Donate your old bike, or make a financial donation to “sponsor” a bike.

Bicycles for Humanity is 100 per cent volunteer and all funds go directly to shipping costs. Preferred bikes have wheels 16" and bigger, with wider tires like mountain bikes, and are in repairable condition. Most bikes are welcome.

If in doubt, phone one of the following contact numbers.

For bike pick-up, email or phone Chris at cw-iman@hotmail.com or 250-4797415. Or contact Sab at bikes@bellacoola.com or 250-418-5127 (call or text) Drop off locations: 847 Royal Oak Avenue (carport) Recyclistas: 25 Crease Avenue Brentwood Salvage: 7481 West Saanich Road To “Sponsor” a Bike, visit: b4hvictoria.blogspot.com (click “Donate”) In June, six bikes from previous shipments were delivered to a rural school in Mlowe village in rural Malawi, where a student from Victoria had been volunteering since January. With these six bikes, 12 students attending Mlowe Community Day Secondary School will reduce their four-hour round trip commute on foot, allowing them more time and energy to focus on studies, family, and work.

For information, visit facebook.com/ b4hvictoria. • IslandParent.ca

Set up a school visit today! shawniganlakemontessori@shaw.ca

250-743-6279

Dedicated to providing inspired Montessori learning programs for children 30 months to 6 years of age. www.shawniganlakemontessori.com

August 2018 11

Island Parent on for Vancouver Island

Celebrating

30 Years

The Resource Publicati

Parents

August 2018

10 Things to Do Before Summer Ends

10

things to do

Before Summer Ends

With more than a month of summer to go, there’s still plenty of time to tackle this “10 Things to Do” list. Now there’s no excuse for lazing around as the balmy days pass idly by— unless, of course, that’s your idea of perfect summer fun!

n tio rvices EduScchoaols & Educational Se Please visit any of our valued partners to pick up your latest copy of Island Parent.

GREATER VICTORIA Thrifty Foods Fairway Market Real Canadian Superstore Save-On-Foods (except Westside) Lifestyle Market Country Grocer (Esquimalt & Royal Oak) Quality Foods Market on Yates & Millstream Western Foods Recreation Centres Public Libraries Serious Coffee Victoria Gymnastics SOOKE Western Foods Village Foods Seaparc Recreation DUNCAN Thrifty Foods Save-On-Foods Real Canadian Superstore 49th Parallel Public Library

CHEMAINUS 49th Parallel Public Library SHAWNIGAN LAKE Aitken & Fraser Grocery Community Centre Kerry Park Recreation LADYSMITH Save-On-Foods 49th Parallel Public Library NANAIMO Thrifty Foods Fairway Market Quality Foods Save-On-Foods PARKSVILLE Thrifty Foods Quality Foods Parksville Centre

For a complete list of where you can find a copy of Island Parent Magazine, go to

1

Visit a Festival

There’s no shortage of festivals this month. For starters, there’s the Filberg Festival (filbergfestival.com) in Comox, a celebration of all things arts, crafts, and music from August 3-6 where, along with artisans’ wares, you’ll find the Enchanted Forest, a kids’ interactive area that includes storytelling, face painting, sand boxes, painting, crafts, games and more. Then there’s the Victoria Dragon Boat Festival (victoriadragonboat.com) from August 10-12 where you can cheer on the paddlers and enjoy live multicultural entertainment, crafts for kids, and the Forbidden City Food Court. Don’t miss FringeKids Fest (intrepidtheatre.com) in Victoria’s Market Square on Saturday, August 25 from 11am-4pm. This completely free one-day family festival in Market Square introduces young children to the magic of theatre, with live performances, craft activities including puppet making, an inflatable bouncy bunny, life-sized puppets and a cardboard castle for small artists to paint.

Catch a Show

2

Chemainus Theatre (chemainustheatrefestival.ca), 9737 Chemainus Road, presents Little Prince, running Tuesdays to Sundays until August 5. When a pilot crashes his plane in the Sahara Desert, he meets a young prince from a distant planet. Hear the Little Prince recount his adventurous explorations and the wondrous creatures he has met. To book your tickets, visit tickets.chemainustheatrefestival.ca. For rainy day entertainment, check out the IMAX productions Mysteries of Egypt, and be transported to a distant time and place where the Nile River Valley cuts an emerald swath through the desert sand, or see Pandas, a breathtaking documentary adventure and amazing experience for the whole family, or Rocky Mountain Express, a steam train journey through the breathtaking vistas of the Canadian Rockies. There’s also The Avengers and America’s Musical Journey. For showtimes and information, visit imaxvictoria.com or phone 250-480-4887.

3

See a Movie Under the Stars

If you feel like seeing a show, but don’t feel like being cooped up indoors, why not drop by one of Victoria’s outdoor venues? The Victoria Film Festival (victoriafilmfestival.com) is once again presenting the Free-B Film screenings on Friday and Saturday nights in August (until Aug 18) at Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park. The line-up includes Babe (Aug 3), Mean Girls (Aug 4), Some Like It Hot (Aug 10), Shakespeare In Love (Aug 11) and Planet of the Apes (Aug 17) and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (Aug 18).

Movies start at 9pm and are free. Just bring your own snacks, flashlights and blankets.

For the show times and other details, visit freebfilmfest.com.

islandparent.ca 250-388-6905 12

Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Fire it Up at the Fireworks

4

If you’ve never seen the Fireworks at Butchart Gardens (every Saturday night through August), you are missing a great opportunity to be delighted and amazed. This is not your standard highin-the-sky shower of stars—although there are lots of those—it’s a full-on pyrotechnic extravaganza set to music. You may be treated to sparkling, buzzing bees flying out of hives, brilliant trains rolling along tracks or waterfalls of fire. Anything is possible and it’s pure magic. This show—along with the beautiful gardens that you can stroll through beforehand—is a summer mustsee. It changes every year, it’s truly fabulous and it’s all ours. Before the Firework Show, enjoy live entertainment on the open-air stage (every night this month) and on each Fireworks Saturday. Plan for the crowds, pack a picnic, some warm clothes, and spend a family evening hanging out being awed.

Visit butchartgardens.com.

5

Whip Up a Batch of Banana Split Kebabs

For 6 kebabs, you’ll need 6 wooden skewers, 12 strawberries, 12 pineapple pieces, 12 brownie pieces, 2 bananas cut into pieces.

Cut pineapple, brownies and bananas into pieces similar in size to the strawberries.

Assemble each skewer using 2 strawberries, 2 pineapple pieces, 2 banana pieces, and 2 brownie pieces. Alternate ingredients as you go. If desired, dip in whipped cream and sprinkle with nuts.

Find Fun at Fisherman’s Wharf

6

Steps from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, along a picturesque waterfront walkway, there’s a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered at Fisherman’s Wharf. You’ll find friendly and entertaining seals (who also perform live for the seal cam at fishermanswharfvictoria.com/ sealcam.html), and an assortment of food kiosks, including the famous Barb’s Fish & Chips, Jackson’s Ice Cream, Puerto Vallarta Amigos, and the sushi restaurant Rock ’n Rolls. Rent kayaks at Kelp Reef Kayaking, book whale watching tours with Eagle Wing Whale Watching, or just stroll amidst the float home village. Buy seafood fresh off the boat, see moored pleasure crafts, and watch IslandParent.ca

Preschool Spaces Available

• before and after

school care

• small class sizes • supportive and

caring staff

• excellent academic

foundation

• Kodaly music

A local non-profit for all children (Since 1973) 5575 West Saanich Rd 250 592 4411

info@islandmontessori.com www.islandmontessori.com

program

• lovely rural location

connecting children to nature

August 2018

13

FRED PENNER Legendary Canadian Children’s Performer

SUN FEB 10 | 2:30 PM

ONE MAN STAR WARS TRILOGY performed with permission of Lucasfilm Ltd. All rights reserved

SAT MAY 4 | 7:30 PM uvic.ca/farquhar | 250-721-8480 |

UVicFarq

|

@UVicFarquhar

Building future leaders

as fishing vessels unload their catch. For a different view of the city, and a chance to get out on the water, hop aboard a Harbour Ferry (victoriaharbourferry.com), leaving from Fisherman’s Wharf daily from 10am9pm (until the end of the month), and take a ride. Be aware that cost is $6 per zone for adults, $4 for children (1-12 years).

For more information about Fisherman’s Wharf, visit fishermanswharfvictoria.com.

7

Explore Saysutshun Newcastle Island

Beaches swept by the tides. Forest touched only by nature. Rocks that silently witness the cycles of land and sea. Saysutshun Newcastle Island is a place of natural discovery. Take a walk through history on part of the 22km trail system, stop by the Pavilion for a snack, bike or kayak around the island for a unique way to tour, or escape and spend a night or two in seclusion at one of the island’s camp sites. After exploring all day, camp under the stars in one of the 18 individual campsites or 1 group campsite. The Saysutshun Newcastle Island Bistro is open daily until early September and serves burgers, wraps, and more. If it’s a hot day, go for a swim in one of the island’s many protected bays.

Dogs are permitted on the island but must be on-leash. Saysutshun Newcastle Island Provincial Marine Park is located a short boat ride across the Nanaimo Harbour, leaving from Maffeo Sutton Park near downtown Nanaimo. For information, visit newcastleisland.ca.

Do the Tube Shack Boogie

Currently accepting applications for Kindergarten thru Grade 9.

Please check our website: queenofangels.ca for an application form and/or call our school at 250-746-5919 to arrange a tour.

Queen of Angels – where students learn to love, and love to learn.

2085 Maple Bay Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 5L9

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Island Parent Magazine

8

Head to The Tube Shack at Lake Cowichan, and sign up for a $20 all-inclusive tubing package that includes your tube rental and a shuttle service from Little Beach to Saywell Park. Float down the Cowichan River through the crystal clear water and pristine scenery on this 2.5 hour journey. Family tube rentals (two adults, two kids) costs $60. Pack and waterproof a picnic or leave one along your route.

Make sure to wear a life jacket and a hat, and bring lots to drink along the way. If you have your own tubes and want to use just the shuttle service (weekdays only), the cost is $5 per person. The Tube Shack is fully licensed and insured. Located un-

email:qa@cisdv.bc.ca

IslandParent.ca

derneath Jakes at the Lake Restaurant, 109 South Shore Road, beside Saywell Park.

For more information or to book online (recommended), visit cowichanriver.com or phone 250-510-RIDE (7433).

Pick Berries

9

August is prime time to pick berries: blueberries, blackberries, boysenberries, loganberries, marionberries, raspberries and strawberries. From one end of the Island to the other, U-pick farms abound.

In Victoria: Arbor Blueberry Farm, Dan’s Farm & Country Market, Galey Farms and Corn Maze, Market & Railway, Guite’s Farm, Marsh Farm, Michell’s Farm Market, Northbrook Farm, Phil’s Farm, Rosemeade Farms and Stewart’s Berry Patch. In Cowichan Valley: Cowichan Bay Raspberries, Silverside Farm, and South Island Saskatoons. In Central Island: Paradise Plants, Garden Centre and Farm Market. To find a farm, find out what’s in season, and for more information on Island farms, visit the Island Farm Fresh website at islandfarmfresh.com. For a few ideas on what to do with the berries—aside to eat them by the handful while you pick—see Emillie Parrish’s Cooking With Kids column on page 44.

10

Summit Mt. Washington

Ride the chairlift or hike to the summit of Mount Washington (1588 m elevation) and take in the spectacular surrounding views. Then take a hike along one of the summit trails: Top of the World Trails, 0.7 km; Linton’s Trail, 2.1 km; Giv’r Trail (Advanced), 1.3 km. Get a Summer Action Pass and enjoy 1-day unlimited access to scenic chairlift rides, the bungee trampoline, 9-hole disc golf course (a Par 31 course that takes about an hour to play) and mini golf. Family (2 adults, 2 children - $109. Each additional person, 6-64, is $32). Or sign up for a nature walk, talk, or guided hike around Paradise Meadows. All welcome—though the programs vary in ability level—and start at Strathcona Park Wilderness Centre, adjacent to Raven Lodge. Presented by the Strathcona Wilderness Institute (a non-profit society). Visit strathconapark. org/programs.

IslandParent.ca

CAREFULLY CURATED CLASSES IN: Acting for Drama and Film Scene Study StageCraft Many More Classes for Kids and Adults at

skam.ca

250-386-7526

BRING US YOUR LITTLE MONSTERS! August 2018

15

Back-to-School Buying Guide

The following recommendations come from some of our local merchants and businesses. To find out more about any of the businesses listed below, please refer to the ads in this issue.

From Kool & Child

Preschool and School-Aged: Code & Go Robot by Learning Resources . Create a step-by-step path for the mouse using the 30 double-sided coding cards for hands-on coding fun! Colorful buttons match coding cards for easy programming and sequencing. Mouse lights up, makes sounds, and features 2 speeds. Ages 4+ School-Aged: CODE Programming Game Series. CODE On The Brink and CODE Rover Control are single games designed to build the mental skills needed to fully grasp the concept of coding. All of the games are screen-free for a unique, unplugged play experience. Ages 8+ Pre-teen and Youth: Snapino. New from the makers of Snap Cirucuits! Snapino is a new kit which expands on the popular world of Snap Circuits. The projects gradually introduce Arduino, an open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and software. Ages12+

Yumbox is ideal for kids that like variety in their meals. The Yumbox is available in 4 different sizes and configurations, plus 8 great colour options.

Preschool and School-Aged: SoYoung Toddler Backpacks. Designed to please not only the toddler but also their parents, the machine-washable SoYoung Toddler Backpack is roomy enough for all the things a preschooler needs: a pair of shoes, a change of clothes, and of course, something for Show and Tell! For a perfect match, get the coordinating lunch box or cooler bag for snack time. Also available in a larger Grade School size for the big kids too. All SoYoung products are designed right here in Canada and are available in a variety of From Momease Baby Boutique adorable prints.

Preschool and School-Aged: Hunter Rain Preschool and School-Aged: Yumbox Bento Food Trays. Yumbox is a kid-friendly, Boots. The Kids First Classic Hunter Boots bento-style lunch container designed for are a specialized rain boot designed for kids and adults. Yumbox is made with high growing feet. Featuring a flatter sole and quality, easy-to-clean, super durable and a rounder foot to ensure this style is easier BPA-free food-safe materials. Perfect for to walk in, the natural rubber Kids First even the pickiest of eaters, the leak-proof Classics also have a wider upper leg opening that increases freedom of movement, as well as helping to make the putting-on and taking-off process more user-friendly for daycare, school and your kids too. Available in a variety of vibrant or neutral colours.

Preschool and School-Aged: Herschel Pop Quiz Lunch Boxes. The durable Herschel Pop Quiz Lunch Box features a soft and insulated main snack compartment that easily wipes clean, making it the perfect lunch time companion. Boasting a reinforced and padded handle, an external storage sleeve with waterproof zipper, and a handy woven name label, the Herschel Pop Quiz Lunch Box is made to last and stylish too.

16  Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

From The Mothering Touch Centre

and comfy. Made from 100 per cent New Zealand felted lambswool for comfort and Preschool & School-Aged: Stonz Rain- breathability, and matched to a leather sole boots. Stonz all natural rubber rain boots that’s both slip-resistant and rugged enough are the safe choice for keeping little feet to be worn outdoors. A gentle elastic holds dry while puddle jumping. Free of lead, formaldehyde, phthalates, and PVC. These waterproof boots come in fun bright colours, are flexible and comfortable, and have a quick-dry black cotton lining for extra comfort. Stonz is a Canadian company based in Vancouver.

Preschool and School-Aged: Nooks Footwear. Hailing from Kelowna, B.C., these awesome Canadian creations are the sweetest way to keep those little feet covered them in place and a soft inner sole provides the versatility to wear them barefoot.

Preschool & School-Aged: We are excited to carry Canadian Companies. True North Slings are high quality linen baby carriers made by Canadian moms, most of the linen being Canadian sourced. With a modern and minimalist aesthetic, True North Slings are designed to fit with your personal style while keeping your baby cool, safe and close. From newborns to toddlers the ring slings are perfect for the mom who wants to create a special bond with her little one while having her hands free. •

Transforming disability into ability.

At Discovery School, learning disabilities are transformed into valuable skills and abilities. Students work at their own pace in small classes, with focused, individualized instruction.

• Experienced, highly-qualified teachers • Ongoing assessment, evaluation & feedback • Improves organizational & study skills • Boost confidence, independence & responsibility • Nurturing environment based on Christian values • For students aged 7 – 18 in grades 1 – 12 • Individual Education Plans • Low student/teacher ratio

Enrolment is limited. For more information or to arrange a tour, visit www.discoveryschool.ca, call Sherri Ko at 250-595-7765 or email principal@discoveryschool.ca IslandParent.ca

August 2018 17

Schools & Educational Services

In the following pages you will find a range of educational resources from preschool to postsecondary. For more information about these programs, please refer to the advertising in this issue.

Preschools

learn through play, exploration, discovery out their future. It’s this philosophy and and creative expression. UVIC/Cadboro comprehensive program that sets us apart Bay area. arbutusgrove.ca or 250 477-3731. from every other preschool. It’s the Art of Preschool. ArtsCalibre.ca. 250-382-3533.

Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre (formerly Goosey Gander Kindergarten) has a long history of providing outstanding early learning programs to the Greater Victoria community. Our centre is a bright and engaging purpose-built preschool with a large, natural playground surrounded by urban forest. We offer half & full day C M Y K programs for 3 & 4 year olds and an after 68 35 2 program 2 school for kindergarten/grade 1 8 95 55 16 attending Frank Hobbs. Our edustudents cators facilitate stimulating and engaging experiences that nurture each child’s sense of wonder, curiosity and innate desire to

ArtsCalibre Academy. There’s a reason why the first years of a child’s life are considered “formative”—they truly form the person, and profoundly influence the path and quality of the rest of their life.

We believe that Fine Arts are the perfect vehicle for this formative process. Through our structured but fun program of music, dance, theatre and visual arts, children not only absorb these and all academic subjects with enthusiasm and ease, but they also develop the creativity, confidence and social skills to successfully apply them through-

Recognizing the value of outdoor play and childled experiences, The Cridge Centre for the Family is excited to continue our Nature Preschool Program in September 2018. This innovative program is based in a natural Garry Oak meadow located in an urban setting close to downtown Victoria.

We strive to give children new opportunities to explore, discover and learn in our outdoor setting. By encouraging curiosity and nurturing creativity who knows where your child’s imagination will lead them? Check us out at cridge.org/childcare/preschool/.

STAGES Su m mer Pro g ra ms Running This July & August

Yo u t h

Da n c

e C a m P reFs c h o o or 3lD ps 5 ye ar ol a n c e ds in Mus C ical Thea Ballet, J a mp s tre & a Tap zz, e v i s soer s te n 1 s n I a l e C h 3 ehrtshe summs eorldf D a ngcust 20ars-old & uopbawtiict s c n a Au rs 11 ye p & Acr e nDing throuthgs to 3 year l t t o e i c H n L p da on Hi run

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Come Dance With Us Call (250) 384-3267, email: stagesdance@shaw.ca or visit us at www.stagesdance.com 18 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Get a Back-to-School

ACADEMIC CHECKUP!

Is Your Child Ready for the New School Year?

Find out if your child ready for the new school year with our Back-to-School Academic Checkup! This innovative assessment offers unparalleled insight into your child with a 360 degree view to help you understand your child's exact academic needs, habits and attitudes about school and learning.

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August 2018 19

There are over 1,000 children and youth in care on Vancouver Island.

Maybe fostering is something you’ve never thought about.

Maybe it’s something you’ve thought about for a long time.

Maybe now is the time.

It begins with a phone call.

Foster Parent Support Services Society

Together, we CAN make a difference T 1-888-922-8437 (Toll Free) 778-430-5459 (Victoria)

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

Emmanuel Preschool is a welcoming and inclusive Christian preschool, where students with special needs have the support of an additional teacher. Our morning classes are offered either two or three days per week. Both programs are for 3 and 4 year olds and include stories, games, singing, arts and crafts, science activities, free play (indoors and outdoors) and some field trips. Each class is licensed for a maximum of 20 children and has two licensed and experienced Early Childhood Educators.

Our staff strive to teach and model Christian attitudes and values, and to maintain a warm, caring and safe environment.

Victoria Montessori. Twenty-first century children are growing up in a crazy-paced world, with the stresses of busy home life and over-stimulating media and toys. At Victoria Montessori, we create harmony and the right balance. We try to cultivate self-awareness, confidence, and clam amid the “moving sea of chaos.” At Victoria Montessori, we build a strong foundation and strong values. The directoresses model respect for the environment, respect for others, and respect for oneself. These values build confidence, self-esteem and self-expression, vital for emotional and mental health. 250-380-0534. victoriamontessori@shaw.ca. victoriamontessori.com.

West Shore Parks and Recreation’s Licensed preschool offers a variety of programs including Kinderprep, Nature Preschool, and multi-age classes with both small and larger class sizes. With flexible registration options and a play-based curriculum, our program is designed to help little ones grow and learn in a fun and safe environment. Visit westshorerecreation. ca or call 250-478-8384 for information.

Follow us on Facebook; facebook.com/ westshorerecreation.

saanichdentalgroup.com 119–1591 McKenzie Ave, Victoria

250 477 7321

info@saanichdentalgroup.com

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

20

Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Schools

Arc Academy. Introducing Victoria’s newest independent interdisciplinary middle school where our cornerstone inquirymethodology fosters learner engagement and inspiration. Based on current cognitive science, we understand that adolescence is a prime opportunity for learner-driven exploration and problem-solving, which fuels innovative thinking and intrinsic motivation. Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” At Arc, it is by asking good questions that we make sense of life and find personal fulfillment. To find out about Parent Information Sessions, check out our website, ArcAcademy.ca.

ArtsCalibre Academy. Imagine a school… where music, dance, theatre and visual arts are infused into all aspects of an outstanding curriculum. The result is a learning process in which students experience, explore, exer-

IslandParent.ca

Christ Church Cathedral School (CCCS) is Victoria’s Anglican JK, Elementary and Middle School, welcoming students from all backgrounds. CCCS offers before and after school care, a wide range of extra-curricular programs, small class sizes, high calibre learning in math, science and technology, a strong focus on fine arts and progressive athletics programs. Weekly chapel service and seasonal performances are held in beautiful Christ Church Cathedral just a few steps away. Through focused encouragement of personal responsibility, self-discipline, comBrookes uses the International Baccalau- munity service and engaging learning opreate as its platform for learning. Students portunities with dedicated teachers, CCCS are supported in a caring environment and helps children realize their true potential. given opportunities to learn about them- cathedralschool.ca. 250-383-5125. selves and to take action in areas in which they are passionate. We inspire and teach students about global issues by connecting ideas and stories locally. We strive to use our environment as a tool and a canvas for learning and action. We aim to inspire students to become academically engaged, physically healthy, artistically sensitive, service minded, globally aware, and rich in character. We invite you to learn and to live Discovery School. Is your child bright, yet the Brookes vision of the world. westshore. struggling in school? Would your child work best in a classroom of 10 students with a brookes.org. cise, and express themselves in order to truly understand and remember. Our structured but dynamic program consistently exceeds the B.C. Ministry of Education’s Curricula for Kindergarten to Grade 8. Dedicated, highly qualified educators, excellent facilities and safe Gordon Head location, which is also home to our Junior Kindergarten. We also offer Preschool for 3 and 4 year olds within the Cedar Hill Recreation Centre’s beautiful Fine Arts wing. ArtsCalibre.ca.

250-382-3533.

August 2018 21

Over 50 Quality Units

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Apply online for Loans pre-approval. Lenders Available for all credit types from 4.24% O.A.C.

250-478-1128

The lot on the strip that deals on the square… The workin’ folks car and truck store…

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The lot on the strip that deals on the square… The workin’ folks car and truck store…

1-800-952-3356 1658 Island Highway, Victoria, BC V9B 1H8 info@car-corral.com • www.car-corral.com D#10234 The lot on the strip that deals on the square… The workin’ folks car and truck store…

Performing Arts School since 1980

e -S ch o o l r P r e m m Su C l a s spe s & s p m a Da n c e C 8 months and u for ages

1

Even the littlest angel can dance For more information call 250-384-3267 or email us at stagesdance@shaw.ca or visit us at www.stagesdance.com 22 Island Parent Magazine

1:3 staff to student support ratio? Perhaps your child requires an individual program with adaptations/ modifications. Are you looking for a quiet, nurturing school with a Christian atmosphere that encourages academic development, perseverance, responsibility, and organizational skills? Look no further! For over 39 years Discovery School has been providing these services for struggling students. Discovery follows B.C. curriculum, is Ministry inspected, and is providing this special education from the early grades to graduation. More information found at discoveryschool.ca or call 250-595-7765.

Blended learning opportunities are available (space-permitting) to students in the Hands-On Home-Learning (DL) program. oakandorca.ca, info@oakandorca.ca, 250383-6609.

Pacific Christian School nurtures students in Christ-like living, critical thinking and joyful service to be faithful citizens in God’s Island Montessori House School. Dr. world. PCS is a pre-school through grade Maria Montessori developed the Montes- 12 Class 1 independent school serving the sori method of education with the under- Greater Victoria region. With over 900 standing that each child has a natural desire students, it is a dynamic learning community and ability to learn. The staff of Island exploring the full provincial curriculum Montessori is committed to providing a from a Christian worldview perspective. rich, safe, developmentally appropriate Students regularly excel in arts, athletics and and caring environment, and to establish- academics. You are invited to come by our ing rapport with each and every child. Our Agnes Street campus and see what it’s all child-centred program promotes a sense of about. PacificChristian.ca. 250-479-4532. well-being, confidence and independence.

Individual and group activities foster growth in all areas of development. We are proud to have children in our school from a variety of economic, ethnic and religious backgrounds, as well as a whole host of At St. Margaret’s School, we seek to abilities and special needs. Our rural loca- empower each girl to set her own course tion at 5575 West Saanich Rd is beautiful. and shape her own dreams. Tucked away For more information call 250-592-4411 on 22-acres in the Blenkinsop Valley in Victoria, SMS is an all-girls school where or visit islandmontessori.com. your daughter can be herself, build confidence, and be a leader. SMS teachers and our unique environment offer rich resources and challenges to support each girl’s development as a student, an individual and a citizen of the world. Our rigorous academic program emphasizes STEM learning and Oak and Orca Bioregional School and leadership at all levels from Junior KinderOak and Orca PrePrimary School offer garten to Grade 12, and is supported by BC-certified PrePrimary and K-12 educa- experiential programs designed to engage tion in a child-directed environment. This students in learning beyond the classroom. ungraded program provides students with Enjoy the benefits of a small school from structure, opportunities, and choice, allow- high participation in athletics, to extening them to learn at their own pace and in sive extracurricular opportunities, to our their own way. As part of a community tight-knit community where each girl is of learners students are able to practice known and driven to achieve. stmarg.ca effective communication, think and act or 250-479-7171. creatively, and develop into responsible ecological citizens. Regular field trips encourage connections with the natural and cultural heritage of the larger community.

IslandParent.ca

Imagine a school where students are encouraged to challenge themselves across all their abilities, where they can find their balance and push their boundaries however they choose. Westmont Montessori School is a local community minded independent school committed to academic excellence in a caring, learning environment. Our family oriented environment takes an individual approach to learning where students are challenged to be the best they can be from early primary through Grade 8. At the heart of the Montessori philosophy is the belief that each person is a unique individual with strengths to contribute to society. It is a method designed to engage a child’s natural curiosity within an environment that is specially prepared to maximize learning opportunities. Westmont is open for tours every Thursday morning. Book a visit. 4075 Metchosin Rd. Victoria, BC V9C 4A4. 250.474.2626. info@west-mont. ca. west-mont.ca.

DISTRIBUTED LEARNING

Experience the precision of Your Children customized vision and UV Light

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

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

New Patients Welcome

Just as the sun causes sunburn, UV light is also absorbed by the tissue of the eye and can cause serious eye damage. Children are more vulnerable to UV in the summer than adults, in fact the World Health Organization estimates 50% of lifetime exposure to UV happens before the age of 18.

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

And remember, sunglasses aren’t just for summer months. Doctors of Optometry recommend wearing sunglasses to reduce the glare from snow and the winter sunshine.

Shop Local. Ship Local.

Nanaimo to Victoria: Free shipping on most website orders over $100

Under the new BC curriculum, inquiry and personalization are key to 21st century learning. Hands-on Home-Learning (DL) at Oak and Orca (K-12) offers an experience-based, individualized, and childled approach. Families are supported in providing engaging opportunities so each student can follow their own learning path and build on their strengths and interests.

All learning experiences are acknowledged and tied to BC learning standards or high school courses by a certified teacher. Original, multi-age, hands-on learning activities are provided to inspire inquiry. Blended learning opportunities are available (spacepermitting) at Oak and Orca Bioregional School and Forest School. Special Education inquiries are welcome. oakandorca. ca, info@oakandorca.ca, 250-383-6619.

1-888-383-6619.

IslandParent.ca

koolandchild.com Kool Toys & Teaching Tools

#102 – 2517 Bowen Road Nanaimo 888.390.1775 August 2018

23

Mid-Island Schools/ Education Services

of everything they need to outfit their classroom in style, including an amazing selection of stickers. For homeschooling families, we carry grade appropriate resources for the elementary level. Preview some of our products online at koolandchild.com or come in and explore our store for a much greater selection. We are always happy to answer questions, please call us at 1-888390-1775.

Educational Services & Programs

Founded in 1883 in Paris, l’Alliance Française is a worldwide network of over 1000 independently run non-profit associations.

L’Alliance Française de Victoria, dedicated to the promotion of the French language and culture, has been in operation in Victoria since 1910. We offer a variety of French language courses, for groups and individuals, adapted to the needs of learners. Group courses take place in community centres, or in the workplace for government or corporate clients. We also organize numerRegister your child in our school where ous cultural events for the Francophone children learn to love and love to learn. community. Phone: 250-389-2962. Email: Queen of Angels is a faith based Catholic Classes.AfVictoria@gmail.com Website: school with affordable tuition, and a safe, afvictoria.ca. family atmosphere. Maximize your child’s education with specialist teachers in PE, At Canucks Autism Network (CAN), we Band and French. Our students strive for strive to inspire, teach and motivate othexcellence in all areas. We are accepting ers to be inclusive and accepting. In the applications for September 2018 for levels school environment, we work to increase K thru Grade 9. If your child is 3 or 4 understanding and awareness of autism years old, then register them in the Early through We CAN Be Friends (WCBF).

Learning Centre. Visit queenofangels.ca to This curriculum-based program teaches learn more. Queen of Angels…building our students the values of friendship, empathy future leaders! and inclusion by providing teachers with grade-appropriate lesson plans, autismWelkin College School is an academic specific resources, and awareness-raising and wellness-focused independent school activities for the entire school. In addition located in Coombs. It was founded in Sep- to WCBF, we also provide autism training tember 2017. Welkin College School offers a to teachers, special education assistants, diverse array of classes that ensure students administrators and any interested school meet the requirements for post-secondary staff members. To learn more about WCBF Kool & Child is your complete resource store attendance. It also offers a robust activity or our training opportunities, please visit for educational toys and games. We carry program featuring sports, hiking, golf, canucksautism.ca/awareness-training. a wide assortment of educational games, curling and badminton. Travel and field homework helper workbooks, brain teas- trips are a fundamental feature of life at Journeys of the Heart Cultural Learning ers, science kits, jewelry, and much more! Welkin too. We offer programs for Grades Program (JOH) is a 10-month program for Teachers love our Kool School House full 9-12. 2350 Alberni Highway, PO Box 48, Aboriginal children aged two to five years Coombs, B.C. welkinschool.com. old and their families. The program nurtures a child’s cultural identity while preparing International Christian Montessori Academy (ICMA). Inayat Unissa Bergum was born in Nice, France. After obtaining comprehensive Montessori training in Paris, she started the first Montessori school in 1962 in Southern California named the Sophia Montessori of Santa Monica. In 1964, she opened the first Montessori school in Costa Mesa, California known as the Montessori Centre School. Through the years she has trained numerous teachers using Montessori methodologies and opened many Montessori schools throughout California. In 1989, she launched the International Montessori Academy (ICMA) of Canada in Duncan for the expressed purpose of having children learn to appreciate and understand the importance of tolerance of different religions with an attitude of love, harmony and beauty.

Recently, she founded the International Christian Montessori Academy in Duncan, BC, whose primary function is to include pre-school and elementary academic and French immersion programs.

24 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

them for the education system. JOH will provide children and their caregivers the necessary skills and tools to promote a positive transition into the public school system.

There are no other cultural learning programs in the Victoria area that address the needs of urban Aboriginal children ages 2, 3, 4, and 5 years and their families. Journeys of the Heart prepares Aboriginal children for kindergarten while fostering a strong sense of cultural identity. School readiness: fulfilling requirements for kindergarten participation using cultural curriculum designed specifically for Journeys of the Heart; Parent Support, for example: Role modeling, positive parenting techniques, discipline strategies and importance of establishing a routine; Socialization skills: Taking turns and sharing, respecting each other; Seeds of empathy teaching verbalize thoughts and feelings; Moe the Mouse speech and language program. Hulitan Family and Community Services Society.

There are spaces available this coming Fall at Ruth King and Shoreline Middle School.

For more information call Sarah McDonald 250-384-9466 ex 251.

Mad Science® Vancouver Island offers exciting science programs for schools, communities and individuals. Our after-school program this year, Spy Academy, explores the science in the work of detectives and spies. In a series of six weekly lessons we immerse children in a hands-on environment of exploration, fun and learning.

Children experiment, question, and build a take-home toy to share what they learned with others. Our programs include Birthday Parties and Camps. Check madscience.org/ vancouverisland and Book on-line any time.

Available in the Victoria area, Duncan, Nanaimo and Comox-Courtenay. Call 1-888-954-6237 for information.

Oak and Orca Bioregional Forest School is an outdoor, nature-based program at PKOLS and Mount Douglas Park. The program fosters an inclusive, caring community in which students learn by doing.

Through an emergent curriculum, we offer students the opportunity to connect with

The Kiddies Store

Peg-Perego Primo Viaggio Kinetic Convertible Car Seat This seat includes two safety features not seen on other convertible car seats: an integrated anti-rebound bar that minimizes the rotation of a seat in a crash and energy-absorbing kinetic pods on the sides of the seat.

• Anti-rebound bar with a spacer adding 2" for extra leg room • Rear facing 5–45lbs, forward facing 22–65lbs • ‘Easy tight’ latch system for easier installation

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Douglas

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Serving the Families of Vancouver Island for Over 23 Years

Larch St.

Entrance off Larch St.

T.J.’S

August 2018 25

plants and animals in the temperate rainforest and on the beach. Outdoor experiences include stories and drama, wood carving and sculptures, beach art, shelter-building, learning about wild edibles, hiking, and active games. This unique program is available to all students, including those in our Hands-On Home-Learning (DL) program.

Tours are available by request. oakandorca. ca, info@oakandorca.ca, 250-383-6619.

1-888-383-6619.

Reaching Your Full Potential One Little Step At A Time Little Learners therapeutic program for school readiness; Connections therapeutic groups for school-aged children; Hands-On Training for community members working with children with additional needs; Professional Development for small groups; Clinical services including behaviour consulting, occupational therapy, speechlanguage therapy, physiotherapy, art therapy, music therapy, and feeding therapy.

“

Start the school year off strong with Sylvan Learning! Transitioning to a new grade is made easier by Sylvan’s individualized programs in reading, writing and math.

Sylvan can pinpoint and develop the skills your child needs for success. Staffed entirely by teachers, we know how to motivate and empower your child to confidently tackle the demands of the new academic year. We can help your child study more effectively and be better prepared when tests and quizzes come around. Sylvan has been serving Vancouver Island families for 35 years. Let Sylvan help your child build a strong foundation and have a successful school year. 1-800-Educate.

Contact our office at 250-386-1171 or by emailing admin@mylittlesteps.net

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Total Learning Services (TLS) is a unique tutoring service in Victoria. TLS is dedicated to improving quality of life through effective clinical reading programs for children, teens and adults (age of clients: 5-50). The reading process can be a frustrating struggle for my clients; most times it is affecting their daily lives. As a reading specialist, I use strategies that make the reading process fun and easy. Achievement testing is done to determine the areas of the reading process which are of the greatest concern.

My programs have changed the lives of many. Pediatrician recommendation. For your free consultation, contact Brenda Osadchy, B.Ed. M.SpEd. 778-440-0997 or totallearningservices2014@gmail.com.•

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26  Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

We are growing a stronger community, one precious life at a time.

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August 2018

27

Games, Toys & Play for Toddlers

W

hen babies become toddlers and start walking, running and climbing, playtime becomes a whole new experience.

As their physical abilities improve, children between 12 and 24 months are learning a wealth of other new skills: how to talk, play games, socialize, and make friends. Playtime is an important part of these developments.

Toddlers like to touch and explore. You can encourage curiosity by creating a safe home environment where you don’t have to say “no” all the time. By putting forbidden objects out of reach, you’ll have fewer

around the house by giving him simple things to do—pick up toys, fold laundry, or sweep.

Toddlers are developing their imagination. By the end of the second year, your toddler will start to engage in pretend or imaginative play. She might incorporate household objects into playtime or make up little stories about her cars, trains, or dolls.

Resist the urge to always direct your toddler’s play. Sit back and observe, and let him come to you when he needs you.

Watch, wait and wonder!

• simple puzzle boards with several pieces • toddler building toys • large cardboard boxes with doors and windows cut out for climbing and peering through • stacking and sorting toys, large plastic or wooden boxes with shaped holes and corresponding blocks • large soft balls to kick and throw • musical toys, like a drum or shakers • hand-sized cars, trains or trucks • a child-sized broom and dustpan • peek-a-boo scarves, which can also be used for wrapping a doll, to dance with, or as a superhero cape • workbenches, blocks, toy telephones • sand and water toys, such as a bucket, shovel, rake or sieve • simple costumes, like a hat, or mom or dad’s shoes • bubbles: You’ll still need to blow the bubbles, but this simple activity encourages visual tracking (following the bubbles as they move through the air), cause and effect (pop!), and gross motor skills (chasing and reaching).

Art and language

confrontations. Outdoor spaces also offer great opportunities for children to learn about their world, with new and exciting things to experience, touch and discover.

Toddlers are in constant motion, testing their new skills: walking, running, jumping, kicking and throwing. Be sure to build lots of outdoor playtime into daily routines, so that your child can develop these skills and stay active.

Toddlers want to climb. A safe way to encourage this skill, and to enjoy some fresh air, is at your local playground or park.

Play structures should be age-appropriate and well maintained, with a safe surface underneath to cushion a fall. Supervise playground activities closely at all times, and stay within arm’s reach of your child on play equipment.

Toddlers want to do what they see others doing. Encourage your toddler to help 28 Island Parent Magazine

Toys for toddlers

Toys become more interesting now that your toddler is better able to handle them.

Simple things like blocks, floating bath toys, your own pots and pans or empty plastic containers, often make the best toys.

Toddlers are learning how things work, and experimenting with cause and effect.

They are also fascinated by measuring and pouring.

Your toddler doesn’t need expensive or complicated toys. Toys that are safe and appealing to children this age include: • push-pull toys (with short pull cords) • safe ride-on toys that your child makes move with his feet • simple dolls or animals that can be dressed, especially with Velcro or snaps (watch for features or buttons that can be pulled loose)

Toddlers enjoy simple arts and crafts, like drawing with large crayons on blank paper, playing with clay, chalk and a chalkboard (or sidewalk), and painting with large paintbrushes (for less mess, “paint” the sidewalk or fence with water).

Continue to use books in your toddler’s playtime and daily routines: Have books available in different areas of your home and within easy reach of your toddler: on a low shelf or in a basket on the floor.

Toddlers enjoy books with simple rhymes and predictable text, with just a few words on each page. Books about saying goodbye and bedtime help with these transition times. Sturdy board books that are easy to carry around are best for toddlers.

As language skills develop, your toddler will participate more during storytime.

When you read, point at pictures, ask “what’s that?” and give your child time to answer. Or pause and let your child complete the sentence.

Music is an important and fun part of playtime. Encourage your children to clap, dance, and eventually sing along. Be sure to sing and dance along with them.

Reprinted with permission from the Canadian Paediatric Society. For more information, visit caringforkids.cps.ca.

IslandParent.ca

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August 2018 29

Be Mindful of Your Motivation

P

erhaps you are familiar with the saying, “You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” I like to say, “You can take a child to school, but you can’t make them learn.”

What is the difference between those children who begrudgingly go to school and those who have an innate desire to learn?

Motivation.

We’ve all seen a child who is motivated to accomplish something. Maybe he wants a new bike and is motivated to make some money by washing cars and performing other chores. Perhaps she wishes to make the team and is waking up early to go for a training run. It’s inspiring to witness a child who has set a goal and is working hard to achieve it. I ask you, however, what is your child’s motivation to learn? Is it simply to get good grades? To be accepted into a college of their choice? Or is your child excited to acquire knowledge?

What is motivation exactly? Curiousity?

Inspiration to try something new? The desire to achieve something?

Motivation can be defined, simply, as “short-term focused energy.” It is often propelled by interest in an activity, topic or goal. In fact, a fixed goal is a pre-requisite for creating motivation. Without a goal in mind, we lack direction.

There are two types of motivation: extrinsic and intrinsic. Intrinsic motivation comes from a desire to engage in an activity purely for the sake of participating in and completing a task. The learning or task, itself, is the reward. Learning to play an instrument takes intrinsic motivation, for mastering this skill and creating music is fulfilling in and of itself. Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, is the drive to achieve external reward. If I wanted to learn to play the guitar so I could become rich and famous, I am driven, not by the joy of music and hard work, but by the desire for money and accolades.

Research suggests that intrinsic motivation is a predictor of a child’s ability to maximize potential. Intrinsic motivation teaches children to appreciate learning opportunities, to seek knowledge and understanding, and to be persistent. Children who are intrinsically motivated experience

30 Island Parent Magazine

fewer behaviour problems because they are interested in what they are doing and are focused on achieving a goal. They learn self-determination and self-perceived competence because they are having to rely on their own skillset and mindset, rather than deferring to the adults around them.

Feelings of competence and autonomy are crucial in fostering motivation. It is powerful to realize that you are responsible for your own successes and failures.Some parents believe that rewarding children with gifts or prizes is an effective motivator in achieving goals. If this works for you and your child, I certainly have no judgement.

However, I ask you to consider if this extrinsic motivation is effective in the long term.

I once knew a child who used to cry every night before bed. He did not like sleeping alone in the dark and often struggled with various anxieties in the quietness of the night. He did not enjoy falling asleep this way and truly wanted to change his behaviour. Both parents and child had the shared goal of him having a successful bedtime routine. His parents tried many solutions, including offering a prize on nights that he didn’t cry. When I asked how this solution was working, the child replied that it had worked for the first night or two, but not much after that. He explained, “I wanted the prize, but I still had sad feelings.”

Offering extrinsic rewards often works in the short term but is not usually effective in fostering good habits in the long term, for

it does not cultivate skill. What that child needed was some strategies to cope with anxiety, not a toy, money or stick of gum.

If we offer prizes for goals achieved, are we teaching our children to goal set, plan and reflect? Or are we teaching them to work for a reward?

Kelly Cleeve Extrinsic motivation can be detrimental to elementary school-aged children, for, in this stage of development, they are creating life-long habits. It can stifle creativity, critical thinking and brain flexibility. Also, when motivated by external forces, children feel controlled by others, pressured to comply with demands. This increases anxiety and fear of failure.

That is not to say that all rewards are forbidden. A reward given independent of a task is not detrimental. If the reward is unanticipated by the child, it can be a positive experience. For instance, if a child is told that they will be given compensation for good grades or number of goals scored, this can be classified as extrinsic motivation and can be harmful. However, if a parent chooses to take a child out for dinner because they have been working very hard lately, this is a lovely surprise and a positive experience. We all deserve to be recognized for our achievements and our efforts once in awhile.

Try encouraging your child to participate in something simply because it is satisfying, is the right thing to do, or because it brings joy. Take out the garbage, not for an allowance, but because you want to be a helpful member of the family. Put forth outstanding effort on a project so that you can maximize your learning and be proud of your hard work. We, adults, can try this too.

Make an anonymous donation to charity, without accolade or congratulations. Visit an elderly relative, not out of guilt, but because it will make them happy. Step out of your box and learn a new skill, just for fun. Whatever you or your child choose to do, try to be mindful of your motivation.

Kelly Cleeve is a passionate educator with 14 years experience. She is a graduate student at the University of British Columbia, a wife and a mother of two beautiful boys.

IslandParent.ca

Older children may enjoy using “serious” tools such as a large garden shovel.

Construction at home offers the opportunity of lasting longer and being added to ball rolling. “Building” can involve stack- over time. Kids can create their own worlds ing, taping, gluing, sculpting, digging and and play through whatever narrative is on their mind. Imagine towns with elements even weaving.

Using found materials often helps creativity flow as there is not any preconceived idea about what the end result is “supposed” to look like. The final product is secondary to the building process—this is the fun. Try to foster the habit of squirreling away objects that you can use later such as cardboard boxes, Popsicle sticks, pipe cleaners, different shaped packaging, foil wrapping, paints or anything else that could lend itself of your home environment, mixed with to a project. Not only will this engage your fantasy and your child’s own emerging ideas child’s creativity, but also your own as you about the world. Town building is a great start to look at everyday materials with new cooperative project with each child having eyes. Who knew that those little tabs that their own creation but at the same time bekeep bread bags closed make wonderful ing part of a group endeavour. One of our towns had a river (blue blanket) running miniature roof tiles?

A trip to the beach presents many build- through it which was sailed upon by boats ing opportunities. You can construct sand with all sorts of characters crewing them.

The town had homes, stores and public buildings as well. Constructing villages in the garden or deck for fairies or elves is a similar theme that can make use of natural materials.

Forts or tents are another favourite and can be as simple as blankets or sheets draped over chairs, or large sticks or branches lashed together at the top for a circular tent or propped up against a fence as a lean-to. How satisfying to have your own space that you built yourself. And nothing beats the opportunity that crops up with a huge box that comes with the purchase of a large item.

Construction is an integral part of a child’s development. It uses visualizing, planning, experimenting, assessing, adjustments and adornment. It helps kids manage the possible scenario of something not turning out as planned, or being inadvertently flattened by the dog or a younger sibling, and encourages persistence and problem solving. It’s wonderful to see how building naturally blossoms over the years into more and more intricate and skillful endeavours, castles, moats, pools, roadways and more providing a real feeling of engagement in a busy afternoon. We have worked on and accomplishment. All that you need to humble piles of sand, created and lovingly get started are some simple materials and patted down by toddlers to ambitious canal encouragement, so let’s roll up our sleeves systems, rafts and forts brought into being and dive in! by enthusiastic groups of ’tweens. Bring building tools and items, such as old yogurt containers, reused from the recycling bin.

Louise Berry is a mum of three, an avid gardener, writer, and lover of chocolate!

Summer Construction

W

ith the wonderful weather of summer comes the time for summer construction. No, not the horrid road works kind, the kid kind.

Construction covers a wide range of activities indoors and out and uses both bought and improvised materials. It not only improves practical understanding of physics, materials and spatial awareness, and the development of fine and gross motor skills, it also nurtures creativity, imagination, and cooperative play. That’s a tall order you might say, but easy when it is so naturally engaging for children. Let’s face it, how many kids—or even adults—can resist stacking those little cream containers sitting on a café table while waiting for an order to arrive?

A set of plain blocks is a great start, and appeals to most ages. We have a container of plain blocks at our house that has been

played with consistently for years on end.

There are also brands of snap together bricks, such as Lego as well as other good construction sets. These can be used in an exact way by following the instructions or be combined together in a completely novel configuration. Anything goes! The beauty of construction, though, is that you don’t necessarily need to buy anything to get the IslandParent.ca

Louise Berry

August 2018 31

Family Calendar

For calendar updates throughout the month visit IslandParent.ca

A u g u st Our Generous Sponsors

WEDNESDAY

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Cowichan Valley Summertime Mother Goose 10am at Cowichan Library 2687 James St Join Mother Goose facilitators for songs, rhymes, and fun. Ages 0-2 & their caregivers. Free. virl.bc.ca/ programs-and-events.

light “stars” and passive LED glow lights. A great time for families before dinner. Regular admission.

250-756-5200.

THURSDAY

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Enjoy the talents of island musicians and storytellers. Meet out at the point (5 min. walk). Free. pc.gc. ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf.islands@ pc.gc.ca.

Free-B Film Festival 9pm at Cameron Bandshell in Beacon Hill Park Victoria Film Festival presents a free outdoor screening. Rain or shine. Bring your blanket, flashlight & snacks. Gather your friends and family for a movie night under the stars. Free. bit.ly/FreeBFF. 250-3890444. communications@victoriafilmfestival.com.

Victoria & CRD

Going Buggy 11am at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park We love ’em, we hate ’em. They’re fascinating, Storytime in the Park finicky and fabulous. Drop by the tents at the main 10:30am at Kin Park, Duncan Beaver Beach between 11am and 2pm for a closeBring the whole family for stories, songs, rhymes up look at some of our buggy friends and foes. All SATURDAY th and fun, followed by a craft and garden activity. In ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks. partnership with the Cowichan Green Community. 250-478-3344.

Victoria & CRD Ages 0-5 years & their caregivers. Free. virl.bc.ca/ programs-and-event.

Cowichan Valley Beat the Heat 1pm at Francis/King Regional Park Be Sphero Hero Music in the Park Enjoy the shade of the broadleaf maples on the 2pm at South Cowichan Library 6:30 pm at Cobble Hill Commons universally accessible Elsie King Loop Trail. Join a Mill Bay Centre Music in the Park begins again for its third season. CRD Regional Parks naturalist and check out the Each child brings an adult to make a team and com- Organized by the Cobble Hill Events Society. Across cedar lowlands, the lush salal understory and the pete in two challenges with Sphero Mini robots. Learn from the Cobblestone Pub. Free. facebook.com/ cool arbutus enclaves. Strollers and wheelchairs some coding to complete a game of Sphero bowling groups/1044132068985736. welcome. Meet at the Francis/King Nature Centre as well as a long and winding course. Each team to off Munn Rd. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks. 250finish both challenges gets a Sphero Hero pin. Up FRIDAY 478-3344.

RD to 12 years. Free. virl.bc.ca/events/be-sphero-hero.

250-743-5436. southcowichan@virl.bc.ca.

Science Secret Agents Victoria & CRD 2pm at Shaw Centre for The Salish Sea Nanaimo & Area 9811 Seaport Place Sunset Wildlife Watch Something has gone missing in or around the Sal8pm at East Point, Saturna Island Starlight Skate Discover the wildlife of the Salish Sea and relax ish Sea and we only have so much time to find it 6:30pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre into the peacefulness of an East Point sunset. Dress before it’s too late. Use special secret agent clues An opportunity to come out and enjoy the soft warmly and bring blankets, chairs and flashlights.

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ACTIVITY GUIDE SEPTEMBER – DECEMBER 2018

“Wellness encompasses a healthy body, a sound mind, and a tranquil spirit. Enjoy the journey as you strive for wellness.”

-LAURETTE GAGNON BEAULIEU

Re�is��� �r�� Au�us� 9�� 250-478-8384 | westshorerecreation.ca 32 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

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to solve the mystery. Regular admission rates ap- TUESDAY th ply.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf. islands@pc.gc.ca.

Victoria & CRD Coast Salish Campfire 7pm at McDonald Campground 10740 McDonald Park Rd Join Coast Salish knowledge holder, MENE?IYE Elliot, and a Parks Canada Interpreter as they share traditions, stories, songs and s’mores. Ideal for families with children 12 and under. Gather around a propane fire during fire ban season. Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ bc/gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

Open Air Library 10am at Iroquois Park, Sidney 2295 Ocean Ave Come enjoy the fresh ocean air and free books this summer. Everyone is welcome to drop by and select from a wide range of reading materials while relaxing with a good book on the cozy blankets. Reading materials are available for all ages and you can take one home with you too. Free. southislandliteracy. com. 250-208-2975. smsleight@gmail.com.

Cowichan Valley Ladysmith Days Parade 10am in Downtown Ladysmith A Ladysmith BC Celebration. Free. ladysmithdays. com.

SUNDAY

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Sandy Shore Explore 10am at Island View Beach Regional Park Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an intertidal exploration and discover the strange and wonderful creatures that appear between tides. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at grassy area adjacent to picnic shelter off Homathko Rd. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks. 250-478-3344.

Victoria & CRD Sidney Spit Snappy Chats 10:30am at Sidney Spit What is a Dama dama and what the heck is it doing here? Find out the answer to this and other questions from the roving Parks Canada interpreters on Sidney Island. Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/ activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

Campfire Storytime 6:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Gather outside around the (fake) campfire for slightly spooky stories, songs, snacks and a craft. Nancy Dobbs will be the special musical guest. All ages welcome. Please email to register, or call for more information. Free. 250-656-0944. sidney@virl.bc.ca.

Cowichan Valley

Going Batty 10am at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park Enjoy an interactive walk through the park with CRD Regional Parks naturalists to discover the world of bats. There is no fee for this program, but you must pre-register by August 1 as space is limited. 5 years and under. BC Transit #70 or #72. Free. crd.bc.ca/ parks. 250-478-3344.

Summertime Stories 11am at Cowichan Lake Library 68 Renfrew Ave Bring the whole family for stories, songs, rhymes and fun. Ages 0-5. Free. virl.bc.ca/programs-and-events.

play with? Want to get into playing board games?

Or hang out with people who love board games as much as you do? Bring your own or choose one from the extensive library. Fun for the whole family. dicebaggames.ca.

WEDNESDAY

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Victoria & CRD Swan Lake Bingo Trails Noon at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary 3873 Swan Lake Road A great guided walk around Swan Lake, playing bingo as you hike—please wear comfortable footwear and bring a water bottle. Walks start from the Nature house at 12:15pm and 1:30pm. Visit with the Nature House animals and do some crafts after your walk. By donation—suggested amount $5/ person. swanlake.bc.ca. 250-479-0211. bookings@ swanlake.bc.ca.

Do You Have What it Takes to be an Astronaut?

1:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Board Game Night Find out with Jay Cullen from the University of 4pm at Dice Bag Games Victoria. Ages 9-12 (teens welcome). Please email #102-360 Festubert St to register, or call for more information. Free. 250Have a board game you want to play but no one to 656-0944. sidney@virl.bc.ca.

Grill up a West Coast flavour this summer… with our amazing seafood kabobs and sensational skewers!

Super convenient and ready for the barbecue, our fresh Wild Sockeye Salmon and Wild Halibut kabobs are made in-store with fresh bell peppers and flavourful red onions.

Or try our Bacon Wrapped or Marinated Prawn skewers–great on their own or as part of a meal!

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Customer Care: 1.800.667.8280 Connect with us August 2018 33

StoryWalk Wednesday 6pm at Mount Work Regional Park Get outside and experience a nature walk along your favourite user-friendly trail while stopping to enjoy an illustrated children’s book. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will be there to bring the story to life.

Hosted by West Shore Parks & Recreation. Check westshorerecreation.ca this summer for more StoryWalk Wednesdays. Meet at Munn Rd Loop trailhead.

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

Cowichan Valley Summertime Mother Goose 10am at Cowichan Library 2687 James St See WED 1 for details. Ages 0-2 & their caregivers.

Free. virl.bc.ca/programs-and-events.

Storytime in the Park 10:30 am at Kin Park, Duncan See WED 1 for details. Ages 0-5 years & their caregivers. Free. virl.bc.ca/programs-and-event.

Lego Builders Club Summer Edition 4pm at Cowichan Lake Library 68 Renfrew Ave Calling all architects! Bring your construction skills and the library will provide the LEGO. New theme for each week. What will you build? This is best suited for children 6-12 years but anyone old enough to refrain from eating LEGO® is welcome. Free. virl. bc.ca/programs-and-events.

THURSDAY

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Victoria & CRD Between the Tides 10am at Coles Bay Regional Park Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an intertidal exploration and discover the strange and wonderful creatures that appear between the tides. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at kiosk in parking lot off Inverness Rd. All ages. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks. 250-478-3344.

Cowichan Valley Stuffie Sleepover & Storytime 3pm at South Cowichan Library Mill Bay Centre Bring your most outgoing stuffie to a storytime and then leave your friend for an overnight adventure in the library. If you can’t make storytime, registration and drop-off happens any time before 4pm.

Pick up stuffies on Friday Aug 10, 10am-5pm. For kids 0-12 and stuffies of any age. Free. virl.bc.ca/ event/stuffie-sleepover-storytime. 250-743-5436. southcowichan@virl.bc.ca.

34 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

Music in the Park 6:30 pm at Cobble Hill Commons See THURS 2 for details. Free. facebook.com/ groups/1044132068985736.

FRIDAY

Pender’s elusive bats, and spot distant stars or galaxies. Pender Museum is keeping their lights on.

Free.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf. islands@pc.gc.ca.

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th

crabs and their cousins up close and personal. There will be an aquarium, games, and lots of opportunities to explore the beach with buckets and dip nets.

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

250-478-3344.

Sunset Wildlife Watch 8pm at East Point, Saturna Island See FRI 3 for details. Meet out at the point (5 Victoria & CRD min. walk). Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/ Science Secret Agents activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

2pm at Shaw Centre for The Salish Sea Star Gaze 9811 Seaport Place 8pm at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse Nanaimo & Area See SAT 4 for details. Regular admission fees apNational Historic Sites ply. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf.

603 Fort Rodd Hill Road islands@pc.gc.ca.

Escape the city lights and enjoy the stars from Hawaiian Holidaze within the walls of Fort Rodd Hill. Join Parks 1pm at Westwood Lake Canada staff and local experts from the Royal Who needs a tropical getaway when you have your Coast Salish Campfire Astronomical Society for a night of astronomy and very own Westwood Lake. Enjoy a wide variety of 7pm at McDonald Campground galaxy exploration. $3.90/adults; $3.40/seniors; tropical-themed games and activities for the whole 10740 McDonald Park Rd See SAT 4 for details. Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/ free for youth. pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill/ family. 250-756-5200. gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca. activ/calendrier-calendar#stargaze. 250-478-6481. fort.rodd@pc.gc.ca.

SATURDAY th Cowichan Valley Gulf Islands Victoria & CRD Ice Cream Creations 10am at Cowichan Library Nuit blanche @ Roesland Feeling Crabby 2687 James St 8pm at Roesland, Pender Island 10am at Island View Beach Regional Park Bats, Boötes and Bioluminescence. Discover night Red, green, purple, hairy, and hermit crabs. This Get some Teen Summer Challenge points while magic with Parks Canada and guest experts at bustling marine habitat has them all. Drop by any making tasty treats. Happy with basics? Use the historic Roesland. Meet glowing creatures, track time between 10am and 1pm to meet some of these library’s ingredients. Feeling creative? Bring your

11

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August 2018 35

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own flavours and invent something new. Ages 12-18. MONDAY th Free. virl.bc.ca/programs-and-events.

Victoria & CRD Annual Youbou Regatta 10:30 am at Arbutus Park Splendid Snakes This free, fun event kicks off with the Youbou parade, 10am at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary which starts at 10:30 am from the Youbou Hall and 3873 Swan Lake Road travels to Arbutus Park. The event is a full day of Includes hands-on discovery, an outside ramble, a activities from 10:30-4:30. Free. 250-749-6742. story and a craft. For children 3-5 years old and their jrigby@cvrd.bc.ca. adult friends. Pre-registration required. Members: $15 per adult/child pair; $18/Non-members. 250479-0211. bookings@swanlake.bc.ca.

SUNDAY th

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Victoria & CRD Sidney Spit Snappy Chats 10:30am at Sidney Spit See SUN 5 for details. Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/ gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

Beach Seine 10am at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists on a beach seine and see what creatures live in the underwater forest.

Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk near the main beach off Metchosin Rd. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55.

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

Cadboro Bay Festival 11am at Cadboro-Gyro Park 2600 Sinclair Rd Watch world-class sand sculptors create giant works of art using just sand, water and a whole lot of creativity. Free. saanich.ca/EN/main/news-events/ events-list/saanich-community-events/cadborobay-festival-2.html. 250-475-5558. rob.phillips@ saanich.ca.

Cowichan Valley

Let’s Talk Cerebral Palsy 4pm at Queen Alexandra Centre for Children’s Health 2400 Arbutus Rd. Explore how we can continue to play a supportive role in the lives of children and youth living with Cerebral Palsy and other disabilities. Free. islandkidsfirst.com/attend-an-event. 250-893-9870. shayla.baumeler@viha.ca.

Nanaimo & Area Monday Munchkinland Drop-in 9:30am at Munchkinland Family Place, Parksville Bring your family and come play at the Munchkinland Exploration Centre this summer. Drop-in program for children 6 years and under and a caregiver. Free. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. 250-248-3252.

TUESDAY

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Victoria & CRD Open Air Library 10am at Iroquois Park, Sidney 2295 Ocean Ave See TUES 7 for details. Free. southislandliteracy.com.

250-208-2975. smsleight@gmail.com.

Motion Commotion Magic Show 3pm at South Cowichan Library Mill Bay Centre Don’t blink. Watch as magician Leif David makes items teleport from one side of the stage to the other, plays games involving the entire audience, and shows that the hand is quicker than the eye.

Truly entertaining for all ages. Up to 12 years. Free. virl.bc.ca/event/motion-commotion-magic-show-0.

250-743-5436. southcowichan@virl.bc.ca.

Board Game Night 4pm at Dice Bag Games #102-360 Festubert St See TUES 7 for details. dicebaggames.ca.

WEDNESDAY

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Cowichan Valley Summertime Mother Goose 10am at Cowichan Library 2687 James St See WED 1 for details. Ages 0-2 & their caregivers.

Free. virl.bc.ca/programs-and-events.

Storytime in the Park 10:30 am at Kin Park, Duncan See WED 1 for details. Ages 0-5 years & their caregivers. Free. virl.bc.ca/programs-and-event.

Lego Builders Club Summer Edition 4pm at Cowichan Lake Library 68 Renfrew Ave See WED 8 for details This is best suited for children 6-12 years but anyone old enough to refrain from eating LEGO® is welcome. Free. virl.bc.ca/programsand-events.

THURSDAY

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Victoria & CRD Heritage Fair and Family Picnic 10:30am at Elsie Miles Field The Shawnigan Lake Museum invites you to the Annual Heritage Fair & Community Picnic. Pack a picnic and come for an afternoon of old fashioned fun.

Dress up photo booth, vintage cars, old fashioned races, artisan demonstrations, and more. shawniganlakemuseum.com/Events.php. 250-743-8675.

Nanaimo & Area Learn to Fish 10:30am at Westwood Lake Jetty Join the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and learn the basics of freshwater fishing. Rapala fishing rods are provided, and program runs rain or shine.

Parent participation required. Free. 250-756-5200.

36 Island Parent Magazine

Bug Buddies 10am at Mill Hill Regional Park What’s that bug? Bring your preschooler to explore the wonderful world of insects. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist on this bug safari and search for grasshoppers, wood bugs and other not so creepy crawlies. There is no fee for this program, but you must pre-register by August 9 as space is limited.

5 years and under. BC Transit #53. Free. crd.bc.ca/ parks. 250-478-3344.

Once Upon a Storywalk 10:30am at Juan de Fuca Branch Library Join GVPL for a StoryWalk, where individual pages of a storybook, mounted on sign posts, are placed outdoors in a circuit. Children follow the narrative by visiting each sign post in sequence. After the StoryWalk, come inside for a craft. Everyone welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Rain or shine; please dress appropriately. Drop-in event.

Free. gvpl.ca. 250-940-GVPL (4875).

Cowichan Valley Cowichan Valley Summertime Stories 11am at Cowichan Lake Library 68 Renfrew Ave See TUES 7 for details. With a special visit from a St. Johns Ambulance dog. Ages 0-5. Free. virl.bc.ca/ programs-and-events.

Music in the Park 6:30 pm at Cobble Hill Commons See THURS 2 for details. Free. facebook.com/ groups/1044132068985736.

IslandParent.ca

FrIDay

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victoria & CrD Mad Science: SRC Wrap-up Party 2:30pm at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library You’re invited to the Summer Reading Club Wrap-up Party to celebrate a summer of reading. Mad Science entertains with the dazzling Fire & Ice Show.

Prizes, cake and lots of fun for everyone. All ages welcome. Please email to register, or call for more information. Free. 250-656-0944. sidney@virl.bc.ca.

REGGIO-INSPIRED CHILD CARE CENTRE • OPENING EARLY 2019

Sunset Wildlife Watch 8pm at East Point, Saturna Island See FRI 3 for details. Meet out at the point (5 min. walk). Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/ activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

Waitlist Now Open! • 9830 Fourth Street, Sidney, BC • www.thisislulus.com • e: hello@thisislulus.com

Cowichan valley Summer Reading Club Finale: The Raptors!

1:30 pm at Cowichan Library 2687 James St Celebrate the end of the Summer Reading Club with the Raptors at the library. Children of all ages. Free. virl.bc.ca/programs-and-events.

saturDay

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victoria & CrD Science Secret Agents 2pm at Shaw Centre for The Salish Sea 9811 Seaport Place See SAT 4 for details. Regular admission fees apply. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf. islands@pc.gc.ca.

Coast Salish Clam Garden Campfire 7pm at McDonald Campground 10740 McDonald Park Rd For thousands of years, Coast Salish peoples have harvested clams and other creatures at special beaches throughout the Salish Sea. Learn about “clam gardens” and indigenous cultures from a Coast Salish knowledge holder and Parks Canada.

Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

Island Catholic Schools Committed to educating the “whole” child in a Christ-centered community of learning.

Island Catholic Schools has schools located in Victoria, Duncan and Port Alberni.

For more information call 250-727-6893 or visit www.cisdv.bc.ca

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

250-478-3344.

IslandParent.ca

August 2018

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Bleiddyn del Villar Bellis Artistic Director Fellow & Examiner CSC-CICB Enrico Cecchetti Final Diploma

VAB offers a FREE weekly dance class for boys 7-11.

Now in it’s 3rd year, BOYS CAN DANCE is a positive way for boys to get interested in dance!

Register now - this class always becomes waitlisted!

FREE Class: Boys Can Dance!

Photo credit: David Cooper

Sept 2018 - June 2019 250-590-6752 admin@victoriaacademyofballet.ca victoriaacademyofballet.ca

Wensley Family Realtors® Trusted from generation to generation

TUESDAY

Movies in the Park 9:15 pm (dusk) at Kerry Park Recreation Centre Bring your lawn chair and blanket and come for a couple great summer movies. Films will show at dusk (approx. 9:15 pm). Admission is by donation.

Snacks are available for purchase. cvrd.bc.ca/2577/ Movies-in-the-Park. 250-743-5922.

Victoria & CRD

SUNDAY

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Victoria & CRD Sidney Spit Snappy Chats 10:30AM at Sidney Spit See SUN 5 for details. Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/ gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

Nanaimo & Area

Office: 250-388-5882 Cell: 778-678-7387 Pwensley@macrealty.com Paulawensley.com 38 Island Parent Magazine

Open Air Library 10am at Iroquois Park, Sidney 2295 Ocean Ave See TUES 7 for details. Free. southislandliteracy.com.

250-208-2975. smsleight@gmail.com.

Bejewlled Dragons of the Pond 1pm at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an up-close and personal look at the amazing world of dragonflies as they zig and zag in search of their prey across the wetlands. Nets and field guides will be available for use. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter in the Filter Beds parking lot off Beaver Lake Rd. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72.

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

Cowichan Valley

Glow in the Dark Skate 3pm at Nanaimo Ice Centre Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission. 250-756-5200.

Mammal Madness Noon at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary 3873 Swan Lake Road I’m a mammal and so are you. Check out the marvelous variety and adaptations of many of our fellow mammals with pelts, skulls, games and more.

Admisson by donation—suggested amount $5/ person. swanlake.bc.ca. 250-479-0211. bookings@ swanlake.bc.ca.

Monday

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Outstanding Owls 10am at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary 3873 Swan Lake Road Includes hands-on discovery, an outside ramble, a story and a craft. For children 3 to 5 year old and their adult friends. Pre-registration required. Members: $15 per adult/child pair; $18/non-members.

250-479-0211. bookings@swanlake.bc.ca.

Paula Wensley

st

61st Annual QB Ocean Mile Swim 1pm at Qualicum Beach Take part in this long-standing community event that celebrates the beauty of the oceanfront community of Qualicum Beach. All levels of fitness and those who just want to support participants welcome.

The one-mile course runs along the shoreline of Qualicum Beach. Registration is free and starts at 1pm. Swim starts at 3pm. Free. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

250-752-5014.

Victoria & CRD

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Cowichan Valley

Nanaimo & Area Monday Munchkinland Drop-in 9:30am at Munchkinland Family Place, Parksville See MON 15 for details. Drop-in program for children 6 years and under and a caregiver. Free. rdn.bc.ca/ recreation. 250-248-3252.

Board Game Night 4pm at Dice Bag Games #102-360 Festubert St See TUES 7 for details. dicebaggames.ca.

WEDNESDAY

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Victoria & CRD

Story Walk Wednesday 6pm at Francis/King Regional Park Get outside and experience a nature walk along your favourite user-friendly trail while stopping to enjoy an illustrated children’s book. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will be there to bring the story to life.

Hosted by West Shore Parks & Recreation. Check westshorerecreation.ca this summer for more StoryWalk Wednesdays. Meet at Munn Rd Loop trailhead.

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

THURSDAY

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Victoria & CRD Snake Day 11am at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park CRD Regional Parks has teamed up with Swan Lake IslandParent.ca

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Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary for this slithery SATURDAY TH AND event. Watch snake shows, hold a snake, play a SUNDAY TH snake game and more. Drop by the tents at the main Beaver Beach any time between 11am and 2pm. All Victoria & CRD ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks.

250-478-3344.

Arts and Music 10am at Horticulture Centre of the Pacific Cowichan Valley 505 Quayle Rd Arts and Music in the Gardens is the HCP’s largest Music in the Park annual fundraiser and has become one of Victoria’s 6:30 pm at Cobble Hill Commons finest art events. It is a magical weekend that enSee THURS 2 for details. Free. facebook.com/ twines music, art, food, and people in an incredible groups/1044132068985736. award-winning garden. $12/General; $10/Student/ Senior; Free/HCP members & children under 16. hcp.ca. director@hcp.ca.

FRIDAY TH

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Board Game Night 4pm at Dice Bag Games #102-360 Festubert St See TUES 7 for details. dicebaggames.ca.

Wednesday

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Victoria & CRD Early Evening Bat Exploration 7pm at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and the Habitat Acquisition Trust to explore the weird and wonderful world of bats. Hopefully you will get a chance to see them in action as they swoop through the air feeding on flying insects that are found at this time of year.

Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter in the Filter Beds parking lot. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks. 250-478-3344.

Victoria & CRD

SUNDAY

Creatures of the Summer Night 8pm at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary 3873 Swan Lake Road Check out the nightlife at Swan Lake. Sharpen your senses to look for owls, bats and other nighttime creatures. Using a grab bag of tricks you’ll discover how these animals are adapted to their nocturnal life.

Suitable for children over 6 years. Pre-registration required, 250-479-0211. $5/Members; $6/Non-members. swanlake.bc.ca. bookings@swanlake.bc.ca.

Victoria & CRD

Sunset Wildlife Watch 8pm at East Point, Saturna Island See FRI 3 for details. Meet out at the point (5 min. walk). Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/ activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

Super Squirrels 10am at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary 3873 Swan Lake Road Includes hands-on discovery, an outside ramble, a FRIDAY ST story and a craft. For children 3 to 5 year old and their adult friends. Pre-registration required. Mem- Gulf Islands bers: $15 per adult/child pair; $18/Non-members.

250-479-0211. bookings@swanlake.bc.ca.

Sunset Wildlife Watch 8pm at East Point, Saturna Island Sandy Shore Explore See FRI 3 for details. Meet out at the point (5 10am at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park min. walk). Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/ Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an intertidal activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca. exploration and discover the strange and wonderful creatures that appear between the tides. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk near the main beach off Metchosin Rd. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks. 250-478-3344.

PRESCHOOL

SATURDAY

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Victoria & CRD Sensational Seaweeds 10am at Island View Beach Regional Park A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help you discover how important marine algae is for you, me, and the creatures that call them home. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd. 5+ years. Free. crd.bc.ca/parks.

250-478-3344.

Science Secret Agents 2pm at Shaw Centre for The Salish Sea 9811 Seaport Place See SAT 4 for details. Regular admission fees apply. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf. islands@pc.gc.ca.

Coast Salish Campfire 7pm at McDonald Campground 10740 McDonald Park Rd See SAT 4 for details. Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/ gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

IslandParent.ca

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$40 family of 4, under 5 with adult. facebook.com/ CowichanCommunityPolicingAndCrimePrevention.

Sidney Spit Snappy Chats 10:30am at Sidney Spit See SUN 5 for details. Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/ gulf/activ/activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

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Victoria & CRD

THURSDAY

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Cowichan Valley Music in the Park 6:30 pm at Cobble Hill Commons See THURS 2 for details. Free. facebook.com/ groups/1044132068985736.

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TUESDAY

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Cowichan Valley RCMP Musical Ride 3pm at Cowichan Exhibition 7380 Trans Canada Hwy Limited tickets available in advance through the Island Ticket Centre 2687 James Street (250-7487529) Come early, secure your seat, visit with horses, community booths and food vendors. $15 /person,

Victoria & CRD Summer Storytime 10:30-11:15am Until August 16 at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library Bring your littlest ones to the library for stories, songs, rhymes and movement. All ages welcome. Drop in.

250-656-0944. sidney@virl.bc.ca.

Young Parent Weekly Drop-in Thursdays 10am-noon at Kiwanis Family Centre.

Come and enjoy a hot meal, socialize with other August 2018 39

young parents, enjoy a kids’ craft, let your little one explore the fully equipped playroom, or have a look in the ‘free’ store for gently used children’s items and household supplies. Staff available to help with information about relevant local resources, advocacy and counselling support, help with paperwork, and parenting support. 250-382-1004.

CHILDREN

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40 Island Parent Magazine

Victoria & CRD Museum Tots Saturdays 11am at Maritime Museum A weekly program introducing children 2-5 to the fun world of museum learning. New theme each week, allowing children to learn through crafts, play, games, song, and dance. $5/child. 250-385-4222.

reserve. Drop-in anytime, but allow an hour to solve the mystery. Make a nature craft. Don’t forget a picnic lunch! Free. pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ/ activ2018. gulf.islands@pc.gc.ca.

Star Parties Saturdays 7:15pm at Dominion Astrophyscial Observatory Guest speakers, solar and nighttime observing with telescopes, tours of the historic Plaskett telescope, and more. Rain or shine. Free, but admission is by ticket only. victoria.rasc.ca.

Vic West Toy Library Saturdays 9:30am at HighPoint Community Church 949 Fullerton Ave $15/6 months or $30/year. 250-383-6290. dawn@ pointful.ca.

Cowichan Valley

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Circles A safe, supportive place to meet others in a similar situation and to share information and resources.

Art from Nothing For information about groups near you, call 250Wednesday, 6pm Cowichan Lake Library 384-8042. Province-wide toll free information and 68 Renfrew Ave Lake Cowichan Take rubbish things that seem to have no use and support line at 1-855-474-9777 or email grgline@ make awesome art. This is a free, weekly drop in parentsupportbc.ca. parentsupportbc.ca. event for teens ages 12-18 years. Younger children are welcome if they are accompanied by an adult. Parent Support Circles Parenting isn’t always easy. Sometimes it helps to talk virl.bc.ca/programs-and-events. things through with other parents. At the Parent Support Services Society of BC, they believe that every Nanaimo & Area parent is the expert of her/his own family. For more information about groups near you, call 250-384Silly Summer Saturdays 8042 or 1-877-345-9444 or visit parentsupportbc.ca.

Saturdays 3-5pm at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre Bring your silly and funny side to the pool for summer-themed games and other silly and funny Nanaimo & Area events. 250-756-5200.

Water Parks Open 9am-8pm until September in Nanaimo (weather Super Summer Sunday permitting) Sundays 3-5pm at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre Superior summertime Sunday swimming. You will Departure Bay Kiwanis Park; Deverill Square Park; Harewood Centennial Park; Mansfield Park love it. 250-756-5200.

Hours are subject to change. It is recommended that all children use the parks with adult supervision.

FAMILY 250-756-5200.

Victoria & CRD Bowen Park Kin Outdoor Pool Noon-3pm Monday-Thursday and 1-3pm FridayYoga in the Park Sunday Thursdays 6pm at Pioneer Park, Sidney Come and participate in free outdoor yoga while Come swim in the outdoor heated pool. Everyone enjoying the fresh air of a summer evening. In col- welcome. $3.25. 250-753-816. kinpoolmanager@ laboration with Play in the Park. Please bring your gmail.com. own mat. Weather dependent. All levels welcome.

Beat the Heat Everyone Welcome Skate 250-656-7271. panoramarecreation.ca.

6:45-8:15pm Until August 22 at Oceanside Place Arena Drop-in Family Sundays Beat the heat this summer and go for a refreshing 10am at Winter Cove Can you solve the mystery? Challenge the whole skate. Regular admission. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/ family! Find the clues along the trail and examine recreation. • the evidence. Learn about the animals of the park IslandParent.ca

Popping Bubbles A

s we all know, the car is a place in which most of us can sing like rock stars, head swinging and all, swear with relative impunity at all the bad drivers around us, and pluck that elusive single black hair growing off our chin all the while believing that we are completely invisible to the outside world. I am no exception. In fact, until quite recently, the car was one of the few places, surrounded by thousands of other motorists, where I got to feel the blessed freedom of being alone.

For many people in my generation, finding a private space, away from everyone, only came when we got our much-coveted driver’s licenses. I was already a mature 16-year-old, one who had survived years of family time, dinners, walks and camping trips when our only distraction was learning the four parts of Pachelbel’s Canon in D and singing it ad nauseam. I had endured lengthy bus rides, my only entertainment the incessant babble of the people around me. Because the internet, cell phones and

endured listening to Yo-Yo Ma (my mother’s obsession) every waking moment of my childhood. Instead, they can put on earbuds and fire up their electronic devices to have access to millions of songs, podcasts, video games, social media feeds and movies—all right at their fingertips. They can create instant bubbles that no external voice or sound can penetrate. They are free from the demands of their immediate environment and the interactions that typically occur. I would have loved this when I was younger.

The problem is that as a mother of three already or soon-to-be teenage daughters, I like these bubbles a little bit less. In fact, sometimes I want to pop them. Without wanting to sound melodramatic, I feel like I am increasingly surrounded by blank-faced zombies who can’t take the bus without their ear buds or wait in line without staring at their phones. These bubbles are ubiquitous nowadays. It is even common to see a toddler staring at a screen in a car, in a stroller or at the park.

most electronic devices had yet to appear, I rarely had the opportunity to have my own space until I found myself alone in the protective bubble of a car. And let me tell you, my 16-year-old self loved this newfound freedom. During the 15 or so minutes a week that I had earned the privilege of using the car, I enjoyed feeling free to be who I wanted to be—ostensibly a swearing rocking smooth-faced beauty.

Today, kids have an endless supply of bubbles in which they can go when they need to check out from their life and the people around them. The 16-year-old in me envies them. They don’t have to listen to the burps and conversations of fellow passengers on the bus, or their grandparents’ endless rants against everything the young believe to be cool. They are spared the years of abuse I

I was at a bookstore recently and two children were lying in the aisle playing a video game. In a bookstore. If there was ever a place where kids should be reading, or at the very least rifling through books instead of staring at a screen, this should be it.

Study after study show that teens spend most of their waking hours connected to their screens. Adults are no better. Heck, many can’t go to the loo anymore without playing a game or checking their social media accounts. This scares me.

What the car used to offer my generation is now available everywhere to every age group: a bubble in which it is possible to live without having to interact with the outside world. Many will argue that these technological devices help keep children safe from the dangers of talking to strang-

IslandParent.ca

ers, wandering off, or even boredom. But it also keeps them from talking, being curious about what they see and hear, dreaming, making noise, asking incessant questions of

Jeanne PetitHumphries the busy adults around them, getting into trouble, and, well, from being kids.

Similarly, we posit that online communities are safe places for connections, especially for teens who might otherwise find themselves hanging out with the “wrong” crowd (I sound like my grandfather here).

Except that study after study has shown that more than ever, this age group suffers from depression and suicidal thoughts.

Why? Maybe because they feel disconnected. Sure, they don’t have to listen to their mom rage about the perduring glass ceiling or participate in four-part singing sessions, but children and teens today also don’t have to interact with the people and places where they live. They can, if they want to, stay in their bubbles and float away from all that surrounds them—too much so, in my humble opinion.

Although I railed against the (parental) forces that obliged me to participate in daily life when I was a teenager who wanted just the opposite, I can now see that it is, in fact, all the singing, interactions and plain old boredom of my youth that has made me a somewhat capable adult. Today, I can participate in lively conversations, express my opinion on a wide-range of topics and, perhaps most importantly, work closely with others. My ability to interact is not limited to a screen. This is what I hope for my daughters and their peers. Because although it is nice at times to be in a bubble, far from all the hassles and assholes around me, it is also important to feel connected to what and who surround me. Don’t get me wrong, I still love my car bubble. The thing is, I miss listening to people talk on the bus. Sometimes I just want to walk up to all the ear-bud wearing zombies, pop their bubbles and connect with them.

Jeanne Petit-Humphries has three daughters who are frequently subjected to the extreme embarrassment of being trapped in a car with their singing, pretending to be a rock star mother.

August 2018 41

Family Law. It’s ALL we do.

Suzanne S. Williams

Hugging

Suzanne has more than two decades of legal experience and prefers to help families create solutions that work for them now, and over the long term, using court as a last resort.

I

Suzanne’s legal career began in 1995. She is a certified Family Law Mediator, Child Interviewer, and Collaborative Family Law Professional, who worked at a national law firm, Canada’s Department of Justice and an international child rights organization prior to focusing on family law.

bhmlawyers.ca • 250 595 2220 217 - 2187 Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria

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recently searched on my phone, “Why won’t my son hug me anymore?”

I actually Googled that.

I Google a lot of things—everything from, “who’s in the cast of the Angry Birds movie,” to “my daughter just chewed on a glow stick”—but this whole hugging search definitely seems a bit odd and out of sorts.

Recently, my son has seemed embarrassed to hug me goodbye in front of other kids. No big deal, right? Except that a lot of my friends aren’t experiencing this yet, so I don’t have a place to voice my concerns where I’m comfortable. It also seems odd that, after said Google search, I received links to articles geared towards teenage boys.

So what’s with my six-year-old not wanting to hug me? It seems like he’s too young to be at this stage. And it’s really breaking my heart. I love snuggling with my son and kissing his chubby cheeks.

But trust me, I’m not one of those moms to smother him in kisses or lick my finger and wipe off the yogurt on his face in front of his friends. I’d never chase after him before he gets on the bus, or in front of all the kids in the courtyard at school, yelling, “Wait, Jack you forgot to give Mommy Bear a kiss goodbye.”

I don’t do these things.

I can’t be that embarrassing, can I? I’ve always considered myself a cool mom. Jack’s buddies all seem to really like me and think I’m cool. At least I think they do.

As much as it bothers me, I’m trying not to let it get to me too much. I would still love to know the inspiration that led to this.

It’s interesting, no matter how I word this topic in my Google searches—OK,

778-265-6414 IslandParent.ca

I’ve searched it now several times, even specifically for this article—I can’t find much on the topic, especially for his age.

Of course my immediate reaction to this finding was: “Oh, no! This is weird. Why is this only happening to us?”

My take-a-chill-pill/take-a-sip of coffee reaction is rather different. It’s don’t fret.

It’s not the end of the world.

Maybe someone teased him about it?

Maybe he’s just going through this stage earlier than some kids? Maybe it will even pass. Whatever happens, I’m doing my best to respect it.

Ashley Degraaf Pivot Point Family Growth Centre Inc. Ever since he started school, I’ve noticed his independence growing. He’s picked up new sayings and is speaking differently, sometimes with attitude, other times just a little more sophisticated.

He’s having playdates.

He’s really into showing off for other kids and trying to act cool. I do pick up on these things after school especially when he’s playing with his friends.

So not only is his shoe size changing (quite rapidly, I must say) so is his personality and character.

I should also say, he does hug and kiss goodnight and the same goes for when I drop him off with my parents to babysit.

However, he’s just too cool at school to kiss his mom.

So, without getting too much into the psychology of this—trust me there were some articles that did come up inspired by the topic, but just not relatable at all for us—I’ve thought long and hard about how I should say my goodbyes at school from now on.

I figured, to also add to my cool momness, Jack and I could make up our very own handshake: fist pound, explosions and all.

And yes, you bet—I Googled this, too.

Ashley Degraaf is a freelance writer based out of the Cowichan Valley. She enjoys channeling her inner momma while chronicling her daily adventures with her children.

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August 2018 43

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It’s a Trifle...

No, it’s a Mess!

A

ugust is fruit season! This is when we get shipments of ripe peaches, nectarines and pears coming from the Okanagan. The Farmers’ Markets have locally grown melons, plums and figs. And there is nothing better than a fresh berry, picked ripe and sweet.

While buying a pint of tayberries from a farm stand is a perfect afternoon snack, why not try U-pick berries? Picking your own fruit is a great way to entertain a gaggle

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publisher@islandparent.ca 44 Island Parent Magazine

Freezing Summer Fruit for Winter

Freezing is probably the easiest way to store summer fruits. Berries are best frozen whole. You don’t have to pre-wash them, as long as you remember to wash them before use. Larger fruits like pear and melon should be washed, cored and diced before freezing.

The only exception to this rule is peaches.

Peaches don’t freeze well, as their delicate flavour tends to pick up flavours from everything else in your freezer. If you want to freeze peaches, diced them and freeze them in a simple syrup mixture of 1 cup sugar to 4 cups water.

If you pack juicy fruit into Ziploc bags before freezing they will freeze into one solid chunk (pears, plums, blackberries, etc.). If you want to be able to remove just a small amount of fruit at a time, then freeze your fruit in a single layer on a cookie sheet. Then bag the fruit after it has frozen.

Simple Trifle-Inspired Desserts

The Robert Bateman Centre batemancentre.org

Victoria Children’s Choir VictoriaChildrensChoir.ca

You can find wild blackberries along many roads, in parks and along the railway lines.

Avoid picking near high-traffic roads and garbage dumps as the berries can absorb pollution from the soil.

of bored children. It’s amazing how long, even young children will spend picking berries. The islands are dotted with U-pick produce, and for young children, blueberries and thornless raspberries are ideal. Give kids their own yogurt tub to fill, and hope that more berries end up in the tub than in their mouths!

Older children and adults can pick wild blackberries for free. However, they can be tricky for little kids to manage as the fruit is often very high up and the bushes are thorny.

Long sleeve, jeans and good sturdy boots are best for tackling a thatch of blackberries.

There are a number of dishes that feature layering fresh fruit with something creamy and something crunchy for a delicious pudding-like dessert. They go by many different names: trifle, fool, crumble, parfait or Eton’s mess. However, the end result is pretty much the same—a messy dessert that is fun to make and fun to eat.

Layered fruit desserts can be as simple or fancy as you want. Imagine a dessert with figs and toasted pistachios drizzled with honey. Or pear with goat cheese. It’s an adaptable dessert. Make it gluten-free, dairy-free and even sugar-free.

The best thing about making a trifleinspired dessert is that it is so simple even a toddler could do it! So why not let your kids make dessert tonight?

The trick to a successful trifle is to make beautiful layers. I recommend making your trifle in a clear glass dish so that the layers IslandParent.ca

1. Wash the fresh fruit. If it is a large can be seen by those who are enjoying the treat. You can make individual servings in fruit, then remove the core and dice it into small bowls, juice glasses or canning jars, bite-sized pieces. For berries, just be sure to remove any unripe berries and stems. or serve from a larger bowl.

2. Mix the fruit with the liquid and set aside while you prepare the rest of your Here’s what you’ll need: ingredients.

2 cups of fresh fruit 1⁄3 cup of liquid (fruit juice is best for chil3. Break your crunchy cookies or cake dren, but if you are making an adults-only into bite-sized pieces.

4. Prepare the creamy layer: whip the dessert feel free to use sherry or brandy) cream, cook the custard, open your yogurt tub.

5. Have all your layers ready before you start to put your trifle together. Start by layering half of your crunchy layer on the bottom of the serving dish.

Cooking 6. Next layer on half of the fruit layer, With Kids followed by half the creamy layer.

7. Repeat the layers: crunchy, fruit, then 2 cups of something crunchy (biscuits, creamy a second time. Reserve a few pieces meringue and sponge cake are traditional of fruit to decorate the top of the trifle.

8. Cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes but any cookie or even granola will work) 2 cups of something creamy (custard, before serving. You want the juice from the yogurt, whipped cream, pudding, soft fruit to turn your crunchy layers into a soft cheese. Substitute vegan yogurt for a pudding-like consistency. non-dairy trifle.)

Here are some of my favourite trifle combinations to inspire you.

Emillie Parrish

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Peaches and Cream Peaches, angel food cake and vanilla custard.

Blueberry Lemon Blueberries, meringue and lemon pudding.

Sophisticated Pear Pear, lady’s finger biscuits and 1/2 cup soft goat cheese mixed with 1 1/2 cups whipping cream. Top with toasted walnuts.

Raspberry Cheesecake Raspberries, Ginger snap cookies, 1 cup softened cream cheese mixed with 1 cup whipping cream.

Breakfast Mixed fruit, granola and yogurt.

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

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Island Parent Magazine

fies for our family: our schedules, our standards about wearing footwear, our bedtimes. In most ways it is a relaxing time.

Yet, in one area I have to be ever vigilant and on my toes—and that is the way I attempt to manage my time. From September to June I can exercise some semblance of control over my schedule and to-do list, but come summer, with three kids at home, this devolves into me struggling to accomplish all the things in limited, but mostly predictable, pockets of time. There are these Windows of time throughout the day, little pockets of opportunity, and if I want to accomplish anything—and I do mean anything—I have to hit the Windows.

Let me explain how this works. The Window for Peace and Quiet arrives in the early morning, in the precious minutes between when I manage to pry my eyelids open, and the time the kids get up.

If I want to drink a hot cup of coffee, or think an uninterrupted thought, this is my Window. If I sleep in, or if a kid decides to get up extra early, I’ve missed my chance completely and must be content with cold coffee and fragmented thoughts, until the same time on the following day, at which time I will theoretically have another chance at drinking a hot coffee, and/or thinking an uninterrupted thought.

In the mid-morning comes the Window for Exercise. At this time of day, it isn’t yet too hot and the children are full of energy, full of food, and still reasonably agreeable.

If everything lines up right we can get out for a bike ride, a hike, or a walk—but if we miss this Window we slide into the “too late to go anywhere before they need to be fed again” territory and past that point, all hope is lost.

After lunch, ideally the children go into a post-food-and-exercise-lull and are content to read or play quietly for a time. This is the Window for Communication With Other Adults, my daily opportunity for making very fast phone calls, writing very fast emails, and so on. If I try to do these things at any other time of day, it isn’t a pretty scene.

In the mid-late afternoon it is warmer and the children are getting tired, and typically this time does not offer any Windows what-

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soever. But while preparing dinner, there comes a smallish Window for Enjoying a Glass of Wine. This is slender because, by the time dinner is on the table, mayhem will reign and my energy will be entirely spent on essential tasks such as buttering cobs of corn and cleaning up spills and reminding people not to comb their hair with their fork.

After bedtime comes my favourite of all: the Window for Doing Anything Relaxing.

This one, unfortunately, is very easy to miss, being easily waylaid by things such as children going to bed late, or 19 loads of

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Sarah Milligan Is There an App for This? laundry needing to be folded, or any other miscellaneous tasks I was unable to fit into the Windows of the day.

And then, too, there are multiple Tiny Windows during the day when the children are occupied and not fighting for two, or even three minutes at a time; I think of these as the Window for Using the Bathroom, the Window for Switching the Laundry, the Window for Showering, and so on. These ones are harder to anticipate, as I never know when exactly they will appear, but when they do I must be poised and ready for action in order to make use of them.

All of this repeats the next day, and the next, and the next, in a mostly predictable, if anxiety-ridden, cycle: anticipating the Windows, scrambling to hit them, regrouping when I miss them; sometimes succeeding, sometimes not, but always moving forward no matter what I have or have not managed to accomplish in them.

And of course, in a sense, the entire summer is a Window in itself, and the most temporal of all, for it is the Window for Spending Lots of Time with Children.

This window, too, will close in time, and will not come again for another year; and somehow, each one seems more fleeting than the last. It truly is a Window of Precious time, and so for now, that’s the one I’m mainly aiming to hit.

S​ arah Milligan lives on Vancouver Island. She is grateful to her children for the joy they inspire, not to mention the endless writing fodder.

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August 2018 47

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Fairies Can’t Fly in the Rain O

ne day the gig will be up. My daughter will discover it was really me who wrote her fairy letters and not Lavender.

She hasn’t noticed that my writing looks similar to the fairies, but nonetheless, the fairies started typing letters back. She did comment that Lavender left her the same princess fairy ornament that our neighbours have in their fairy garden. I pointed out that perhaps Lavender visits everyone on our block. Phew! That was a close one.

It’s rewarding to keep the magic alive and watch my daughter imagine that we live in a world where fairies do exist. Maybe they really do. When she asked if fairies are real, I said “I have never seen one, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist.”

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Michaels, and the Butchart Gardens are also great places to find fairy furniture and other miniature fairy items.

When my daughter has sleepovers at her grandparents, she visits the elaborate fairy garden in the Rockland area, a few blocks from Craigdarroch Castle.

Serena Beck Sometimes my daughter leaves clothes or other small trinkets for the fairies. They have left her a tiny notebook, a mini globe, a princess fairy, tiny unicorn pool floatie, a tire swing, and a turquoise beach chair that looks just like the one she sits on.

If you ever forget to write back a note from the fairies—for example, you fell asleep at the same time as your kids or you were so busy that you completely forgot—there are logical explanations. Maybe Lavender is too far away right now. Tinkerbell or Queen Clarion might have asked her for help. Perhaps, it was too rainy or windy last night.

After all, fairies can’t fly in wind or rain.

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With any luck, I have another year or two to keep the magic alive. When my daughter does find out, I imagine she won’t tell her younger siblings. I believe she’ll want to keep the fairy magic alive.

My daughter’s fairy garden is in our front garden bed. A few of our neighbours have fairy gardens in their front flower pots.

You can find a fairy garden in almost any neighbourhood. You can even make your own out of cardboard or a bird house. Fairy houses and gardens are only as limited as your child’s imagination. If you have a junk drawer or any extra tiny toys lying around your house then you are set. Dollar stores,

Serena Beck enjoys spending time at the beach with her husband and three kids, ages 7, 5 and 3.

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Fortnight of the Living Dead

I

f you’re a ’tween-aged boy, you will probably remember 2018 as the summer that Fortnite conquered your world. If you’re a parent of the same, you’ve either been ignoring Fortnite, worrying about your kid’s obsession with it, or trying to make sense of the latest video-game craze. (And if you’ve kept your wifi password under a rock, you might not know what I’m talking about. Consider yourself lucky.)

Of course, kids’ fads have existed ever since marketers discovered they could pry profits out of browbeaten parents and broken piggy-banks for the latest “must-have” toy or game—from hula hoops to fidget spinners, from kids blowing their allow-

on a digital island. The game is free to play across multiple gaming consoles, computers, iPads and iPhones, so friends don’t need to own the same device to “crossplay” together. The developer still reaps huge profits by selling custom “skins,” “emotes” and dances to distinguish virtual heroes.

For the entire baseball season, my son’s practices were dominated by Fortniteinspired chatter. Coaches tried to curtail Fortnite talk as a dugout distraction and urged the boys not to stay up late playing the game before big tournaments. Still, you couldn’t look into the outfield between innings without seeing a player dancing the Fortnite Floss.

ances on Pokémon cards to blowing their parents’ data plans playing Pokémon Go. Some fads are bigger, more enduring, more befuddling to parents than others. I’d put Fortnite Battle Royale in that basket.

Here’s a quick rundown for adult “noobs” who don’t get Fortnite or its runaway popularity (125 million players and counting): The online video game took off when its developer created a “battle royale” spin-off that lets 100 players compete in knockout rounds of virtual laser tag after skydiving into the shrinking eye of a storm

As a shooting game with an array of lethal weapons, Fortnite Battle Royale sparked the usual parental worries. But the violence is bloodless and cartoony, punctuated by goofy hops and gyrating heroes, and the characters are beamed into the heavens when they’re eliminated. Half the game involves exploring the streets and valleys of the island to discover hidden treasures and to gather wood, bricks and other resources to create strategic outposts in lightning-speed “build battles” of architectural ingenuity.

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The rise of Fortnite also coincided with the World Health Organization (WHO) adding “gaming disorder” to its International Classification of Diseases. Compulsive video gaming, according to the WHO, now belongs in an umbrella category of addictions, such as drugs and alcohol and gambling. News articles were accompanied

David Leach Dadspeak by footage of kids playing Fortnite. So is it a gateway drug that turns young minds into video-game zombies?

We can keep our fingers off the panic button for now. The WHO’s designation only applies to gamers with serious compulsions: a year or more with upwards of 16 hours of gaming per day that profoundly impacted their personal lives. Their gaming is more likely a symptom than the cause of underlying mental-health concerns.

Psychiatrists are still debating whether to include gaming disorder in their own diagnostic manual, so we should remain cautious about stigmatizing the passing obsessions of youth culture as an “addiction” or failing to acknowledge their positive qualities.

Our 12-year-old son, who has a relatively mild case of Fortnite fever, was inspired by the YouTubers and podcasters he follows to learn how to film and edit his own videos and commentary. In an act of either parental genius or naiveté, I let him start a YouTube channel, as long as he narrated his gameplay in French—which I figured would be both good niche marketing and summer practice of his immersion learning.

I suspect by next summer the Fortnite fad will have faded and our kids will be in the grip of a new mass enthusiasm. As parents, we will remain strangers to that territory—the uniquely intense passion of adolescents on the borderland between childhood imagination and adult reality. It’s as though they are all living on a mysterious island, filled with stormy wonder, that we can only observe from the sky.

David Leach is the Chair of the Department of the Writing and the Director of the Digital Storytelling & Social Simulation Lab at the University of Victoria.

August 2018 49

Eating Well at Home & at School

Healthy Families, Happy Families

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viha.ca/prevention_services/ 50 Island Parent Magazine

B

arbecues, picnics and summer events will soon transition to school lunches and the task of fitting in children’s after-school activities. This can be a challenging shift for the best of us, especially when it comes to meals, food and eating.

Typical back-to-school articles provide ideas for back-to-school lunches and snacks or stress that the entire family start the day with a good breakfast but this article focuses on another important aspect of food—the context and social factors that affect what we eat, referred to as the “food (or mealtime) environment.” The food environment includes: location or where we eat; what food is available; and, who is eating. Children learn how to be “good” eaters when mealtimes take place in a safe and pleasant environment with an adult alongside them to model good eating.

Back to School

Sometimes mealtime routines get off track in the summer. With back-to-school on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to look at your home and school food environment to discover what will best support your child in their eating and learning.

When Eating at Home

• Make mealtimes pleasant and relaxed.

Turn off screens and save serious conversations for another time.

• Sit down together for meals as often as you can. Meals don’t always have to take place at home but try to be together for meals at least once a day.

• Let children decide how much to eat from the food provided. Coaxing, bribing and even encouraging kids to eat can turn them away from foods and make mealtimes unpleasant for everyone.

• Talk about the foods you are eating and what they do for your body. Start with these questions: Where does the food come from? How does it get to you? Discuss and explore your family’s cultural foods or ways of eating and celebrating. Are some foods healthier for your body than others? Does

your body feel better (or worse) after you eat certain foods?

Have Fun Harvesting and Preserving Foods

At tail end of summer, the last place you want to be is in the kitchen, but consider it as a fun way for the family to get ready for the start of school. There is a bounty of fresh vegetables and fruit to be harvested.

Now is the time to preserve to use this fall in school snacks and lunches.

Freezing Blueberries. Blueberries are one of the easiest berries to pick and freeze.

Simply pick them, wash them and remove any leftover stems. Freeze them on a cookie sheet and once frozen, transfer them to a jar or freezer bag. Frozen blueberries can be used for making smoothies, blueberry pancakes or muffins and are great when eaten straight from the freezer.

Fruit Leather. Try making your own fruit leather with any type of fruit or combination of fruit and vegetables that you have in abundance. There are many different recipes you can follow online but try one with little to no sugar added to the fruit.

Remember to pair fruit leather with cheese or other food and drink water to rinse and help clear the teeth.

Apple Chips. If you have an apple corer then your children can help to core the apples. Be sure to slice apples fairly thin.

Have children put them on the baking sheets with a little bit of cinnamon sprinkled on top. Bake slices in the oven at 225˚F for about 45 minutes until they are golden brown and the edges start to curl.

The Food Environment at School

Your child eats lunch and snacks at school every day of the school year. Whether they eat the food packed from home or provided through a school lunch program depends a lot on the food and mealtime environment.

To promote eating at school, consider: • Does your child eat their snack and lunch at school in a pleasant, safe environment?

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• Is there an adult present at meal or snack times?

• Are children given enough time to finish their food?

Beyond the classroom, think about whether or not the school environment encourages children to eat healthy foods each day and at school events.

• School gardens are a great learning space and provide healthy food and a pleasant environment for students and the school community.

Areli Hermanson & Janelle Hatch Ch i ld Yo ut h & Fa mi ly P u b l ic H e a lt h

Happy Families, Healthy Families

• Food for celebrations can be both healthy and fun. Consider the ideas provided in Eat Smart Celebrations from Action Schools! BC. • School events are an opportunity to highlight local food by partnering with local growers, organizations and businesses that feature healthy foods.

Bring your family to our family.

Ways to Support Healthy Food at School

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Children are more likely to eat the food packed in their lunches when they have had a hand in choosing and preparing it.

This also takes the pressure off of you as the parent. Talk to your children about why they need good food for snacks and lunchtime—to have energy, feel good and be active and to concentrate throughout the school day.

The best way for you to support your school is to get involved. It does not have to be a large time commitment­, just find out what programs and events are planned and get involved in one of them. All parents can support good food in the school environment.

For more information: • Helping Children Be Good Eaters by Ellyn Satter, 2013 • UnlockFood.ca, Dietitians of Canada • Eat Smart Celebrations, Action Schools!

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August 2018 51

Finding Courage & Facing Fear

T

he summer is a great time to try new things, from foods, festivals, to sleeping at an overnight camp. However, changes aren’t always fun or expected.

Sometimes you might intend to simply visit your family at a new campground and find out once you arrive at the park that you accidentally typed in the wrong name and you just drove three hours in the wrong direction.

Changes like that can be upsetting and stressful. Especially if you have children in the car with you. You might have noticed when you ask your child to change activities, like going from playing to napping, that children don’t always cope well with change.

The characters in the following stories all deal with some sort of change. Sometimes like with Sir Simon in Sir Simon: Super Scarer their expectations aren’t met. Other times, it’s dealing with a friend moving away like in Life Without Nico. Still other times the characters have to learn to deal with all of the changes that simply happen when one grows up like in The Tree Who Didn’t Want to Grow.

So if you know your family is going to be going through some changes and you’re wondering how you can broach the conversation with your kids, here are a few stories that will help you and your child navigate this unfamiliar and exciting territory.

Sometimes we know things are going to change, but what happens isn’t what we expected. This is what happens to Sir Simon in Sir Simon: Super Scarer by Cale Atkinson (Tundra Books, 2018). He knows his life is about to change because he has just landed a new job haunting a house. He’s worked hard for this moment, practising with haunting forests and potatoes, and he is super excited.

He learns he will be haunting an elderly couple, which is amazing because they don’t usually see ghosts, and that means Simon won’t have to work as hard. But that is not what happens. Instead of an elderly couple, a young boy named Chester moves in with his grandmother. Now Simon has deal with his plans going awry. For ages 4-8.

In If a Horse Had Words by Kelly Cooper and illustrated by Lucy Eldridge (Tundra Books, 2018) the horse Red Badger gets

52

Island Parent Magazine

stuck in a badger hole right after she was born. This scares her, but she begins to trust the young boy who rescued her. However, her life changes when she’s old enough to be ridden and the young boy tries to do just that. His weight pressed her ever so slightly into the ground, but for a horse who’s scared of the ground “ever so slightly” is too much.

She throws him off and the boy’s father sells her. Red Badger ends up in the rodeo circuit as a bronc. It’s here that she learns how to face her fear with some unexpected help. For ages 4-8.

Not every change will be as big as moving to a new home or getting a new job; sometimes it’s the little changes in life that weigh on us. In The Tree Who Didn’t Want to Grow by Tammara Or Slilat (Partridge Singapore, 2016) a young tree struggles with all change. The story starts when he’s a seed, and one day he wakes up to discover he’s grown roots and a leaf. After that nothing stays the same and he does not like it.

This story is designed to help children learn how to cope when life is changing rapidly and there’s nothing they can do about it. One book uses the therapeutic and soothing aspect of colouring and gives kids a way to calm down. When you read this book, make sure you have come crayons handy so you can add colour to the drawings and bring them to life. For ages 3-10.

In Life Without Nico by Andrea Maturana and illustrated Francisco Javier Olea (Kids Can Press, 2016) Maia has to learn how to live without her best friend by her side when his family moves to a different country for school. At first she feels lost and alone. She’s sure she’ll never feel full again.

As the story unfolds she discovers that it is possible to have fun even when Nico isn’t with her. In the end, when it’s finally time for Nico to come back, Maia has a new problem. She’s scared there isn’t any room in her life for Nico. This book is great for children who won’t get to see their friends for a long time. It beautifully captures all of the emotions people feel when their very best friend moves away. For ages 4-7.

The final book After the Fall by Dan Santat (Roaring Book Press, 2017) shows children how they can pick up the pieces after plans fall apart. This is the story of IslandParent.ca

Humpty Dumpty, but it’s not the story of how he got hurt, it’s the story of how he got better.

Even after falling off and getting hurt, the wall still called to Humpty Dumpty.

Unfortunately, ever since his fall he has been scared of heights. So he tries to find

Thistle & Wren

Thistle & Wren

CHILDREN’S CONSIGNMENT With a focus on curating beautiful preloved articles and partnering with like-minded small local and Canadian businesses; T&W’s goal is to provide local products while conscientiously extending the life of a garment.

Christina Van Starkenburg Book Nook comfort making paper airplanes, and imagining them soaring up in the sky with the birds he loved to watch, but it doesn’t seem to be enough. This book will help children know that it’s normal to be scared of things, especially if those things can or have hurt you. But Santat does not leave Humpty Dumpty on the ground, and when he finally faced his fears the most amazing thing happens. For ages 4-8.

Whatever changes are coming your way, and regardless of whether you expect them or the fates foisted them upon you, let these stories remind you that you have the strength to meet these changes head on like the tree, the courage to make the best of the situation and, like Sir Simon and Red Badger, the ability to make new friends along the way like Maia.

thistleandwren.com

778-265-9736

1292 Gladstone

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Island Parent is looking for articles for upcoming issues. Some of our best content comes from people just like you—Vancouver Island parents who are passionate about their families and are dealing with the day to day issues of raising children in our community. Share your experiences, your thoughts on a particular issue, your ideas on places to see or projects to do—anything related to parenting.

Check our Writer’s Guidelines at islandparent.ca for specific information on submissions. We’d love to hear from you. Please email submissions to editor@islandparent.ca.

Preschool to Grade 8… and beyond.

Imagine a School…where music, dance, theatre and visual arts are infused into all aspects of an outstanding curriculum.

Christina Van Starkenburg is a freelance writer and mother of two young boys. You can read about their adventures at thebookandbaby. com.

IslandParent.ca

v Junior K and Half/Full-day Kindergarten options also available v Comprehensive K–8 program consistently exceeds BC Curriculum v Excellent facilities, convenient Gordon Head and Cedar Hill locations v Highly qualified, dedicated staff and low student/teacher ratios

Visit our website, come to one of our Open Houses, or call us! www.ArtsCalibre.ca info@ArtsCalibre.ca 250.382.3533 August 2018

53

Family Services Directory

CHOICES Adoption & Counselling is a licensed, professional, non-profit agency that provides services to adoptive parents, birth-parents, and adoptees. CHOICES arranges adoptions domestically and internationally. We are committed to proThis directory, sponsored by Thrifty Foods, features not for profit agencies and organizations serving children, youth and families. viding a comprehensive, client-centered adoption service which best meets the needs of everyone in the adoption constellation. Please contact us at 1Up, Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre people find work since 1982! Our programs build on choices@choicesadoption.ca, or call 250-479-9811 (1-up.ca) provides support, education and resources a person’s strengths and resolve barriers to finding for further information. for parents in the Greater Victoria area through and keeping employment. We also work with our free counselling, volunteer training, a mentoring employer network to support job seekers. Need program for single moms, and a support group for help finding a job? Need employees? Contact us Dialogue and Resolution Services (DRS) is the dads, as well as a variety of integrated life skills for FREE assistance! 9860 Third St. Sidney. 250- South Island’s only non-profit specializing in alternative conflict resolution for both civil and family and parenting courses which are open to the whole 656-0134. beaconcs.ca. matters. Offering quality, professional mediation, community, with fees on a sliding scale. For single coaching and parent coordination in a supportive parent members, the Centre provides free toys and books, a clothing room and bread pantry. Donations Boys & Girls Club Services offer after-school environment for families, co-parents, co-workers of gently-used clothing, small household items, and and evening social, educational and recreational and neighbours, DRS works with clients to help toys are welcome. Hours: Mon., Tue., Thu., Fri.: 9–4, programming for children and youth at 5 locations them create lasting, effective solutions. DRS also & Wednesdays: 12–7. Location: 602 Gorge Road (Colwood, Langford, VicWest, Central Saanich and offers its flagship “Communicating through Conflict” Esquimalt) and summer camps both in Esquimalt workshop series quarterly both days and evenings East. Phone: 250-385-1114. and at our Outdoor Centre in Metchosin. We also of- throughout the year. Find us at 250-383-4412 or fer support to parents through our Parents Together dialogueandresolutionservices.ca.

Beacon Community Services is a community- program and parent workshops. For more informabased, non-profit agency dedicated to helping tion on all programs and services visit bgcvic.org or people and improving lives on southern Vancouver call 250-384-9133.

Island and the southern Gulf Islands. Beacon thrift shops fund important LOCAL community services and programs. Beacon also offers: child, youth and family services (including the Peninsula Early Years Family Services Centre and child care); counselling; employment of Greater Victoria services and training for people of all ages; home Family Services of Greater Victoria (formerly BC support care; volunteer services and opportunities; affordable housing/care/supports for seniors and Canucks Autism Network (CAN) provides year- Families in Transition) is a non profit agency that has people with disabilities. For Home Support, please round sports and recreation programs for children, been serving families since 1978. We provide a full call 250-658-6407. For other programs: 250-656- youth, young adults and families living with autism. range of services to the whole family in supportPrograms in Victoria, Nanaimo and Cowichan Valley ing their relationship and through separation and 0134. beaconcs.ca. include Intro to Physical Activity, Intro to Soccer & divorce. Counseling, mediation, legal information Basketball, Swim, Skate, Social Events (fall, winter and a range of group programs are available for Beacon Community Services Employment and spring), Overnight Camp (summer), and Family children, youth and adults on a sliding fee scale. Call Programs. Beacon Community Services offers a Events (year-round). For more information, visit us at 250-386-4331 or visit fsgv.org. We can help. full menu of employment services on the Saanich canucksautism.ca.

Peninsula and Gulf Islands. We’ve been helping

54 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

HappyBaby Sleep Solutions helps families create healthy sleep habits in babies and children so everyone is well rested and happy. Sukkie Sandhu, M.Ed., has worked with hundreds of families locally in Victoria and worldwide. Sukkie is a Registered Clinical Counsellor so the cost of a sleep consultation may be covered under your extended medical plan. For more information visit happybabysleepsolutions.com or call 250-857-1408 for a FREE evaluation. Let’s get started!

Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) is a registered charity and nonprofit helping individuals and organizations to connect across cultures. Programs offered include immigrant and refugee services, parenting programs, employment services, interpretation and translation, diversity workshops and training, English language training, volunteer placements, youth programs and tutoring, seniors groups, and inter-cultural arts programming.

Located at 930 Balmoral Road, 250-388-4728 info@ icavictoria.org, icavictoria.org.

LDABC The Learning Curve (previously The Learning Disabilities Assn.) supports, educates and advocates for children with learning disabilities and related challenges. Individual and group support, education and consultation is available for children, youth, parents, caregivers and professionals. Please visit our website @ ldasvi.bc.ca or call us for more information or to book an appointment: 250-370-9513.

Sooke-West Shore Early Years Centres provide information to families about children and family services, supports, child development and parenting. The Early Years Navigator will assist families with referral information for local early years programming, child care, public health, special needs intervention services, and social supports. The Sooke-West Shore Early Years Centres are hosted

by Sooke Family Resource Society and located at the Child, Youth, and Family Centres in both Sooke and the West Shore and can be reached at 250217-9243. Additional information can be accessed at sfrs.ca/early-years-centre.

Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Centre Society (VIRCS) supports immigrants and refugees living in Greater Victoria. Services are free and include oneon-one counselling, parent education workshops, youth life skills classes, a preschool program, art therapy, language classes and academic support, employment help, computer classes and fun community events like free yoga, tai chi, dance and cooking classes. Visit us online at vircs.bc.ca or phone 250-361-9433.

IslandParent.ca

August 2018  55

Preschool & Child Care Directory Colwood/LANGFORD

Gonzales Co-op Preschool....................... 250-727-1003 Children use imaginations in a Learning through Play classroom and natural playground. Reggio-Emilia inspired, focus is on art, nature and music. Nurturing, highly qualified ECE and ECE assistant. Parent participation options. Allergy aware. gonzalescooppreschool.com.

Highlands

Licenced group childcare for children ages 12 months to 5 years old. Open 6:30am-5:30pm.

Leap Forward Dance School offers weekday and Saturday dance classes for children ages 2 and up.

2758 Peatt Road, Langford

250-818-9225 info@leapforwardlangford.com

www.leapforwardlangford.com

Coastline Montessori Childcare............... 250-881-6318 Experience an educational hands on learning environment for infants, toddlers and preschool age. Half-day program offered. Located in Langford off Latoria Rd. coastlinemontessori@shaw.ca.

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

Cordova Bay Preschool........................... 250-658-3441 A bright and cheerful parent participation preschool with a philosophy of learning through play. 4 yr olds - M/W/F 9:151:15; 3 yr olds - T/Th 9:15-12:15. cordovabaypreschool.org.

ESQUIMALT Ciara Early Childhood Centre...................250-386-7369 Education and Fun Hand in Hand! Exceptional care for ages 1-5yrs. Inclusive nature inspired kindergarten readiness program with Christian values. Facebook.com/ CiaraEarlyChildhoodCentre.

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. Part -time spaces available. Islandkids.ca.

La Pré-Maternelle Appletree Preschool......250-479-0292 A French Immersion Preschool Program.

30 months to school age. Licensed Christian centre. prematernelleappletree.com.

Recreation Oak Bay.................................250-370-7200 Fully licensed, ECE Daycare, Preschool and Nature Preschool.

Play based, child led learning. Afterschool care available.

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 and PreKindergarten children.

SAANICH

Award of Excellence in Child Care

lexieslittlebears.ca 250-590-3603

METCHOSIN Metchosin Cooperative Preschool.................................

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.

West-Mont Montessori School.................250-474-2626 Exceptional preschool Montessori instruction in a beautiful natural environment. Ages 30 months and up. Providing a balanced approach to incorporating French, Music, Art and Nature. Stop by and experience what it is like to be part of a community devoted to the development of the whole child.

Open House: Thursdays 9-11 am. west-mont.ca.

North SAANICH In The Garden Childcare Centre.............. 250-654-0306 A GREAT PLACE TO GROW. Offering preschool, full day care, before and after school care for children aged 2.5 to 12 years old. Open all year. Now offering Infant and Toddler Care.

OAK BAY Emmanuel Preschool.............................. 250-598-0573 Children learn through play in our non-denominational Christian preschool near UVic. Bright attractive setting. emmanuelpreschool.ca.

Child Care

Resource & Referral vancouverislandccrr.ca ccrr.bc.ca 56 Island Parent Magazine

• Half day and Full day Preschool Programs • Children’s learning is nurtured and supported through exploration, discovery, play and creative expression 3905 Haro Road, Victoria BC

250-477-3731 arbutusgrove.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.

• Licensed 2.5 hr and 4 hr programs, flexible part-time classes • Qualified ECEs offer play-based programs that stimulate curiosity and imagination and support optimum growth and development. Supported spaces available.

• Indoor and outdoor programming, community visitors and special activities provide opportunities for learning through play and exploration.

Fullobeans.ca 250-360-1148 saanichneighbourhoodplace.com

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

Lambrick Park Preschool & Childcare........ 250-477-8131 Gordon Head’s parent-participation preschool and childcare center. Flexible hours M-F 9am-3pm & drop-ins offered. Play based learning and outdoor play. Allergy friendly. Celebrating 40 years. lambrickparkpreschool.ca.

Looking for child care? Need help with subsidy forms?

Taking care of children? Need child care training?

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

Victoria & Gulf Islands: 250-382-7000 or 1-800-750-1868 Sooke: 250-642-5152 West Shore: 250-391-4324 Cowichan Valley: 250-746-4135 local 231 PacificCare (Ladysmith north): 250-756-2022 or 1-888-480-2273 Funded by the Province of BC

IslandParent.ca

Oakcrest Preschool................................ 250-472-0668 A welcoming, nurturing environment with a large, bright facility. Learn through play with 2 caring ECEs. oakcrestpreschool.org.

Pre-School Junior Kindergarten PacificChristian.ca 250-479-4532 Educational Excellence to the Glory of God Ready Set Grow Preschool....................... 250-472-1530 Inside Hillcrest Elm. in Gordon Head, we help children transition to Kindergarten. Licensed Preschool with highly qualified, warm ECE. 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 playbased and emergent curriculum in a warm and nurturing environment.

Wiseways Preschool & Daycare........... 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.

VICTORIA

v Comprehensive programs for Preschool through Grade 8 v Delivering academic excellence through music, dance, drama and visual arts v Outstanding educators, locations and facilities

www.ArtsCalibre.ca 250.382.3533

Nightingale Preschool and Junior Kindergarten Ltd.....................250-595-7544 We offer education through creativity and play, providing rich learning experiences through a well sourced and stimulating indoor and outdoor environment. Early years reading programme. nightingalepreschool.com. Arts/ Drama programme. kidsworks.ca.

Rainbow Express Daycare....................... 250-382-2314 A nurturing environment for children to learn through play and discovery in a natural setting. ECEs and specialist teachers. rainbowexpressdaycare.com. Close to city centre.

Ross Bay Preschool.................................250-383-7445 Our positive and supportive program motivates children to learn, discover and grow through play. Contact us for a tour of our little blue school!

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.

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.

Chemainus St. Joseph’s Preschool..............................250-246-3191 An enriching preschool program allowing children to grow as individuals in a safe and nurturing Christian environment.

VIEW ROYAL

Nanaimo

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. Part -time spaces available. Islandkids.ca.

View Royal Childcare...............................250-479-8067 Preschool structured, high quality childcare. Victoria Conservatory of Music classes. Part time spaces available. 2.5-5year olds. viewroyalpreschool@live.com.

View Royal Preschool..............................250-479-8067 Exciting inclusive program in a safe and exceptional care environment. 3-5 year olds. Outside play and themes enrich this program. Full/part-time spaces available. viewroyalpreschool.com.

DUNCAN

ASPENGROVE SCHOOL

Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12 Learn more today!

250-390-2201 AspengroveSchool.ca

N A N A I M O ’ S J K -12 I N T E R N AT I O N A L B ACC A L AU R E AT E W O R L D S C H O O L

Qualicum Beach Children’s Discovery Centre.....................250-752-4343 A nurturing, safe and creative learning environment.

Licensed preschool, group care and out of school care. Early Childhood Educators. childrensdiscovery centre.ca. childrensdiscoverycentre@hotmail.com.

Little Star Children’s Centre.....................250-752-4554 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

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

IslandParent.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.

Victoria Montessori................................ 250-380-0534 Unique, innovative learning environment combining the best of Montessori and Learning Through Play. Open yr. round.

30mths–K. victoriamontessori.com.

Castleview Child Care............................. 250-595-5355 Learning Through Play & Discovery. Licensed non-profit, ECE staff. Since 1958. Morning or full-time care. castleviewchildcarecentre.com.

Christ Church Cathedral Childcare and Junior Kindergarten.......................... 250-383-5132 ECE and Specialist teachers provide an outstanding all-day, licensed program for 3–5 year olds. Spacious, renovated facility with a huge backyard in Fairfield. cathedralschool.ca.

Parkside Academy..................................... 250-746-1711 Providing high quality early learning and care from infancy to 12 years of age, in a stimulating, respectful, nurturing, nature based environment with fully educated and passionate early childhood educators. Visit parksideacademy.ca or find us on Facebook.

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

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.

August 2018 57

Coming September 2018 Out of School Care Summer & Christmas Camps Kid Friendly Cantina After School Programming

A

For more information visit us online at

www.pacificheartchildcare.com

or email us at pacificheartchildcare@gmail.com 1 7 2 0 M c T a v i s h R d , N o rt h S a a n i c h

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MEET A RAPTOR

THIS CLOSE

ENCOUNTERS FLYING DEMOS

58 Island Parent Magazine

The Name Game

THE-RAPTORS.COM 1877 HERD ROAD, DUNCAN, BC

ngus came home from day camp with an ocean-in-a-bottle.” On the lid of the glass jar, one of the leaders had written: “Grus.” This is what Angus had asked to be called. This is, he tells me, his new name.

“Angus” has become very unpopular in the last few months. In fact, the name has been on the decline for a couple of years, since a huge MacDonald’s poster was plastered to the side of a bus stop near our house. Printed across the larger-thanlife hamburger were the words “Angus Burger.” I pointed it out, because I thought Angus would appreciate it: his name in big bold letters. He did not appreciate it.

He was not a hamburger, and therefore a hamburger could not have his name. “It’s also the name of a type of cow,” I said.

“That’s why they call it that.” But Angus was not a cow either, and he was incensed.

He was incensed whenever we passed the poster, and whenever he thought about it.

And then finally the sign came down and the issue was forgotten and I was relieved.

Angus is a pretty popular type of beef, though. Walk into a pet store and count how many types of dog treats have “Angus” in their name. A lot. This exercise was performed by Angus right after we picked up our dog, Charlie, and he was thoroughly unimpressed. Worse that this? Mike made the epic mistake of talking about a man he knows—also called Angus—in front of our son.

“Lots of people have the same name,” I told him. “Think of Laura in the office at school. She and I have the same name, and it’s okay, right? And there are lots of people with Daddy’s name. Lots and lots of Mikes.”

But Angus decided—spurred on by some name-shortening going on in his Grade one classroom—that he would now be Gus. His teachers started to call him Gus. His classmates started to call him Gus. Mike started to call him Gus. But I couldn’t do it.

Angy. Angy-Roo. Roosie. Angus. Those are the only names that come out of my mouth when talking to my kid. I could say I tried, but that’s not really true. “It’s okay to be Gus, but Mommy still thinks of you as IslandParent.ca

Angus. It’s my very favourite name,” I told him. And Angus accepted it. At the library, when asked to put his name on a nametag, he glanced at me and then said: “I’ll write my birthname.” And then carefully wrote A-N-G-U-S across the label. I felt guilty, I’ll admit. In fact, it reminded me of the fact that I called Mike “Michael” for the first

Business & professional Directory

Laura Trunkey Maternity & Beyond year of our relationship, despite the fact that he was Mike to everyone else. Until one day he finally told me he hated being called that name.

I felt guilty, but I didn’t stop calling him Angus. In fact, I tried to use logic to convince him to revert back to his full name. I tried to use logic with a seven-year-old. Let that sink in a moment.

“You know,” I said. “When I worked at the elementary school the custodian was named Gus. And Daddy’s grandpa—his name was Gustav, but people called him Gus too.”

Angus stared at me. I could see the wheels spinning in his head. I was convinced I had discovered the right angle. Whatever name he chose to be called by, there were other people who would share it. So why not just go by the name he’d been called for the first seven years of his life?

“Okay,” he said finally. “My name is Grus.”

“Grus?” I said, incredulous. “Grus?” I had to admit he had beaten me. I couldn’t claim to know any other Grus’s.

“Good-bye Grus,” the camp leaders chorused as Angus walked away clutching his bottled craft. It’s not a terrible name, really. Grus is a genus of birds in the crane family. It’s the name of a constellation in the southern sky. I’ll get used to it, maybe.

Or maybe, by the end of summer “Angus” will rise again. My kid starts a new school in September, and I’m very aware that how he introduces himself on Day 1 will likely be his name for the next four years. Who knows what it will be.

Humeira Studios • Counselling Services: Individual & Groups • Day Camps: Pro-D days • Life Skills Training • Open Art Studio • Blissful Relaxation Program

Professional referrals required

250-889-1863 humeirastudio@gmail.com www.humeirastudios.com

Advertisers Directory Alliance Francaise...... IBC

Glenn Lindsey.............. 61

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Arbutus Grove............ IFC

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Arts Calibre

International

Academy..................53 Arc Academy

IslandParent.ca

Swimming................ 55 Pacific Heart Childcare..................58

Montessori.................9

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Intrepid Theatre.......... 25

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of Inquiry....................6

Island Catholic.............37

Queen of Angels...........14

Ballet Victoria............. IBC

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Royal BC

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Island Montessori........ 13

Brookes School..............4

Island Swimming........ IFC

Brown Henderson

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Yacht Club................46

Lifestyles...................... 21

Saanich Dental........ 8, 20

Melbye......................42 Browne and

Museum................11, 15 Royal Victoria

Little Steps.................. 26

Saanich Recreation........3

Associates................ 51

Lulu’s Childcare...........37

Serious Coffee............ 26

Canucks Autism...........47

MacDonald Realty........38

Shawnigan Lake

Cathedral School.........43

Mad Science................48

Cridge...........................27

Math4me.................... IBC

Dialogue &

Momease................... IFC

Performing Arts........ 15

Mothering Touch............7

St. Margarets................ 13

NIL TU,O Child &

Stages....................18, 22

Resolution................ 51 Discovery School..........17 Dr. Joslin.......................23 Emmanuel Preschool.................46 Erin Wallace Photography.............42

Laura Trunkey is the mother of the amazing Angus, and the author of the story collection Double Dutch (House of Anansi, 2016). Find her at lauratrunkey.com.

Pacific Coast

Falcon Gymnastics.......34 Foster Parent Support

Family Services..........9 North Saanich

Montessori................ 11 Skam School of

Sylvan Learning........... 19 Terry Fox Run...............47

Tom Lee Music.............34 Total Learning Services....................40 UVic Farquhar...............14 Van Isl Psychological Services....................35 Victoria Academy of Ballet.............BC, 38 Victoria Bug Zoo..........43 Victoria City Rowing Club...............8 Victoria Gymnastics...............42 Victoria Montessori...............48 Victoria Synchro...........46 VIHA............................ 50 Welcome Wagon..........45 Welkin College School......................37 Westcoast Academy of Ballet.................... 10

Flavour Trails............40

The Raptors..................58

O’Brien Dance.............. 61

Thistle & Wren..............53

Montessori...............34

Oak and

Thrifty Foods................33

Westshore Dental..........5

TJ’s The Kiddie

Westshore Parks &

Orca..............21, 24, 54 Pacific Christian......... IBC

Store........................ 25

Westmont

Recreation................32

Services................... 20

August 2018 59

playing, and mimicking the actions of the adults around them. If I passively pick up a piece of trash I see on the trail, I’ll often look behind me at my school group and see the children joining in with excitement, trying hildren are natural stewards of this is where we as parents and educators can to find all the garbage they can.

As role models, we bestow many beworld. When I lead CRD school start to give guidance. Children learn about programs with children, I am always themselves and the world by imitating, haviours onto children without us even surprised by the ways they try to help living things both big and small. When we find a slug on a walk, very often the children will tell me that we should find it a home and leave some food so that it doesn’t go hungry. Sometimes they even ask if we can find the slug a friend so it doesn’t feel lonely. These moments make me smile.

Even though I know the slug is probably fine on its own without these things, I am reminded of the selfless caring that children naturally exhibit.

As a naturalist, I am continually trying to create connections to nature that are meaningful and foster a sense of stewardship, but in many ways, children already have this stewardship mentality.

Children seem to be aware that they have the power to help, like when they want to care for a slimy slug they just met on a trail.

This wish to support and care for things

nature stewards

C

Grandparent I S L A N D

S U M M E R 2 0 1 8

Here & There 10 Things to Do with Your Grandkids

Celebrating Family Heritage

60

Island Parent Magazine

Pick up a copy of the summer 2018 issue of

Island Grandparent Available now, wherever you find Island Parent

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knowing it. This can put a lot of pressure on us as parents, adults, and teachers, and we hope that they only glean the best behaviours from our actions. Of course, the easiest way to know we are being good role models is to adopt good practices ourselves.

It’s important to model positive behaviours so we can help guide children’s

Sean Rangel Nature Notes natural inclination toward stewardship by educating them about sustainable practices like recycling and responsible energy uses.

Perhaps more importantly, we can also encourage further learning about things they are intuitively interested in and allow them to come up with their own solutions and best practices. It’s easy for us as adults to repeat the answers of experts and scientists on how to be good stewards, but we should remember that there is also room for creative thinking and new, imaginative ideas.

Who knows—maybe one child’s idea could help mitigate the threats of climate change.

Bringing children into parks and natural areas allows them to explore and discover for themselves. As we walk along with them, we can point out large and small things for them to explore like slugs, plants, and trees. We can share with them the challenges facing each new wonder they discover and let them think about possible solutions to meet those challenges. Their thoughts may be outlandish, but so were many of the innovative ideas that scientists and experts have had. There are plenty of challenges that need solving, and the earlier children start thinking critically about them, the better equipped they will be later on in their lives.

Just by exploring the natural world and making connections with children we don’t necessarily need to plant the seeds of stewardship. Perhaps all we need to do is give it water to grow.

Registration for 2018/2019 Season September 4, 5 & 6 | 3:30–6:30 pm For more information and to pre-register: 250·595·3107 www.dancearabesque.ca Classes and registration are held at: St. Matthias Anglican Church Hall (Richmond Ave. & Richardson St.)

Find us on

Summer Intensive August 27–31

Great Summer Reading for Kids

Local Author

www.glennlindsey.com

Available through Amazon.ca

O’Brien School of Irish Dance

Cadboro Bay, Esquimalt, Downtown Victoria and Duncan Recreational, performance and competitive classes

Sean Rangel is a park naturalist at CRD Regional Parks. The Capital Regional District offers year round family-friendly nature outings and events.

For details please visitcrd.bc.ca/parks-events.

IslandParent.ca

Dance, dance wherever you may be….

www.obrienirishdance.com

August 2018

61

Be a GEM...a Good Enough Mother

P

arenting is no place for perfectionism. The longer you hang onto high standards, appearances and raising perfect little angels, the more you will suffer.

You might have a strong inner critic who holds that bar way too high.

Parenting children is an experience that changes you from the inside out. Nothing in life compares to the love, fatigue, frustration or guilt you feel when you are a parent. To add to the intensity of emotions is the fact that your basic needs don’t get met. Your sleep is interrupted.

You can’t relax and eat a meal without little ones getting up and down.

Who would have thought that going to the smallest room of your house where you used to sit in solitude is now a public space? Multi-tasking at a whole new level!

You might find yourself saying or doing things that you

don’t feel great about. This happens. Let yourself feel healthy guilt which motivates change but don’t go to shame. Guilt says, “What I did was unacceptable.” Shame says, “I’m unacceptable.” Watch that thought, it just isn’t true.

While your circumstances won’t be changing anytime soon, your way of thinking can.

• Your children will give you their most demanding behavior because they have their strongest bond with you, not because you are a bad mom.

• You will have times when you don’t feel loving simply because your self-care is absent.

• It might look like other parents have it all together; they don’t.

• You will have times when you just don’t know how to handle your kids; that is normal.

• It’s not selfish to take time to yourself when possible, even if you do nothing.

• A messy house is a sign that somebody lives there.

• Saying “good enough” is not lazy, it saves energy for things that really matter.

Allison Rees Cut It Out! • When your kids are acting like kids, you probably aren’t being judged and if you are tell yourself, “It is none of my business what you think of me or my kids.”

While pain is a part of life, suffering doesn’t have to be. We suffer when mistaken thinking creeps into our life circumstances.

If you hold the bar too high, it could be that your inner critic is taking over. Fire her!

Okay, so she will never totally disappear, just don’t give her permission to run the show. Tell her, you are a good enough mom.

LIFE Seminars has two books available, Sidestepping the Power Struggle and The Parent Child Connection. See lifeseminars.com.

Journeys of the Heart is a “free-of-charge” 10 month (30 week) cultural early learning program for Aboriginal children ages 2–5 years and their families. Program structure and delivery is designed to provide opportunities to empower and contribute to positive cultural identity within Aboriginal children and their families.

There are spaces available this coming fall at Ruth King Elementary and Shoreline Middle School.

For more information call

Sarah McDonald 250-384-9466 ex 251 62 Island Parent Magazine

IslandParent.ca

AllianceFrançaise The Alliance Française is a worldwide organization based in Paris, offering language instruction by certified teachers, adapted to the needs of learners.

Classes at various skill levels are offered though community centres in Victoria, BC. Private instruction is tailored to individuals, business and government agencies.

Email us: af@afvictoria.ca Visit us: afvictoria.ca Facebook: alliancefrvictoria

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Bleiddyn del Villar Bellis Artistic Director Bleiddyn del Villar Bellis Fellow & Examiner CSC-CICB Artistic Director Bleiddyn del Villar Bellis Fellow & Examiner CSC-CICBFinal Diploma Enrico Cecchetti Artistic Director Enrico Cecchetti Final Diploma Fellow & Examiner CSC-CICB Enrico Cecchetti Final Diploma

2018/19 2018/19 2018/19 Children’s Children’s Ballet Children’s Ballet Classes Classes Ballet September to June

Classes

September to June

oto credit: Photo David credit: Cooper David Cooper

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