April 2013 Island Parent

Island Parent Celebrating

25 Years

The Resource Publication for Vancouver Island Parents

April 2013

Special Needs Programs & Services Making Meaning with Rituals Creatively United for the Planet

Sport for All The Problem with Plastic

Summer Camp Fun

children’s boutique

Uncommonly cute from head to toe!

Cool Rain Gear

April = Showers Raincoats, Rainboots, Umbrellas

Hatley Hunter • Kamik Kushies • Splashy

DOWNTOWN

BROADMEAD VILLAGE

624 Fort St 250 360 2570

777 Royal Oak Dr 250 360 2520

www.scallywags-island.ca

Celebrate the Arts in Saanich April celebrates BC Arts and Culture Week April 21-27, 2013. As part of the celebrations of the Arts in Saanich this Spring, look for these special upcoming events: Carnival of the Arts: Saturday, April 13 - 11:00-3:00pm Free, fun, hands-on family event at the Arts Centre at Cedar Hill.

Saanich Studio Artist Tours & Exhibit: April 16-28, 2013

Throughout the month of May, artists in neighborhoods throughout Saanich open their studios to welcome visitors. Stop by the Arts Centre at Cedar Hill for the exhibit and get a special sneak peek of what's in store during the May Studio Tours. Info at www.cedarhillarts.ca.

Limelight Youth Arts Experience: May 4 -1:00-9:00pm

A celebration of local youth artists ages 12-25 years at Cedar Hill Arts Centre. Come out and support the amazing youth in your community!

For more information or for young artists wanting to take part go to www.saanich.ca/parkrec/community/youth/special-events.html

www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013 1

Contents: April 2013 Feature Pulling Up Carrots........................................................................................ 12

Articles The Problem with Plastic................................................................................. 8 The Truth or Something Like It..................................................................... 10 Making Meaning with Rituals....................................................................... 16 Summer Camp Fun....................................................................................... 20 Stop Speaking French.................................................................................... 22 Creatively United for the Planet..................................................................... 26 Sport for All.................................................................................................. 27 Special Needs Resources................................................................................ 34

Columns Editor’s Note................................................................................................... 3 Healthy Families; Happy Families................................................................. 36 Dadspeak...................................................................................................... 38 Just Eat It!..................................................................................................... 40 Book Nook................................................................................................... 42 Is There an App for This?.............................................................................. 44 New Parent Pages.......................................................................................... 48 Maternity & Beyond..................................................................................... 52 Nature Notes................................................................................................ 54 Cut It Out..................................................................................................... 56

Departments IPM Notes....................................................................................................... 4 Party Directory........................................................................................ 24, 25 Family Calendar............................................................................................ 28 Around the Island......................................................................................... 32 Up-Island Business Directory......................................................................... 33 Family Services Directory........................................................................ 46, 47 Preschool & Child Care Directory........................................................... 50, 51 South Island Business Directory.................................................................... 53 Island Parent Magazine, produced by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a monthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on resources and businesses for families, and a forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. Letters (max 250 words) should be emailed to the Editor at editor@islandparent.ca. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the Editor. Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome and should be emailed to editor@islandparent.ca.

Island Parent Magazine is distributed free in selected areas. Subscriptions can be obtained by sending $28.00 (HST included) with your name and address to the address below. Canada Post: Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement 40051398.

Island Parent Magazine

Suite A-10, 830 Pembroke St, Victoria, BC V8T 1H9 Tel: 250-388-6905 Toll Free: 1-888-372-0862 Websites: www.islandparent.ca, www.kidsinvictoria.com

On the Cover: Photo generously provided by Barry Fast.

2 Island Parent Magazine

President, Publisher: Paul Abra Vice-President: Anna Abra Director, Production Manager: Mada Moilliet Editor: Sue Fast Sales & Marketing: RaeLeigh Buchanan Publisher’s Assistant: Linda Frear Bookkeeping: Elaine Francis Distribution: Anna Abra, Ted Dawe (Mid-Island) Founders: Jim Holland & Selinde Krayenhoff Production: Eacrett Graphic Design Printed at Island Publishers Cover printed at Hillside Printing ISSN 0838-5505

www.kidsinvictoria.com

More Alike than Different

E

ven over the phone, it’s easy to tell that Katie Withrow is smiling as she describes her 18-month-old son, Emmett.

“He’s SO cute,” she says. “He’s like a magnet—he has his own fan club.” He loves music, his big sister, Savannah, the playground, snack time, his friends. He’s like most 18-month-olds, she adds, except he has Down syndrome.

Katie lives with her husband, Andy, and their two children in Sooke, surrounded by an accepting, supportive and loving community, she says, along with friends and family. So far, her family’s experience raising a child with special needs has been mostly positive, although, she adds, raising a child with special needs can be both a blessing and a challenge.

It’s a challenge watching and helping Emmett overcome obstacles, but it’s a blessing discovering the deep sense of victory and joy that comes when he reaches a new milestone.

As she talks about Emmett, Katie emphasizes that her family’s story of raising a child with special needs is just beginning, but that it has been “one of the biggest life-changing events ever.”

Not only has she learned to let go of control—“it has been one of the most uncontrollable experiences ever”—but the experience has made her more present and thankful in her day-to-day interactions and in her life.

She has learned to cherish and celebrate the milestones and has realized that life seldom goes according to plans.

“Heartache is something that you sign up for, as a parent,” she laughs. “There are so many unknowns.”

She and her husband take each day as it comes—“we’re one-step-at-a-time-type people,”—and try not to worry about what they cannot control.

“The overall theme of how this has changed my life is that it has given me the ability to let loose,” she says. “As parents, all we can do is provide our kids with the best love and care then we have to let them go.”

One of the hardest parts about parenting a child with special needs, she adds, is the level of emotional and physical tiredness that comes from the weight of tending to those needs. Doctors appointments, figuring out prescriptions, wait lists, and therapists, among other things, can all take their toll.

“We work so hard to help Emmet grow and learn,” says Katie. “We’re thinking about all this stuff all the time…sometimes, what we really want, is just to be able to enjoy each other without having to worry.”

In the last 50 years, she says, a lot has changed for children with Down syndrome.

Not only has life expectancy increased, but so, too, have resources and support. People tend to be more accepting, she says.

“There are still people who are scared to interact…or who get sidetracked by the differences,” she adds, but for the most part, people have been welcoming and supportive.

How can we all help and support special needs families?

“See us as a family,” she says. “See Emmett as a child…Don’t limit us or limit him.”

Know and love special needs children—all

Editor’s Note Sue Fast children—just the way they are, regardless of their abilities, their intelligence, talents, looks, or achievements.

Know the family, know the child, she adds.

“You can’t care about or for someone unless you get to know them.”

Include them. Invite them along. Have them over for a playdate. Make them feel welcome.

Teach your own children that those with special needs, though different in some ways, are similar in others. Point out the similarities and explain how different children have different abilities.

Most of all, Katie hopes people don’t judge Emmett—or any other child with special needs.

“Give him a chance.” Delight in him.

Celebrate with him. Don’t define him by his differences.

“I would love for Emmett to grow up in a community where everyone saw him for who he is and that we are more like Emmett than different...I think that with more awareness and exposure to people with special needs, this can happen. The once-forgotten and lookeddown-upon could be celebrated and enjoyed.

Isn’t that our hope for all of our children?”

thank you

A HUGE and heartfelt to our talented, knowledgeable, and intrepid Book Nook columnist, Maddy Smith, who after three years of penning a creative, inspiring, whimsical, and engaging column is putting down the gilded pen. We will dearly miss Maddy’s wisdom, humour, outlook, selections, and Dahl-esque reverence to children and childhood. We wish Maddy, as she wishes readers in her final column on page 42, “a future filled with brilliant books, daring days, and marvellous moments.” Thank you, Maddy, not only for handpicking and reviewing some wonderful reads, but also for making us—as you yourself do—believe in the magic of a good book.

Building skills, gaining confidence…

“He loves going to READ, everyone there really cares about him and I can feel the unity and the family-like atmosphere…”

Assessments Remedial classes in mathematics, writing and reading Sidney, Victoria and the Westshore Call 250-388-7225 for information about our services and schedules

www.readsociety.bc.ca www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013 3

IPM Notes Daffodil Month This spring, the Canadian Cancer Society is asking British Columbians to join the fight against cancer by making a donation and wearing the iconic daffodil pin.

This little yellow symbol will let people fighting the disease know that they are not alone on their cancer journey. They are supported by friends, family and the Society through its support services.

The Society delivers programs for individuals seeking cancer information, along with emotional support, and camps for children, youth and families. It also provides transportation services, accommodations and short-term financial assistance for

treatment-related transportation and accommodation. The volunteers and staff deliver cancer support programs, cancer prevention information, and they advocate for healthier communities and fundraise for cancer research.

On Daffodil Day, April 27, take a moment to reflect upon the thousands of people who are living with cancer and remember those who have died. Do something special for those living with cancer or contribute in some way to the fight against this disease.

It takes courage to take on a fight with cancer. Help get the Cancer Society’s daffodil onto the lapels of British Columbians. Show those affected by cancer that they are not alone—we are fighting with them.

You can find a pin at these province wide locations: Pharmasave, Mac’s, LifeLabs, Marketplace IGA, WirelessWave and Tbooth Mobile and Cafe Artigiano, among other locations. For a full listing, visit fightback.ca.

Actions for Earth Day Earth Day Canada challenges all Canadians (kids, classrooms, groups, businesses, individuals and families) to make positive changes to their daily habits. The challenges run from April 1-30 and encourage

participants to take up a new action for 21 days, a period long enough for the action to become a part of their daily routine.

For kids, classrooms and schools, the kid-friendly campaign, Act for the Planet, Earth Day Canada’s EcoKids program, with prizes from Sony Canada, is offering kids a chance to get involved on their own terms. Kids will have all month long to do something good for the planet (and remind their parents to do their part, too!).

Some ideas: build a bug house, grow and eat sprouts, reconnect with nature, swap stuff, start an anti-idling campaign.

For adults, lifestyle choices are typically based on convenience, complacency and habit, but these come with a price. Earth Day Canada’s Take It Up for Earth Day campaign can help you make better decisions about what you eat, drink and what resources you use. Try something new that’s good for you and the planet!

For example: eat and prepare plantbased foods at home; drink tap water and get water wise; detox your personal care routine; activate your lifestyle with outdoor, unplugged activities.

Feel ready? Visit earthday.ca, register your commitment(s) and join other Canadians this spring to make change a habit.

Writing for Island Parent Many of the articles in Island Parent are written by people just like you: parents who want to share their experiences, knowledge or ideas with other parents. We’re always happy to consider your submission, whether you’re a published writer or not. If you’re itching to express yourself but need a few pointers or a friendly nudge, come out for an evening of inspiration.

We’re holding a Writing for Island Parent workshop on Tuesday, May 7th, 7–9pm, at 830 Pembroke St, Ste B (across from the north side of Save On Foods Memorial Arena). Space is limited. If you’d like to attend, please e-mail Sue Fast at editor@islandparent.ca.

Come on out and get those creative juices flowing!

4 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Bowl for Kids’ Sake Big Brothers and Big Sisters (BBBS) of Victoria’s annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake fundraiser takes place on April 12 and 14.

Come on out, lace up your bowling shoes and join in as local businesses and caring community members come together, form teams, collect pledges and participate in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Proceeds from this event help BBBS reach its goal of matching local children with mentors.

Together, we can help children reach their full potential. In honour of 100 years of mentoring in Canada, the theme of this event is “A Blast from the Past.” Come in costume. The best dressed team participant in every bowling session will win a costume prize. Teams and individual bowlers can pre-register for two hours of bowling fun.

Teams must raise a minimum of $375.

Individual bowlers must raise a minimum of $75. Food, drink and bowling shoes are included with registration. There are many prizes to be won!

Bowl for Kids’ Sake is at Langford Lanes, 1097 Langford Parkway. For more information, phone 250-475-1117 or visit bbbsvictoria.com.

Victoria Children’s Choir Auditions The Victoria Children’s Choir (VCC) invites kids aged eight to 16 to audition for the 2013-2014 season.

VCC’s program offers: • opportunities to perform in exclusive events and concerts, and with respected artists • a new singing challenge, and the training to conquer that challenge • a way to develop natural talents • greater self-confidence • social experiences that teach teamwork, respect and motivation.

The Concert Choir and Apprentice Choir will learn a variety of masterpieces and modern arrangements that teach vocal technique at an international-performance level. As the choristers’ abilities grow, so will their knowledge and affection for all music—an appreciation easily shared among families as a whole.

Kids and teens who audition should be keen to contribute to the choir, have a good musical ear, pleasant voice in terms of resonance and breath support, and an ability to read language. With numerous rehearsals, performances, camps, and tours, choristers need to be in good physical health to fully participate in choir activities.

www.IslandParent.ca

Your Local Consignment Stores Sailor Jack Family Consignment Store • Stylish infant, kids & teen clothing • Toys & equipment • Maternity & women’s wear • New baby shoes, carriers and accessories

Being a Mom doesn’t mean you have to come last, at least not at Baja Rosi’s!

It’s our job to make it easy and affordable for you to look your best, even if the most exciting place you go is to the playground.

We think it’s time to pamper yourself a little…and we don’t mean with a diaper!

424 Craigflower Rd, Victoria 250-382-5225 www.sailorjack.ca

Sugar N Spice… and everything nice Children’s Consignment

It’s our anniversary this month and we would love to have you help us celebrate our 3rd year in business! Come in during the week of April 9th and mention you saw our ad in Parent Magazine and receive 50% off all consignment clothing, shoes, toys, books and small accessories!

2052 Otter Point Rd, Sooke 778-425-2052 sugarnspice@shaw.ca

Baja Rosi’s Consignment Cabana The place to spice up your wardrobe!

• Victoria’s Largest and Most Fun Consignment Experience!

• Hundreds of new arrivals…DAILY! • Clothing for women 13-93, including PLUS sizes • Casual styles for men • Open 7 days • No appt. necessary *see web for details • Track your sales online • Payouts on demand • Playroom for children 103 – 797 Goldstream Ave, Victoria 250-391-6033 www.bajarosis.com

At Baja Rosi’s you can get a complete outfit for about the same cost as one piece in a mall store, and the best part? We’d LOVE to dress you! Tell us a little about yourself, and one of our fashion savvy Baja Girls will start to assemble a dressing room full of suggestions for you to try. Yes, no, maybe…you get to pick, but we’ll be honest, encouraging you to step out of the box a bit and we’ll never steer you wrong!

And we have a toy room for the kids!

Abra-Kid-Abra New & Used Toys, Clothing & Furniture • Baby equipment & furniture rentals • Spring consignments being accepted 2024 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC 250-595-1613 www.abra-kid-abra.com

April 2013 5

IPM Notes To reserve an audition on April 13, phone 250-721-0856 or email vcc@victoriachildrenschoir.ca. Find out more about the audition process and the VCC program at www.victoriachildrenschoir.ca.

36 Years of Making Tomorrow Conference The 36th annual Making Tomorrow Conference at UVic on Saturday, April 27 promises a day of learning, networking, inspiration and fun. The dynamic line-up of speakers includes Allison Rees, Marty Layne, Amy Collum, and Chand Taneja, among others, hosting workshops on a wide range of interesting topics.

Kim Atkinson and Danielle Davis will deliver the keynote address, Reflecting on Our Image of the Child—Making Visible the Competencies and Complexities of Children. Danielle and Kim invite participants to reflect on their view of the child, rethinking children as citizens, as strong and capable of building theories and knowledges. They will show pedagogical narrations (stories of children) to make visible the learning that happens in ordinary moments of play, and how children are continually constructing theories of their world. This presentation will generate dialogue and new ways of seeing the role of adults in supporting children’s learning and thinking.

Kicking off the morning address will be the ARTist Response Team of Holly Arntzen and Kevin Wright. They perform Voices of Nature community outreach events, traveling the land bringing music and science education to entire communities as they sing and speak out for sustainability.

The conference is presented by the Vancouver Island Cooperative Preschool Association (VICPA), which has been an advocate since 1949 for a high-quality playful, exploratory, investigative environment for young children, and for professional standards for the adults who work with them.

For a detailed workshop and speaker list and to register, visit www.makingtomorrowconference.com.

Disney’s Beauty & the Beast Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the awardwinning Broadway musical, is coming to Victoria’s Royal Theatre from Thursday, May 2 through Sunday, May 5. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, 6 Island Parent Magazine

and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress.

If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out.

If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast features the animated film’s Academy Award®-winning score with music by Alan Menken and lyrics by the late Howard Ashman, plus additional songs with music by Alan Menken and lyrics

by Tim Rice. The book is written by Linda Woolverton.

The play is directed by Rob Roth and choreographed by Matt West, with costume design by Ann Hould-Ward (Tony Award® winner for her work on Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), lighting design by Natasha Katz, scenic design by Stanley A. Meyer, sound design by John Petrafesa Jr. and music supervision by Michael Kosarin.

Performances are Thursday, May 2 (7:30pm), Friday, May 3 (7:30pm) and Saturday, May 4 (2pm and 7:30pm) and Sunday, May 5 (1pm and 6:30pm). Tickets are available through the Royal and McPherson Theatres Society, online at www. rmts.bc.ca or by calling 250-386-6121 or 1-888-717-6121. Group sales available for groups of 15 or more. Groups may call 250-386-6121 or 1-888-717-6121. For more information, visit www.BeautyAndTheBeastOnTour.com.

A Fun-Filled Day at BookFest Mark your calendars: Saturday May 4 is the 27th annual Vancouver Island Children’s Book Festival. BookFest 2013 is a wonderful opportunity for children aged five to 12 to meet some of Canada’s finest children’s authors, illustrators and storytellers in downtown Nanaimo.

Join Kathy Beliveau, Roch Carrier, Linda Granfield, Maryann Kovalski, Tololwa Mollel, Barbara Reid, Rick Scott, Ashely Spires, and David Ward as they enchant young and old with their dynamic presentations. Listen as the Great Gazoon is lifted off the page and into the ear with music, be spellbound by some incredible stories from history, have fun being a cobra, and marvel at the artistry of plasticine.

All the action takes place from 10am2:30pm in venues surrounding the Diana Krall plaza in the heart of downtown Nanaimo. Noon-hour activities include the lively Jangano Marimba Band from Oceanside. Books will be available for purchase on

site or you can bring your own for the book signing following the last session. T-shirts featuring an alien reader designed by graphic illustrator Mike Deas will also be on sale.

Tickets are $10 per child for three sessions to a maximum of $25 per family. Free parentchild rhyme-time session, musical storytime, and a puppet show are all available for tots and preschoolers and their caregivers. Bring your family to a magical fun-filled day in celebration of books!

Tickets are available through the Port Theatre in Nanaimo; 250-754-8550, www. porttheatre.com.

For more information, visit www.bookfest.ca and BookFest on Facebook.

Hike for Hospice 2012 Mark your calendar and start fundraising with your family, friends, or group for the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Hike for Hospice on Sunday, May 5. This nationwide event is designed to bring together individuals and organizations to raise funds and awareness for hospice and palliative care.

The hike will take place in several communities across Vancouver Island and is open to everyone.

Nanaimo and area residents meet at Maffeo Sutton Park for the Walk to Remember and Picnic in the Park. Registration will begin at 10am and the hike starts at 11am.

Afterwards, participants are invited to the Picnic in the Park from noon-2pm.

Gather pledges, gather a team. Wear your company logo. Leashed pets are welcome.

To register, phone Nanaimo Hospice Community Society at 250-758-8857 or email jeannef@nanaimohospice.com. For links for online fundraising or to print a pledge sheet, visit nanaimohospice.com.

4th Annual Family Sport & Recreation Festival The 4th annual Island Savings Family Sport and Recreation Festival—A Celebration of Physical Literacy Fun for the Family, will be at the Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence (PISE) on Saturday, May 4 from 11am-4pm. This is a free event brought to you by the Greater Victoria Hall of Fame and the Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence.

Its primary purpose is to inspire families to be more active, and to encourage youngsters to be more physically literate by getting involved in sports and recreational activities. This is a chance for kids to be introduced to new opportunities at the club and community level, and for parents to learn

www.kidsinvictoria.com

more about keeping their kids engaged in healthy activities. With more than 30 activities, including a variety of sports, obstacle courses, zip lining, adapted sports and free PISE sample fitness classes, there is lots of fun for everyone. PISE is located at 4371 Interurban Rd. Come out and have fun!

For more information, call 250-220-2510 or visit www.piseworld.com.

Volunteer Opportunity for Summer Naturalists Passionate about parks? CRD Regional Parks has volunteer opportunities for Summer Naturalists who have a passion for sharing nature with the public.

CRD staff provides training, support, a beautiful work environment and a great deal of appreciation. You provide your knowledge, talent and creativity at Elk/ Beaver Lake or Witty’s Lagoon Regional Parks’ Nature Centres. The commitment is one four-hour shift per week from noon4pm on weekdays during July and August.

Naturalists welcome, engage and inspire visitors. Duties include opening and closing the centre, noting visitor statistics, greeting our visitors and inspiring them to fully enjoy the amazing birds, plants, insects, mammals and geography of our regional parks.

Interested? Contact Colleen Long, Coordinator of Volunteers at 250-360-3329, clong@crd.bc.ca or visit www.crd.bc.ca/ parks/beinvolved.

Strong Kids Campaign The YMCA-YWCA of Greater Victoria’s Annual Strong Kids Campaign is in full swing. The campaign is aimed at raising public awareness and much needed financial support for the work the Victoria Y does in providing children, families, and at-risk youth with the values and life skills they need to succeed.

Each year, the YMCA-YWCA of Greater Victoria helps hundreds of young people by providing them with direct financial assistance.

The Annual Strong Kids Campaign encourages the public to help provide opportunities for children and families facing financial barriers, and at-risk youth to participate in and benefit from Y programs and services. For more information about the YMCA-YWCA of Greater Victoria’s Strong Kids Campaign, or to make a donation, visit www.ymcastrongkids.ca or www. victoriay.com, or drop by the Victoria Y at 851 Broughton Street.•

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Le français au CSF, c’est bien plus qu’une langue !

Depuis sa création en 1995, le Conseil scolaire francophone de la Colombie-Britannique offre des programmes et des services éducatifs valorisant le plein épanouissement et l’identité culturelle des apprenantes et apprenants francophones de la province.

Le conseil compte aujourd’hui plus de 4 600 élèves, 36 écoles publiques et dessert plus d’une centaine de communautés réparties dans l’ensemble de la province.

Inscrivez votre enfant dans une école du CSF !

Nos écoles publiques daNs l’île de VaNcouVer Campbell River École Mer-et-montagne École secondaire Phoenix École secondaire Carihi

250-923-3359 1102 South Alder 250-923-3359 400, 7th Ave. 250-923-3359 350 Dogwood St.

M-6 7-9 10 - 12

Comox Valley

École au Cœur-de-l'île

250-339-1848 566 Linshart Rd.

M - 12

Nanaimo

École Océane 250-714-0761 1951 Estevan Rd. M - 7 École secondaire de Nanaimo 250-714-0761 355 Wakesiah Ave. 8 - 12

Port Alberni

École des Grands-cèdres

250-723-5614 4645 Helen St.

M-6

Victoria

École Victor-Brodeur

250-220-6010 637 Head St.

M - 12

csf.bc.ca

April 2013

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Rachel Dunstan Muller

The Problem With Plastic B

eth Terry was as hooked on plastic as the next North American consumer—until she stumbled across a photo of a dead albatross chick, its carcass overflowing with bottle caps and other plastic debris. The chick’s photo was taken on Midway Atoll, a tiny stretch of sand miles from civilization in the middle of the North Pacific. The photo shocked Terry so much that within a week she’d put herself on a radical plastic diet.

She started a blog to chronicle her journey, became a part-time activist, and published the book Plastic Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and How You Can Too. I discovered Beth Terry’s blog “My Plastic-Free Life” after learning about the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. This floating garbage patch, aka the North Pacific Gyre, is a soup of plastic debris. It covers an ex-

tensive area—as large as Quebec according to some estimates. The sun photodegrades the floating plastic into smaller and smaller pieces, which act as sponges, absorbing organic pollutants like DDT and PCBs. Jellyfish consume the smaller particles, while sea birds and turtles routinely mistake larger pieces for food—and then die when they can’t digest the plastic. The toxins from this plastic soup eventually make their way up the food chain to us. Sadly, the North Pacific Gyre is just one of many areas in the world’s oceans where currents have concentrated plastic waste. And this plastic is in the water for good—there’s no practical way to get it out again.

It’s hard to imagine life without this amazingly cheap, versatile and durable material.

But the qualities that make it so useful to

Summer Music at St. Michaels University School Voice – Youth Opera Lab July 8–20

Voice – In the Key of Glee July 8–13

SummerBand July 8–19

Musical Theatre August 15–31

For more information or to register, visit our website at: www.smus.ca/summer, or call 250-370-6120.

FOR ALL KIDS IN VICTORIA AGES 12–18

8

Island Parent Magazine

smus.ca

us make it a nightmare for nature. Because plastic is so cheap and versatile, the world produces a lot of it (280 million tons in 2011, according to the trade organization PlasticsEurope). Much of it is produced for single-use items like grocery bags and packaging. But because plastic is so durable, it stays in the environment long after it’s outlived its usefulness.

In the best-case scenario, discarded plastic travels to a recycling plant. But even this has its drawbacks, since plastic recycling is energy-intensive and a source of pollution. Furthermore, the markets for various recycled plastics fluctuate, so some of what we put in our blue bins may end up in the landfill anyway. Plastic that is landfilled can take centuries to degrade, leaching out toxic chemicals in the process. In the worst-case scenario, littered plastic gets carried down a waterway to the sea. (According to the State of California Ocean Protection Council, 80 per cent of marine debris is estimated to have come from land-based sources.)

There are also potential health concerns associated with consuming foods and beverages packaged in plastic, since plastic containers can leach trace amounts of troubling chemicals like bisphenol A and phthalates into their contents. (For a good overview of this subject, search for the article “Pots, Pans, and Plastics: A Shopper’s Guide to Food Safety” on webmd.com.)

After checking Beth Terry’s book out of the library, I’m convinced that a life with less plastic is both doable and desirable. Terry offers all kinds of practical suggestions to get concerned consumers started: Bring reusable bags to the store. If you find the cheap store-brand bags too bulky, flimsy, or hard to keep clean, Terry suggests investing in some better quality ones. I asked for some well-made nylon grocery and produce bags for Christmas, which I found online from a Canadian source. They’re easy to carry, washable, and much more attractive than the ones I had previously. Consequently I remember to use them more often.

Pass on bottled water. Municipal water on Vancouver Island is tested from several times a month to several times a day, depending on a number of factors, so what comes out of our taps is safe. It’s also virtually free.

There’s no reason for most of us to pay up to a 3,000 per cent markup for our drinking water.

Buy larger packages rather than smaller ones. Single-serving or travel-size containers are convenient, but they generate a huge amount of waste. It doesn’t take much time www.kidsinvictoria.com

to fill a soap dispenser from a refill package, or transfer yogurt from a large container into smaller ones for kids’ lunches. Think bulk, and you’ll save money, too.

Cook and bake from scratch. Much of the plastic we dispose of daily comes from food packaging, especially convenience foods.

The more you cook and bake from scratch, the less packaging you’ll consume. This is another win-win suggestion as your family will get healthier meals and your grocery bill will almost certainly go down.

Make your own personal care and cleaning products. Terry’s book offers a number of DIY recipes, many of which are also available on the web. I’ve tried many of them successfully. I use a baking soda solution instead of shampoo, and a cider vinegar solution instead of conditioner (Google “no ’poo method” for the details). I also make my own deodorant and almost all of our household cleansers.

For every plastic product we’ve grown to depend on (like disposable diapers or feminine hygiene products), there’s a plastic-free alternative.

Use plastic alternatives. For every plastic product we’ve grown to depend on (like disposable diapers or feminine hygiene products), there’s a plastic-free alternative.

Terry’s blog has a comprehensive list of suppliers if you’re looking for something difficult to find.

Buy second hand. By buying plastic items like toys second hand, we can cut the demand for new plastic, extend the useful life of existing items, and avoid a ton of wasteful packaging.

Buy quality. As Captain Charles Moore* told David Letterman, “We need to make plastic into stuff we really want to last forever. Plastic lasts a long, long time.

Let’s make stuff out of it that we want to be around, and if we have to have throwaways, let’s make them biodegrade so you can throw them into the compost pile and get rid of them.”

I couldn’t agree more! *Moore is the oceanographer who first brought the Great Pacific Garbage Patch to the world’s attention.

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

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April 2013 9

Tim Collins

The Truth or Something Like It

T

he most defining moment in all my years of education happened in the spring of 1967. Our eighth grade geography teacher had called in sick, leaving my rather unruly class with a substitute teacher. I don’t remember much about the man except that he was very, very old—he was probably all of 35 but, hey, I was in Grade 8 and everyone over 20 was considered old.

As usual, my classmates and I saw the presence of a “sub” as an opportunity to be on our worst wise-cracking behaviour, and he knew it. Yet, rather than trying to rein us in, he did something very unusual. To the best of my recollection, this is how it happened.

Sitting on the corner of his desk, he scanned the classroom and waited. When he was ready, he spoke.

“I’m not going to teach you anything today.”

That got our attention.

“Instead,” he continued, “I’m going to tell you something—a secret—that no one else is going to tell you for a very long time, if ever.”

He had us hooked.

“Don’t believe something just because a teacher tells you it’s true.” His voice was hushed, as though he was afraid the principal or one of the other teachers might overhear. “And don’t believe your parents, your priest, the police, your friends, or that kid who’s trying to sell you pot out by the dumpster—don’t just believe anyone.”

He held up our geography textbook.

“This book,” he said. “Most of the stuff in here is garbage, a one-sided view of the world. Not necessarily the truth.”

I remember how I thought he might be a little crazy, but there was something compel-

ling about the way he spoke—a tone that kept us all quiet.

“I’m not saying,” he continued, “that all those people are lying to you—although some of them might be. I’m saying that they’re probably telling you what they think is true.” But, he warned us, figuring out what’s true isn’t easy.

I remember struggling to understand as he kept talking. “Read about the Vietnam War,” he said. “Read about it in Rolling Stone Magazine and then in the Christian Science Monitor, and you’ll get very different versions of the story—of the truth. Which one is lying?”

You could have heard a pin drop in that room.

“As you grow up, you’re going to hear all kinds of garbage represented as truth. Don’t believe any of it—not until you check out the facts for yourself.”

Work hard to figure out the truth, he said.

And be strong enough to change your mind when you get new facts.

By the end of the class, we were all whispering about what he’d said. It was an episode that couldn’t have taken more than 15 minutes, but nearly half a century later it still resonates in my consciousness.

The other day my granddaughter, Randi,

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asked me if her little toy Disney princesses could really talk. I laughed and held up Cinderella and, in my best falsetto, said, “What do you think? Do you think I can talk?”

Randi laughed and picked up the Snow White doll and replied in her own threeyear-old falsetto, “Of course you can! I just heard you!” And then we both laughed.

Later, as we were cleaning up, Randi looked at me and said, “Papa? They can’t talk—not really.” Then she thought about it for a second and clarified the point: “I think they can all talk, but only if we help them.” Then she leaned in and whispered, “But they can’t really talk. Not alone. That’s what I think.”

I smiled and nodded, feeling very proud of her.

You see, she’d taken the first step toward critical thinking. Even as a three-year-old, she’d looked at the world that we’d created in play and realized that there was a definite line between reality and make-believe. She’d also figured out that it was OK to blur that line to have fun, but not to actually believe that the dolls could talk. It was heady stuff for a three-year-old. And it made me think about how Randi is heading into a very complicated world.

She will have to decide for herself what is true about everything: history, the environment, religion, economics, politics—the list is endless. And I wonder what I can do to help. After all these years, my understanding of what is absolutely true is limited to fundamentals like, “the shower curtain always goes inside the tub when you take a shower or else the bathroom floor will get wet.”

Helping our children understand their world begins with all of us questioning our own beliefs. While as parents (and grandparents) we should, naturally, try to instill morals and values in our children—the truth as we see it—the tough part is to do so without injecting our own prejudices or stifling challenges to those beliefs. Instead, it might help to let them know that, sometimes, we don’t know for certain. We can tell our children what we think, but we should also tell them that the truth is hard to pin down and that they have to ask questions and think things out.

Now it may be that Randi will figure it out all on her own. She probably will. She’s very bright, after all. But you know, I think I might tell her anyway. It couldn’t hurt.

Tim Collins is a writer and freelance journalist living and working in Victoria.

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April 2013 11

Katie Withrow

How parenting a child with Down syndrome has changed my life ulling up carrots is a family favourite. We always plant West Coasts Seeds’ Rainbow Blend. Our almost four-year-old daughter Savannah is my favourite harvesting partner. “Loosen up the soil. OK, pull at the base.” Purple, white, orange, what colour will this one be? Her favourite is purple.

I will always remember the day we “found out” about Emmett.

I was five months pregnant and in the garden that day, too, while my baby was silently dividing 47 chromosome cells inside of me.

Savannah was in her pink swimsuit in her backyard pool. It was June. My husband Andy walked outside with the phone in hand.

It was Jill, our midwife. “She says ‘probably,’ not ‘possibly,’” said Andy. I dropped the hose. Tears spilled. We talked. We thought this was coming, but now it was more certain.

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Trisomy 21 is the medical term and refers to three copies of the 21st chromosome— most of us only get two. But Trisomy 21 is more commonly referred to as Down syndrome.

Although we used the word “probably” we still didn’t know for sure. His birth day was very much anticipated. We had so many extra, precious and serious conversations with many health care professionals over this baby and it made us want him more than ever. He or she? Red hair, curly? Three pounds, four pounds or five pounds? The ultrasound suggested 4 lbs plus or minus 1. Blue or brown eyes? 46 or 47 chromosomes? Health issues or healthy? Who is this secret person inside of me and what life will we share together? There were so many questions to be answered.

“The baby is coming soon, Savannah. We must be ready. Are you ready?”

September 23, 2011 Emmett arrived. He was so perfectly tiny and so incredibly cute.

The quietest cry, softest hands, tiniest feet.

He opened his big beautiful blue almond eyes and looked at me as if saying, “Hello.

Here I am. Will you love me?”

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Emmett is not who I expected or planned for. Many would not consider him perfect. But he is a dream. He is 17 months old now and has completely stolen our hearts.

My heart answered with a big, it’s-toolate-I-already-do, fears-and-all YES. Four pounds fifteen ounces. What a big guy! We were ready for a three pounder.

Right after Emmett was born, Andy and I did a lot of staring. Staring at each other.

Then staring at Emmett. Here he is.

I will always remember a conversation with midwife Jill when Emmett was just hours old. We sat together, Jill telling me that Emmett picked the right family. That he was one lucky guy and was going to have the best life. We asked big questions together like what it’s like to live in a perfection- and expectation-obsessed society where models are air-brushed and altered in magazines and where carrots that are slightly misshaped don’t even make it to the grocery store. We spend so much energy, time, and money on looking and striving to be perfect.

The idea of perfection is introduced to us at such a young age. We formulate our expectations regarding our future and then

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April 2013 13

spend much of our life disappointed that it hasn’t gone as planned. Jill and I spoke about the idea of opening our hands. Opening our hands to the concept of letting go of control and expectations. Opening our hands to receive what is being given to us. Receiving beauty, suffering, relationships and life.

Receiving it all. I cried and my hands opened.

Emmett is not who I expected or planned for. Many would not consider him perfect. But he is a dream. He is 17 months old now and has completely stolen our hearts.

He smiles at everything and everyone and is the most lovable, accepting child I know. Savannah refers to him as her “best fwend” and everyone who sees him can’t resist him. He has many fans.

Although our life is different, it is perfect.

Different than planned and different than expected don’t always mean bad. We can’t all be the same—we are not. We are all our own unique selves and our diversity makes our families, our community and our

world better. Diversity promotes learning, understanding, kindness and caring. Even looking at our world biologically, the more biodiversity in an ecosystem, the healthier and stronger it is.

We spend so much energy and time striving, willing, struggling to make our life a certain way. Having a child with special needs has been one of the most non-controlled experiences of my life. I have given up the need for control and as I have, I am noticing beauty and delight all around me that I

missed before. I am now more at peace and more joyful than ever before.

I have learned that I romanticized parenting. Before having children I only pictured the tickle fights, forts, library story times and baking cookie moments.

Somehow my imagination didn’t include showdowns that end in time-outs, trying to get our kids to stop picking their noses in public and cleaning up pee puddles at the store. Both of my children have taught me that parenting is about a deeper love than I imagined, a deep covenantal love where you look at your child and say “yes” you are mine and I am yours.

We pulled the last of our carrots last week. Many different colours, many different shapes. We washed them off, placed them together on a plate and admired them—delicious, different, and so beautiful.

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April 2013 15

Janine Fernandes-Hayden

Making Meaning with Rituals I

wonder what my children will think of when they reflect on their childhood.

“Use your germ pocket when you cough.

Make your bed. Did you wash your hands?

Look people in their eyeballs when you’re talking to them.” With any luck, they will remember the good habits that I drilled into their heads, those things that I hope will fall into the background and make their lives more efficient without needing much thought. But equally memorable, I hope, are the rituals, those acts and events that are far from being mindless or passive, and that shine a spotlight on what is most important to our family. Habits for ordinary lives made easier, rituals for extraordinary lives made more meaningful.

What is it about rituals that makes them so very powerful? I smile nostalgically and feel deeply connected when I think back to the rituals of my childhood. The memories don’t hang on the stuff like presents or chocolate eggs but on something more fulfilling; it is an emotion that I can’t really explain. But perhaps therein lies the strength of rituals.

They are a language for what we can’t express. They tap into our subconscious and awaken the virtues within: joyfulness, appreciation, purposefulness, reverence, unity, humanity. Rituals add depth to our lives and substance to our experiences. They provide us with a sense of belonging and help us to feel a part of something that is larger than just ourselves. Through ritual

we carve out time to stop and appreciate the bounty of our life and/or the lessons that we are meant to learn.

Rituals force us to show up, for our children and for ourselves. Each time I pass our local track and field, my mind lingers on the past when I spent every Tuesday morning there, sneaking in a run while my three youngest children played next to the track. First we would drive around until the baby was asleep. Then off to the track we’d go. Set the kids up on a blanket by the long jump sand pit with a special snack and digging toys and/or bicycles. Kids play independently while Mama runs around the track for 20 minutes. Baby awakes. We all play together at the park followed by a picnic lunch.

That was a year ago and since then, my son has started kindergarten and my baby is now a year and a half old. I so miss those days because, despite the sleep deprivation and the general haziness of that particular year with a new baby, and regardless of my regrets for what I didn’t do or what I should/could have done, this was something that I did do for myself and for my children without distraction. It was fun time mindfully spent together that my children could depend on at least once a week.

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Well-known calendar holidays are examples of rituals that help children gain a sense of time and structure in their lives and meet their need for predictability. In our home, no sooner is Christmas over than my children start to ask, “What’s next?”

Our year-at-a-glance calendar is speckled with pink highlighter that marks special occasions: Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day, throw in a few birthdays, followed

by Mother’s Day, then Father’s Day. These rituals are a cause for celebration that offer our lives some hope and optimism of things to come.

Our lives are filled with rituals, and not just at certain times of the year. We celebrate new babies and graduations and commemorate the loss of pets and other loved ones.

These are often times of transitions during which rituals play an important role. When my third child was born, my son who was two years old at the time, would repeatedly fling himself on the floor exclaiming, “I’m dead! I’m black!” The dramatics were morbidly funny yet somewhat concerning.

Deep down, I believe my son’s actions were an unconscious manifestation of grief, a “little death” in the face of his changing life and role in the family.

Transitions can be overwhelming for children. Rituals are valuable in helping children negotiate the humps in their lives.

They are “space holders” that enable children to explore and process their emotions, positive or negative, either consciously or subconsciously. During trying times, rituals can keep us from getting stuck—they are almost a tactful way of honouring feelings while acknowledging that which must continue, particularly when words seem awkward and unavailable. I think back to when our dog Atticus died and how the ritual of burying him in our yard with his toys was such a beautifully peaceful way of coping and helping our children work through feelings that they perhaps did not quite understand. In hindsight, when I think back to the example with my “black” son, while I had prepared him for the joyfulness of a new baby, I wish I had thought of a ritual to help my son address the grief that he felt over the change in his life. Perhaps I could have helped him express his feelings in words or drawings on a piece of paper that we could have then burned as a cathartic release.

It is important to remember that rituals are not reserved only for yearly events or transition times in our lives. In our everyday life, some of the simplest acts mindfully perwww.IslandParent.ca

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17

formed can prove to be intuitively symbolic.

We shake hands when we meet someone new as a symbol of respect. In our families, sitting together to share a meal or enjoying storytime speaks to the virtue of unity. For us as parents, ritualizing some of our daily chores and tasks can make the rote and the humdrum seem more purposeful. My father would always say, “Whatever you do, do it with love.” When my days seem to be overcome with sweeping floors, folding laundry and making meals, I try to hold onto those words and recognize that what I do for my children and family are symbols of love, caring, service and responsibility.

And yet for all the benefits that rituals hold, I wonder whether many of them begin to look like mindless habits after a while.

How often do we find ourselves simply going through the motions, putting up balloons or buying presents because we feel we have to? What does it really mean to light candles on a birthday cake?

We can keep rituals from becoming habit by pausing to reflect on the substance behind them. Rituals have everything to do with intention and hold no meaning unless we recognize the intention.

Are there important rituals in your family life that are becoming more like habits?

How can you return to meaning? Do your rituals reflect what is most important to you and your family?

Here are some ideas worth trying: 1. Commit to sharing at least one meal together as a family and save a place at the table for lessons in thankfulness and generosity. Invite awareness by saying “grace” however you define it, and/or have each person take their turn sharing one thing that they are grateful for.

2. As a parent, enjoy your shower or bath, not just as a means to physical cleanliness but as a way to purify your mind and soul and a way to capture some peacefulness in your day.

3. Make up special rituals that cultivate meaning and bring mindfulness to those things that are important to your family.

One of the things that we have created in our family is a weekly “Gem Ceremony” where each member of the family receives a gem and an acknowledgment for those gems/virtues (for example, kindness, respect gentleness, generosity) that they have “polished” over that week.

4. Use rituals as a way to remember the joyfulness of life. Every March 17, a sneaky

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Leprechaun finds his way into our home, turning our milk green and flipping our house inside out and upside down. And what a great occasion to capitalize on the one-day appeal of otherwise unappreciated green foods.

5. Appreciate and acknowledge important life events such as the birth of a new baby and the death of a pet. With each new baby in our family, we had fun getting our hands messy making a piñata, a belly cast and big brother/big sister T-shirts. As the big day approached, we put out pink and blue balloons at the end of our driveway for neighbours and friends waiting on tenterhooks. We’ve popped a lot of blue balloons over the years.

6. Make it a ritual to reflect on rituals.

Look through old photographs, photo albums and baby books. Document important memories. For Christmas, my daughter received a recipe box with index cards as a gift.

Now, whenever we cook or bake something that she loves, we put the recipe in her box.

It is a keepsake that I hope will remind her of our special time together. Perhaps it will be a springboard for future rituals that she does with her children.

7. Create rituals that are special to each of your children individually to acknowledge their unique importance to you. When my eldest daughter turned three, she asked for a bouquet of pink roses for her birthday. It has become her special tradition ever since.

Rituals are about many things, but underlying it all, they are about connection and relationships. In a world where children face so many conflicting signposts, rituals provide an anchor and a compass that secure our attachment to them. With my school aged-children, while I know that I cannot control what happens during their day, I believe that something as little as the secret that I whisper in their ear each morning before they go to school and the snuggle time that we share at bedtime bracket their day like bookends that provide them with stability.

They are small yet thoughtful gestures that embrace their lives with a boundary within which they can feel safe and secure, no matter the uncertainty or chaos that may arise in between.

S ome p e opl e th i n k l e ar n i ng dis abi liti es are li fel ong .

®

We d on’t .

Eaton Arrowsmith School is the only school in Victoria that focuses on the potential of children with learning disabilities to benefit from the brain’s ability to change itself in order to improve cognitive functioning for life.

Strengthening learning capacities instead of accommodating for learning weaknesses.

Upcoming information session: Wednesday, April 10th, 2013, 4–6pm #200-3200 Shelbourne St, Victoria RSVP: 250-370-0046 or victoria@eatonarrowsmithschool.com

Strengthening Learning Capacities

Hampton Little League Challengers “Where everyone is a winner” The Challenger Program was established in 1989 as a division of Little League to enable boys and girls with special needs, ages 4–18, or up to age 22 if still enrolled in high school, to enjoy the game of baseball along with the millions of other children who participate in this sport worldwide.

Today, more than 30,000 children participate in more than 900 Challenger Divisions worldwide.

Each player will receive a ball cap, team picture, free Hampton “Funday” BBQ meal, and a year end award. Games will be 90 minutes in length, every Saturday with the exception of the May long weekend and “Funday”—June 8, and the season runs from April 13 to June 23, 2013.

Cost is $50, however Hampton Little League has an everybody plays policy: if a family cannot afford the $50, registration fee will be waived. For more information about Hampton Little League, please visit www.hamptonlittleleague.org.

Registration for the Challenger Program is currently being accepted online at www.hamptonlittleleague.org OR In Person on March 31 from 1 to 4pm at the clubhouse on Tillicum Road.

For more information about the Hampton Little League Challenger Program, contact Kristen Kay at klakay@shaw.ca.

Janine Fernandes-Hayden is an educator, trained Virtues Project facilitator, and Salt Spring Island mum of four children. She hosts a parent and kids radio show called “The Beanstalk” on Salt Spring Island airwaves at CFSI 107.9 FM.

www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013 19

Summer Camp Fun Residential summer camps offer children and teens a chance to take a step toward independence in a safe, fun-filled setting.

Read on for some ideas for your child.

Camp Footholds. Footholds Therapy Center offers a wide variety of summer programs at Camp Footholds. Our camps offer programming geared towards children with special needs (autism, FASD, etc) and other emotional and psychological challenges (anxiety/ depression). Camp Footholds focuses on empowering kids by building social skills and self-esteem, all while having lots of fun. Ten different highly staffed camps run at different times throughout the summer and offer unique programming. Camp Footholds is located in Central Nanaimo and the camps can be covered by MCFD Autism funding.

250-585-4411, www.footholds.ca.

Camp Imadene has been providing successful camping opportunities for children, teens, and adults on Vancouver Island for 85+ years. Our 200-acre property surrounds

beautiful Mesachie Lake, just 90 minutes from Victoria. Each year, 1,500 campers come to enjoy tubing, wakeboarding, our 1,000 ft. BMX track, rock-climbing, rappelling, caving, swimming, boating, low-ropes, geocaching, pickleball, and more. With a 1:2 staff-to-camper ratio, we provide a supportive and encouraging atmosphere that fosters unforgettable experiences and lifelong friendships. 1-800-445-7575, www.imadene.com.

Imagination and adventure thrive at Camp Narnia. We are located near Parksville, and are a non-denominational camp whose programs are based on the creative children’s stories The Chronicles of Narnia. Camps are for children ages 6-15. Camp Narnia is centered on storytelling, forest and nature activities, unique crafts, theatre, and so much more.

Our purpose is to foster the joys of childhood, respect and community in a unique setting. Come join in the adventure! www. campnarnia.com.

Camp Pringle (Shawnigan Lake). With great

one-week sessions like Swim Club (Red Cross Badges), Canoe Adventure (Basic Paddlers certification), Family Bike Camp, Wilderness Adventure, Theatre, Fishing, Boys, Pre-White Sail and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Along with these great new camp sessions comes Chef Bob’s famous meals, fabulous new buildings, a week on the lake and, as always, a safe and fun week that lasts a lifetime! www.camppringle.com.

Camp Qwanoes is a youth-oriented highadventure Christian camp celebrating a 47year tradition of excellence in camp ministry on Vancouver Island. We are fully accredited and maintain standards of the highest quality. Choose from week-long co-ed camps for Juniors, Junior Highs, and Senior Highs, plus Family Retreats. Seeking to encourage, challenge, and develop the entire person, our well-rounded programs include over 75 activities, stimulating speakers, music & singing, Bible study, firesides, and pure fun!

Qwanoes is an ideal place for life-changing adventure. For a brochure or more info: 1-888-997-9266, www.qwanoes.ca.

PARENTS, A Vacation Where We Care for YOU too! A wonderful family holiday option on THETIS ISLAND. Take in practical, challenging, Christ-focused Bible teaching amidst an island vacation setting at Capernwray Harbour Bible Centre. Programming and activities for all ages. Programme costs include of cozy accommodations and scrumptious meals. Join in on 5-days of focus and fun. 7 Weeks in July and August to choose from. See www.capernwray.ca or call 1-888-224-5681 for all the details.

Each summer for the past 45 years, the Comox Valley Youth Music Centre has challenged and encouraged youth in music. For one to three weeks, depending on the program, students immerse in their art with like-minded peers, often making lifelong friends and career decisions. Classical, jazz and musical theatre are all taught, and because auditions are not required to attend, all newcomers (ages 13 to 20) are welcome. Register now at www. cymc.ca.

Pick up your copy of Island Parent at any of one our 25 Serious Coffee locations.

20 Island Parent Magazine

The Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre offers science camps introducing participants to the plants and animals of the estuarine habitat.

Activities focus on eelgrass beds, intertidal mudflats, and surrounding shore and sky of Cowichan Bay. Explorations include beach seines, mud digs, bird surveys, and other fun hands-on learning. 9am-noon, $140/

www.kidsinvictoria.com

camp. Ages 6-8, July 8-12 & Aug 19-23.

Ages 9-12, July 15-19 & July 22-26. Ages 13-16, July 29-Aug 2 & Aug 12-16. www. cowichanestuary.ca.

FUN Camps is a hands-on environmental leadership day camp that makes caring for the environment and exploring nature FUN! This is a great chance for 6-16 year olds to get outside, gain leadership skills, meet new friends and learn how to become eco-heroes, but mostly to have a ton of fun. Now offering before and after care. Register for our fabulous themed weeks online at www. funcamps.ca.

The Gulf Islands Film and Television School (GIFTS) is a creative camp offering 1- and 2-week junior (10-14 yrs), youth (14-18yrs), and adult media exploration camps with a “learn by doing” philosophy. Students create, act, shoot, animate and edit their short films in small groups, on beautiful, safe Galiano Island, B.C. Budding filmmakers make lifelong friendships while being mentored in a supportive fun environment. Only 1-hour ferry ride from Swartz Bay. 1-800-813-9993, www.giftsfilms.com. gifts@giftsfilms.com.

The Marine Adventure Program at Glenlyon Norfolk School is beginning its 19th season providing 5-6 day sea kayak camps for teens and youth. Small groups and experienced leaders create an ideal and safe opportunity to experience sea kayaking and the marine environment while gaining skills in paddling, marine travel, navigation, marine life and more. These active camps are full of games and activities and explore some of the most spectacular locations of our world famous B.C. coastline. Contact the Marine Adventure Program at 250-370-6852 or email dtyrrell@ mygns.ca.

Glenlyon Norfolk School Marine Adventure Program Teen Marine Kayak Camps – Summer 2013 Ph 250-370-6852 Email dtyrrell@mygns.ca Day Camps: July 22–26, Aug 12–16

These popular camps (9:00–4:30) for children ages 11 to 12 cover all the basics in sea kayaking, with plenty of fun for the younger paddler. Cost: $255.00

Teen Barkley Sound: June 30–July 5 Teen Johnstone Strait: Aug 18–23 Two exciting sea kayak camping expeditions for teens ages 15–17.

Cost: $625.00 + tax

Discovery Camps: July 8–12, Aug 5–9

For ages 13 to 14, sea kayaking basics, rescues, games, and a three-day camping experience on Discovery Island.

Cost: $285.00 + tax

Offering marine adventure since 1995!

Enter Our Online Contests Every month at Island Parent and Kids In Victoria you can enter to win some great prizes!

Check out the prizes and enter the contests by visiting

www.IslandParent.ca or www.kidsinvictoria.com

SMUS Summer Music Academies at St. Michaels University School. Voice—Youth Opera Lab: July 8-20. Voice—In the Key of Glee: July 8-13. Summer Band: July 8-19. Musical Theatre: August 15-31. Join students from across North America in this unique summer program with a solid arts pedigree. Youth age 11-17 can spend a week of intensive, hands-on learning with expert instructors, exploring and enhancing their skills in a specific area of the performing arts.

Program areas include: voice (youth opera and vocal variety), band (concert band, jazz band, chamber music and switch band), and musical theatre. 250-370-6120, www.smus. ca/academies.•

www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013 21

Kate Wiley

Stop Speaking French S

top speaking French, Mommy!” goes the fervent plea of my toddler at dinner time. Perhaps listening to my French is un petit painful at present, but how does one learn if not by practicing? And what better place than at home?

This is precisely the problem, I fear. We rarely practice at home, as neither my husband nor I are Francophone. And, in light of this shortfall, we have enrolled our toddler in a partial French immersion preschool.

The transition has not been as smooth as I had imagined.

As a Spanish speaker and project manager for a translation company, I feel it is important that my children have a second, third, even fourth language. Since French is the plat du jour in Canada, it seems a logical place to start.

French should be an easy leap from Spanish, but as any mother of a toddler and nine-month-old will attest, finding the time

to focus on language learning—or any form of self-improvement, for that matter—is a challenge. And so I leave it to Madame Carole Trudeau at Appletree Preschool.

My son is one of her newest pupils, and while I fully expect he will adjust in due time, the first month has been a struggle.

There are fewer rounds of “I don’t want to go to school!” these days, but the tears that accompany my departure from the grounds persist.

Our eldest has always been extraordinarily verbal, picking up new English words lightning fast. And he generally takes to new people and surroundings readily, which is why I suspect the French-dominant atmosphere at his preschool may be throwing him for a loop.

Resources abound that tout the benefits of parents speaking a second language to a child from birth, but the evidence that suggests a preschooler can be dropped into an

immersion environment for two mornings a week and hope to make headway, is less forthcoming.

Certainly, immersion is the most beneficial method of foreign language learning at any age, but perhaps it is overly ambitious to expect an almost-three-year-old child to express enthusiasm for mastering yet another labyrinth of sounds, when his initial foray into English is still so fresh.

Trudeau says second language learning requires being attentive, something children struggle with in today’s society. “Écoute avec tes oreilles,” trills Trudeau. “How many times do I say that sentence in the week?

Listen with your ears.” She says playing with the new sounds is crucial. She employs lots of action singing in her classroom, songs where her preschoolers can move their bodies in conjunction with the words.

Karen Goreas, a French Immersion kindergarten teacher at École John Stubbs, says pre-kindergarten exposure to French gives some students a leg up but is not crucial to their success. “Immersion teachers know that most parents have limited French and do lots to help [them] help their children at home,” she says. “Students love to be the teacher—parents are always telling me how their children correct their pronunciation.”

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22 Island Parent Magazine

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For children who have little or no basic vocabulary in French, teaching literacy and numeracy skills in the second language can be challenging, admits Goreas. “Immersion teachers need to have a great bag of tricks (songs, gestures, props, visual aids) to communicate what would be easily understood in the native language.”

Despite these hurdles, the brain’s language centre remains highly active and adaptive in early learners, says Goreas. Equally beneficial, she adds, is their lack of selfconsciousness, something that often inhibits older learners from practicing out loud, a necessary step to learning a new language.

Goreas generally gives a child six months to adapt before assessing whether the immersion program might not be the right choice for that student. For some, waiting until Grade 6 can make a world of difference. “[Late immersion students] are of the age where they can consciously choose to begin French immersion,” says Duncan McIndoe, Coordinator for Languages in the Sooke School District. “This decision is often a very purposeful one.”

In order for late immersion students to be successful in the two-year program, “they must truly push themselves both inside and outside of the classroom,” says McIndoe. Once they join the early immersion students in Grade 8, the margin of difference between the two is often slim, he says. “Late Immersion students typically have less developed oral skills, however this improves with time.”

Whether it’s of any advantage to him or not, I will continue to drive my son clear across town in an effort to expose him to some French before enrolling him in the newly-minted immersion program at the elementary school up the road. And I will continue to offer a verbal pastiche during mealtime.

Madame Carole’s gentle remonstration goads me onward: “No one should struggle to learn or teach a language: Be creative.

It cannot be imposed after all. A language is alive, it involves the senses. Capture the teachable moment and enjoy it!” At the very least, I’m sure I can convince my son to counter my French foibles with “Arrêt, Maman!”

Kate Wiley is mother to two mostly charming and sometimes irksome little boys. Her family is looking forward to a year abroad in 2015, during which learning French will no longer be optional.

www.IslandParent.ca

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

saanichdentalgroup.com 119–1591 McKenzie Ave, Victoria

250 477 7321

info@saanichdentalgroup.com April 2013

23

Party Directory Funtime Inflatables #1 choice for party inflatables

Hassle Free Parties for kids & families

250-474-0597

www.funtimeinflatables.ca

You provide the space and food…

We’ll provide an hour of fun with puppet shows and play

We will match any competitor’s price; we will beat any competitors service!

Trust your next party or special event to the experts, Funtime Inflatables—the original bouncy castle company.

Serving Vancouver Island since 1990.

New items arriving soon!!!

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GYMNASTICS Birthday Parties

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

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• 2 large decorated birthday rooms • Free T-shirt for birthday child, invitations for up to 10 children • The ONLY Inflatable Climbing Mountain with trampoline in town • Party Time now offered for many different groups (schools, daycare centres)

Book Early: 250-479-6424

#208 – 721 Vanalman Ave

(Broadmead & Royal Oak Area)

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S T I C S

250 472 3546 www.puppetbooth.homestead.com

Birthday Parties! :: Gym & Bouncy Castle, themed parties: creative kids, girl power and preschool parties from Princesses to Pirates! at Henderson Recreation Centre!

Call 250-370-7200

You’ll Flip Over Our Birthday Parties * Greater Victoria’s newest, largest and cleanest facility with hassle free parking for you and your guests * * Large private party rooms * * Experienced Qualified Fun Coaches * * 3 Trampolines & 40ft Tumble Trac * * Awesome Foam Pit *

250-383-FLIP

www.lionspridegymnastics.com Located in Langford

musical

birthday parties Book a 45 minute interactive party in your own home for up to ten young guests from ages 3-8. Choose from three different fun themes! Visit vcm.bc.ca/departments/childrens-music/ for more information, or call 250-386-5311.

Pool, Skate, or Soccer parties at Oak Bay Recreation Centre!

Call 250-595-SWIM (7946)

www.recreation.oakbay.ca

UnReality g Magic.ca

Dirt Bike Birthday Parties We supply everything: Bike • Gear • Riding Lesson for ages 6yrs to adults over 30 bikes to choose from

Westshore Motocross Park No experience necessary 2207 Millstream Rd, Langford

250 590 8088 westshoremx.com 2207 Millstream Road Victoria, BC V9B 0J7 Tel: 250.590.8088 Cel: 250.893.9547

24 Island Parent Magazine

A professional magician for all your events Birthdays, festivals, fairs corporate parties, and more Bringing Comedy To Life

And Reality To An End

250-668-3082 Info@UnRealityMagic.ca www.UnRealityMagic.ca

Organise wonderful parties conveniently delivered to your door!

Party Supplies for all occasions, themes and ages

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ip@greatlittlecelebration.com www.greatlittlecelebration.com

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Party Directory

ctoria Gymnastics

Birthday Parties Come Fly With Us!

Danielle's

Paint-your-own Pottery and Glass Fusing Studio 250-590-7949

info@daniellestudios.ca

Parties sizes up to 18 kids

www.daniellestudios.ca

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

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250-380-2442

Mr. Tubbs Ice Cream Parlor & Family Fun Zone • 30 family oriented redemption games • huge prize counter • 2 fully decorated party rooms • foot-long hot dogs • 32 flavors of Island Farms Ice Cream

Open Year Round

@ Western Speedway 2207 Millstream Road 250-590-4369 mrtubbs.com www.IslandParent.ca

Action-Packed Birthday Parties Supervised • 2–8 Yrs

It’s about skills, not scores.

Go to www.sportball.ca for schedules & information Call us: 250 590 4625 Email: van.island@sportball.ca

April 2013 25

Creatively United for the Planet Therapeutic Fibre Art Weaving is Fun @ Home Handwork supporting Children, Teens & Adults

O

ngoing children’s activities, live music, dancing, displays, art making, films, poetry, food and fun will be among the many things to do at the second annual Creatively United for the Planet Earth Week Festival from April 19 to 21 at St. Ann’s Academy, 835 Humboldt Street.

presenting ADHD, SPD, Autism,

Asperger or Down Syndrome

20 min. Free Consultation Isabela Seabra, BA, RPC

is an experienced fibre art therapist and counsellor combining handwork and wellness for over 16 years (Languages: English and Portuguese)

world acclaimed artist and conservationist Robert Bateman, and grizzly bear superstar legend Charlie Russell; talks by Dr. Andrew Weaver, Dr. Kate Moran, Guy Dauncey, Caitlyn Vernon, Ken Wu; live music by Three Worlds and Anne Schaefer; a Bring Your Own Teacup Fashion Show Garden Party with live music by Lorraine Nygaard, plus amazing speakers like Zero Mile Diet best-selling author Carolyn Herriot, and Huffington Post award-winning writer Jacqui Dunne, the author of Rethinking Money.

More than 3,600 people attended the

www.lifematters-hd.org 250 709.2667

isabela@lifematters-hd.org

Par-T-Perfect

(250) 386-JUMP (5867) www.par-t-perfect.com

SUPERVISED SCHOOL FAIRS FESTIVALS & COMPANY PICNICS

(Full Service Packages) • At home theme parties, available outdoor and indoor • Costumed facepainters and balloon twisters, i.e. princesses, pirates, ragdoll style clowns • Indoor facility options for all your bouncy castle and inflatable requirements • Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

26

Island Parent Magazine

The Great Cloth Diaper Change Guinness World Record Event will kick things off on Saturday at 11 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies with the Gettin’ Higher Choir, Holly Arntzen & Kevin Wright, and other special guests. There will be an Earth Walk celebration, day-long live entertainment, and concluding with an outdoor all-ages DJ dance party from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Sunday will feature local bands and performers, plus special guests. CRD Parks and Environmental Sustainability Department, PowerSmart’s Outreach Team, the Alternative Energy Association, the Compost Education Centre, local schools, community associations and many others will be on hand for the entire weekend.

Ticketed events include presentations by

inaugural festival in 2012. Run entirely by volunteers, this notfor-profit association believes happy and healthy communities begin from the ground up and not disease down, and is dedicated to Inspiring Environmental Awareness and Building Community Though Creativity.

This free, fun-filled all-ages event will run rain or shine from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, April 19, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, April 20 and from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 21. Costumes are welcome! The event is wheelchair accessible and bike lock-up will be available.

For more information, visit www.creativelyunitedfortheplanet.com. www.kidsinvictoria.com

Wendy Ascroft & Jennica Kattare

Sport for All W

e all know that physical activity is good for kids. But for parents of children with special needs, this isn’t always easy.

Keeping kids active and involved can leave many parents wondering where their child with special needs fits in. For a variety of reasons, many children with autism, developmental disabilities or physical limitations just do not manage in mainstream sports.

For example, many autistic children have sensory sensitivities which can lead to behavioral issues that others in the mainstream community may find tough to accept. Some children may have physical or intellectual limitations which can make them, and their parents, feel uncomfortable in mainstream sports. Having customized sporting programs designed for kids with special needs means they can feel included and supported, their own unique abilities valued.

Being the parent of a child with special

needs, I worry about my child staying healthy and being connected in the unique way that a team sport can provide. For some children with disabilities, mainstream sports may be an acceptable option, but for others, customized team sports can provide camaraderie and physical activity in a way that is better suited to the individual. What children get from a specialized physical program that they often don’t get from mainstream sports is total acceptance. The kids and parents accept each other’s unique abilities and can offer encouragement and good cheer without judgment. Children who play a sport for the love of the game benefit from the social and communication opportunities and the self-esteem building that being part of a team can provide.

The Raven’s co-ed ice hockey team for kids aged five to 15 years with disabilities is one good example of an opportunity to

play a sport that would otherwise have been enjoyed from the sidelines. The Ravens play every Sunday morning at Juan de Fuca arena. Proof of the program’s success is in the kids’ smiles, the positive energy, and the high fives—on ice and off.

Another example is Little League Baseball in the Challenger Division for “boys and girls with physical and mental challenges” ranging in age from four to 18 or up to age 22 if still enrolled in high school.

Providing kids who are “differentlyabled” the opportunity to be included in a sporting program offers not only opportunities to build confidence but also opportunities to make friends and social connections. Growing up and being part of a team gives kids the sense of belonging that all human beings long to have. Team sport is about so much more than playing the game, the tournaments and trophies— it’s about having a sense of belonging and being part of the greater whole which is the need and right of all children.

For more information regarding how to register or for more information in general, please contact Gus Ascroft at grampa_gus@ yahoo.ca, phone 250-812-4026 or 778-4403609, or visit cslittleleague.com/challengers.

Cover Photo Contest For the 2013 Family Summer Guide or Kids’ Guide to Victoria & Vancouver Island Send us a colourful, clear photo of your kids or family enjoying a summer moment on Vancouver Island, and it may end up on the cover of this year’s Family Summer Guide or Kids’ Guide.

1st Prize: Main cover photo on the Family Summer Guide and $150 Gift Certificate to the business of your choice on Vancouver Island. Runners up: Five or more runners up will receive two IMAX tickets and their photos will be featured on the cover of either the Family Summer Guide or Kids’ Guide.

Only digital submissions will be accepted. Send a maximum of three photos of medium or higher resolution. Photos must be colour shots of children or families in Vancouver Island locations.

Contest is open to Vancouver Island residents only. Entry deadline is Tuesday, April 23, 2013; winners will be notified by email by May 17. Winning photos become the property of Island Parent Magazine.

Send entries to: mada@islandparent.ca

www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013 27

April 2013

Generously Sponsored by and

Family Calendar For calendar updates throughout the month visit www.kidsinvictoria.com SAT 6 Children Count: An Early Childhood Resource Fair at Panorama Recreation. Bring your children (0-6 yrs) and have fun together at the Fair. Parents can gather info on local services, supports and opportunities for children around the Peninsula, while the kids can enjoy face painting, storytime, arts & crafts, music, a mini bouncy castle and more. If you’re lucky, you’ll also get to meet Slider, along with his friend Cooper from Peninsula Co-op. Each child will receive a free children’s book, a goodie bag, and a snack. 10am-1pm. Free.

1885 Forest Park Dr. 250-655-2172. www. panoramarecreation.ca.

3rd Annual Tartan Day in Market Square. Tartan weavers, Scottish shortbread and baking, pipers, dancers, Highland dog breed display, Scottish entertainment and Celtic bands. Sure to be a wee bit o’ fun for the whole family Free. Noon-4pm.

TUES 9 Fantastical Fairytales at Oak Bay Branch Library. Be swept away by fairytales and fractured stories from around the world. For ages 6-9. 3:30-4:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

WED 10 Screening of White Water Black Gold at Church of the Advent, 510 Mt View Ave, Colwood. A powerful documentary chronicling

director David Lavallee’s 3-year journey in search of answers about the world’s thirstiest oil industry. Also on WED 17 at Esquimalt United Church, 500 Admirals Rd. 7-9pm.

Free. Info, www.sierraclub.bc.ca.

FRI 12 Victoria Symphony Storytime at Central Branch Library. Join two musicians from the Victoria Symphony and their puppet friend, Kathy Cadence, for a musical performance that matches music to words and feelings. Presentation includes an instrument petting zoo. Parents and caregivers are welcome to participate. For ages 3-4. 10:30-11:15am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-382-7241, ext. 601 for more information.

Fancy Nancy Party at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Ooo-la-la. Come celebrate in style with stupendous stories and activities. Dress up in your fancy best—the more accessories the better. For ages 3-5. 10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-727-0104 for more information.

Family Movie Night at North Saanich Middle School. Chairs are provided, but you are encouraged to bring your own blanket and snack.

Movie is “Wreck it Ralph.” Free. 6:30pm.

1885 Forest Park Dr. 250-655-2172. www. panoramarecreation.ca.

SAT 13 Fancy Nancy Party at Esquimalt Branch Library. See FRI 12 for details. For ages 3-5.

10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

Explore, Galore at Thetis Lake Regional Park.

Spring has sprung. Find out what’s up, what’s out, and what’s returning. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and explore the trails of this woodland park. Bring a lunch and sturdy footwear. Meet at the main Thetis Lake parking lot at 10:30am. 5+ years. BC Transit #50.

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

Carnival of the Arts at Cedar Hill Recreation.

A variety of hands-on activities and exhibits that allow you to explore the world of visual and performing arts. Free. 11am-3pm. 3220 Cedar Hill Rd. 250-475-5558.

The Healing Land at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. A rich storehouse of natural medicines grows all around us. Join CRD Regional Parks guest naturalist Joe Percival to explore this vital botanical heritage used by First Nations people, European settlers and others. Meet at the Witty’s Lagoon Nature Centre off Metchosin Rd at 1pm. 8+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

SUN 14 Springtime Heel and Wheel at Francis/King Regional Park. Is this a new country dance?

No! Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for a guided walk along the universally accessible Elsie King Trail. Strollers and wheelchairs are welcome. Meet at the Francis/King parking lot off Munn Rd at 10:30am. All ages. 250-4783344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

REFUEL & REFRESH!

Proud sponsor of the 24th annual TC 10K.

28 Island Parent Magazine

Made right, right here.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

MON 15

THURS 18

Baby Signs with Layla: a Baby Sign Language Program at Oak Bay Branch Library. Program participants will learn the basics of using nonverbal signs with children aged 0-24 months.

Benefits of signing with your baby or toddler may include fewer tantrums, greater cognitive and language development, and improved communication with your baby. For parents, educators, and children ages 0-24 months.

10:30-11:30am. Register online at www.gvpl. ca or call 250-592-2489 for more information.

Parenting: Baby and Toddler Basics at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Parents and babies are invited to a visit from a Peninsula Health Unit nurse. The nurse will answer all your questions, measure and weigh your baby and discuss topics such as immunization, growth and development and successful nursing. Come half an hour before Baby and Toddler Basics for songs and rhymes at Drop-in Baby Time.

No registration required. 11:30am-12:30pm.

250-727-0104.

School’s Out Skate at Panorama Recreation.

Stay active during your day off from school. Enjoy music, games and great prizes. 1-2:20pm.

1885 Forest Park Dr. 250-655-2172. www. panoramarecreation.ca.

School’s Out Swim at Panorama Recreation.

Stay active and have fun in the pool. The waterslide will be open and a fun leader is on deck providing games, prizes and more. 1-3pm. $2. 1885 Forest Park Dr. 250-655-2182. www. panoramarecreation.ca.

Victoria Children’s Literature Roundtable at Nellie McClung Branch Library. Join us for Teen Night with author Joelle Anthony. Joelle’s two novels, Restoring Harmony and The Right and the Real, feature feisty heroines, lively plots and page-turning action. Doors open at 7pm. Browse the CanLit for Kids Books table before the meeting begins at 7:30pm.

VCLR is open to the public. Members free; $5/ drop-in; $4/students. For more information, call 250-598-3694.

WED 17 Author Shirley Langer: Anita’s Revolution at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. In 1961, over 100,000 Cuban teenagers volunteered to help eradicate illiteracy in rural Cuba. Meet local author Shirley Langer to learn about this fascinating chapter of history and about her novel Anita’s Revolution. Everyone welcome.

7-8:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

FRI 19 – SUN 21 Creatively United for the Planet at St. Ann’s Academy. Entertainment, art displays, food, DJ dance party, Victoria Earth Walk and much more. Free and ticketed events. Fri: 7:3010pm; Sat: 11am-9:30pm; Sun: noon-6pm.

835 Humboldt St. 250-383-0206.

Sat 20 – Sun 21

Card

Fundraising Program

Customer Service: 1.800.667.8280 www.thriftyfoods.com

www.IslandParent.ca

dads, stepdads, granddads and uncles… bring the kids you love to a special storytime before they go to bed. Stories, puppets, fingerplays and songs. Pajamas and a favourite stuffy or blanket are welcome, but optional. For children newborn to 5 years. 6:30-7pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

Victoria Kids Consignment Sale at Eagle Ridge Centre, 1089 Langford Pkwy. Kids’ clothes, toys, gear and much more! Sat 10am-4pm; Half Price Sale Sun 10am-1pm. Admission is FREE. www.victoriakidsconsignment.ca for additional details.

SAT 27

SUN 21

Victoria Teen Expo at Pearkes Recreation.

Workshops and performances for youth 12-18 years and their families. Interactive sports and gaming activities, all day dj, exhibitors and much more. $7/adult and student (11+); $5/ child 6-10; under 5 free with adult.

Saanich Cycling Festival at the University of Victoria. Cycling activities for all to enjoy.

Stage entertainment, bike demos, interactive games and activities, bike rodeo and more.

Kids’ UVic route for even the smallest cycling enthusiast. Free. 11am-1:30pm. www.saanichcyclingfestival.ca.

Family Sunday at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Children and their families are invited to explore the art inspired by the current exhibition. Included with Gallery admission or free with membership. 2-4pm. 250-384-4171. www.aggv.ca.

WED 24 Guys’ Night Out: A Bedtime Storytime at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Calling all

Smile

TM

The Making Tomorrow Conference at the University of Victoria. A one-day conference about our children. Workshops, keynote speakers, and vendors. 8am-4:15pm. www. makingtomorrow.com.

Poetry Month: Get Poemed at Central Branch Library. Have you ever been Poemed? Be among the pleasantly surprised and entertained when poet Wendy Morton delivers her trademark “random acts of poetry.” Tell her a story, and she’ll quickly turn it into a personalized gift of verse. Visit her in the Central Library’s Children’s Department from 10am-11am.

Everyone welcome. No registration required.

250-382-7241, ext. 601.

What Have You Seine Today? at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Our marine environment is full of surprises. Join CRD Regional Parks

Simple Steps to Success

Submit an application form with a covering letter.

Be approved by Thrifty Foods and receive a series of Fundraising Smile Cards. Distribute cards to members of your group.

Group members “load” the cards with a cash amount at the till and use the cards to buy their groceries as usual.

Each time the Smile Cards are “loaded,” Thrifty Foods automatically donates 5% to your group’s Smile Card Account!

April 2013 29

naturalists and the Metchosin BioBlitz team to use a seine net and see what creatures live in the deeper reaches of the ocean. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes).

Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the main beach at 10:30am. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

Taste the Wild at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Drop by any time from 12:30-2pm at the blue tent by Witty’s Beach for a taste of the wild. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will have delectable botanical delights, seaweeds and forest tea for tasting. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the main beach. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd. bc.ca/parks.

SUN 28 Wildflower Weekend at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Spring has sprung and Swan Lake and Christmas Hill have never looked better. Celebrate the wonderful world of wildflowers with guided tours of the native plant garden, hikes to Christmas Hill, crafts for the kids, and the wildflower musical revue.

Noon-3pm. Admission by donation. For more information, call 250-479-0211 or visit www. swanlake.bc.ca.

The Beach Rocks at Island View Beach Regional Park. The tide is out. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and get a glimpse of the creatures that live beneath the rocks. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the picnic shelter on Homathko Rd, off Island View Rd at 12:30pm.

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

Seaside Blooms with a View at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Tower Point is alive with blooms poking their heads up in seaside meadows. Follow a CRD Regional Parks naturalist along a shoreline trail that offers spectacular views both at your feet and on the horizon.

This walk is for the wildflower novice. Meet at the Tower Point parking lot off Olympic View Dr at 1pm. 9+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. www.crd.bc.ca/parks.

MON 29 Spine Poetry with Books at Esquimalt Branch Library. April is Poetry Month. Unlock your inner poet and create fun free verse using piles of library books. The program includes games, a craft, and snacks. For ages 10-12.

3:30-4:30pm. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-414-7198 for more information.

ONGOING BABIES, TODDLERS & PRESCHOOLERS Drop-in Storytimes for Babies, Toddlers and Families at Greater Victoria Public Library.

Caregivers are welcome and encouraged to participate. Storytimes are free and drop-

30 Island Parent Magazine

in. Please come early to find a space. For a complete schedule of our drop-in programs, visit our website at www.gvpl.ca or call your local branch.

partnership with Success by 6 South Vancouver Island. Saturdays 10-11am. Free.

Parent/Tot Drop-in at Gordon Head United Church. A safe place where young children can play while parents in the community connect with each other. Lots of space and toys. Tea or coffee is available for caregivers, and a healthy snack for the children. Parents are responsible for the care of their own children. Mondays 10am-noon. More info, call the church office at 250-477-4142, or Maisie at 250-477-0388.

Sea-Shirt Sundays at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre. On the first Sunday of each month, create your own fish fashion. Be sure to bring a pillow case, cloth bag or t-shirt (or purchase a t-shirt from the centre) and your creativity. $2 donation for fabric paint. 1-4pm.

250-665-7511.

Preschool Storytime at Saanich Centennial Branch Library. Preschoolers are invited to fun and interactive storytimes that will help foster early literacy development. We’ll share enriching stories, sing songs, learn rhymes and have fun playing with language. Parents and caregivers are welcome to participate.

For ages 3-5. Tuesdays 10:30-11am. Register online at www.gvpl.ca or call 250-477-9030 for more information.

Spine Poetry with Books at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Unlock your inner poet and create free verse with piles of books. Upload a picture and you could win a prize. Watch for displays of spine poetry at your local branch throughout April. Check out www.gvpl.ca/ audiences/teens/book-spine-poetry to see more spine poetry with books, and find out how to make your own and more. Everyone welcome.

Call your local branch for more information.

Online April 1-30.

Kindergym at Burnside Campus Gymnasium.

Ride-on toys, climbers, slides, balls, hoops and various sports equipment. The program includes free play, organized games and circle time. Best suited for ages 2-4 years, but all children under 5 years are welcome. Parent participation required. Tuesdays 9:30-10:45am.

Free. 3130 Jutland Rd. 250-388-5251. www. burnsidegorge.ca.

Toddler Art at Burnside Gorge Community Centre. Explore your creative side. Smocks and soap provided, but please dress children in clothing that they can get messy and be creative in. Parent participation required. $2/drop-in.

Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30am. 471 Cecelia Rd. 250-388-5251. www.burnsidegorge.ca.

Drop-in Play at Lakehill Preschool. Come join our awesome ECE for a free drop-in play every Wednesday 3-4:30pm. All children 0-4 welcome. 3821 Cedar Hill Cross Rd. 250-4774141. www.lakehillpreschool.org.

Drop-in Playgroup at Lambrick Park Preschool & Childcare. For parents/guardians with children 0-4 years. Come see what Lambrick Park Preschool & Childcare has to offer. Thursdays 3:15-4:30pm. 4205 Tyndall Ave. 250-477-8131. For more information, visit www.lambrickparkpreschool.ca.

Drop-in Toddler Time at Lansdowne Preschool. A great place to play and discover.

For children ages 0-5. Fridays 9:30-11am, in the Maple Room at Carnarvon Centre, 3802 Henderson Rd. 250-370-5392. www. lansdownepreschool.com.

Mother Goose Drop-In at Burnside Gorge Community Centre. Enjoy music, stories and fun with your little one. Mother Goose encourages child development through music, stories, movement and attachment parenting.

For birth to 5 years. This program is offered in

Children

YOUTH

FAMILIES Ready to Rent BC offers a free course to help find and keep a rental home. Six-week courses run at different times, days and locations. We help renters identify and deal with any barriers they may have to housing. Includes bus tickets, child minding and a healthy snack. To sign up, call 250-388-7171. readytorentbc.net.

Parent Sports Drop-in at James Bay Community School Centre. Parents need time to have fun and get back in touch with their inner child.

Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 7-9pm. $3.50/person. www.jamesbaycentre.ca.

Weekly Bird Walk at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary (meet in the parking lot). Every Wednesday and Sunday noon-3pm.

Metchosin School Museum is open Saturdays 1:30-4:30pm and Sundays 11am-4:30pm.

An original, one-room school house built in 1871, it is set up as a classroom with old wooden desks. Families can enjoy perusing the hundreds of artifacts on display. Free. 4475 Happy Valley Rd. Wonder Sunday at the Royal BC Museum.

Bring your family on the last Sunday of each month for activities and explorations inspired by different parts of the museum. Make crafts, join special tours, and let your imagination wonder away with you. Suitable for children ages 3-12 years old and is included with admission or free with membership. www. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

Genealogy in the Classroom is a web-based resource filled with student activities, teacher notes, charts and forms that can be used online or downloaded and printed. Free. www. victoriags.org/school.•

www.kidsinvictoria.com

www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013 31

Send Us Your Stories!

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 www.islandparent.ca for specific information on submissions. We’d love to hear from you. Please email submissions to editor@islandparent.ca.

Around the Island

Visit www.IslandParent.ca for these and other events and resources for families from Cowichan Valley north to Campbell River and west to Tofino Sat, Mar 30 – Mon Apr 1 Children’s Easter Bunny Search at Milner Gardens. At the Welcome & Interpretive Centre, children can pick up maps for clues to finding the bunnies, and then return the map to the Pool House Gift Shop to receive an Easter treat.

In the garden, within arm’s reach of the bed edges, you may find blown glass Easter eggs donated by Ted Jolda. If you find one of these Jolda eggs, it is yours to keep. Please do not enter the flower beds. 10am-4:30pm. Members free; $8.50/adult; $4.50/student; free for children under 12 accompanied by an adult.

250-752-6153. www.milnergardens.org.

WED 3 Lifeguard Seminar: How To Get a Job at the Pool at Ravensong. Working as a lifeguard/ swim instructor is a great job for youth. Come find out more. 4-5pm. Free, but preregister.

250-752-5014. www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

Glow in the Dark Skate at Cliff McNabb Arena. Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Glow necklaces $2. Regular admission. Also on WED 17.

6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200.

FRI 5 Tots Movie Night Out at Bowen Complex, Nanaimo. Do you want to take your child out for a movie but worry about disrupting the audience? Bring your little one out for a movie and get them used to a theatre-like environment. Popcorn and drink included. $5/ child; parents free. 6-7:45pm. 250-756-5200.

Russia vs. Canada Goodwill Hockey at Oceanside Place. Entry by donation. 7pm.

For more info, call Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism at 250-248-6300, ext. 3.

FRI 5 & SAT 6

Victoria & Vancouver Island 1-866-518-7287 Nanaimo 250-756-9794 Or online at: www.welcomewagon.ca

Fish Hatchery Tours at the Marion Baker Hatchery, French Creek. Learn all about local fish. Free. 10am-2pm. www.brantfestival.ca.

SAT 6 Big Day Bird Count at the Parksville Qualicum Beach area. Birders of all abilities are invited to participate in the fun event to count the birds.

4:30am-3pm. www.brantfestival.ca.

Eagle Release at the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre, Errington. See glove-trained birds and many wildlife and environmental booths as well as a rehabilitated eagle being

32 Island Parent Magazine

released into the wild. 11am-3pm. By donation. www.brantfestival.ca.

SUN 14 Exploring Your Ecology at Bowen Park Picnic Shelter. Explore and learn about our vegetation and the critters that live in the park—both big and small. Learn about food webs and make a bird feeder to take home. $8. 1-2pm.

250-756-5200.

Lifesaving Showcase at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre. Have fun and learn more about water safety and survival and lifesaving skills. Activities include: Swim-to-Survive Challenge, Rescue Ranger Challenge, Learn-to-Surf or Boogie Board and more. 1-3pm. 250-756-5200.

SAT 20 Parent’s Unite Garage Sale at Island Savings Centre, Cowichan Valley. Get rid of that trunk load of toys which your child no longer has an interest in. Or find a great deal on clothes and accessories for your new baby. You’ll find children’s toys, clothing and family items.

9am-noon. 2687 James St. Community Resource and Volunteer Fair at Duncan Mall. Door prizes, display booths, and cake. Connect with Valley organizations and check out great resources for youth, families and seniors. Free. 10am-2pm. Info, 250-7482133. www.volunteercowichan.bc.ca.

Symphony Community Day at Port Theatre, Nanaimo. Musical instrument petting zoo, 11am-noon, helps youngsters learn about different instruments. NoteworthyKids Family Event, 11:45am-12:15pm, the whole family can come to hear cellist and NoteworthyKids artist Joel Stobbe talk about exciting NoteworthyKids’ activities. He will introduce the special musician of the day. Open rehearsal, 12:30-1:30pm. Reserve free tickets for the Open Rehearsal by calling 250-754-8550.

Nanaimo Walk & Bounce for Autism at Caledonia Park. Bouncy castles, face painting, music and lots of family fun. Get your pledge form and start collecting donations. Info, call Marilyn at 250-716-6110.

SUN 21 Hamilton Marsh Tour in Qualicum Beach.

Bring your friends and family to explore the interesting plants, wildlife and insects with the Friends of French Creek. There will be dip nets and magnifying glasses so you can check

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Up-Island Business Directory

out what you find in the marsh. By donation.

11am-2pm. www.brantfestival.ca.

ONGOING

Nanaimo’s Biggest Indoor Playground & Cafe

PRESCHOOL LaFF at the Aggie. A safe play-based learning environment for families and caregivers with children newborn to age 6. Reading centre, craft area, Brio train station, and snack table.

Indoor car and toy riding area. Monday to Friday, 9:30am-noon and Thursdays 12:151:45pm. $2 suggested donation per family (punch cards available). 250-210-0870, www. familyandfriends.ca.

Safe Toddlers Play Area Giant Play Structure with slides Cafe for Parents Snacks for Kids

Call today to book your party!

Children

#400-2980 Island Highway North Nanaimo, BC V9T 5V4

Parent & Child Hockey at Cliff McNabb Arena. A fun, non-competitive hockey time for children where their parents can play too.

Please bring your own gloves, stick, and helmet with face cage. Pre-registration required. Parent participation required. Sundays 2:15-3pm. $5. 250-756-5200.

play@jumpingjiminys.com www.jumpingjiminys.com

250-729-0999

36–1925 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo

250.585.KIDS (5437)

Quality new and used clothing, gear, toys, and more.

Certified car seat installations available by appointment.

Exclusive Nanaimo retailer of guzzie+Guss strollers and baby equipment, Super Undies toilet training and bedwetting pants, and OAKI children’s rain suits.

YOUTH Spare Blox Youth Drop-in in Nanaimo is a supervised space to hang out. Open to those 12-17, it offers regular gym activities, video games, movies, foosball, air hockey and more.

Free, but you must register. 7-9pm until May 1. Mondays, NDSS; Tuesdays, Oliver Woods Community Centre; Wednesdays, John Barsby School. 250-756-5200.

The Youth Zone in Ladysmith. A fun and safe place to meet new friends and enjoy games tables, internet kiosk, TV, movies, board games, karaoke, sports in the gym. Energized leaders will challenge you to try new activities.

Tuesdays, 3-6pm in the Rec Room; Wednesdays, 3-5pm in the gym; Fridays 6-10pm in the Rec Room or gym. 250-245-6424. www. ladysmith.ca.

The Zone Youth Hang-Out at Beban Park Complex, Nanaimo. Come with your friends and do a different activity each week. Movie nights, dodge ball, soccer, or electronic night.

For 11-13 year olds. $6/drop-in. Fridays, 7-9pm. 250-756-5200.

FAMILY Golden Shoe Hunt. Take some time to explore some local parks with your family. Clues and instructions for the hunt will be posted at www.rdn.bc.ca/recreation and on Facebook and Twitter.

Family Frolics at the Community Centre, Ladysmith. Bring your caregiver for open gym fun. Burn off some energy with soft toys, minitrampoline, ride-on toys, hula hoops, etc. Tuesdays, 5:45-6:45pm. $2 suggested donation/ family. 250-245-6424. www.ladysmith.ca.•

www.IslandParent.ca

presents

Two Locations to Serve You!

in Nanaimo With Licensed Educator Jenna Pye Trusted. Proven. Educational. And, fun! Kindermusik is the world’s leading provider of music and movement programs for young children, enjoyed by over 1.5 million families in 70+ countries.

Classes for 0 mos and up. For class times, locations and to enroll visit www.kindermusik.com

Comox offers new and consignment clothing NB to preteen, great selection of toys, books and all the latest baby gear.

5th St offers great toys and hobby kits, serving all ages.

In Your Home Music Studio also offers private lessons in Voice, Piano and Guitar. Visit www.inyourhomemusicstudio.com for more information.

Now Serving Nanaimo and Nanoose Bay!

Kidz-R-Brite

Preschool & Daycare

Pre-K French Immersion Program

Registration

Visit Vancouver Island’s largest specialty toy store!

Locally owned, proudly serving the mid-Island Community for over 18 years!

We are accepting Registrations for Sept. 2013 Preschool, Daycare & Pre-K French Immersion Program

Serving 2 locations in Ladysmith Contact: Miss Cindy 250-245-8276 Miss Jaclyn 1-250-510-6100

For further details: www.kidzrbrite.com

Check our new online shopping cart

www.koolandchild.com

102–2517 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo

250-585-1778 April 2013 33

Special Needs Resources

If your son or daughter has autism and is between 6–18 years old, we can help through: • Direct 1:1 Support • Behaviour Support • Social Groups • Day Camps • Family Support • Account Management

For more information please call 250-477-7231 local 237 34 Island Parent Magazine

Beacon Community Services provides a team that supports children, youth and families living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Our FASD Support Services include a Key Worker Program. Key workers use a family-centred approach to enhance understanding of the effects of FASD, assist families to access community resources and supports, advocate for families within systems and organizations, and create personalized strategies for individuals living with FASD. Families with a child under the age of 19 diagnosed with or suspected of having FASD are eligible for FASD Support Services. 778-432-2296, www.beaconcs.ca.

Camp Footholds. Footholds Therapy Center offers a wide variety of summer programs at Camp Footholds. Our camps offer programming geared towards children with special needs (autism, FASD, etc) and other emotional and psychological challenges (anxiety/depression). Camp Footholds focuses on empowering kids by building social skills and self-esteem, all while having lots of fun. There are 10 different highly staffed camps at Camp Footholds that run at different times throughout the summer and offer unique programming. Camp Footholds is located in Central Nanaimo and the camps can be covered by MCFD Autism funding.

250-585-4411, www.footholds.ca.

Community Living Victoria’s Autism Services Program is designed for children and youths aged 6-18 who live with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. We help families to manage and designate their funds, navigate the system, plan for success, and coordinate with contractors to provide direct services like behaviour intervention, social groups, day camps and family support. Through our services, CLV seeks to reduce the burden that individualized funding can have on families, allowing participants to enjoy the benefits of support without taking on additional administrative tasks. 250477-7231, communitylivingvictoria.ca.

Eaton Arrowsmith School is the only school in Victoria where students with learning disabilities and attention difficulties can rewire the weaker parts of their brain that are actually causing their academic and/

or social struggles. Students spend three to four years at our school, working out in their cognitive gym, and then transition back to local public and private schools requiring little to no further accommodations or special assistance in order to learn.

Eaton Arrowsmith—strengthening learning capacities rather than accommodating for learning weaknesses. Contact Jason Cruickshank, Principal, 250-370-0046, www. eatonarrowsmithschool.com.

Hampton Little League Challengers— “Where Everyone’s a Winner!”—enables boys and girls ages 4-18 (up to age 22 if in school) with special needs—physical or cognitive—to participate and enjoy the game of baseball. Each player will receive a ball cap, team picture, Hampton “Funday” BBQ meal, and a year-end award. Games will be 90 minutes in length, every Saturday with the exception of the May long weekend and “Funday,” and the season runs April 13-June 23. Visit www.hamptonlittleleague. org and the Challenger Director is Kristen Kay at klakay@shaw.ca.

Hands-On Home-Learning, offered through Oak and Orca School, provides flexible learning opportunities, making it easy to meet your child’s needs while learning at home. Our program acknowledges that every child is unique, and endeavours to support families to help their children learn at their own pace and in their own way. Our special education program provides you with options to hire educational assistants, seek out alternative therapies, and choose your own workers and therapists. Working with a certified teacher, you are empowered to help create the team that will care for and support your child. Necessary supplies, technology and equipment can also be provided within a budget that you are able to control. 250-383-6609, oakandorca.ca.

Island Montessori offers individualized programs for all children, including those with special needs and/or behavioural challenges, in an integrated, inclusive setting.

Our highly trained and experienced staff work closely with the child’s family and involved professionals to develop and deliver a program designed to meet the developmenwww.kidsinvictoria.com

tal needs of the child. We believe that every child has a natural desire to learn, and that they do so best in an atmosphere of warmth, caring and respect. 5575 West Saanich Rd (across from Red Barn Market). 250-5924411, www.islandmontessori.com.

Life Matters Handwork & Wellness. Dr. Wilson, neurologist specialized in hands, states that the brain lives in our hands and vice-versa. Studies of the web of nerves in the tip of our fingers explain how using our hands in creative and diverse movements, stimulates the brain. While doing handwork: weaving, knitting, felting and so on, brain stimulation occurs improving several areas of people’s lives, and also an enhancement of self-esteem and confidence, hand/eye coordination and dexterity. Finally, the whole experience expands sensorial and social awareness. Discover what Therapeutic Fibre Art can offer children, teens and adults through the work of Isabela Seabra, BA, RPC. (See ad on page 48) Little Steps Therapy Services Ltd. provides therapy services to all children, youth and adults who require support, regardless of diagnosis. The therapy team consists of speech language therapists, occupational therapists, physiotherapist, behavioural consultants (BCBA), massage therapist, certified teachers, and interventionists. The organization specializes in services to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, but will provide therapy to all individuals requiring short- or long-term support. Individual sessions are available at the Little Steps Centre, home or community. No doctor referral necessary. Funding sources include: extended health plans, At Home Program, Autism Program, home school agencies, private pay. 250-386-1171.

Maxine Fisher M. Ed., MTA, RCC Music Therapy & Special Needs. Music therapy has been successfully used with children who have special needs. Maxine has worked extensively with families and their children who have special needs, including children who have been diagnosed with Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder (Including Asperger’s and Rhett’s Syndrome), Cerebral Palsy, brain injuries, and Pervasive Developmental Disorders. Maxine also works with people who have physical disabilities. The music therapy sessions are focused on the individual needs of each child as well as alleviating the stresses for family members including siblings and caregivers.

250-686-7582, victoriamusictherapy.com.

Monarch House offers an interdisciplinary approach to treating individuals with www.IslandParent.ca

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, from infancy to adulthood. Providing individual and group treatment, transition planning for the different life phases, and recreational drop-in programs, our coordinated care and streamlined services ensure individuals reach their full potential. All our clinicians are under one roof which means no wait lists and faster access to services and available funding. No waiting for diagnostic assessments—Monarch House provides timely access to professionals who are qualified to diagnose ASD and other developmental disabilities. 250-220-8999, monarchhousevictoria@cbi.ca.

Operation Trackshoes (June 14-16) is a weekend-long provincial sports festival for people with developmental disabilities.

It includes a full-length competitive track and field meet, events for people in wheelchairs, and fun and recreational events.

We offer a range of activities appropriate for people of all levels of ability and ages.

Building relationships between people with and without developmental disabilities is a key component. Volunteers are needed to provide support, assistance and friendship to the competitors throughout the weekend (similar to a summer camp counsellor). The number of volunteers determines how many competitors are accepted. To volunteer; 250-721-2233, www.trackshoes.ca.

Victoria Epilepsy & Parkinson’s Centre supports families living with epilepsy by providing tutoring and one-to-one professional consultations to help your child live up to their full potential. We offer epilepsy education workshops in private and public schools, and keep you up to date on the latest research about treatments, lifestyle, and safety for your child. Visit us at www. vepc.bc.ca to find out more and to explore our bursaries for Camosun College. If you know a child living with epilepsy, contact VEPC at 250-475-6677 or help@vepc.bc.ca.

The Vitamin Shop. Is your child sleepdeprived due to ADHD or hyperactivity?

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone and is the master hormone that controls sleep patterns. Many parents whose children are challenged with ADHD or hyperactivity find that melatonin will induce sleep while it helps to alleviate their insomnia and sleep disturbances. This may result in sleeping longer with less night-time disturbances, enabling them to function better during the day. Check with your health professional before administering melatonin to your child. 1212 Broad Street. 250-386-1212.•

The Central Island Healthy Weights Program helps children and their families make realistic and meaningful lifestyle changes that can lead to improved health, enhanced emotional well being and healthy weight management.

We do this by encouraging the whole family to adopt healthier eating habits, achieve a more active lifestyle, and improve how they communicate and support each other.

If your child is between 6-17 years and you have concerns about their weight – and you live in Ladysmith, Nanaimo, Parksville or Qualicum Beach areas – please contact us for more information and a referral form.

Tel:

250-755-7955

Web: viha.ca/children/ CI_healthy_weights

vancouver authority

April 2013 35

Be an Immunization Booster Child, Youth & Family Community Health South Island Health Units Esquimalt 250-519-5311 Gulf Islands 250-539-3099 (toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

Peninsula 250-544-2400 Saanich 250-519-5100 Saltspring Island 250-538-4880 Sooke 250-642-5464 Victoria 250-388-2200 West Shore 250-519-3490

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

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

www.viha.ca/prevention_services/

ImmunizeBC is seeking supporters to join the “immunization conversation,” part of its I Have Immunity online advocacy campaign. Sign up today and help protect yourself, your loved ones and your community. For more information about how you can support the campaign as a Booster (or in other ways) visit IHaveImmunity.com.

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any of us are familiar with the term “immunization booster”—it is the extra dose of vaccine that people receive to “boost” protection against disease. ImmunizeBC has taken this idea one step further—we are looking for passionate supporters of immunization to join our growing provincial network of immunization “Boosters.” Boosters are members of the community who aim to improve (or boost) “community immunity” by sharing facts and stories about the benefits of immunization.

The I Have Immunity campaign started this new approach to address growing concerns about declining immunization rates.

Immunization has been very successful at reducing many vaccine-preventable diseases, but many parents today have become complacent about immunization now that these diseases are rare. For others, fears about vaccines have replaced fears about diseases. As a result, some parents today choose to skip certain vaccines for their children or avoid immunizations all together.

The I Have Immunity online booster campaign will provide a way for supporters to share information through their personal networks and talk about the importance of immunization. By taking advantage of social media and the word-of-mouth opportunities it offers, the goal is to educate people about this important public health issue.

Anyone can support the campaign. You can join our Facebook community, follow us on Twitter and visit our blog. If you’re looking to be part of the conversation, sharing our posts is a great way to spread the word about the importance of immunization.

Boosters can also share their story about why immunization matters to them personally.

For example, perhaps you’ve experienced the devastating effects of a vaccine preventable disease up close, or you’re a parent of a child that cannot be immunized because of medical reasons and rely on others being immunized in order to protect your child.

Stories are a powerful way to communicate the value of immunization.

Improve community immunity! Sign up today and help protect yourself, your loved ones and your community. For more

Healthy Families; Happy Families C hild Y outh & Family C ommunity Health

CHELSEA HAINES

information about how you can support the campaign as a Booster (or in other ways) visit IHaveImmunity.com.

Chelsea Haines is a Vaccine Educator (Chief Booster) with ImmunizeBC.

Quick Checklist for Your Baby’s Immunizations To make sure your baby gets all immunizations on time: Make an appointment.The first immunization starts at the age of 2 months.

Bring your baby’s health passport to the appointment.

Make the appointment for your baby’s next immunization before you leave your doctor’s office or public health office.

Mark the next date on your calendar. Do this as soon as you get home so you won’t forget.

Sign up to receive text message reminders with ImmunizeBC. Text “sign up” to 604757-2705 or visit www.immunizebc.ca.

Keep your baby’s immunization record safe.

Put it in a safe place so you can find it when you need it.

From A Parent’s Guide to Immunization, www.immunization.ca.

From A Parent’s Guide to Immunization, www.immunization.ca.

36 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Early development is child’s play!

It’s obvious that play time is fun.

What’s not so obvious is how important it is.

Play time in a child’s first six years encourages creative, cognitive, language and motor development, and builds social and emotional skills, including self-confidence. In short, play time is an important step for healthy growth and development and is great preparation for school.

To find out more about children’s early years and how you can encourage their healthy growth and development, please visit

e m i t Play

www.successby6victoria.ca

www.successby6victoria.ca www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013 37

Summer Programs July 8 to 12 & Aug 19 to 23

Best of Broadway 4 to 6 year olds 9am to 12pm

Broadway and Beyond 7 to 14 year olds 9am to 3pm

Nurturing and developing young peoples potential through dance, drama and singing

Email: langford@stagecoachschools.ca

Call: 250 743 0858 (Mill Bay)

Pacific School of Innovation and Inquiry “The path is made by walking”

learningstorm.org @psiivictoria psii@learningstorm.org

Looking for a Grade 9 to 12 school that fits your teenager and not one that expects your teenager to fit it? One designed on what we now know about adolescent learners and not what we thought we knew over a century ago?

Victoria’s new independent school still accepting applications for Sept 2013.

Email Jeff at psii@learningstorm.org to book an information meeting for your school’s parent group, your family, or a small group of interested families.

Check our website also for upcoming public information sessions in April.

Notary & Income Tax Services Legal & Accounting Services Made Easy…

NOTARY INCOME TAX ➢ Real Estate Transfers ➢ Mortgages/Credit Lines ➢ Signatures/Notarizations ➢ Wills/ Powers of Attorney ➢ Child Travel Letters

➢ Personal Tax Returns ➢ Small Business Returns ➢ Estate & Trust Returns ➢ Corporate Returns ➢ Bookkeeping

Tim Shipley

1551 Pandora Ave. 250-592-4342 www.shipleygroup.net Stadacona Centre

38 Island Parent Magazine

The Bully Never Goes Away

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few months back, we all wore pink to celebrate anti-bullying day. No one deserves to be bullied. We all have the right to live without the fear of…of what exactly?

I recently read an interview with Emily Bazelon, author of Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Empathy and Character.

Bazelon challenges the definition of bullying, and says many bullying cases are actually one-to-one confrontations between kids. Obviously, bullies exist, but the issue is much more nuanced than a simple label suggests.

Recently, my daughter came home and said one of her classmates called a boy a bully because he wasn’t being as nice to her as she believed was necessary at that moment. This is the type of behaviour Bazelon describes in her book—when the label is applied even though it might not be justified. We can use the word so often that we forget what it really means, and how to deal with it.

Most of us had to deal with bullies when we were in school. For me it was Ted McHenry (yes, I have changed the name to protect the innocent) in Grade 1. Ted scared me. He didn’t really do anything to me physically except use his size to corner me, but when he spoke to me, I felt threatened.

His presence always made me take some sort of defensive posture. The first time he got too close to me, he ended up being the one in tears. It turns out, Ted was as scared as everyone else. I never labelled Ted. He was just something I had to deal with. My dad always gave me the same advice. Make it difficult for anyone to pick on you, because bullies are inherently lazy. They don’t want to work hard. I still had to define the bully, and more importantly, set up rules and parameters for myself.

What do I tell my daughters in today’s world? I have corrected them a few times when they use the word “bully” when I believed it was not apt. In my personal definition, a bully is someone who enjoys www.kidsinvictoria.com

instilling fear and uses a perceived power imbalance to reach that aim. The nuances of female-to-female bullying are different, according to my wife, but from what I’ve seen, the general principles still apply. The few times my daughters have called someone a bully and I disagreed with the label, it was because they were, in that moment, letting go of their own resilience, ingenuity and courage that blossom in dealing with confrontation—the kind that just happens.

Dadspeak Frank o’Brien Is this a cure all? Of course not. I just don’t want my girls to fall back on a label. When they call someone a bully, I worry that they will no longer look for solutions, and will legitimize a fear they hold, which might not be necessary. Most of the issues they face do not come from a power imbalance.

I have some experience, both as the bullied and the bully. In school, for a number of years, I wasn’t the nicest kid. There were a few kids I singled out, and, for lack of a better word, I bullied them. I never took it to extremes, and we didn’t have the internet, Facebook, Twitter, or Youtube. Bullying was verbal or physical, in real time. This is not something I am proud of, although I was around 12 years old. It causes me to fear equally that my kids might bully someone or they may be bullied. I hear myself talking more about the need to treat others kindly, rather than the need to defend oneself from the school bully. Perhaps I know deep down I needed to do this more as a kid.

As a father who was both bullied and a bully, I keep relying on some of those basic things my mom and dad taught me. Sticks and stones will break my bones, but names will never hurt me. Be nice. Play fair. Don’t call someone a bully just because they are mean to you once. And if someone really does want to bully you, talk. Talk to us, to your teacher, to your friends…to anyone who can help. These rules will always apply, no matter how many times a year I don the pink shirt.

Emmanuel Preschool

2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road (by entrance to UVic)

Openings available for 2013–2014 Classes!

Children learn through play in our nondenominational Christian preschool. Bright attractive setting with competent and caring staff.

Two teachers with ECE certification plus assistant teachers with each teacher bringing their own strengths to the team.

Opportunities available: Mon/Wed/Fri morning class Tues/Thurs morning class Phone 250-598-0573 preschool@emmanuelvictoria.ca

www.emmanuelpreschool.ca

Frank O’Brien is the father of Aideen and Megan, and husband of Amanda O’Brien.

He is currently working on a book about his experience in the restaurant industry. www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013 39

A Gift from My Son Parent & Child Mornings Preschool / Kindergarten Grade 1-8 Aftercare until 5:30pm.

This month’s column is guest written by Matt Czyz, Kathy Humphrey’s son.

M

arch 5th is a very important day in our household. It’s my mother’s birthday and as an early present to her, and to do my best to save her from doing any sort of work on her pre-birthday eve (deadline), I wrote this column for her. I also wanted to show her how appreciative I am of all the wonderful and thoughtful things she does for the family, and especially for me.

Not only is March the month where my mother celebrates her birthday, it is also the birth month of countless other family members, so as you can imagine quite a lot of different food and desserts get made. In this article I am including not only some of my favourite things to eat on my birthday, but also some of our family’s popular meals.

Spaghetti 1 lb ground beef 1 onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 small green bell pepper, diced 1 (794 ml) can diced tomatoes 1 (474 ml) can tomato sauce 1 (170 grams) can tomato paste 2 tsp dried oregano 2 tsp dried basil 1 tsp salt 1⁄2 tsp black pepper Combine ground beef, onion, garlic, and green pepper in a large saucepan. Cook and stir until meat is brown and vegetables are tender. Drain grease. Stir diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste in the pan.

Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

‘Teatime in Kindercottage’ Preschool Open House Apr. 17 Visit our website to learn more.

www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org Tel. 250-743-7253 40 Island Parent Magazine

One in a Hundred People

Simmer spaghetti sauce for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Cook appropriate amount of spaghetti noodles as per instructions on package, and serve with spaghetti sauce poured over.

Carrot Cake

Cake: 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking powder 2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp baking soda 3⁄4 tsp salt 1⁄2 tsp nutmeg 3⁄4 cup granulated sugar 3⁄4 cup packed brown sugar 3 eggs 3⁄4 cup vegetable oil 1 tsp vanilla 2 cups grated carrots 1 cup drained crushed canned pineapple 1⁄2 cup chopped pecans Icing: 1 – 250g package cream cheese, softened 1⁄4 cup butter, softened 1⁄2 tsp vanilla 1 cup icing sugar Cake: Grease and flour 13x9" (3.5L) metal cake pan and set aside. In large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, beat together granulated and brown sugars, eggs, oil and vanilla until smooth. Pour over flour mixture and stir just until moistened. Stir in carrots, pineapple and pecans. Spread in prepared pan. Bake in centre of 350°F oven for 40 minutes or

250 475 6677 help@vepc.bc.ca www.vepc.bc.ca

have epilepsy call us we’re here to help

www.kidsinvictoria.com

until cake tester inserted in centre comes out clean. Let cool in pan on rack. (Makeahead tips: Cover with plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to two days. Or oven-wrap with heavy duty foil and freeze for up to two weeks; let thaw before continuing.)

Just Eat It! KATHY HUMPHrEY Icing: In bowl, beat cream cheese with butter until smooth. Beat in vanilla. Beat in icing sugar, one-third at a time, until smooth.

Ice cake. (Make-ahead: Cover loosely and refrigerate for up to 1 day.)

Seafood Fettuccine 4 ounces uncooked fettuccine 1⁄4 lb uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined 1⁄4 lb sea scallops, halved 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided 1 small shallot, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 1⁄4 cup chicken broth 1⁄4 cup white wine or additional chicken broth 1 cup heavy whipping cream or half-andhalf cream 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 Roma tomato, diced 2 Tbsp minced fresh parsley Cook the fettuccine according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, sauté shrimp and scallops in 1 tablespoon oil for 3–5 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and scallops are opaque. Remove and keep warm. In the same skillet, sauté shallot in remaining oil until tender. Add garlic and cook 1 minute longer. Stir in broth and wine.

Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 6–8 minutes or until most of the liquid has evaporated. Stir in cream; cook, uncovered over medium heat for 5 minutes or until thickened. Drain fettuccine and stir into cream sauce. Add shrimp, scallops and cheese, then toss to coat. Sprinkle with tomato and parsley. Makes 2 servings.

Kathy Humphrey lives in Victoria with her husband and two children. She tries to see cooking for a family not as a chore but as a creative outlet. www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013

41

So Long, Farewell

A

ll things must come to an end, and I’m sad to say that this column marks the end of my time as Book Nook columnist. Writing for you over the last three years has been an absolute delight, and I heartily envy the talented writer who will take up the gilded pen of Book Nook author. I’ve done my best, over these last years, to share with you as many marvellous books as I possibly could. Below, you’ll find some of my favourite titles from previous columns, and some that fell through the cracks: these are favourites from my lifetime—children’s books that changed my life and might very well do the same for your child, or for you.

Charmed Life (HarperCollins), by Diana Wynne Jones, was one of the first novels I read on my own, and remains one of my favourites to this day. Magical, excellently written, intelligent and engaging, Cat’s adventures enchanted me; like all things Wynne Jones, it should be read and enjoyed to the utmost degree. 9+ The Cardturner (Ember), by Louis Sachar, remains one of the finest young adult books I’ve read in years: funny, philosophic, exciting, thoughtful—I never thought I would use these words to describe a book where most of the action takes place around a bridge table. Like me, if you leap over your preconceived notions and read this book, you won’t be disappointed. 12+ A String in the Harp (Aladdin), by Nancy Bond, ranks in my top-10 favourite books of all time. It has inspired and influenced me more than I can say, and I treasure it.

With effortless characterization and superb sense of place, this extraordinary tale of Celtic history and magic will give you a new appreciation of Welsh myth, family,

42

Island Parent Magazine

and the power that comes from within. 11+ Burglar Bill (Puffin) by Janet and Allan Ahlberg is a quintessential British classic that deserves to be on every child’s bookshelf. Witty and playful, the delightful text marries perfectly with warm colours and friendly faces to make this a truly splendid tale of a rather unusual robber. A staple of my childhood, no home should be without Burglar Bill. 3+ By the same authors, It Was a Dark and Stormy Night (Penguin) will always be, in my opinion, the finest early reader novel available. Imaginative, entertaining, and featuring a brave eight-year-old protagonist who single-handedly outwits a band of brigands, this will inspire laughter and tall tales for your entire family. 8+ Teddy Jam’s exquisite free-verse Night Cars (Groundwood Books), about a little baby who doesn’t want to go to sleep, forms part of my earliest recollections, and continues to be a perfect book for the very young.

Simple, soothing, with soft illustrations of a snow-covered city at night, this quietly beautiful book is one of the best going-to-bed reads you will ever come across. Newborn+ Other titles that I can only urge you to investigate include: • The New Policeman (Greenwillow Books), by Kate Thompson, is an Irish tale of music and mythology that is truly enchanting for 11+: I love it and I know you will, too.

• One Cool Friend (Dial), by Tony Buzzeo, is the tale of a very proper boy who adopts a penguin. What happens next? Well that would be telling…all I can say is, you’ll never guess the ending, but you will laugh out loud (5+);

www.kidsinvictoria.com

• Anything and everything by Shirley Hughes, for anyone 2+; knighted, lauded, loved: Hughes is a genius, her every book a gem (read Dogger if you don’t believe me);

Book Nook MADDY SMItH • Frances Hardinge’s incredible novel Face Like Glass (Pan MacMillan), which took my breath away with its prose, its plot, its extraordinary imagination—a truly captivating read by a truly exceptional author (12+).

I could tell you of dozens more, but time grows short, so I’ll just say this: read to your kids. Read to them at night, on the bus. Read to them in utero, when they’re five, 12, 17. Read books you loved when you were young, and as you all grow older, get them to read to you, too. Go to libraries: take home mountains of books and read them all. Repeat this as often as possible.

Don’t be afraid to read things that challenge them—or you. Reading is an adventure that’s even better when it’s shared.

It’s been a true pleasure and a privilege to write for you over the last three years. Thank you for your interest, your attention, and your readership. All my best wishes go with you for a future filled with brilliant books, daring days, and marvellous moments.

Read well, read long, and never forget to believe: in yourself, in your children, and in the magic of a good book.

Pedalheads June & Summer Bike Camps! ®

Sign up for our 10 level instructional bike safety and skills program, from training wheels to trails, for kids ages 2-12.

June After School & Summer Bike Camps Monday - Friday, June 3 - 28, 4:00 -6:30 pm Monday - Friday, July 2 - August 30 Morning and Afternoon Camps Camps available at Oaklands Elementary June After School & Summer Bike Camps Monday - Friday, June 24 - 28, 4:00 -6:30 pm Monday - Friday, July 2 - August 30 Morning, Afternoon and All Day Camps Camps available at Braefoot Community Association

Reg ns ope 2.

Apr

Please check our website for detailed information.

www.pedalheads.ca

1-888-886-6464

Accepting Enrollment for Sept. 2013 Book now for a tour!

5575 West Saanich Rd (across from Red Barn Market) 250 592 4411 imhs@telus.net www.islandmontessori.com

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preschool to grade 2

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before and after school care

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small class sizes

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supportive and caring staff

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excellent academic foundation

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Kodaly music program

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lovely rural location connecting children to nature

Maddy Smith is a children’s bookseller and an Islander born and bred; she reads, writes, and believes in the magic of a great book.

ALL FUN KARTS • CAGES • CLUBS • CAMPING at Western Speedway

at Western Speedway

o much fun!! to as g in th ch su no s e’ er Th Open from 12-5pm • Weekends and Holidays from Apr-Jun & Sept • 7 days/week Jul & Aug from 11-6pm (weather permitting)

2207 Millstream Rd, Victoria BC • 250-474-1961 • allfun.bc.ca • westernspeedway.net www.IslandParent.ca

April 2013

43

Yes, There Is an App for That!

knows all his letters, he can build a seriously complicated train track, he understands basic sequencing and matching…I can go on. Without the iPad I’m not sure we would know he possessed those skills. Who knows the ways in which I might have limited him?

The next big bonus was that the iPad was sparking his interest in a lot of those things he’d rejected before. He would play Zoo Train, and then he would want to play with his wooden train tracks. We played the

When typical toys were a bust, the iPad was a lifesaver for my son with autism

I

’d like to start by saying that if you had told me five years ago that I would buy a $500 tablet for my preschooler, I would have said you were out of your mind. But I also said I was going to have a natural childbirth, so what is parenthood if not a consistently humbling never-say-never kind of experience? I think anyone with children, typically developing or autistic, can relate to this.

I consider myself a reluctant techie—I barely know how to text—so I didn’t jump right on the iPad bandwagon. (Also, I am horribly cheap. But that’s another column.)

Lots of people sent me articles about how the iPad was helping someone’s son/daughter/ brother/sister with autism, either academically, as a means of communication, or just for pure entertainment. But I dug my heels in. I was adamant that my son, whether he had autism or not, would play creative, imaginative games. I wanted him to build forts, fill his Tonka trucks up with mud, read picture books, build castles from Lego, and fingerpaint.

Unfortunately, he had absolutely no interest in any of that. The mountain of rejected toys was growing at the same rate as my anxiety over his development. I tried so hard

to follow his lead, like I had been taught to do, but I really didn’t know what lead to follow. As the months and then years went by, he had fewer and fewer things he was motivated by. He was increasingly hard to engage as he retreated more into his own world. We knew we had to be contingent if we were to get him to talk, but when the only speech-eliciting activities your child is motivated by are the swing, YouTube videos of Beaker, and eating, this can be limiting.

I am all about accepting my child for who he is, but I knew he was at the brink of developing functional speech and we were stuck at “push,” “Beaker,” and “eggnog.”

I was frustrated and feeling like a failure.

It was at this point we decided to cough it up for the iPad. Like everything else that is new for Callum, he required some real prodding to give it a go (first iPad, then eggnog!) but soon enough, we were off.

The first lightbulb moment was when my suspicions about just how intelligent he is were confirmed. When a child struggles with communication, is often non-compliant, and extremely inattentive to boot, it can be really hard to assess their cognitive ability.

It would be easy to underestimate my son.

But the iPad showed me he can count, he

GULF ISLANDS FILM & TELEVISION SCHOOL

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Is There an App for This?

Carly SUTHERLAND Duplo app just the other day and suddenly he was interested in his Duplo. The Monster at the End of This Book got him suddenly interested in his Grover doll. After playing Toca Boca, which is an app where you do all these virtual chores, he not only dug out the plastic lawnmower, he helped me vacuum. How awesome is that?

Thirdly, the iPad is the best toy ever for my son. I’ll admit, I am not a perfect mother.

I don’t always sit down with him to play educational apps. Sometimes I need to get supper made, and he needs to zone out, and at some point, we might need to take a plane ride somewhere (Merciful heaven). Plus, he doesn’t care about his Tonka trucks. What’s a mother to do?

Finally, I believe that being adept with technology is a pretty important skill to foster. I want to provide my child with every chance to succeed. Other parents may try soccer or piano lessons in the same way.

You want to put it out there for your kid.

I know some people in the autism community say that the iPad is a miracle. In our case, miracle might be a bit of a hyperbole, because I don’t believe that just handing my son an iPad and then going to fold the laundry will ignite a surge of functional skill development. I still need our speech language pathologist. I still need his teachers at school. I still need his therapists. And I still need to be on the ball. But man oh man, does that iPad ever help.

Carly Sutherland has two sons, one of whom has autism. She knows it’s just a matter of time before she caves and gets a video game console. www.kidsinvictoria.com

Family-Friendly Mid-Island

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Atomic Vaudeville’s

RIDE THE

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Written by Jacob Richmond Music by Brooke Maxwell and Jacob Richmond

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April 25 - 29 VIU’s Malaspina Theatre Tickets $30 Contact Port Theatre to purchase 250 754 8550 porttheatre.com BOOK EARLY AND SAVE! EAR APRIL 25 ONLY $24

Camp Footholds Footholds Therapy Center is happy to announce a wide variety of summer programs at Camp Footholds. Our camps are structured to offer programming geared towards children with special needs (Autism, FASD, etc) and other emotional and psychological challenges (Anxiety/Depression). Camp Footholds focuses on empowering kids by building social skills and self-esteem, all while having lots of fun!

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Base Camp: 4–7 Years Camp Footholds will combine their awesome locations, diverse surroundings and unique staff skill set to offer amazing opportunities for all the campers involved. Base Camp will focus on encouraging positive social interactions and social thinking for campers through fun and engaging activities. Mon–Fri, July 2–19, 9am–2pm, $950

Ascent Camp: 8–12 Years Ascent Camp will offer activities such as exploring Petroglyphs around Nanaimo and surrounding areas, trips to Ammonite Falls and the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre. Promoting a healthy, physical lifestyle and giving campers a safe place to build positive peer relationships is the goal of this camp. Mon–Fri, July 22–Aug 9, 9am–2pm, $900

Peak Camp: 13–18 Years Peak Camp will teach campers to be self-directed, productive members of society. This will be done through a variety of outings, interactions with other campers and camp leaders as well as specific activities focused on building life skills and social skills.

Mon–Fri, Aug 12–30, 9am–2pm, $900

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Other Camps – check our website for additional information Artistic Outlet: 10–16 Years, Mon–Fri, 9am–12pm from July 2–12 for $550 Slam Dunk: 10–16 Years, Mon–Fri, 9am–2pm from July 2–12 for $720 Welcome to the Oscars: 8–18 Years, Mon–Fri, 9am–12pm from July 15–26 for $600 Creative Minecraft: 7–15 Years, Mon–Fri, 9am–2pm from July 15–Aug 2 for $750 Fun Frogs: 4–7 Years, Mon–Fri, 9am–12pm from July 29–Aug 16 for $850 Musical Melodies: 12–18 Years Mon–Fri, 9am–12pm from Aug 6–16 for $550 Sensory Seekers: 4–10 Years Mon–Fri, 9am–12pm from Aug 19–30 for $750

250-585-4411 www.footholds.ca www.IslandParent.ca

MUSICAL THEATRE Comox Valley Youth Music Camp JUNE 29 THRU JULY 21, 2013 REGISTER AT CYMC.CA April 2013 45

Family Services Directory This directory, sponsored by Thrifty Foods, features not for profit agencies and organizations serving children, youth and families.

BC Families in Transition (formerly the Separation and Divorce Resource Centre) is one of three non-profit agencies in North America that offers professional counselling, legal support and education for people who are having problems in their relationships. Each year we help 10,000 adults, children and youth through family changes, separations and divorces, remarriages, and complex family situations. Whether you wish to separate or remain together, call us at 250-386-4331 or visit www.bcfit.org to see how we can help. Some evening and weekend appointments available.

Beacon Community Services is a community-based non-profit agency providing social, employment, and health services to Saanich Peninsula, Greater Victoria, and Southern Gulf Islands residents. Beacon offers: child, youth, and family services; a drop-in family resource centre; counselling; employment services for adults, youth, and people with disabilities; home support; volunteer services and opportunities; community events; affordable assisted living for seniors; referrals, information, and resources; thrift shops. For Home Support information call 250-658-6407; for all other inquiries call 250-656-0134, or visit www.beaconcs.ca.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Victoria is a non-profit organization that provides mentoring programs for children and youth between the ages of 7 - 17. Adult volunteers (“Bigs”) are matched with children (“Littles”) based on shared interests, respect and trust. No special skills or experience are needed to be a mentor to a child, just a willingness to be a friend and commit to being a

TM

consistent, positive adult role model. Make a BIG difference in the life of a child in as little as 1 hr./ week. Contact us at 250-475-1117 or visit www. bbbsvictoria.com or ‘LIKE’ our page at facebook. com/bbbsvictoria.

Boys & Girls Club Services offer after-school and evening social, educational and recreational programming for children and youth at 4 locations.

We also offer support to parents (Parents Together) and programs at our Outdoor Centre in Metchosin.

For more information on all programs and services visit www.bgcvic.org or call 250.384.9133.

The Child Abuse Prevention & Counselling Society/Mary Manning Centre is the primary provider of therapy and victim support services for children and youth in Greater Victoria who experience sexual abuse, physical abuse, and other serious trauma, or who may be at risk for sexual abuse. Therapy services include individual and group sessions for children and youth and group sessions for parents. Victim services include intake and referral, accompaniment and support for children and youth being interviewed by police, and court preparation and support for those testifying as victims or witnesses in criminal cases. No charge for clients. Contact: 250-385-6111 or admin@ marymanning.com.

Community Living Victoria supports people with developmental disabilities and their families by providing residential services, day and community supports (supported employment, parent support and independent living). Our Host agency provides direct supports for those with Individualized Fund-

ing and Home Share service. We also provide Autism Services for youth between 13 and 19. Our family support program offers advocacy, conflict resolution, education, newsletters, workshops, support groups and a resource library. Please call 250-477-7231 ext 233.

Esquimalt Neighbourhood House Society. Our Family Services offer family resource programs with a focus on early childhood development and learning, parenting education and pre and post-natal services. Our Counselling Services are free to adults and youth (12-18 years); adult and short term clinical counselling is offered for acute mental health problems. For more information call 250-385-2635 or visit 511 Constance Ave. in Esquimalt.

Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria (ICA) is a service agency for immigrants and refugees. Programs offered include cross-cultural counseling, parenting programs (child care available), family violence programs, employment services, interpretation and translation, diversity workshops and training, ESL instruction, volunteering, youth programs and tutoring, as well as intercultural arts programming and the Diversity Health Fair. 930 Balmoral Rd, 250-388-4728, info@icavictoria.org, www.icavictoria.org.

Learning Disabilities Association of BC, SVI Chapter, educates, supports and advocates for children and youth with learning disabilities and related conditions.

Services include a public lending library, individual/ group support for parents and children, professional/educational workshops for parents and professionals. Child and youth programs include: reading/writing, academic skills, social/emotional skill development and Fast ForWord. 1562 Fort Street, Victoria, BC V8S 5J2. Ph 250.370.9513.

Fax. 250.370.9421. www.ldasvi.bc.ca. www. knowyourrights.ca

LOVING LEARNING

FREE workshops for parents and their 3-5 year olds!

Saturday April 27th

10:00-4:30

Workshops* for parents with NVC Traner Ingrid Bauer and Occupational Therapist David Beagley.

Parents and kids can also enjoy Hands-On Math, Celebrating Art, Language and Literacy, Experiments & Explorations, and more!

http://oakandorca.ca 250 383 6609 Snacks and lunch items provided. *Register for free childcare during workshops.

46 Island Parent Magazine

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) provides programs and services to the military family community. Services include: 24 Hour Information Line, Deployment Information and Workshops, Short Term Intervention/Crisis Support, Welcome/ Relocation Services, services for families with special needs and responsabilities and childcare services and support to parents. Exciting Volunteer opportunities available! Call the MFRC: 250-3632640 (1-800-353-3329) for information. www. esquimaltmfrc.com.

Parent Support Services Society (www. parentsupportbc.ca) provides support circles, parenting resources and referrals to all in a parenting role including grandparents raising grandchildren.

Our training in peer group facilitation is open to the community. Support circles are free with child minding and transportation assistance available.

Volunteers are always needed. Call 250-3848042; email parent-support@shaw.ca.

1Up: Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre (www.1-up.ca) provides support, education and resources for parents in the Greater Victoria area through free counselling, volunteer training for reception and peer helper positions, a mentoring program for single moms, and a support group for dads. The Centre also offers over 20 integrated life skills and parenting courses which are open to the whole community (fees are on a sliding scale). Child care assistance is available based on financial need.

The Centre provides a bread pantry and free clothing for single parents. Donations of gently-used clothing, small household items, books, and toys are very welcome every Monday and Wednesday.

Centre hours are 9–4 weekdays. 602 Gorge Rd. East; call 250-385-1114 or info@1-up.ca.

South Island Centre for Counselling & Training is an affordable, non-profit, counselling agency serving individuals and families from all social, ethnic, and financial backgrounds. We help people with a wide range of issues including low self-esteem, depression, grief, marital and family conflict, abuse and spiritual direction. We also offer helpful “life” courses. For more information contact us at 250-472-2851; info@southislandcentre.ca.

Victoria Epilepsy & Parkinson’s Centre supports families living with epilepsy by providing tutoring and one on one professional consultations to help your child to live up to their full potential.

We offer epilepsy education workshops in private and public schools, and keep you up to date on the latest research about medications, lifestyle and safety for your child. Visit us at www.vepc.bc.ca to find out more, and to explore our bursaries for Camosun College. Calls are also welcome at 250-475-6677. www.IslandParent.ca

Matinees for KIDS!

Saturdays & Sundays at 1pm All Seats $4.75 APR 6 & 7 THE IRON GIANT APR 13 & 14 HUGO APR 20 & 21 THE Secret Garden APR 27 & 28

cinecenta

Jack THE Giant Slayer

.com

Student Union Building, UVIC | 721-8365

always here and making it easier Monarch House offers an interdisciplinary approach to treating children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. Our team of highly qualified professionals provide services based on best practices, with treatment geared specifically to the needs of your child and family. no waiting for assessments Our diagnostic services provide timely access to professionals who are qualified to diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disabilities. for more information please contact: Monarch House - Victoria 611 Discovery Street

250.220.8999

monarchhousevictoria@cbi.ca

April 2013 47

10 Things to Do in the First Year 1. Get connected and stay connected with your child. This is top priority throughout parenthood, and babyhood is the time to start this relationship. Spend time skin to skin with your baby, wear your baby, breastfeed your baby. Listen to their cries and start to notice the difference between a hunger cry, a distressed cry and a tired cry. Notice their facial expressions and little noises they make before they begin to fuss. Get to know your baby’s cues and temperament.

2. Learn about baby development but, more importantly, know that every baby develops on their own schedule. Try to not rush or be anxious about developmental phases. You may find yourself comparing your child to your neighbour’s little one, but this leads to more worry than is necessary. Comparison and concern can cause a parent to miss the enjoyment of their own unique child.

3. Spark your child’s senses through listening to and playing music, reading board

ally pretty good travellers. They are not as fragile as you may think and your baby is less likely to be unsettled from travel now than they will later on. So enjoy this period: once your baby is mobile, travel becomes a greater challenge.

6. Ditch the super mom approach. No

books, playing and having “tummy time,” snuggling together, and spending time outside. You can’t start these activities too early!

4. Snuggle with your baby as often as possible. Many aspects of babyhood are limited to just the first few weeks and months. There is nothing better than the sweet scent of your baby’s head or your peaceful baby snuggling on your chest. Email can be backed up, laundry piling up, and the dishwasher might not be emptied, but don’t take those snuggly naps for granted. Once they end you will long for just one more.

5. If you have a travel bug—travel! Many parents have asked me if it is possible, realistic and safe to travel with a baby. My answer in short is: yes! However, timing is important. You probably won’t want to go anywhere with your newborn except straight home. Babies require almost nonstop attention and feeds and besides, you will need time to recuperate from the birth.

But after those early weeks, babies are gener-

New Parent Pages Diana Hurschler, BScN one has ever figured out perfect and you won’t either—there really is no such thing as the perfect parent. It’s enough to set your standards at a reasonable level and then do your best to meet them. Know that it is enough to be “good enough” most of the time and to keep making the effort. More important than perfection is the willingness to admit mistakes, to learn from them and figure out what to do differently the next time. When your child is older, this will model that mistakes are how we learn.

Rather than aiming to parent perfectly, seek to learn how to parent mindfully.

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48 Island Parent Magazine

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7. Go on monthly dates with your partner.

It is easy to fall into survival mode with the exhaustion of caring for a newborn—too many mindless nights in front of a screen, too much yoga pant-wearing, and not enough date nights. But don’t make this pattern the new norm. Find someone you trust to care for your baby while you take the time to nurture your relationship. You are modeling adult relationships for your child who will eventually soak up these impressions.

Remember that your child is not a replacement for the intimacy of your spouse or partner. Check out what communication patterns you and your partner are using and modeling for your children to see.

8. Establish a rhythm and routine to your day. After the first few months, you may notice that your baby wants to feed and sleep at certain times. Set a general flow following your baby’s cues so that they start to recognize and associate activities with bedtime, naptime and playtime. You’ll find that you will be able to enjoy your time with baby more if you have a general pattern to the day.

9. Carve out time for yourself. It is very easy to fall into the pattern of getting everything else done and putting your personal needs at the bottom of your to-do list.

Whether that means reading a book for an hour, walking with a friend, or taking a class—it is so important to just do it. Every time I do carve out the time, I come back refreshed and I feel like I have renewed energy to be a better mom.

10. Record the memories in a baby book or journal. Most new parents are incredibly good at taking photos and video clips. Record more than just pictures—write down your experiences. Take a few minutes once a week to jot down how things are right now for you, because they will likely change tomorrow, and yesterday will become a blur.

Take a picture of your sweet little one in the same position/same setting weekly or monthly to capture how fast they grow.

It’s incredible to look back after a year and see all the changes. Whether in a book or an online blog, find a way to record what is likely to be one of the most important years of your life.

Above all, ENJOY your little one!

Diana Hurschler, RN BscN, childbirth educator and certified breastfeeding counselor has been helping families in their childbearing years and beyond since 1998. Diana is the proud mama of four little ones. She can be reached at diana@hurschler.com. www.IslandParent.ca

Come See Why Learning in Nature Rocks!

Opening Spring 2013 for Ages 3–5 "Tell me and I'll forget, show me and I may remember, involve me and I'll understand" Chinese Proverb Reggio Influenced Philosophy Child Led Learning Registrations Now Being Taken for Limited Spaces

mosnjk@hotmail.com www.naturejuniorkindergarten.com

Writing for Island Parent Many of the articles in Island Parent are written by people just like you: parents who want to share their experiences, knowledge or ideas with other parents. We’re always happy to consider your submission, whether you’re a published writer or not. If you’re itching to express yourself but need a few pointers or a friendly nudge, come out for an evening of inspiration.

We’re holding a Writing for Island Parent workshop on Tuesday, May 7th, 7–9pm, at 830 Pembroke St, Ste B (across from the north side of Save On Foods Memorial Arena). Space is limited. If you’d like to attend, please e-mail Sue Fast at editor@islandparent.ca.

Come on out and get those creative juices flowing!

April 2013 49

Preschool & Child Care Directory CENTRAL SAANICH

Highlands

Chrysalis Child Care..........................250-652-0815 A nurturing and stimulating environment for a small group of 3–5 year olds. Qualified ECE promotes learning through play. www.chrysalischildcare.ca.

Lexie’s Little Bears’ Child Care Inc....................................250-590-3603 Welcome to the wilderness! Our Outdoor Nature program provides your child with an experience like no other in the elements! Our program boasts our OWN 2 acre forest for your child to explore and learn. Our ECEs provide a strong Reggio Emilia Influence while your child plays and grows with the outdoor world!

We bring our classroom outside! “Teaching children about the Natural World should be treated as one of the most important events in their lives!” - Thomas Berry Like us on Facebook! www.lexieslittlebears.com.

Space avail. Waitlist for September being taken now!

Colwood/LANGFORD Almosthome Childcare/Preschool...250-590-7666 Quality childcare with a preschool curriculum/kindergarten readiness program. Experienced Early Childhood Educators. Nurturing environment for ages 10 months to 5 years old. www.almosthomecare.com.

Caring Touch Daycare.......................250-478-4886 A warm, loving, fun family daycare in a safe, nurturing environment. Infant/toddler care for ages 1–5 years.

Jenn’s Little Bears.............................250-478-8999 A safe nurturing environment for children from infancy to kindergarten. Our Infant and Toddler Program enriches each child’s development while our 3-5 Program prepares children for kindergarten. Two separate buildings allow each age group space to grow!

Miles of Smiles Licensed Child Care..........................250-298-7374 Dedicated to offering quality care where caring, learning, diversity, guidance and fun are the priority. www. milesofsmileschildcare.com Music Makers Child Care Centre.....250-294-3916 Offering an innovative environment that develops musical abilities and encourages a love of music while following a preschool curriculum/kindergarten readiness program. Group care for children 2 to 6 and infant/toddler care for ages 12 to 36 months. www.musicmakerschildcare.com

CORDOVA BAY Carrot Seed Preschool......................250-652-2311 Where children can discover, imagine, construct and learn through play. Wondrous natural playground. www.carrotseedpreschool.com.

Cordova Bay Preschool....................250-658-3441 A bright and cheerful parent-participation preschool with a philosophy of “learning through play.” www. cordovabaypreschool.org.

ESQUIMALT CIARA Early Childhood Centre.........250-386-7369 Education and fun hand in hand. Exceptional care for little ones ages 12 month-5yrs in an inclusive centre with Christian values.

Island Kids Academy Esquimalt.......250-381-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). Preschool curriculum offered within a warm, caring all-day program. Character development using the Virtues Project. Access to community programs including swimming, skating, Victoria Conservatory of Music. Part-time spaces available. www.islandkids.ca.

La Pre-Maternelle Appletree Preschool..........................250-479-0292 French immersion program. 30 months to school age.

Licensed Christian centre. www.prematernelleappletree.com.

Simply Fun Childcare Centre............250-881-3958 A warm, loving, fun and nurturing place for children to grow and learn. We have spaces available for registration ages 2.5 to 12 in our Licensed Group Facility. We offer extraordinary childcare, before and after school programs and a preschool. Our teachers are extremely qualified with ECE training and have lots of experience.

Call Brenda to set up a tour. Let your child’s light shine bright with us!

50 Island Parent Magazine

METCHOSIN A Growing Place................................250-391-1133 Half day program (AM or PM) for 2.5-5 yrs. ECE educator, small class size. Our own petting farm. Summer program for July.

Metchosin Co-op Preschool.............250-478-9241 Come and visit our stunning natural outdoor playspace, warm, nurturing, play-based,inclusive program allowing parents to grow and learn alongside their child.

Exceptional ECE Staff provide an enriching experience for 2.5 - 5 year olds. Come grow with us! Est.1960.

Reg. begins Mar.1 @ 9am. www.metchosinpreschool. wordpress.com.

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.

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

Gonzales Co-op Preschool...............250-727-1003 Children explore their imaginations in our learning-throughplay environments and large natural playground. Our Reggio-Emilia inspired program focuses on art, nature and music. Over 50 years serving Victoria’s families. Nuturing and highly qualified ECE and ECE Assistant. Parent participation level options available and allergy-aware. Join us! www.gonzalespreschool.com.

Kindred Spirits Children’s House........250-590-6966 Now accepting registration for a small group of 2.5–5 year olds in a purpose built Montessori classroom.

The prepared environment stimulates and engages the children at their own pace with hands on, size, age and developmentally appropriate materials. www.kindredspiritschildrenshouse.com Oak Bay Co-op Preschool..................250-592-1922 Children Learn Through Play in this parent participation school. Our bright facility is allergy-free with a large outdoor playground. www.oakbaypreschool.com.

Recreation Oak Bay..........................250-370-7200 Fully licensed, qualified ECE Daycare and Preschool with play based learning. After school care also available.

SAANICH Arbutus Grove Children’s Centre.....250-477-3731 Innovative and dynamic preschool programming.

Children’s learning is nurtured and guided through exploration, discovery, play and creative expression. www.arbutusgrove.ca.

Cloverdale Child Care.......................... 250-995-1766 Preschool for 3 & 4 year olds, Come grow with us and learn through play. www.cloverdalechildcare.com.

Full o’ Beans Preschool........................ 250.360.1148 Opening September 2013. We offer ‘learn through play’ programming designed to foster your child’s natural curiosity and imagination. Flexible scheduling, 2.5 and 4 hour programs, qualified staff. Registration is ongoing!www.saanichneighbourhoodplace.com.

Island Montessori House..................250-592-4411 Inclusive, integrated and nurturing preschool, kindergarten, Grade 1/2 program. Located in a lovely rural setting. Extended day available. www.islandmontessori.com.

Lakehill Co-op Preschool.................250-477-4141 Where children’s development is nurtured through a child centered inclusive, play based program.

Come visit our out natural outdoor playground and meet our loving qualified ECE team. Multiple Levels of participation available, please enquire. www.lakehillpreschool.org.

Lambrick Park Preschool & Childcare............................................250-477-8131 Gordon Head’s only parent-participation preschool and childcare centre. Flexible options, play-based learning and outdoor play. Allergy friendly. Celebrating 40+ years. www.lambrickparkpreschool.ca.

Little Readers Academy....................250-477-5550 An enriched learn-to-read program for your 3-6 yearold! Reading, Writing and Math. Half-day, weekend and evening sessions available. www.oxfordlearning.com.

Montessori Educare..........................250-881-8666 Beautiful learning environments in Broadmead and Saanichton. 30 months – 5 years. Summer program available. Special needs are welcome. www.montessorieducare.com.

Neighbourhood Junior Kindergarten..250-479-4410 Offering an early literacy program 4 mornings/wk. (TF) for 4 year olds in an attractive, culturally-sensitive learning environment in Lake Hill School.

Oakcrest Preschool...........................250-472-0668 • Two fully qualified teachers, AM classes • No duty days, wide variety of parent jobs • www.oakcrestpreschool.org Playtime Preschool...........................250-383-3101 AM or PM preschool classes up to 20 hrs/wk. Tillicum.

Spacious facility, qualified ECEs. Let’s Talk About Touching Program. www.playtimepreschool.com.

Puddles & Paints Playschool............250-658-6573 Introduce your children to Nature with our outdoor nature-lovers program. Our centre backs up to 15 acres of our “secret-garden” parkland where we can learn and explore! Strong environmental awareness with a “Naturalplay-based” philosophy. ECE staff, and a strong Reggio Emilia Influence! Celebrating and supporting your child’s world and successes! Like us on Facebook!

Ready Set Grow Preschool...............250-472-1530 A warm, caring, quality Learning Through Play environment. Gordon Head area with a highly qualified ECE. heosc@pacificcoast.net.

Rogers Child Care Centre.................250-744-2343 Trusted High Quality Programs since 1991. Early Learning and Out of School Care. www.rogerschildcare.com.

St. Joseph’s Catholic Preschool..............................250-479-1232 ext 120 • A Christian child centre for 3–5 year olds.

• A warm nurturing and challenging program • Offered by St. Joseph’s Catholic School.

www.kidsinvictoria.com

Preschool & Child Care Directory St. Margaret’s Preschool & Junior Kindergarten..........................250-479-7171 Our programme for 3 and 4 year old girls offers a nurturing and educationally stimulating curriculum provided by experienced ECE staff and specialist teachers. Our state of the art facility is located in beautiful environmental surroundings. www.stmarg.ca.

Strawberry Vale Preschool...............250-479-4213 Children learn through play at our parent participation preschool. Programs for 3 and 4 year olds at “The Little Red Schoolhouse.”

www.strawberryvalepreschool.org.

Wiseways Preschool & Daycare.......250-477-1312

Fully licensed Christian preschool for 3 and 4 year olds. Designed to meet the needs of the whole child. Subsidized fees welcome. www.wiseways. lambrick.com.

SIDNEY Positive Path Early Learning............250-655-7244

Year-round quality child care where preschoolers explore and learn in a culture of Christian values and virtues. positivepath@shaw.ca.

VICTORIA ArtsCalibre Academy........................250-382-3533 Comprehensive programs for Preschool through Grade 5, delivering academic excellence through music, dance, drama and visual arts. Outstanding educators, locations and facilities. www.ArtsCalibre.ca Babies to Big Kids Childcare............... 250-590-5540 949 Fullerton Ave. Daycare owner, 250-818-9225 Licenced group childcare for children 6 months to 12 years old. Three programs offered: Infant toddler program, Three to Five Program and Before and After School Care Program. Open 6:30am-5:30pm. Weekly music and movement classes. www.babiestobigkids. com, info@babiestobigkids.com.

Butterfly Corner.................................... 250-381-4845 Licensed family day care in James Bay. Since 1998.

ECE. Ages 1–5. Full time. Fun & Educational. http:// ButterflyCornerCreativeLearningCentre.com Castleview Child Care.......................250-595-5355 Learning Through Play & Experience. Licensed nonprofit, qual. ECE staff. Since 1958. Preschool and full-time care. www.castleviewchildcarecentre.com.

Cedar Daycare...................................250-479-2032 Community oriented, NFP Child Care facility. Wide variety of activities offered including the use of a private outdoor pool during the summer months. Licensed ECE educators devoted to nurturing children aged 30 months – 5 years. www.cedardaycare.com.

Christ Church Cathedral Childcare.. 250-383-5132 ECE and specialist teachers provide an outstanding all day licensed program for 3 and 4 year olds in our spacious and welcoming facility in James Bay. www. cathedralschool.ca.

Downtown Y Child Care Centre.......250-413-8869 Enriched program, for children ages 3-5 years, supporting healthy child development and future school success. www.victoriay.com.

Lansdowne Co-op Preschool...........250-370-5392 An extraordinary learning environment for families with young children. Parent participation. wwwlansdownepreschool.com.

Nightingale Preschool and Junior Kindergarten...................250-595-7544 – Taking children’s learning forward – One of Victoria’s leading preschools and Junior Kindergartens. Balanced approach to play and education.

Programme supports literacy, numeracy. Visit www. nightingalepreschool.com. Fernwood.

Parkdale Early Childhood Centre.....250-382-0512 We offer quality care and positive experiences for children in our diverse daycare and preschool programs. Our rich curriculum includes music classes from the Victoria Conservatory of Music. parkdalechildcare@shaw.ca.

Rainbow Express Daycare................250-382-2314 Enriched preschool style program in a daycare setting.

Visit our website at www.rainbowexpressdaycare.com.

Ross Bay Preschool..........................250-383-7445 Positive/supportive program motivating children to learn and discover. Curriculum builds on interests of the children. www.rossbaypreschool.com 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.

Victoria Montessori...........................250-380-0534 Unique, innovative learning environment combining the best of Montessori and Learning Through Play. Open yr. round. 30mths–grade 1. www.victoriamontessori.com.

VIEW ROYAL A Secret Garden Preschool..............250-380-8293 Program built on Christian values. Monthly themes, weekly topics and daily activities. asecretgardenpreschool@shaw.ca.

Island Kids Academy View Royal.....250-727-2929 High quality child care (ages 1-5). Preschool curriculum offered within a warm, caring child care environment.

Character development using the Virtues Project.

Access to community programs including swimming, skating, Victoria Conservatory of Music. Part-time spaces available. www.islandkids.ca.

Little Friends Childcare Center........250-479-8423 For a creative learning environment. Licensed group facility. Infants/Toddlers/Preschool.

Little Wonders Preschool (VROSCS)...........................................250-744-2718 A creative and suuportive program that will prepare your child for a lifetime of learning! OSC also available. www.viewroyalosc.com.

View Royal Preschool........................250-479-8067 An exciting inclusive program in an exceptional care environment. Licensed 3–5 year olds. Outside play and themes enrich this program. viewroyalps@ uniserve.com.

Mill Bay / Cobble Hill Starchild Centre..................................250-929-3240 Unique infant/toddler daycare, combines the best of Montessori and Waldorf. Our 9 acre hobby farm enables each child to have a garden plot, participate in planting trees, picking fruit, feeding animals, and other outside adventures. www.starchildcentre.ca.

DUNCAN Angel Care Christian Preschool.........250-746-5919 A quality, enriched program for preschool children.

Located in Queen of Angels Catholic School.

Maple Tree Play House Licensed Family Childcare...............250-746-5060 A daycare program that provides enriched outdoor play time and activities that build on a child’s intrinsic love of nature. Healthy meals and snacks are provided. mapletreekids@telus.net..

Sunrise Waldorf School, Kindercottage Preschool Nursery......250-743-7253 A morning program for 3 and 4 yr olds in a warm natural atmosphere where wonder is nurtured and outdoor play is abundant. Details at www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org.

Parent & Child programs also available!

Chemainus Cherry Tree Child Care Centre.........250-246-9195 Preschool program nurturing creative play and engaging learning activity. 30 months to age five. Qualified and experienced Early Childhood Educator.

St. Joseph’s Preschool.....................250-246-3191 A Christian learning environment for 3–5 year olds.

Active participation in the life of the school. Parental involvement.

Qualicum Beach Children’s Discovery Centre.............250-752-4343 Our program recognizes the uniqueness of each child and provides a nurturing, safe and creative learning environment. Preschool, Groupcare, Out of School care. ECE qualified staff. childrensdiscoverycentre@ hotmail.com.

Little Star Children’s Centre.............250-752-4554 Earth friendly preschool education inspired by nature.

Kinder-Prep classes. Licensed group care. ECE instructors. www.littlestardaycare.ca. littlestar@shaw.ca.

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

Looking for child care? Taking care of children?

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

Child Care

Resource & Referral Your community’s best source of child care information and resources. www.IslandParent.ca

Victoria & Gulf Islands: 250-382-7000 or 1-800-750-1868 Sooke: 250-642-5152 Westshore: 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

www.islandfamilyinfo.ca www.ccrr.bc.ca April 2013 51

Ad Directory All Fun.......................43 Mothering Touch........23 Artistic Statement......54 Oak & Orca............ 9, 46 Beacon Community

The OCEAN 98.5.......31

Services.................49 Operation Beauty and

Track Shoes...........34

the Beast...............15 Pacific School of Camp Footholds.........45

Innovation..............38

Camp Imadene..........45 Par-T-Perfect.............26 Camp Narnia.............55 Peddleheads..............43 Camp Pringle.............13 Pemberton Holmes....10 Camp Qwanoes...BC, 17 READ Society...............3 Capernwray...............56 Red Balloon..............IBC Cinecenta..................47 Restart Computers.....41 Color Me Mine..........IBC Royal BC Museum.......2 Community Living......34 Royal Victoria Comox Valley Music

Yacht Club..............21

Camp....................45 Saanich Dental..........23 Conseil Scolaire...........7 Saanich Recreation... IFC Creatively United for the Planet...........1 Eaton Arrowsmith School...................19 Emmanuel

St. Margaret’s School...................22 St. Michaels University School......8 Scallywags............... IFC

Preschool...............39 Serious Coffee...........20 Finn & Izzy................ IFC The Shipley Group......38 Maxine Fisher............14 Special Olympics.......39 Fun Society...............54 Stagecoach...............38 G.I.F.T.S.....................44 Success by Six...........37 GNS Marine

Sunrise Waldorf.........40

Adventure..............21 Theatre One..............45 Hampton

Thrifty Foods..............29

Little League..........19 TJs The Kiddies IMAX Theatre.............10

Store.....................48

Island Farms..............28 Tom Lee Music..........55 Island Montessori.......43 UVic Vikes.................41 JamTots...................IBC Victoria Children’s KIV............................11

Choir.....................19

Life Matters...............26 Victoria Children’s Lifestyle Markets..........4

Consignment..........18

Little Spirits Garden....39 Victoria Conservatory Little Steps................18

of Music.................17

Mad Science.............48 Victoria Epilepsy & Making Tomorrow........9

Parkinson’s Ctr.......40

Maria Montessori.......13 Victoria Symphony.....16 Men’s Trauma

VIHA.................... 35, 36

Centre...................47 Vitamin Shop.............14 Miles of Smiles..........49 Viva Youth Choirs.......49 Monarch House.........47 Welcome Wagon........32 Montessori

My Sunshine

T

hese days when I open Angus’s curtains after nap time, he points outside and says “shun-shine,” no matter what the weather is. I tried to take advantage of his new vocabulary by teaching him a song.

“You are my sunshine, my only sunshine,” I sang to him in the tub. And then I repeated it. “You are my…” I said, waiting for him to fill in the blank. He beamed and pointed to his chest. “Baby!” he said.

While that’s technically accurate, Angus isn’t really a baby anymore. He’ll be two in June. Sometimes I think about how little he is—his tiny curled toes as his feet dangle from the highchair, or the thin bones of his rib cage clearly visible above his Buddha belly. But when I see actual babies I’m always shocked by how small they are, and how big Angus is in comparison.

Angus is a toddler now. He’s a yabbering, motoring little boy full of mischief and hilarity. His attention span is minuscule, except when it comes to book re-reading. If books can be a vice, they certainly are Angus’s. If you come visit us, hide your bag. Angus will rifle through it for anything with pages he can turn. An out of reach magazine is a personal affront. Going to Safeway without stopping at the children’s book bin, without letting him grab another volume for his collection, is the main cause of public temper tantrums. I could recite The Gruffalo in my sleep. Now, instead of getting songs stuck in my head, I get kids’ books.

When Angus is concentrating, or when he’s afraid, his whole body vibrates. Whenever he’s stripped down to his diaper he runs away, shrieking. He loves the sound of wind, and can imitate its noise exactly. An empty tube of toothpaste to suck on is the only thing that stops him wiggling during a diaper change. I am so glad the fragility of infancy has been replaced by the noisy bustle of toddlerhood.

When Angus was a baby, he’d cry all day, and rarely did I know what he wanted. Now his lungs are much more developed, but his demands are generally clear. Tears are rarer.

When Angus was a baby, our life revolved around his appetite—when he needed to eat, and where he needed to be while eating.

Now he’s happy to sit on a hiking trail with a box of raisins. When Angus was a baby, I carried an enormous bag of “necessities” everywhere we went. Now I can put his jacket on and take him to the park—no bags, my pockets empty. When Angus was a baby, I felt like an imposter, just some non-parent who happened to have a kid, a woman with child-related-fluids all over her clothes who was overwhelmed and exhausted.

Maternity & Beyond Laura TRUNKEY Despite my fear that I would never figure out parenthood, I managed to learn on the job. Now I can’t say an animal’s name without feeling the compulsion to make a sound after it. Look, a dog. Woof, woof. I consider remarks about the regularity and consistency of a child’s bowel movements to be acceptable dinner conversation. I can juggle a squirming boy and a pile of grocery bags while unlocking the car. And I’ve learned that the absolutes of child rearing—the things you promise yourself you’ll always do or never do—these things are for pre-parents. Because once you actually have a child in front of you, the scenarios look different. You do what works.

I wonder if the common two-year age difference between siblings results from parents who realize they’ve actually got the hang of things. They finally know what they’re doing, so why not do it all over again.

I get this, but it’s not a trap I intend to fall into anytime soon. I’m happy with the status quo. But if ever we decide to expand our little family, I’d like to request that number two be born a toddler.

Laura Trunkey is a writer, editor and mother of the amazing Angus. She can be reached at laurajtrunkey@gmail.com.

Conference............55

52 Island Parent Magazine

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778-430-3183 karenmurdoch.ca April 2013 53

Escape to the Grove

I

always think about escaping to the woods when life feels too noisy. Too much traffic, too many people, too many thoughts. But as it turns out, the woods aren’t exactly quiet.

A couple of weeks ago, a group of us escaped to Avatar Grove as part of an outing hosted by the Sierra Club Victoria.

If you haven’t been to Avatar Grove yet, it is way out on the west coast past Port Renfrew. It was pouring rain on the drive, adding to the feeling of seclusion, just the five of us in our car on the wild coast. On the way, we stopped in the middle of what our guide, T.J. Watt of the Ancient Forest Alliance, called “the big, beautiful bridge” to snap pictures of the rushing brown water several storeys below.

Continuing along logging roads, our car dodged pond-sized potholes, scattering pebbles and sand. One last scenic bridge and we rounded a corner to see two other cars and a handful of people in colourful rain gear. We had arrived at Avatar Grove.

for a while, so the ground was spongy and in places, pure mud. The folks in rain boots delighted in the sticky puddles, proving that you’re never too old to play in the mud!

We scrambled down a small hill, holding on to a rain-soaked black rope tied between two trees to steady our descent. The heavy rain got caught in the far-off canopy, slowing the drops down to a mere misty drizzle by the time they hit our hoods. It had been raining

stuck with me was his comment that Avatar Grove, while a rarity on Vancouver Island, isn’t really unique. There are similar stands of old growth in other parts of the province, such as the Great Bear Rainforest, where they shelter an amazing array of rare and

Nature Notes NORI SINCLAIR T.J. led us in a loop around the lower part of the Grove and then to the upper section, where a waterfall runs through limestone boulders and down fallen logs. He told us how he and a friend discovered the area while exploring, and how it has only recently been protected in an Old Growth Management Area, largely thanks to the Ancient Forest Alliance and their supporters. What

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Ongoing Registration 54 Island Parent Magazine

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endangered species. For Vancouver Islanders, Avatar offers a taste of what this island was once like, and it’s on our doorstep in its glorious unlogged state. It’s disturbing to think of all the places that looked like this until only recently, when chainsaws attacked the six-century-old trees. I think of how long it would take to cut down a tree like that, and someone else in the group wonders what the loggers feel while they’re felling these ancient trees.

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It was a gentle walk, despite the slippery conditions—lots of pausing to look up, pausing to take pictures, pausing to listen.

The woods aren’t quiet. There’s the steady drip of rain down to the bark-and-needle covered floor, the squelching of our boots, the rustle of rain pants, the occasional bird song. But I am quiet, breathing in the moist air, trying to store it all up so that I can call on this feeling once I leave the grove. I am grateful for all those who are working to make places like this accessible and protected. I am grateful that they are helping people like me escape for a while, sheltered by the green canopy, surrounded by these giant trees and their gnarly roots.

Nori Sinclair is a Victoria communicator who likes to work at the intersection of education, communication and the environment. Her perfect day includes sunshine, a book and a shady tree. www.IslandParent.ca

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April 2013 55

Cut It Out!

Tips from Parent Educator Allison Rees of LIFE Seminars

Not Equally Talented

W

e live in a society that dictates that all individuals should try to be equally talented in all areas and that all children should develop at the same rate. In our schools, children are divided into same-age classes, and are compared in their achievements with others of the same age. The reality is that children do not all have the same abilities, and do not all develop at exactly the same rate. If you are stressing about your child’s performance, Cut it Out! Some children take longer than others to develop the skills that we would like them to have in receiving, organizing and expressing information. And some only develop these partially.

Children whose scholastic abilities are uneven (high in some areas, low in others) tend to be treated as if they are lazy

or misbehaving when they don’t turn in a uniformly good performance.

In addition, there are the “gifted” children, those who are particularly good at the abilities emphasized in school. One might expect that they would have it easy. But they are often expected to be disembodied brains, always achieving academically with no time to relax and enjoy the other areas of life. They are sometimes not allowed to just be children.

We parents need to recognize and appreciate the strengths our children do have rather than those we wish they had. It is important for us to recognize the areas in which our children may be handicapped with regard to society’s expectations. But we do need to accept them as they are, to get them the special help they need to make it through school, and to develop their areas of strength, rather than insisting they be like everyone else.

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

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