Island Parent Family Summer Guide 2017

JULY

2017

Family Summer Guide

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

Shop online at momease.ca!

Experience the precision of customized vision

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

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

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

STROLLERS • HIGH CHAIRS • CAR SEATS • SLEEP AIDS CARRIERS • SWINGS • CLOTHING • SHOES • TOYS • BOOKS PLAYARDS • SKINCARE • DIAPER BAGS • FURNITURE

1581 Hillside Ave, Victoria

778•265•5651

Across the street from Hillside Centre Call to schedule your personalized baby registry consultation

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

New Patients Welcome

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

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

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

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

Galiano Conservancy Association Presents...

Kids Nature Campout on Galiano

Curiosity • Diversity Exploration • Nature Play-Oriented Learning

July 24 - July 26 Ages 9 - 13

Register by: July 10

$225

Bursaries Available

Over 3 days and 2 nights, children can connect with nature through sustainability games, hikes and wilderness activities!

Camping gear and all meals are provided.

OPEN HOUSE Thurs, August 31, 1–4 pm

We also offer numerous other amazing community and school programs!

Join us on single day or multi day educational programs, focused on interactive and experiential learning experiences in nature. Our unforgettable programs are well suited to Scouts, Girl Guides, Brownies, Cubs, and other community . groups.

3905 Haro Road, Victoria BC

250-477-3731 arbutusgrove.ca

Register and learn more at: www.galianoconservancy.ca 250.539.2424 reed.osler@galianoconservancy.ca

7 Adventurous Family Attractions

5 Welcome

7 Adventurous

Family Attractions 12 Hit the Trails 18 Explore a Park 20 Must-See Attractions 24 Celebrate Canada 25 Party Directory 26 Lessons on the Road

Tina Kelly

30 Kid-Friendly Island Camping 31 Safety Outdoors 32 Family Calendar

Sue Fast

Editor editor@islandparent.ca

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

Linda Frear

46 Side-of-the-Road Food Emillie Parrish 48 15 Waterfall Hikes Jill Collins 54 Happy Families, Healthy Families

Jenny Redpath & Areli Hermanson

56 Captivating Critters 46 Summer Reading

in the Park Karin Macaulay & Shantael Sleight 60 Gift of Parks

61 Family Getaways 62 Details, Details

RaeLeigh Buchanan

Mark Warner

Office Manager & Sales sales@islandparent.ca

Advertising Consultant raeleigh@islandparent.ca

Publisher/Owner publisher@islandparent.ca

Design & Layout Eacrett Graphic Design

Printed by Black Press

ISSN 0838-5505

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Advertising Booking Deadline: July 19

Island Parent Magazine, published by Island Parent Group Enterprises Ltd., is a monthly publication that honours and supports parents by providing information on resources and businesses for Vancouver Island families. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher. No material herein may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. Annual mail subscriptions (12 issues) are available for $35 (GST included). Canadian Publication Mail Product Sales Agreement 40051398.

On the Cover

Cover photos for this issue were provided by the winners of our annual summer photo contest: Tasha Henry (grand prize winner), Andrea Bingham, Shelby Morgan, Sandy Fulton & Serena Beck. Thank you all for your submissions.

4 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Yoga, Support and Fun!

Welcome to the

Family Summer Guide 2017 T

his summer, make time for fun.

Stress less and savour more. Banish “must,” “ought” and “should” from your vocabulary. Rip up your never ending To-Do list, kick off your shoes and relax. Stop and wonder. Consider your kids’ questions and what they’re looking at. What mystifies them when you’re out for a walk on a beautiful day? Try taking a right turn instead of a left just to see what you’ll find.

Think of your happiest childhood memories. Chances are they include the lazy days of summer when the most pressing matter was catching the ice cream truck before it drove by.

July 2017 Schedule

975 Fort Street,Victoria | 250-595-4905

We have lots of classes, activities and support groups for Parents, Babies and Toddlers.

All classes are drop-in.

Come on down and try them out!

Sunday

Prenatal Yoga 10:30am Postnatal Yoga 12 noon

Monday

Yoga for Labour & Birth 5:15pm

Tuesday

Family Yoga (ALL AGES)(NEW)10:15am New Baby Group (0-4mos) 11:15am Mom & Baby Strength & Stretch 1:00pm Prenatal Strength & Stretch 5:15pm

Wednesday

Motherhood Circle 10:30am (by registration) Older Baby Group (4-9mo) 1:00pm Prenatal Yoga 5:15pm

Thursday

Toddler Yoga 10:15am Mom & Baby Yoga 11:30am Mobile Baby Group (9-18mos)1:00pm Prenatal Yoga 5:15pm

Friday Remember lying on the grass and watching the clouds drift across the sky, rounding up a friend or two to help run a lemonade stand, or building a fort in the backyard?

These pursuits, though simple and seemingly insignificant, are what memories are made of. And so many arise when there’s seemingly “nothing to do.”

With Vancouver Island as the backdrop, take time to enjoy the scenery and warm weather with your family. Scale a peak in one of the Island’s provincial parks, float on an inner tube down an Island river, or sleep under the stars in your backyard.

No matter what you have planned this summer—or what just happens—we hope this year’s Family Summer Guide helps you have the best summer ever. Within these pages you’ll find information on everything from 15 Waterfall Hikes, Lessons on the Road, Kid-friendly Camping, Summer Reading, and ways to assemble Side-of-the-Road Food, to numerous Vancouver Island activities and attractions, places to stay and explore, walking trails suited to families, places to visit animals, ways to celebrate Canada’s 150th year, and much more. Check out Details, Details on the last page to find out specifics about parks, weather, ferry travel, road conditions, and tourist information. The Summer Calendar highlights what’s happening on the Island in July and August.

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

Happy Summer.

Prenatal Yoga 10:15am Pregnancy Happy Hour 5:00pm

Find more information on all of our classes and groups, on our website at www.motheringtouch.ca.

Childbirth Preparation Classes prepare you and your birth helper to work as a team to make your birth experience safe and satisfying.

We have classes starting every month, in the evenings and on weekends.

See our website for more information and to register.

Or phone us, we love to talk!

The place ffor ne new w and expectant parents par | www.motheringtouch.ca

IslandParent.ca

July 2017 5

6  Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Adventurous Family A

dventures, like families, come in all shapes, sizes and varieties.

Attractions

Whether you have toddlers, tots, tikes, ’tweens or teens, there’s lots to keep everyone busy and having fun this summer. From one end of Vancouver Island to the other—and every place in between—adventure and discovery await. Whatever your family’s favourite adventure, finding fun and excitement this summer is easy. For proof—and ideas—read on…

THE SAANICH FAIR Salutes Canada

Featuring Heritage Breeds and Seeds $13 for Adults/$8 for Seniors and Youth FREE for kids 6 and under/Midway - Ride all day for $40 Gates 8am-9pm/NO Dogs, Drugs or Alcohol 1528 Stellys Cross Road, Saanichton, BC www.saanichfair.ca

IslandParent.ca

September 2, 3 & 4, 2017 Presented by NORTH & SOUTH SAANICH AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY WESTERN CANADA’S OLDEST CONTINUOUS AGRICULTURAL FAIR

July 2017 7

Walking with Dinosaurs

IMAX® Victoria has installed state-of-the art technology for an experience so real you’ll forget you’re in a theatre.

Home to one of the very few IMAX 4K laser projection systems in the world, IMAX Victoria delivers a visual experience that will take your breath away, immersed by a surround sound system so precise you can hear a pin drop from across the room—and know exactly where it fell.

Stop in and transport the family to the Amazon on a journey of discovery, to the dawn of time with creatures so immense only the IMAX screen could contain them, through the incredible Rocky Mountains on a steam engine or spend the evening immersed in a Hollywood feature film. Full list of films available online or by phone.

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

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

4636 Elk Lake Drive saanichrec.ca 24 hour info: 250-475-7620

ATTRACTIONS, ACTIVIT

IES & FAMILY FUN!

Whatever you choose to see, you know it will be an adventure. Shows play hourly throughout the day with full-length feature films in the evening. Concession and National Geographic Gift Store on site.

Parks & Playgrounds Museums

IMAX Victoria In the Royal BC Museum 675 Belleville Street imaxvictoria.com 250-480-4887

Pick up Your Copy of the 2017/2018

Kids’ Guide

to Vancouver Island!

Pools & Recreation

20 17/2 0 18 Amazon Adventure

tainment Historical Sites • Enter & Much More

at Your Neighbourhood Rec Centre

Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

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

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

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

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

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

Explore Gulf Islands National Park Reserve in 2017! Find tall cedars, sandy beaches, winding trails and epic views. Camp out or drop in to make S’mores and More (songs, stories and campfire treats) at McDonald Campground in North Saanich at the weekly campfire hosted by Parks Canada on Saturdays from 7–8pm in July and August. Pick up an Xplorers guide and complete fun family challenges to earn a certificate and prize.

Check out all the activities, campgrounds and interpretive events at parkscanada.ca/gulfislands

Welcome to the amazing world of insects and arachnids! Discover roughly 50 species of giant walking sticks, alien-eyed praying mantis, huge horned beetles, glow-in-the-dark scorpions, hairy tarantulas, and Canada’s largest captive leafcutter ant colony. Our animals are live and you get to hold them in a safe and fun environment!

Open daily. Located in downtown Victoria, one block north of the Empress Hotel.

631 Courtney Street 250-384-BUGS (2847) victoriabugzoo.ca

Welcome to West Shore Parks & Recreation, a perfect place to play.

Campers of all ages will have a blast with awesome leaders in our daily and weekly nature and summer camps. We also offer free playground programs for school-aged children, so be sure to check out Neighbourhood Nights and StoryWalk Wednesdays in a West Shore park near you. We are open daily for drop-in swimming and Saturdays in July and August for public skating.

Find us in Colwood – 1767 Island Highway 250-478-8384 westshorerecreation.ca

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

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

Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites March or run; spy or signal your position; climb or go underground at Fort Rodd Hill, a 100-year-old coast artillery fort. Then steer a ship; sound the fog horn; master the games inside Fisgard, the oldest lighthouse on the west coast. Participate in spectacular special events planned for the summer, pick-up an Xplorer activity book and stay overnight in one of our new oTENTik tents. These special places, only 15 minutes west of downtown Victoria, are so cool. In 2017, general admission is free for everyone.

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

• cave tours – mild to wild • cave theatre • self-guided caving • open year round Ranked #1 Attraction by Tripadvisor Dirt Bike Rides at Westshore Motocross Park.

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

hornelake.com 250-248-7829

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

Welcome to Breathtaking!

Take me out to the ball game…

Great Family Fun • Theme Games Season runs May 30 to August 2

harbourcats.com

IslandParent.ca

July 2017 11

Hit the Trails

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

Greater Victoria

Sunset Market

Beer Gardens

Live

Music

Artisans

Workshops Fo o d gourmet Tr u c k s food

AT OAKLANDS COMMUNITY CENTRE: #1-2827 BELMONT AVE Oaklands Sunset Market @Oaklands Market oaklands.sunset.market oaklandscommunitycentre.com/markets

12 Family Summer Guide

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

Galloping Goose Regional Trail. This 60-km partly paved trail (formerly a railway line) winds from Victoria to Sooke with access points along the way. Walk, run or cycle.

Start in the heart of the city or drive out to a rural access point for more of a country experience. gallopinggoosetrail.com.

The 29-km Lochside Regional Trail starts in Saanich and ends at the ferry terminal in Swartz Bay. In some places trail visitors must share paved or gravel public roads with motor vehicles and farm vehicles. Trail maps and suggested access points/day trips are available online from the CRD website: crd.bc.ca/parks, then select “Find a Park.”

Sidney

Sidney Spit Marine Park is a great destination for a day trip. Take the footpassenger ferry from Sidney to Sidney Island (25 minutes). Explore the sandy spit at the northeast end or hike around the whole island. You’ll see tidal flats, salt marshes, rolling meadows and sandy beaches, not to mention various wildlife. Walk-in camping is also available for those who want to stay longer. The ferry leaves from Sidney Pier at the bottom of Beacon Avenue. From June 25-Sept 4, the ferry leaves Sidney Marina at 10am, 11:30am, 2pm, or 4pm run (5:30pm Friday and Saturday only), and returns from Sidney Spit at 10:30am, 1pm, 3pm or 4:30pm (6pm Friday and Saturday only).

Group reservations available. For more information, visit alpinegroup.ca or call 250-474-5145.

Saanich

Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary consists of two distinct areas: marshy lowlands surrounding Swan Lake; and the rocky, oak-forested highlands of Christmas Hill. The 12,000-year-old lake is a rich habitat for a variety of birds and wildlife including muskrats, river otters and mink. Circle the lake along a 2.5-km trail featuring two wharves and a floating walkway, then stop in at the Nature House to see interpretive displays and more. For more of a hike, the summit of Christmas Hill is 109 metres above sea level and gives a spectacular view of the city. Call 250479-0211 or visit swanlake.bc.ca for info, to download a trail map or to check out the various programs for kids and families.

Metchosin/Sooke

Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park in Metchosin. More than 5 kms of beautiful trails run through woodland, past lagoon and marsh. Watch for birds as you meander down to the sandy beach. The warm water means you can actually swim in the ocean (that’s rare around here).

Add a low tide and this beach becomes a paradise for skimboarders, beachcombers IslandParent.ca

and swimmers alike. The Nature House at the trailhead has some great hands-on displays. Approximately 40 minutes from downtown Victoria, on Metchosin Road. crd.bc.ca/parks.

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

East Sooke Regional Park offers 50 kms of trails along the windswept rocky coast, over dry hilltops, through dark rainforest to sheltered coves. Find pocket beaches, grassy knolls, rocky bays and tidepools for exploring. Aylard Farm is popular with picnickers and those looking for an easy excursion. A 5-minute walk through open fields leads to a sandy beach. Trails head inland to hilltop views, or along the rugged, more challenging Coast Trail. From Sooke Road, turn left on Gillespie Road. Go to the end and turn left on East Sooke Road, then right on Becher Bay Road to reach the park entrance. Approximately one hour driving time from Victoria. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Along Highway 1

Francis King Regional Park is 113 hectares of lush forest and wildflowers with 11 kms of gentle, groomed trails.

The Elsie King Trail is a forest loop of cedar boardwalk (wheelchair and stroller accessible) that includes interpretive signs and rest areas with benches and a shelter.

Visit the staffed Nature House (noon-4pm Saturdays, Sundays and holiday Mondays) for some interesting displays. Located on Munn Road, off Prospect Lake Road, 13 kms out of downtown Victoria. crd.bc.ca/ parks.

Thetis Lake. Go for a hike on the scenic trails hugging Upper and Lower Thetis lakes. For panoramic views of the lakes and surrounding hills, follow the more challenging trails up Seymour or Scafe hills. Help protect this sensitive habitat by staying on designated trails and keeping pets on the trail. The beach area of Thetis Lake is perfect for a family picnic or swim, although it tends to be crowded in the summer. If you have IslandParent.ca

I belong here, making friends.

Valid June 27 to Sept 5

Child Swim Pass

Swim all summer long for just $35!

Valid at both Commonwealth Place and Gordon Head Recreation.

Don't miss out on this awesome summer offer.

JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Full details at saanich.ca/recreation

July 2017  13

JULY

2017

Family Summer Guide

VA N C O U V E VICTORIA &

R ISLAND

a canoe, try an early morning or evening paddle. From the Old Island Highway, turn right on Six Mile Road which leads to the park entrance. Pay parking: $2.25 for the day or $20 for the season. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Goldstream Provincial Park. Take a trip into the old-growth temperate rainforest, just 17 kms from downtown Victoria.

Douglas fir, giant maples and Western red cedars make this park a local favourite.

Goldstream offers year-round activities with its riverside trails, salmon spawning, wildflowers, ferns and lush vegetation. Visit the Nature House or look for one of the old mine shafts from the late 1800s when miners panned for gold. 250-478-9414 or goldstreampark.com.

Nanaimo

Buttertubs Marsh Bird Sanctuary encompasses 49 acres of natural wetlands and grasslands. The 3.3-km loop of wide trail is level and perfect for strollers. You’ll make your way around a body of water buzzing with bird activity. Some ruins in the area, as well as the giant bleached remains of long-dead deciduous trees standing in the water give the marsh a wonderful ambience.

No dogs allowed. 1780 Jingle Pot Road.

Cowichan Valley

islandparent.ca 250-388-6905

Cowichan River Footpath. The lower stretch of the footpath, from the Cowichan Fish and Game Association clubhouse to Skutz Falls, is a well-maintained trail, beautiful at any time of the year, with many excellent picnicking spots. To access the Duncan trailhead, drive north from Victoria on the Trans-Canada Highway (#1) to Duncan. Turn left at Miller Road and left again at Vaux Road. Follow Vaux (which changes its name to Robertson Road) for approx 6 kms to the Fish and Game Clubhouse parking lot. There is a 2.4-km circle route to Holt Creek and a 6.4-km circle route with good picnic spots. Maps for the Pipers Lagoon Park past Departure Bay footpath can be picked up at the Duncan off Hammond Bay Road is a great place Visitor Information Centre. to walk, beachcomb, fly a kite or have a picnic. An isthmus extends out to a rocky headland, and twisting trails lead to seaside Cedar Hemer Provincial Park is located on lookouts. Spread your blanket on the sandy Holden Lake southeast of Nanaimo. There beach or play Frisbee or Bocce on the field. is a network of shady forested trails, includ- The lagoon is home to a variety of seabirds, ing a main trail running alongside the lake, including sandpipers, loons, kingfishers, and a bird viewing platform overlooking oyster catchers, horned grebes and great a marsh, approximately 1 km from the blue herons.

Neck Point Park is a short distance past parking lot. You may see various types of ducks, Trumpeter swans, Bald eagles, Pipers Lagoon. This oceanside park includes turkey vultures and beavers. From Cedar forest, beaches, rocky cliffs and lookouts.

Road follow the signs to the park entrance. Explore the various trails criss-crossing Cable Bay Trail leads down through the park, watch the boats on the ocean, the cool forest to the ocean. Enjoy a picnic do some beachcombing, and just enjoy the lunch on the mossy rocks, and watch for sea breezes and sparkling water. Go along sea lions. The beach itself is sandstone and Hammond Bay Road, past the turn-off to is under water when the tide is in. Two kms Pipers Lagoon, then turn onto Morningside of well-maintained trail is fairly steep on the Drive to access the park. way back up, so make sure young hikers don’t use up all their energy at the shore. Oceanside Off Holden Corso Road (which becomes The Top Bridge Trail in Parksville links Barnes Road); watch for the sign. This is a Rathtrevor Beach with Top Bridge Mounpopular trail for dog walkers, but it doesn’t tain Bike Park on the scenic Englishman tend to be crowded.

River. The trail is 5km each way and winds

Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Please visit any of our valued partners to pick up your latest copy of Island Parent.

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

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

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

14

TENNIS TRAINING CAMPS FOR 2017 JUNIOR RECREATIONAL KIDS CAMPS  6 & 12 YEAR OLDS A great way to get your kids busy on the courts and provide them with a fun, recreational activity.

(Morning Camps 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. Camps are offered every second week during the summer starting July 4th to Sept. 1st)

JUNIOR COMPETITIVE TRAINING CAMPS  8 & 16 YEAR OLDS A great introduction to competitive and tournament play.

The “Competitive Training Camps” emphasize skill development with training focused on drills to improve technical and tactical skills.

(Afternoons from 1pm to 4pm)

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BECOME A MEMBER, PLEASE VISIT:

B E A R M O U N TA I N . C A / T E N N I S TOLL FREE: 888.533.2327 | 1999 COUNTRY CLUB WAY, VICTORIA BC

IslandParent.ca

July 2017 15

through public and private property, with a number of access points (a local favourite is at Industrial Way and Tuan Road). Enter from the Chattell Road trailhead and you’ll be at the suspension bridge over the river.

The Information Centre at the south end of town will provide directions.

Monday-Friday Camps that run all summer long!

Cottage Kids

Aqua Adventure Camp

A licensed camp for the younger camper! A little of this and a splash of that from arts, crafts, games, songs, sports, outside play and swimming!

JDF KIDS COTTAGE

A one hour Red Cross swim lesson (4 days a week) and a two week camp in one! Be prepared to have lots of fun and get wet.

JDF CURLING RINK

5-6 Years

Must have completed K

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

$30/day

Register by the day, week or month!

Summer KinderPrep 4-5 Years

A super fun summer camp for children entering kindergarten in September. Time is dedicated each day to kindergarten preparation such as numbers, literacy and structured activity. Kids will also enjoy playbased learning and outside activities.

JDF PLAYROOM ROOM

9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

$170/week*

Fun Seekers Day Camp 6-9 Years

Must have completed K

A fun-filled week of sports, creative crafts, science and games. Don’t forget activities at Centennial Water Park, music and more.

CENTENNIAL CENTRE YOUTH ROOM Register by the day, week or month!

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

$37/day*

Cool Capers Day Camp

7-8 Years and have completed Gr. 1

Join other Cool Capers kids for a week of sports, arts, crafts, games, music, swimming, field trips and more!

JDF CURLING RINK

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

$150/week

Active Afternoon Camp 7-11 Years

Get active in the afternoons at this exciting 1/2 day camp. Adventures will include arts, crafts, theme days, swimming, outside activities and more!

JDF CURLING RINK

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

$100/week

Register Today!

CALL 250-478-8384

LOADS MORE CAMPS ONLINE AT

westshorerecreation.ca

* No Camp on Stat Holidays Mondays July 3 and August 7 (BC Day) ed for camps running these weeks are prorat

7-11 Years

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

$410/2 Weeks

Sizzlers Daycamp 7-11 Years

Join our leaders for games, crafts, swimming, sports, beach trips, theme weeks and much more. Spice up summer vacation!

Register by the day, week or month!

JDF GALLEON ROOM Register by the day, week or month!

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

$37/day*

Out & About 8-12 Years

Have a blast in an action packed camp full of exciting themes. Each week will include arts, crafts, games, sports, swimming, and an outing. Join us for a summer of fun.

ROYAL BAY SCHOOL CYPRESS ROOM Register by the day, week or month!

8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

$37/day*

Aspiring Young Artist Camp 6-8 Years and have completed K. and 9-12 Years Alternate Weeks

Artists will explore mediums and techniques including printmaking, pastels, watercolours, and outdoor sketching. In addition campers will spend time outdoors.

CENTENNIAL CENTRE SPRUCE ROOM

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

$170/week*

Active Play Summer Camps

7-9 Years (Junior) & 9-12 Years (Senior) Formerly Jr. Sports and Sports Action Camp, young athletes will enhance skills and create friendships in an activity based camp with structured and unstructured games, activities, and sports, plus a weekly field trip.

THE Q CENTRE – LOWER LOBBY

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

$175/week*

Craig’s Crossing (Parksville) to Long Beach

Cathedral Grove—MacMillan Park is a day-use park just past Cameron Lake on Highway 4. View some of the largest and oldest trees on Vancouver Island, including over-800-year-old giants and lush vegetation on the interpretive trail system that winds through the park. Cathedral Grove is approximately 20 minutes from Parksville.

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

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

The stretch of Pacific Rim National Park between Ucluelet and Tofino boasts magnificent beaches and dramatic seascapes (and many tourists!). Check in with the Tourist Information Centre at the UclueletTofino-Port Alberni Junction to find out about trails, beaches, eateries and activities. Remember to bring your free Canada 150 national park pass (order online at commandesparcs-parksorders.ca). pc.gc.ca The Wild Pacific Trail in Pacific Rim Park. Follow the cliff-edges along the extreme outer coast, including the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse site. You’ll be able to view the ocean’s fury from the protection of the trail and from viewing platforms situated at the best headlands along the route. You’ll also be awed by the gigantic nurse-logs, raised root systems, mosses, fungi, lichens and ferns. The trail is presently divided into three sections: Lighthouse Loop, Big Beach and Brown’s Beach.

Lighthouse Loop, Phase I of the Wild Pacific Trail and 2.5 kms long, can be walked in a 30-45 minute loop using the adjoining He-Tin-Kis Park boardwalk. The trail includes frequent viewpoints and benches for watching whales, birds or catching the sunset. wildpacifictrail.com for maps and descriptions of the various sections.

Cost

16 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Comox Valley

Paradise Meadows Loop Trail at Mount Washington starts adjacent to the Raven Lodge, 800 metres past the old trailhead area. A 1 km trail connects into the old trail system after winding its way around meadows. The Loop Trail is an easy walk of about 4.2 kms in length (1.5 hours) through sub-alpine meadows, and is suitable for all ages. You may catch glimpses of deer, black bears, eagles and marmots. You can also take a chairlift ride to the summit where you’ll see breathtaking mountain and ocean views. Other summer activities on the mountain include biking, disc golf, bungee trampoline, guided hiking tours, mini golf and more.

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

Parking and access from Lazo Road. On the north side is an easy stroller-friendly hike; the southside trails go deeper into the woods and marsh conservation area.

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

Campbell River

Ripple Rock Trail is a good hike for families (although not recommended for small children), 15.5 kms north of Campbell River, just off the Island Highway (it’s wellsigned). The trail is 8 kms long and includes two patches of old-growth Douglas-fir and Sitka spruce, a sandy beach and good viewpoints. Have a picnic lunch at the top of the bluff overlooking Seymour Narrows.

Easy to moderate trail with a steep section.•

Make this summer

COUNT

WITH SUMMER LEARNING AT SYLVAN

Kids can lose up to 2 1/2 months of learning in the summer. Stay ahead of the curve with Sylvan's summer sessions!

Summer sessions are filling up fast. Call today!

Ask about our special SUMMER TUTORING PACKAGES STEM Camps filling up fast!

Call 1-800 EDUCATE

Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. Offer valid at participating locations only. Expires 08/15/2017.

Sylvan of Vancouver Island

1-800- EDUCATE

Victoria, Westshore, Nanaimo, Duncan

SYLVANLEARNING.CA

Camp starts July 9th!

REGISTER TODAY FOR: Leadership Programs Summer Sleepover Camps Summer Day Camps CampPringle.com • 250-743-2189 • registrar@camppringle.com

IslandParent.ca

July 2017 17

Explore a Park

Gulf Islands National Park reserve is celebrating Canada 150 with a summer season jam packed with fun events and opportunities to get your family outside on an adventure!

S’mores ’n’ More at McDonald Parks Canada BioBlitz 2017 Gulf Campground in Sidney.

Islands at the Pender Islands School on

Barnyard & Trail Rides Visit the Barnyard

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

Open Daily 10am–4pm

Share the magic of a traditional Canadian campfire with your family. Join an interpreter and guest presenters for songs, park stories, s’mores and more on Saturdays in July and August, from 7-8pm. Bring a flashlight and a mug for hot chocolate.

Pender Island.

Help find and identify as many different plants and animals as possible in 24 hours from Friday, June 9, 4 pm to Saturday, June 10, 4pm. Free BioBlitz Camping is available on Friday, June 9, and Saturday, June 10, for registered participants.

Relax on a Trail Ride Ride for 1/2 an hour or more through beautiful forests.

Reservations recommended.

Located between Parksville & Coombs at

1692 Errington Rd Ph 250-248-2408

www.tigerlilyfarm.ca

A Taste of Camping at McDonald Sunset Wildlife Watch at East Point Campground in Sidney.

On Saturday, July 29 from 11am-2pm (drop in), Parks Canada and Mountain Equipment Co-op will show you how to cook with everything from tin foil to a Dutch oven. Wander through different stations and sample delicious camping food.

on Saturna Island.

Discover the wildlife of the Salish Sea and relax into the peacefulness of an East Point sunset on Fridays in July and August from 8-9pm. Dress warmly and bring blankets, chairs and flashlights. Enjoy the talents of island musicians and storytellers.

Coast Salish Clam Garden Good-bye Granny! An Orca Tribute Campfire at McDonald Campground at East Point, Saturna Island. in Sidney.

On Saturday, July 15, and Saturday, August 26 from 7-8 pm, you can find out what a Clam Garden is. Similar to caring for a vegetable garden in your backyard, Coast Salish Nations tend beaches to make clams grow better. Gather around the campfire to learn more.

18 Family Summer Guide

On Saturdays from July 8 to August 26, 2:30-3pm (no program July 29), you can join a park interpreter for a funny and warm-hearted look at the life of J2 Granny, the beloved matriarch of the endangered southern resident killer whales. Come early and fly giant kites shaped like marine animals.

Bring a blanket or a chair.

IslandParent.ca

Family Fun for Canada’s 150th

at Winter Cove, Saturna Island.

Drop in on Sundays in July and August from 10am-1pm to celebrate Canada’s 150th Birthday with family fun. Blow giant bubbles. Roast solar oven s’mores. Make a nature craft. Bring a phone or camera and go off on a Nature Photography GPS Adventure.

Canadian Cartoons under the Stars at East Point, Saturna Island.

Spend Saturdays—August 19 and 26, from 9-10 pm—outdoors and watch awardwinning animation from the National Film Board. Suitable for the whole family. Bring a chair or a blanket.

Saturna Lamb BBQ at Winter Cove,

Saturna Island.

Celebrate Canada’s 150th Birthday on Saturday, July 1 from 10am-4:30pm, with islanders at a country fair picnic centered on a traditionally prepared open fire barbequed lamb meal. Play games and win prizes at the Parks Canada booth. Learn traditional skills from a Coast Salish guest.

Parks Day—Intertidal Safari at

East Point, Saturna Island.

Drop-in and join Parks Canada and the Saturna Island Marine Research and Education Society for fun marine activities like touch tanks. Enjoy free ice-cream courtesy of Saturna Island Parks and Recreation.

Check out the self-paced adventures (throughout the parks) to add family fun to your schedule.

Geocaching

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

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

REGISTER TODAY AT: aggv.ca/art-studio | 250.384.4171 or in person at 1040 Moss Street For more information about art classes and camps, contact: studio@aggv.ca

aggv.ca

AGGV_9929_AG013_Island_Parent_Family_Summer_Guide.indd 1

Hands-On Home-Learning for a Sustainable World

Get Inspired by Inquiry!

Try a geocaching program and embark on a self-guided adventure to experience the park reserve’s cultural and natural hotspots.

We are a certified independent school offering a free activity based home learning program.

Trail guide app

Check out the new EXPLORA trail app— available now for free on the App Store and Google play. Discover the park reserve in a whole new way with insider info, historic photos and mini quizzes.

Xplorers Activity Book

Are you ages 6-11? Do you like to hike, draw a picture, or use your GPS to find a mystery location? Then the Xplorers program is just the right adventure for you.

Discover Gulf Islands National Park Reserve this summer. For more information, visit pc.gc.ca/ en/pn-np/bc/gulf/activ.

IslandParent.ca

2017-06-14 1:25 PM

• K-12 distributed learning inquiry and interest-based

Our goal is to inspire, support, and challenge children to learn without pressure.

• hands-on learning activities offered but not mandatory • certified teacher available for support, ideas and inspiration

A program of Oak and Orca Bioregional School http://oakandorca.ca

July 2017 19

Summer Camps

Must-See Attractions

Maybe you want to play tourist in your own town or show your visiting relatives the sights.

Maybe you want to learn something new or keep the kids occupied on a rainy day. Whatever your reasons, make time this summer to check out the following Island attractions.

Victoria

Bantam: Girls & Boys ages 7–10

Introduction to the FUNdamentals of the game and proper etiquette. On course play, games and contests keep things fun!

5 day camp $139; 9:30am–12:30pm July 10–14, July 17–21, July 24–28, Aug 7–11, Aug 14–18, Aug 21–25

Junior: Girls & Boys ages 11–14

Combine outdoor exercise with golf instruction and learn the game in a fun, exciting way! Includes professional coaching and on course play daily.

5 day camp $139; 2:30pm–5:30pm July 10–14, July 17–21, July 24–28, Aug 7–11, Aug 14–18, Aug 21–25

250-478-4653

highlandpacificgolf.com 450 Creed Road, Victoria

Performing Arts School since 1980

-S ch o o l e r P r e m S um C l a s spe s & s p m a C Da n c e 8 months and u 1 for ages

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

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is engaging, challenging and inspiring. Along with the regular exhibitions and the gift shop, don’t miss the 30th annual TD Art Gallery Paint-In (Saturday, July 15) for Victoria’s favourite outdoor studio along Moss Street from the gallery to the ocean.

A diverse range of over 150 painters, printmakers, sculptors, potters and other artists from the region will demonstrate their art and artistic process from 11am-4pm. Gallery open 10am-6pm. Food and Beverage Garden 11am-9pm. Dancing from 5-9pm. aggv.bc.ca or 250-384-4171.

Craigdarroch Castle. Use your floor map to take a tour and learn about the Dunsmuir family’s history. Climb the 87 stairs through the 4 1⁄2 stories as you discover the castle’s 39 rooms lavishly furnished in the style of the 1890s to 1900s period.

Get to the tower to see panoramic views of Victoria, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains. Step back in time and experience the life and times of the very rich and famous. Open daily until Sept 6 from 9am-7pm. thecastle.ca or 250-592-5323.

IMAX Theatre in the Royal BC Museum offers an incredible immersive cinematic experience with a projected area of more than six stories high and 85' wide along with crystal-clear images and wraparound digital chair-shaking surround sound. Victoria IMAX transports you in a way no other film experience can and lets you feel like you’re really there. This summer, catch Walking with the Dinosaurs: Prehistoric Planet, Dream Big: Engineering Our World, and Amazon Adventures, among other movies.

For more details, visit imaxvictoria.com or see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

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

Miniature World, located within the Empress Hotel, has been called The Greatest Little Show On Earth, with over 85 miniature scenes. See the world’s smallest operational sawmill, marvel at two of the world’s largest doll houses, experience one of the world’s largest model railroads, visit the wonerful world of the circus, take a spaceship to the stars, travel through the Enchanted Valley of Castles and more.

649 Humboldt Street. For more details, visit miniatureworld.com, or phone 250385-9731.

It’s the summer of Family: Bonds and Belonging at the Royal BC Museum. Walk into a living interactive photo album and discover the truths and secrets of some of the First Nation families, early settler families and immigrants from all over the world who began their families here. See how traditions have changed and stayed the same. Explore stories from early and contemporary families, appreciate the traditions brought to B.C. by immigrant families and discover more about your own family. Also, Visit the museum’s three permanent galleries that showcase the human and natural history of B.C. Open 10am-5pm (SundayThursday) and from 10am-10pm on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca or 250-356-7226.

Saanich Peninsula/Sidney

The Centre of the Universe is hosting Saturday Summer Star Parties on July 8, 15, 22, and 29, August 5, 12, 19, and 26, and September 16 and 23, from 7:30-11pm at the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory, 5071 West Saanich Road. During the summer stargazing nights, both the Centre and the Observatory will be open, with planetarium shows, lectures in the auditorium and displays. Entry gates close at 10pm and attendance is limited and admission is by ticket only. Tickets are free and will be available during the week preceding each Saturday evening at daostarparties.eventbrite.ca.

Saanich Historical Artifacts Society at 7321 Lochside Drive. Kids (and parents) can climb on the farming equipment, see the mini railroad, a sawmill, planer mill and other artifacts at this 12-hectare site with a small lake, forest trails and pond. Bring a IslandParent.ca

picnic lunch to enjoy on-site. Summer hours are 9:30am-4pm, June 19-Sept 17. Trains run on various days from noon-3:30pm.

Book a train ride by visiting vime.ca.

From Victoria, head north on the Pat Bay Highway, turn right at Island View Road, then first left onto Lochside Drive. shas.ca or 250-652-5522.

Butchart Gardens. Fifty-five acres of breathtaking floral displays, offering spectacular views as you stroll along meandering paths and expansive lawns. Explore the gardens by taking part in the self-guided Family Discovery Walk. A free worksheet guides you through the gardens and provides interesting historical details and points out features. Children can draw pictures along the way to answer questions—it’s a great way for kids to take a closer look at nature. The Saturday evening fireworks during July and August are popular with visitors of all ages (times vary slightly as the summer progresses and it gets dark earlier, from 10:15pm in early summer to 8:45pm on Sept 2). There is musical entertainment most evenings as well as the night illuminations. The Rose Carousel in the Children’s Pavilion includes 30 animals carved from basswood. Carousel rides are $2 over the cost of admission. butchartgardens.com or 250-652-5256.

Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in Sidney is a state-of-the-art aquarium and marine education centre focused on the amazing ecosystem of the Salish Sea. Visit the touch pools to shake hands with a sea urchin, see the huge aquaria teeming with marine life, learn about essential life forms such as algae, plankton and amazing jellies.

There are a variety of workshops and classes to choose from, guided tours, scavenger hunts, Tot Tuesdays, and Sea Shirt Sundays, along with other kids’ activities. The Centre, located on the waterfront off Beacon Avenue at 9811 Seaport Place, is open daily from 10am-5pm (until Sept 4). salishseacentre. org or 250-665-7511.

Drawing Habitats Workshop

Westshore/Metchosin to Sooke

Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site.

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

Step inside the first lighthouse built on the West Coast and check out exhibits about ships wrecked and lives saved. Picnic on the grass or at the beach and watch the ships and wildlife while you eat. 10am-5:30pm daily. For free admission, bring your 2017 Discovery Pass pass (order online at IslandParent.ca

Thursday, August 10, 12–4 pm Workshops are free and for youth ages 8–12 years. For more information and to register email us at office@openspace.ca 510 FORT STREET, 2ND FLOOR VICTORIA, BC V8W 1E6

250.383.8833 openspace@openspace.ca www.openspace.ca Charitable #11906 8815 RR 0001

A creative opportunity to learn about the environment and draw the wetlands and habitats at Swan Lake!

July 2017

21

Is Your Child’s Face Developing Well?

Does your child breathe through his/her mouth?

Does your child suffer from allergies?

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

Does your child have an untreated tongue tie?

Does your child have crowded teeth?

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

Early Intervention can have far reaching benefits.

Straight Teeth the Natural Way

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

HOW MYOBRACE® WORKS • Promotes breathing through the nose

Before

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

After 6 months

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

Summer Fun!

Night Illuminations Firework Saturdays Rose Carousel Boat Tours Family Discovery Walk 22 Family Summer Guide

commandesparcs-parksorders.ca). pc.gc. ca/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill/index.aspx or 250-478-5849.

For something different and exhilarating, try soaring at up to 60 km/hr over the forest on a zipline. Adrena LINE Zipline Adventure Tours in Sooke offers a multistage zipline course, consisting of eight distinct but linked rides, two suspension bridges, and an ATV ride. There’s also Night Zipping and Full-Moon Zipping. Trained guides emphasize safety and comfort, ensuring a ride full of thrills, awesome beauty and fond memories. You’ll also learn about the local ecology and wildlife while zipping through the 100 acres of coastal temperate forest.

Minimum age is 5. adrenalinezip.com or 250-642-1933.

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

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

Cowichan Valley

The Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre in Duncan (200 Cowichan Way) is a great place to learn about Cowichan First Nations cultural traditions and legends. Enjoy interpretive tours where you’ll learn about the legends, teachings and stories of the Cowichan Tribes, traditional artwork, carving and knitting. There are also opportunities to make a dreamcatcher, see Native dancing and sample Native cuisine. cowichanculture.ca or 250-746-8119.

Check out the indoor and outdoor exhibits and bird sanctuary at the BC Forest Discovery Centre just north of Duncan. Ride on the narrow gauge steam train, and tour an old logging camp. Bring a picnic lunch, watch a demonstration, or come for a special event (Canada Day, B.C. Day, Labour Day celerations). Summer season from June 1-Sept 4, open 7 days a week from 10am4:30pm. Steam locomotive on weekends starting June 17. bcforestdiscoverycentre .com or 250-715-1113.

Nanaimo butchartgardens.com 250.652.5256

Celebrate Canada’s 150th at Nanaimo District Museum with stories that intersect local and national history. Highlights include Nanaimo in 1867, the E&N Railway, WWI home front experience in Nanaimo, IslandParent.ca

the Battle of Vimy Ridge centennial plus a look at past community centennial celebrations. The museum showcases Nanaimo’s early history as a coal mining town and port, explores the impact of forestry on the region, depicts daily life in a traditional First Nations longhouse, celebrates the town’s athletes and musicians, and includes more exhibits. Children’s programs are offered during the summer. Located in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre, 100 Museum Way. Open 10am-5pm daily until Sept 2. nanaimomuseum.ca or 250-753-1821.

Port Alberni

Oceanside

Comox Valley

Paradise Adventure Mini-Golf in Parksville offers two 18-hole courses, bumper boats (with water cannons), an amusement centre, arcade and ice-cream. Paradise has something for everyone—including an oceanfront RV park and gift shop. It’s also wheelchair accessible. Open 9:30am-10pm.

375 West Island Highway, paradisefunpark. net, 1-866-325-1874.

Riptide Lagoon Adventure Golf in Parksville is an easy walk from Rathtrevor Beach and nearby resorts. Try your hand at the Mountain or Lagoon course, or enjoy the Laser Tag Bumper Cars and the arcade.

1000 Resort Drive, adjacent to Rathtrevor Park. Open daily from 9:30am-8pm. riptidelagoon.com, 250-248-8290.

The Coombs Country Market is along Highway 4A, on the way to Port Alberni from Parksville or Nanaimo, less than 5 minutes away from Butterfly World. Wander the market, unique shops, galleries and studios for gifts, groceries and great food.

Enjoy a selection of home-cooked treats and meals, as well as international foods.

There’s lots to see. Be sure to look up when you’re outside the market—the goats on the sod roof live there throughout the summer. oldcountrymarket.com.

Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park offers a variety of caving tours, from gentle explorations to adrenalin-pumping adventures down a 7-storey waterfall. Cave tours vary in length, and you can choose from guided or self-guided—make sure you bring warm clothing that can be layered as it’s chillier in the caves than you might expect. You can also enjoy rock climbing, canoe or kayak rentals, hiking, and more.

Allow 45 minutes from Parksville, north on Highway 19 or 19A. hornelake.com, 250-248-7829. For more details, see the Adventurous Family Attractions insert in this issue.

IslandParent.ca

The McLean Mill National Historic Site operates the only remaining commercial steam-operated sawmill in Canada. From a viewing platform, watch raw logs being trimmed and cut into lumber for sale.

Costumed docents will be on hand to guide you around the site. There are children’s activities, a restaurant and a gift shop. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am-4pm. Also check out the Maritime Discovery Centre and the Alberni Valley Museum while in the area. albernisteamtrain.com Courtenay Museum. Hands-on discovery as you search for prehistoric fossils on the Puntledge River with experienced guides. Fossil tours by appointment. Summer hours until Labour Day: 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday; noon-4pm Sunday.

Stop by and check out the Courtenay and District Museum and Paleontology Centre with its massive Elasmosaur exhibit. courtenaymuseum.ca or 250-334-0686.

Campbell River

Campbell River Museum. The museum’s award-winning puppet theatre program returns once again to explore the history of Campbell River with help from various beloved characters including Fred Nunns, Roderick Haig-Brown, and even the infamous Ripple Rock. Shows start Tuesday July 4 and will be performed every Tuesday and Thursday at 10:30am and 1:30pm until August 24th. The cost is $2 per person and children aged 2 and under are free. Also see the First Nations history and art, pioneer history, a native plant garden, and learn about floathouse living and the salmon industry. Bring your lunch to enjoy in the picnic area. Open daily during the summer from 10am-5pm. crmuseum.ca or 250-287-3103.

Pacific Rim

The Kwisitis Visitor Centre near Tofino acts as a museum, exhibition and information center for Pacific Rim National Park.

The outside deck is the perfect year-round spot to view whales, storms and surfers alike. Inside the centre, you’ll find new exhibits about the land, sea, sky and people of the area. See the First Nations canoes, tools, various works of art, and interactive displays. There is also a small gift shop and a restaurant facing the beach. Trails lead to South Beach and Florencia Bay. pc.gc.ca/ en/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/activkwisitis •

Let my family show your family the way home

Choosing the right Real Estate Agent just got easier!

As a 3rd generation Realtor, born and raised in Victoria, I am dedicated to providing the highest level of service and look forward to assisting you with all your Real Estate needs.

Paula Wensley

Office: 250-388-5882 Cell: 778-678-7387

Pwensley@macrealty.com Paulawensley.com

Summer Programs July-August • Only in Nanaimo (Drop-in) Wednesdays, 1:30-3:30pm

• Canada 150 (Drop-in) Fridays, 1:30-3:30pm

• Pioneer Cemetery Tours

Thursdays, July 6 & Aug 3 10-10:45am, Registration $10

Make a Discovery!

NanaimoMuseum.ca • 250.753.1821 program@nanaimomuseum.ca July 2017 23

Celebrate Canada T

his year marks Canada’s 150th year, and the Royal BC Museum has big plans to mark this national milestone with a range of special events, feature exhibitions and activities for the whole family.

What better way to celebrate Canada than with a powerful exhibition about one of our most enduring and popular national heroes, Terry Fox? At the age of 18, Terry Fox lost part of his right leg to bone cancer. The loss didn’t diminish his drive or courage; in fact, it inspired greatness. Once he recovered, this young man from Port Coquitlam, B.C. set out to run across Canada in what he called a “Marathon of Hope” to raise money for cancer research.

In the summer of 1980 Terry began his 143-day, 5,300 kilometre journey.

Sadly Terry’s cancer returned and he was forced to finish his run in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Terry Fox still succeeded in his goal of raising awareness of and money for cancer research—a legacy that continues to this day.

The story of the Marathon of Hope is told through maps and a wealth of contemporary photographs and newspaper imagery. The presentation includes Terry’s Marathon of Hope T-shirts, cards and letters sent by Canadians, and sections showing a day-in-the-life of the run, the heartbreaking end of the Marathon and the thrilling story of Terry Fox’s ongoing legacy.

This travelling exhibition was produced by the Canadian Museum of History, in partnership with the Terry Fox Centre. Terry Fox: Running to the Heart of Canada is open now until October 1, 2017.

What is a family? Can you pick your family or is it determined by blood? Explore these questions in the Royal BC Museum feature exhibition Family: Bonds and Belonging. The exhibition kicks down the “white picket fence” to challenge conventional ideas of family and shows how family can be defined by blood, choice, community or place.

Walk into a living interactive photo album and see what First Nation families, early settlers and recent immigrants from all over the world have in common.

See how traditions have changed and stayed the same. Explore stories from historic to contemporary families, and appreciate the traditions brought to B.C. by immigrant families. Discover tools to help you dig into your own family history.

Take part in this journey exploring the joy and pain of bonds and belonging. Family: It’s not all relative. See Family: Bonds and Belonging, on until October 31.

Kids can get a deeper look at these exhibitions in RBCM’s summer camps.

There are programs for almost every age and stage, starting with Mini Mornings Museum Story camp for ages 5-6 where the littlest campers will discover the basics of storytelling in this play-based morning camp; Museum Story Camp for ages 7-11 where campers uncover stories within the museum’s collections and exhibitions; and Director’s Cut Camps focusing on either filmmaking, Claymation or Lego animation for ages 9-14. Find out more at royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/ learn/kids-families/camps.

Bring your family to the museum for Wonder Weekend, July 1-2. Celebrate Canada Day with the annual Penny Carnival and live music at the plaza in front of the museum.

No matter what day you visit this summer you’ll have plenty of tasty dining options at the Food Truck festival behind the museum.

For information, visit royalbcmuseum.bc.ca.

24

Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Party Directory birthday parties for all ages!

ctoria Gymnastics

2 Great Locations!

Swim bounce , cook golf, create & more!

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

Hassle Free Parties for kids & families

G Y M

You provide the space and food…

FALCON

GYMNASTICS Birthday Parties

Y M

N Celebrate your birthday with us!

N

Come Fly With Us!

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

A

Party sizes up to 18 kids

A

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

S

250 472 3546

C

www.puppetbooth.homestead.com

S

43rdsary

r Annive 2016 1973–

• 2 large decorated birthday rooms

S

T

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

T

I

• The ONLY Inflatable Climbing Mountain with trampoline in town

I

Book Early: 250-479-6424

#208 – 721 Vanalman Ave

(Broadmead & Royal Oak Area)

www.falcongymnastics.com

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

Two certified instructors and a host Optional character

C

Gymnastics games and music

S

Optional character

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

Optional character

City Centre Park

Optional character

Live the Lifestyle

*Bowling *Playzone

Birthday Parties

G

Optional character

*Mini-Golf *Skating

*Inflatables *Splash Park

Party participants can win a FREE month

Available Saturday & Sunday Afternoons Optional character

Two Great Locations PARTY HOST INCLU DED!

FOR MORE INFORMATION: IslandParent.ca

www.citycentrepark.ca | 250-391-1738

2051 Store St, Victoria

250-380-2442

520 Mt View Ave, Colwood

778-265-6414

victoriagymnastics.com July 2017 25

School House

Lessons on the

Teaching Supplies

Road

The Educational Store for Everyone

Materials for all educators and families!

Monday to Saturday: 9:30am – 5:30pm Sunday: 12:30pm – 4:30pm 2014 Douglas St, Victoria BC V8T 4L1 schoolhouseteachingsupplies@shaw.ca

250-385-9030 www.schoolhouseteaching.com

MAD SCIENCE VANCOUVER ISLAND info@madscienceisland.com

Great summer time with science!

Summer Camps

Book on-line

CAMPS SHOWS PARTIES WORKSHOPS

250-391-1814 vancouverisland.madscience.org

26 Family Summer Guide

I

n marketing, the measure of an ad or a commercial’s success is if the consumer remembers the product and company. Now I don’t remember the organization, but one message has stuck with me—for more than two decades. This memorable commercial was part of a series on literacy, touting the opportunities for kids to learn through participating in everyday tasks; it featured a family cooking together, gaining reading practice with recipes and math skills with the measurements.

With the end of the school year upon us, I started to wonder about learning opportunities on summer road trips and vacations. Travel in itself is an educational experience, ticking all of the boxes—experiential, hands-on, and “big picture”—but whether you’re planning day trips, weekend road trips or far away flights, consider the opportunities, large and small, to teach some school subject basics and ultimately, life skills.

IslandParent.ca

There has been much ado in the teaching sector about B.C.’s new curriculum and admittedly I am not yet an expert on the changes so for the purposes of this article, I’m kicking it old school.

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

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• Have kids keep a trip journal and encourage daily entries describing trip experiences—sights, smells, tastes. Suggest adding in collected ephemera—tickets stubs, business cards, pamphlets, tourism brochure cut outs, maps.

• Make kids responsible for composing email updates to grandparents on their own or with prompts, for example: my favourite thing at (insert place name) was ______; today we travelled ___ kilometres; from the car or plane I saw ______; today I tried _______ (sport, food, etc) for the first time.

• Stock up on reading material for the plane, beach and bedtime.

• Encourage kids to read a local tourist magazine to learn about, and pick out, things to do in a new location. Once the day’s activities are decided upon, ask them to look up the hours, admission, and other important information.

• If a particular meal stands out, ask them to jot down the ingredients listed on the menu. (And try to recreate it when you get home!)

• Ask kids to record of all the towns and cities visited. Let’s hope you’re not heading to Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, Wales, because let’s face it, Nanaimo and Chemainus are hard enough.

• Visiting friends or family? Cook together as noted in the introduction.

• Heading to a non-English speaking country? Make a point of learning at the very minimum, their words for hello, goodbye, please, and thank you and more if you are spending longer than a few days there.

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• Provide a set and firm amount of money with an expectation they budget their spending. This is also an opportunity to learn about sales tax.

• Have kids document the distance IslandParent.ca

July 2017 27

travelled, by day if on a road trip or by flight if flying. At the end of the trip, add all distances together. If travelling in a country using the imperial system, work on conversions to metric.

• Convert temperatures from Fahrenheit to Celsius or vice versa.

• If heading to the mountains, calculate elevation.

• Teach about volume and cost per litre by allowing them to help pump gas.

• Heading to a different time zone?

Ask them to calculate the time difference, especially if you plan on calling family or friends from the road.

• Remember that recipe idea? Convert measurements—ounces to millilitres, cups to millilitres, etc.

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Family Summer Guide

• Include a visit to a science or natural history museum in your itinerary.

• Document species of flora and fauna with the iNaturalist app.

• Invest in a nature field guide for your destination.

• Join a naturalist or ranger-led talk, or walk through a regional or national park*.

• Visit a botanical garden, nature centre, aquarium, wildlife refuge or reputable accredited zoo.

History

• Visit a history museum or historical site*.

• Look for buildings with historical importance; these can be marked with plaques stating important information on dates, architects and other significant details.

• Seek out local historical societies; they may offer free or inexpensive tours.

• Stop to read plaques on statues and street art installations; there may be a historical connection.

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Physical Education

• Participate in swimming, hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, or stand up paddle boarding. • Take a lesson in something new, i.e. sailing, surďŹ ng, rock climbing. • Try a new adventure, for example, white water rafting, ziplining. • Take advantage of the hotel pool. • Visit the town or city events calendar and look for kids runs or walks supporting a favourite charity.

Toys, Games & Puzzles for All Ages

Social Studies/Geography

• Include the kids in the trip planning; have them determine the best routes from A to B and research points of interest along the way. • Make kids meteorologists; they can be responsible for looking up the weather report each day. • Record distances and routes traveled on a paper or digital map. • Include a geocaching adventure to learn about coordinates. • Look for diverse landscapes and geological features—fresh water, salt water, bogs, alpine, forests, volcanoes, desert, valleys, sedimentary rock, etc.

Arts

• Visit an art gallery; check their website for special hands-on kids’ workshops or events or simply ask kids to photograph or sketch their favourite pieces. • Encourage kids to draw what they see outside the tent or hotel window. • Attend a local musical or theatre performance. • Try different local radio stations to experience different genres of music. • Document the trip through photos.

Upon returning, learn a movie making program and create a moving slide show to send to family and friends. Consider setting it to the music of your trip’s soundtrack or songs with lyrics that represent the feel of the trip.

This summer pick a journal, pack some pens and hit the road. Happy travels. *Remember in honour of Canada’s 150, National Parks, National Park Reserves and National Historic sites are free for 2017.

Tina Kelly is the Director of Learning at the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea. She is planning her own short trip that will include visiting three museums, an art gallery, a National Historic Site, a historical walking tour and hopefully many recipe ideas she can bring home.

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Kid-Friendly Island Camping School’s out. What to do with the kids that won’t bankrupt the family?

Luckily, the glories of British Columbia’s diverse and beautiful landscapes and temperate summer weather offer a host of affordable camping adventures that can be tailored to almost any budget.

C

amping is an easy, safe way to get kids outdoors where they can learn something of the world around them and have an opportunity for the kind of free play that stimulates imaginations.

Child psychologists have long advocated the value of unstructured play where kids can take risks without the requirement that they achieve some goal set by adults or the rules of organized sport.

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

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

So here’s a small sampling of the many easily accessible kid-friendly Island campgrounds, within a half-day’s drive. There are day-use facilities at these campgrounds, too, so daytrips are equally feasible.

The following list includes provincial parks only, although there are plenty of private facilities that are equally kid-friendly.

You can survey the private facilities on offer at travel-british-columbia.com and if you want to adventure farther afield than Vancouver Island, you can look up parks and make reservations at gocampingbc.com for every region of the province.

French Beach. The beach here is almost two kilometres long. Views are spectacular across Juan de Fuca Strait to the Olympic Mountains and seals, sea lions and whales visit the waters. If a sea is running, you can

30 Family Summer Guide

take a quick trip to Jordan River or walk in to Sombrio Beach and watch the surfers.

There’s hiking on Juan de Fuca Marine Trail.

Tide pools at Botanical Beach offer endless exploring—just be prepared for rain.

Goldstream. Trees that were already old when Christopher Columbus was born tower along this little river where it tumbles through a deep canyon to an estuary that’s still in its natural state and home to eagles, ospreys, ravens and other birds. There’s a nature centre in the park which features talks by everyone from guest astronomers to bug experts, fun and games nights for kids in the amphitheatre, a spectacular waterfall that that cascades almost 50 metres down a cliff face and the chance to spot rare amphibians like the red-legged frog.

Gordon Bay. On Cowichan Lake, northwest of Duncan, this campground is ideal for kids. The sandy beach is great for lounging on a sunny afternoon and the water is almost always warm enough—the valley has the highest average temperature in Canada—for family swimming. There are walking and hiking trails through old growth forest and lots of birds to watch, including the raucous blue Stellar’s jay and plenty of waterfowl. For teens there’s windsurfing, kayaking and waterskiing. Fishing is good in the fall. And a short drive away in Duncan is the kid-friendly B.C. Forest Discovery Centre.

Newcastle Island. Miners once brought their families here for an outing away from the industrial grime when Nanaimo was a coal mining centre. Today you can catch a ferry for the 10-minute trip across the harbour. It’s an easy walk around the island with its sandstone beaches and sandy coves where kids can play. Lawns roll away to rustling shade trees and you can find an ice cream cone at the 1930’s dance pavilion.

Campsites are limited here, though, so reserve early. Sidetrips include Petroglyph

Park and its ancient stone carvings, an old coal mine at Morden Colliery Historic Site, the cemetery where kids can learn about Nanaimo’s mine disasters from the old tombstones, the Bastion fur trade fort and the Nanaimo Sports Hall of Fame which is not far from the ferry landing.

Rathtrevor Beach. This is a mid-Island paradise for kids of almost any age. At low tide, almost a kilometre of sandy beach is exposed leaving shallow pools in which flatfish dart, crabs scuttle, clams squirt and sand dollars are scattered everywhere.

The tide rolls back in over sand flats that have been baking in the sun all day and the water warms up to temperatures that are ideal for paddling.

Miracle Beach. Midway between Courtenay and Campbell River, this is another sandy paradise for kids that features a playground, hot showers and a big family picnic area by the shore. A bit farther north is the Oyster River with estuary trails that lead to another beach, this one wild and undomesticated, with sea grass, wild roses and bleached tangles of driftwood that sweep north behind what was once a UBC experimental dairy farm. At Courtenay, the museum features a prehistoric plesiosaur.

At Campbell River there’s another kind of dinosaur—a steam-powered donkey engine at the district museum.

Englishman River Falls. The river in this park thunders through deep canyons and over two spectacular waterfalls. A perpetual mist waters fern gardens that nestle in the rock walls in primeval splendour. Downstream, the torrent suddenly spills into a clear, tranquil pool that invites a refreshing plunge on a hot summer day. Just up the road is Coombs with its knick-knack and souvenir shops and the world-famous sod roof with grazing goats. A little farther north, kids can visit the Horne Lake Caves for a guided spelunking adventure.

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

IslandParent.ca

Safety Outdoors

Make your camping trip a learning moment that kids can carry with them into adulthood. This is the time to teach them the practical outdoor safety basics and make them into a routine.

For Kids:

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

2. Help the kids put together a personal checklist and to assemble their own small backpack with minimal survival gear. Include one day’s water, some energy bars, a warm outer garment (preferably waterproof), a compact space blanket, a small LED flashlight and a whistle. A fully charged cell phone is good if there’s service. Insist that they always carry their own pack.

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

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

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

For Parents:

1. Make a plan and stick to it. Always check the weather before leaving.

Don’t arrive at your campsite after dark.

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

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

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

5. Carry a first aid kit.

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

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

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

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

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July 2017 31

Family Calendar

For calendar updates throughout the month visit IslandParent.ca

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JULY SATURDAY

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CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS Spirit of 150 Victoria in the Inner Harbour. Family Zone with activities for children of all ages—with one or two treats for parents, too. Flavour of Canada international food village, and sponsor activity tents.

Living Flag takes place on the Legislature lawn at 2pm with 4,000 free red and white t-shirts available.

Culminates in fireworks at 10:20pm. Free.

Gorge Canada Day Picnic at Gorge Waterway Park. Pancake breakfast, family parade, entertainment, classic cars, kids’ activities, canoe rides, buskers corner, street hockey, Strawberry Tea, Canada Day market and more. Free. 8:30am-4pm. gorgecanadaday.ca.

activities, free lunch (registration required at Grand Central on arrival). 10am-3pm. Free.

Celebrate Canada Day in Waterwheel Park, Chemainus. Petting zoo, pony rides, bouncy castle, games, live music and more. 11am-3pm. Free.

SUNDAY

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Celebrate Canada 150 in Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo. Children and family-friendly events, live music, fireworks and more. Free.

Busy Beavers at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

Bring your young ones to the shores of Beaver Lake Ponds to see a beaver lodge. Children will have a chance to learn more about this amazing mammal Canada 150 Celebration in Qualicum Beach. and its marvelous adaptations. Meet at the grassy Grande Parade, pony and train rides, children’s area adjacent to the public shelter in the Filter Beds activities, live music, historical walk, street dance, parking lot at 10am. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. and more. Free.

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

Saturna Lamb BBQ at Winter Cove, Saturna Island.

Celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday with islanders at a country fair picnic centered on a traditionally prepared open fire barbecued lamb meal. Play games and win prizes at the Parks Canada booth.

Gorge on Art at Gorge Waterway Park, Victoria. Learn traditional skills from the Coast Salish guest.

Artists working in a wide range of media including 10am-4:30pm. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or painting, ceramics, jewellery and more. 9:30am- saturnalambbarbeque.com.

4pm. gorgecanadaday.ca.

Sidney Days: Canada Day Celebration in Iroquois Canada Day at Robert Bateman Centre. Come join Park, Sidney. Face painting and inflatable fun a public tour at 10am, noon, or 2pm. Special $1.50 celebrating Canada’s 150th Anniversary. Visit admission in honour of the nation’s 150th birthday. sidneycelebrates.sidney.ca.

10am-5pm. 470 Belleville St. 250-94-3630.

Super Saturday at Campbell River Art Gallery. Free Canada 150 Celebration in Centennial Park, Dun- art making sessions. Canada Day Whirly Gigs. Super can. Face painting, animal balloons, imagination Saturday is generously sponsored by the Rotary Club station, mini-golf, cake walk, and watermelon-eating of Campbell River. 1-3pm. crartgallery.ca. contest. Bouncy castle and obstacle course, sports

32 Family Summer Guide

Canada Day Swim at Panorama Recreation. Fun Canada-themed activities and games in the pool.

1:30-3:30pm. 1885 Forest Park Dr. 250-656-7271. panoramarecreation.ca.

MONDAY

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Tree-mendous Trees at Francis/King Regional Park. Unlock the mysteries of trees on a fun forest adventure with a CRD Regional Parks naturalist. Follow clues and riddles along the trail to meet Francis/ King’s giants. Meet at the Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Play in the Park Launch Party at Tulista Park, Sidney. Have dinner at the park. Thrifty Foods Culinary Services will be on site with dinner options available for sale. 5:30-8:30pm. 250-656-7271. panoramarecreation.ca.

IslandParent.ca

TUESDAY

4

TH TO THURSDAY

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by the RDN Recreation and Parks leader. Propane

TH BBQs welcome. Free. 5-8pm. 95 Henry Morgan Dr.

250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

The Good Old ‘Daze’ Scarecrow Festival at Mill Bay Centre. Over 100 life-sized, handcrafted scare- FRIDAY TH TO SUNDAY TH crow ‘People from the Past’. Pick up a map showing scarecrow locations, vote for your favourites, and Nanaimo Dragonboat Festival at Maffeo Sutwin prizes. Free. ton Park, Nanaimo. Shriner’s pancake breakfast, Nanaimo Farmer’s Market, candle and carnation ceremonies, and more. Friday: 4pm; Saturday & WEDNESDAY TH Sunday: 8am-5pm. Free. nanaimodragonboat.com.

Tide Ticklers at Island View Beach Regional Park.

Come prepared to get your feet wet. On this SATURDAY TH gentle introduction to beach exploration, search this intertidal home for fish, crabs, and other marine Breakfast on the Farm at Vanvalley Farm, Duncan. creatures. Your little ones will enjoy a short story, See the Mobile Dairy Classroom, a robot milker, song and hands-on discovery. 10-11am. There is robot feeder, and pet a baby calf. Face painting, no fee for this program, but you must pre-register balloons, hay rides, ice cream and more. Breakfast

by June 30 as space is limited. 5 years and under. is $2/person and is on a first come, first served 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. basis. Free admittance to the farm. 9am-noon.

4590 Koksilah Rd. Wild Hair Party at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Listen to a story, then students from the Life on the Rocks at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park.

VIU/SD 63 Hairstylist program will create some When the tide goes out, an exciting world comes wild and crazy hairstyles for you, all temporary of into view. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help course! Adult consent required. There will be gel, you discover the creatures that make Witty’s Lagoon hairspray and colour. All ages welcome. 10:30- their special home. Be prepared to get your feet wet 11:30am. Please register by email at sidney@virl. (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at Tower Point bc.ca or call 250-656-0944. parking lot off Olympic View Dr at 10am. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Glow in the Dark Skate at Cliff McNabb Arena, Nanaimo. Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting Community BBQ at Cook Street Village Activity and special effects. Regular admission. Glow neck- Centre. Taiko drummers, Thai dancers, presentalaces available for $2. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200. tion on the history of Victoria’s Inner Harbour, and live music. Children’s corner for the young and young at heart with free face painting and bingo.

FRIDAY TH Free. 11am-2pm. 380 Cook St. 250-384-6542.

Meet Real Firefighters at Sidney/North Saanich cookstreetvillageactivitycentre.com.

Branch Library. Thanks to the Sidney Volunteer Fire Department. All ages welcome. 10:30-11:30am. Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. Tours of the historic Plaskett Telescope, Family Picnic and Play at Henry Morgan Community astronomical lectures and presentations, music in Park, Bowser. Kids, bring your adults and your din- the dome, night sky viewing and constellation walks. ner to the park. Games and activities are provided Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by

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ticket only. Tickets will be available at daostarparties. eventbrite.ca the week before.

SUNDAY

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Saanich Strawberry Festival at Beaver Lake Park.

Enjoy an old-style family picnic at the beach, or take part in a wide range of family activities. The traditional serving of strawberries and ice cream runs 1-3pm. Tickets can be purchased from 11am2:30pm at the ticket booth for $.50/serving. Free.

11am-3pm. 250-475-1775.

Learn to Fish at Westwood Lake Jetty, Nanaimo.

Join the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and learn the basics of freshwater fishing at one of Nanaimo’s local lakes. Rapala fishing rods are provided, and program runs rain or shine. Parent participation required. For 5-15 year olds. 10:30am-12:30pm.

Free. 250-756-5200.

TUESDAY

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Marine Day at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists and guests for this celebration of our precious marine environment.

See what creatures scuba divers bring up from the deep, see live displays, join in a beach seine, guided

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Connect with us July 2017 33

walks and more. Drop by any time between 10am and 1pm. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet on the main beach off Metchosin Rd. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55.

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

Summer Camps 2017!

Join us this summer and learn stage acting, singing and dancing!

One Week Kids Camps

Ages 7–10 July 10–14 or July 31–August 4

Two Week Teen Camp Ages 11–15 July 17–29

Two Week Advanced Camp Ages 10–16 August 14–26

Visit Our website for more details and registration information:

www.fsmtheatre.ca or call 250-478-0329

Once Upon a StoryWalk™ at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Come for a StoryWalk™, where individual pages of a storybook, mounted on sign posts, are placed outdoors in a circuit. Children follow the narrative by visiting each sign post in sequence. After the StoryWalk™, come to the library for nature-inspired activities. Rain or shine; please dress appropriately.

10:30am-12:30pm drop in. Everyone welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

TUESDAY

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Victoria International Buskers Festival. Downtown Victoria will become a hub of busking talent with performers coming from far and wide, with a good dose of home-grown talent thrown in. Dotted around the downtown core will be “Pitch Stop” pop-up locations where buskers will entertain and inspire.

250-386-2238. victoriabuskers.com.

WEDNESDAY

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Incredible Inverts at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. They’re creepy, they’re crawly, and they’re cool. Explore the fascinating world of insects, spiders and other invertebrates. Hands-on exploration, live bugs, crafts and games. Admission by donation. Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca.

THURSDAY

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The Beach Rocks! at Island View Beach Regional Park. The tide is out. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and get a glimpse of the creatures that live beneath the rocks. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd at 1pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

FRIDAY

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Sandy Shore Explore at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an intertidal exploration and discover the strange and wonderful creatures that appear between the tides.

Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk near the main beach off Metchosin Rd at 1pm. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

34 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Friday

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SATURDAY

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Research and Education Society for fun marine activities. Enjoy free ice cream. Tour the Fog Alarm Building with Saturna Island Heritage Committee volunteers. 1-4pm. 1-866-944-1744.

Downtown Duncan Day in Duncan. Pancake breakfast, Kids’ Parade, free rides and activities, Grande Parade, Duncan Farmer’s Market and more.

Coast Salish Clam Garden Campfire at McDonald downtownduncan.ca.

Campground, Sidney. Curious what a Clam Garden TD Art Gallery Paint-In on Moss Street (from Fort is? Similar to caring for a vegetable garden in your Street to Dallas Rd). More than 165 artists demon- backyard, Coast Salish Nations tend beaches to strate their work. Food, music, hands-on art stations. make clams grow better. Join us around the campfire Lots of opportunity to make art for families. Open to learn more. 7-8pm. house at the Art Gallery from 10am-6pm. Free.

Friday TH TO Sunday Aug TH 11am-4pm. 1040 Moss St. 250-384-4171. aggv.bc.ca. Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT 8 for details. Rain or shine.

Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Canada 150 Skate at Cliff McNabb Arena. Wear 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only.

Competition & Exhibition at Parksville Community red and white, and you might win a prize. 1-2:30pm. Tickets will be available at daostarparties.eventbrite. ca the week before.

Park. Public viewing of carving starts on Friday at $1.50. 250-756-5200.

2pm. Judging Saturday from 3-5pm with winners announced at 5:30pm. Gated exhibition remains Super Saturday at Campbell River Art Gallery. SUNDAY TH open to the public 9am-9pm daily. Bring your own Free art making sessions. Printmaking with foam buckets and shovels to create a little sandcastle and cardboard. Super Saturday is generously Evening Campground Program at Island View magic of your own. Learn the tricks of the trade at sponsored by the Rotary Club of Campbell River. Beach Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks the Coastal Community Sculpting zone by watching 1-3pm. crartgallery.ca. naturalist for an evening of nature-inspired activities free sand sculpting demos on Saturday and Sunday, and stories. Bring a beach chair and meet at the Intertidal Safari at East Point, Saturna Island. What campfire ring at Island View Beach campground, July 15 and 16. parksvillebeachfest.ca. will the divers bring up from the deep? Drop in off Homathko Rd at 7pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. and join Parks Canada and Saturna Island Marine crd.bc.ca/parks.

SKAMpede on the Galloping Goose Trail, Victoria.

Short shows of dance, theatre, spoken work and more. Travel from show to show by bicycle, rollerblade, electric mobility scooter, skateboard, or on foot (anything that’s legal on the Goose). Suitable for the whole family. For more information, visit skam. ca or call 250-386-7526.

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Your Natural Sleep Shop LOOK OUT FOR OUR SUMMER BED GIVEAWAY

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For more info visit our promotions page at resthouse.ca or visit us in store at 126 Station St.

Buy 1 get 15% OFF • Buy 2 get 20% OFF • Buy 3 get 25% OFF Includes Body Pillows • 1-844-855-REST (7378)

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July 2017 35

Westmont Ad_MAY_Island Parent_film1_OUTLINES.pdf

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11:35 AM

TUESDAY

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Bike Ride Back in Time at Sooke Potholes Regional Park. Cycle back in time with CRD Regional Parks naturalists along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail from Sooke Potholes past Kapoor Regional Park (approx. 12km round trip). Learn about the historic area near Leechtown and enjoy the unspoiled beauty of this wilderness area. There is no fee for this program, but you must pre-register by July 14 as space is limited. 12+ years. 10am-2pm. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

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Stuffie Sleepover at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Bring your stuffie to a special pyjama party storytime and craft. Then, leave your stuffie in the library overnight for a sleepover. Pick it up any time the next day (or week). You’ll take home some photographs of the sleepover fun. Ages 4-9 years.

Please register by email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944.

K

WEDNESDAY

Summer Kids Camps 2017

Day Programs & Overnight Camps

Contact Us for Dates & Register Today!

coastalbliss.ca 1 800 896 9525 coastalbliss@shaw.ca

Little Fox Run For children Ages 3–5 No entry fee.

No minimum donation.

Hosted at your own facility.

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Wild Metamorphosis at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Explore the magic of metamorphosis, communication and camouflage through activities, displays and a few surprise guests. Presented by Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Ages 6-12. Limited space. 1:30-2:30pm. Register by email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944.

StoryWalk™ Wednesday at Mount Work Regional Park. Get outside and experience a nature walk along your favourite user-friendly trail while stopping to enjoy an illustrated children’s book. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will be there to bring the story to life. It begins at the Munn Road Loop trailhead. StoryWalks™ are hosted by West Shore Parks & Recreation as part of the People Power initiative funded by the Victoria Foundation, Capital Regional District, and the CRD Traffic Commission. Meet in the parking lot off Munn Rd at 6pm. All ages. 250478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

FRIDAY

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

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

Register your preschool or daycare at:

Terryfox.org | 1-883-836-9786 36 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Friday

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st TO Sunday

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Nanaimo Marine Festival and International Bathtub Race in Maffeo Sutton Park, Swy-a-Lana Lagoon and Downtown Nanaimo. Arts & crafts fair, Kiddies Karnival, food vendors, children’s craft tent, parade and more. bathtubbing.com.

SATURDAY

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Sensational Seaweeds at Island View Beach Regional Park. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help you discover how important marine algae is for you and me and the creatures that call them home.

Seaweed tasting optional. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd at 10am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT 8 for details. Rain or shine.

7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only.

Tickets will be available at daostarparties.eventbrite. ca the week before.

SUNDAY

Bejewelled Dragons of the Pond at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an up-close and personal look at the amazing Reptile Day at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature world of dragonflies as they zig and zag in search of Sanctuary. Join in the annual scaly celebration. their prey across the wetlands. Nets and field guides Observe and interact with fabulous reptile friends, will be available. Meet at the grassy area adjacent play games, make crafts, and get your face painted. to the picnic shelter at the Filter Beds parking lot Admission by donation. Noon-3pm. 3873 Swan Lake off Beaver Lake Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Rd. 250-479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. ages welcome. 10:30-11:30am. Register by email at

rd sidney@virl.bc.ca or call 250-656-0944.

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Coast Salish Clam Garden Campfire at McDonald Campground, Sidney. Curious what a Clam Garden is? Similar to caring for a vegetable garden in your backyard, Coast Salish Nations tend beaches to make clams grow better. Join us around the campfire to learn more. 7-8pm.

Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT 8 for details. Rain or shine.

7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only.

THURSDAY TH Tickets will be available at daostarparties.eventbrite.

Going Buggy at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. We ca the week before. love ’em, we hate ’em. They’re fascinating, finicky and fabulous. Drop by the tents at the main Beaver SUNDAY TH Beach between 11am and 2pm for a close-up look at some of our buggy friends and foes. All ages. BC Learn to Fish at Westwood Lake Jetty, Nanaimo.

Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. See SUN 9 for details. Parent participation required.

For 5-15 year olds. 10:30am-12:30pm. Free. 250Family Fun Night at Mansfield Park, Nanaimo. 756-5200.

Games, crafts and much more. 4-7pm. 250-7565200.

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Moon Walk at Coles Bay Regional Park. See FRI 21 for details. 5+ years. 10-11:30am. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

FRIDAY Learn to Fish at Colliery Dam Park, Nanaimo. See SUN 9 for details. Parent participation required.

For 5-15 year olds. 10:30am-12:30pm. Free. 250756-5200.

Starlight Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre. Come out and enjoy the soft “stars” and passive LED glow lights. A great time for families before dinner. Regular admission rates. 3-4:30pm. 250-756-5200.

TUESDAY

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Seals! Seals! at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist to see Tower Point’s most avid sun worshippers and swimming enthusiasts—the harbour seals. Binoculars and spotting scopes provided. Meet at the Olympic View Drive parking lot at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #54 or #55.

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

WEDNESDAY

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Who Speaks for the Wolf at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. Meet Gary Allan and Tundra (the 85% wolf dog) and learn all about wolves, conservation and protection of these magnificent animals. All

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Super Saturday at Campbell River Art Gallery. Free art making sessions. Popsicle stick sculptures. Super Saturday is generously sponsored by the Rotary Club of Campbell River. 1-3pm. crartgallery.ca.

AUGUST

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WEDNESDAY

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Picnic and Play at Sandpiper/Boultbee Community Park, French Creek. See FRI 7 for details.

Free. 5-8pm. 1291 Ormonde Dr. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

Once Upon a StoryWalk™ at Bruce Hutchison Branch Library. Come for a StoryWalk™, where individual pages of a storybook, mounted on sign posts, are placed outdoors in a circuit. Children follow the narrative by visiting each sign post in sequence. After the Creatures of the Summer Night at Swan Lake StoryWalk™, come to the library for nature-inspired Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Check out the activities. Rain or shine; please dress appropriately. nightlife of Swan Lake. Sharpen your senses to 10:30am-12:30pm drop in. Everyone welcome; chillook for owls, bats and other nighttime creatures. dren must be accompanied by an adult. Visit gvpl.ca Using a grab bag of tricks, discover how these or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info. animals are adapted to their nocturnal life. Suitable for families with children over 6 years. 8-9:30pm. Microscopy in the Library at Sidney/North Saanich $4/members; $6/non-members. Pre-registration Branch Library. Walk on the wild side where you required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake need a microscope. Dr. Elaine Humphrey of the Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Advanced Miscrosopy Facility at the University of Victoria presents “Miscroscopy in the Library” with ten different microscopy activities. Ages 6-96 years.

SATURDAY TH 1:30-3pm. Register by email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or A Taste of Camping at McDonald Campground, phone 250-656-0944.

Sidney. Want to spice up your camping skills? Parks Canada, Mountain Equipment Co-op, and others will StoryWalk™ Wednesday at Witty’s Lagoon Regional show you how it’s done. Brush up your outdoor skills Park. Get outside and experience a nature walk along with fun activities, learn how to cook with everything your favourite user-friendly trail while stopping to from tin foil to a Dutch oven, and sample delicious enjoy an illustrated children’s book. A CRD Regional camping food. Please park at the adjacent Blue Parks naturalist will be there to bring the story to life.

Heron Park and follow the signs to the campground. It begins at the West-Mont Montessori School and continues to the Witty’s Lagoon Teaching Shelter and 11am-2pm drop in. Free. 1-866-944-1744.

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July 2017 37

Glow in the Dark Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre.

Free-B Jumanji on the Legislature Lawn. Come for the season opener of the Free-B Film Festival with a screening of the 1995 classic “Jumanji”. Bring your blanket, flashlight and snacks. Free. 9pm. freebfilmfest.com.

Skate in an atmosphere of dimmed lighting and special effects. Regular admission. 6:30-8pm. 250-756-5200.

FRIDAY

Sitting Lady Falls. Meet at the West-Mont Montessori School parking lot off Metchosin Rd at 6pm. All ages.

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

THURSDAY

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Snake Day at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. CRD Regional Parks has teamed up with Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary for this slithery event. Watch snake shows, hold a snake, play a snake game and more. Drop by the tents at the main Beaver Beach any time between 11am and 2pm. All ages. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

FRIDAY

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Hawaiian Holidaze at Westwood Lake, Nanaimo.

Who needs a tropical getaway when we have our very own Westwood Lake. Enjoy a wide variety of tropical-themed games and activities for the whole family. 1-3pm. 250-756-5200.

38 Family Summer Guide

4

TH TO MONDAY

Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT JULY 8 for details. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only. Tickets will be available at daostarparties. eventbrite.ca the week before.

7

TH

Free-B Rush Hour at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Bring the family down to Beacon Hill Park for 35th Annual Filberg Festival at the Filberg Heritage a free movie night under the stars. Bring your blanket, Loge and Park. Juried artisans, food and entertain- flashlight and snacks. Free. 9pm. freebfilmfest.com. ment. Kids Enchanted Forest with storytelling, face painting, sand boxes, painting, crafts and games. Saturday TH TO Isadora makes a special appearance everyday Sunday TH between 11am-3:30pm. Fri-Sun: 10am-6pm; Mon: 10am-5pm. $15/adults; children 12 and under free. Victoria’s Largest Little Airshow at Michell Airpark, filbergfestival.com.

Saanich. R/C pilots from all over BC and the USA will entertain you with their scale models. WWI, WWII, giant scale 3-D aerobatics and even turbine jets.

SATURDAY TH Free, but donations gratefully accepted. All money Sandy Shore Explore at Witty’s Lagoon Regional raised this year will be donated to Santa’s AnonyPark. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an mous. 10am-4:30pm daily. Lochside Dr between intertidal exploration and discover the strange and Martindale Rd and Island View Rd. wonderful creatures that appear between the tides.

Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or SUNDAY TH beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk near the main beach off Metchosin Rd at 10am. All ages. BC Transit #54 Feeling Crabby at Island View Beach Regional or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Park. Red, green, purple, hairy and hermit crabs.

This bustling marine habitat has them all. Drop by

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any time between 10am and 1pm to meet some of these crabs and their cousins up close and personal.

There will be an aquarium, games, and lots of opportunities to explore the beach with buckets and dip nets. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Look for the blue tent on the beach off Homathko Rd. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

Victoria Symphony Splash in the Inner Harbour.

Musical entertainment, food, souvenirs, and a live performance by the Victoria Symphony ending with a grand finale performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture—with fireworks of course. Entertainment begins at 1pm in the Family Zone and spreads to the Legislature grounds before culminating on the barge at 7:30pm with new Music Director Christian Kluxen. 1-10pm. 250-385-6515. victoriasymphony.ca.

TUESDAY

8

TH

Between the Tides at Coles Bay Regional Park.

Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist for an intertidal exploration and discover the strange and wonderful creatures that appear between the tides. Be prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the kiosk in the parking lot

off Inverness Rd at 10:30am. All ages. 250-478-3344. Come find out more during this fabulous feathered event. Play games, make crafts, and even get the crd.bc.ca/parks. chance to examine an owl pellet. Noon-3pm. AdmisCampfire Storytime at Sidney/North Saanich Branch sion by donation. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. 250-479-0211.

Library. Gather ‘round the (fake) campfire for slightly swanlake.bc.ca. spooky stories, campfire songs, campfire snacks and a campfire craft. Don’t forget to bring your flashlight. Wild Paint Workshop at Sidney/North Saanich Nancy Dobbs will be our special musical guest. All Branch Library. Are you ready to get wildly creative ages welcome. 6:30-7:15pm. Please register by and have some outdoor fun? Local artist Nicola email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944. Furlong will help your create your own colourful, abstract and textured masterpiece to take home.

Be prepared for something messy, informative and WEDNESDAY TH fun, fun, fun. Ages 6-12. 1:30-2:30pm. Register by Sensational Seaweeds at Island View Beach email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944.

Regional Park. A CRD Regional Parks naturalist will help you discover how important marine algae is for FRIDAY TH you and me and the creatures that call them home.

Seaweed tasting optional. Be prepared to get your Evening Campground Program at Island View feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at Beach Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter off naturalist for an evening of nature-inspired activities Homathko Rd at 10:30am. 5+ years. 250-478-3344. and stories. Bring a beach chair and meet at the crd.bc.ca/parks. campfire ring at Island View Beach campground, off Homathko Rd at 7pm. All ages. 250-478-3344.

Predators of the Sky at Swan Lake Christmas Hill crd.bc.ca/parks.

Nature Sanctuary. Birds of prey have amazing adaptations from keen eyesight to stealth and speed. Free-B Spice World at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Bring the family down to Beacon Hill Park for a free movie night under the stars. Bring your blanket, flashlight and snacks. Free. 9pm. freebfilmfest.com.

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presented by

Supported by

Registration opens April 3

vikescamps.com

IslandParent.ca

July 2017 39

If You Are

Moving Expecting a Baby Planning a Wedding A Grandparent A New Business/Executive Interested In a New Career

Contact Welcome Wagon Today!

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

SATURDAY

12

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Bug Buddies at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park.

What’s that bug? Bring your preschooler to explore the wonderful world of insects. Join a CRD Parks naturalist on this bug safari as we search for grasshoppers, wood bugs and other not so creepy crawlies. 5 years and under. There is no fee for this program, but you must pre-register by August 9 as space is limited. 10-11am. BC Transit #70 or #72.

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

Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT JULY 8 for details. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only. Tickets will be available at daostarparties. eventbrite.ca the week before.

Free-B The Outsiders at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Bring the family down to Beacon Hill Park for a free movie night under the stars. Bring your blanket, flashlight and snacks. Free. 9pm. freebfilmfest.com.

SUNDAY

13

TH

Cadboro Bay Festival at Cadboro Gyro Park.

Hands-on activities, bouncy castles, face painting, band performances, information displays, interactive games, kids treasure map, arts and craft stations, food and fun for the entire family. World-class sand sculptors will create giant works of art from just sand, water, and a lot of imagination. Free. 11am3pm. 250-475-5522.

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

TUESDAY

15

TH

Booksmack at Beacon Park Amphitheatre, Sidney. Don’t miss this hilarious event. Come watch library staff and community members as they race against the clock to tell you about their favourite books. 10:30-11:30am. For more info, visit southislandliteracy.com.

WEDNESDAY

2017 Children’s Summer Camps Photo credit: David Cooper

Storybook Ballet Programs for ages 4-10 Kinder Camp Ages 4-6

July 4-7 or July 24-28

Children’s Camp Ages 6-10

July 10-14 or July 17-21

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

40 Family Summer Guide

16

TH

Meet the Mammoths at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. What is a mammoth? Where did they live? How did they die? Explore these questions and this fascinating species with objects, stories and hands-on activity. Presented by the Royal BC Museum. Ages 7-10 years. 1:30-2:30pm. Register by email at sidney@virl.bc.ca or phone 250-656-0944.

StoryWalk™ Wednesday at Francis/King Regional Park. See WED Aug 2 for details. Meet at the Nature Centre off Munn Rd at 6pm. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

THURSDAY

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Puppet Show: Raven Goes Berrypicking at Sidney/ North Saanich Branch Library. Flap your wings and soar down to the library for a puppet show full of feathers and fun. Let the librarians entertain you with a puppet show based on Anne Cameron’s Raven Goes Berrypicking. Stories, songs and crafts included. Suitable for all ages. 10:30-11:15am drop in.

People, Plants and Places at Island View Beach Regional Park. Enjoy this beautiful park with CRD Parks naturalists and guest nature walkers and ethnobotanists Earl Claxton Jr. and John-Bradley Williams. Play the plant challenge and see why Island View Beach is so special. Guided walks offered at 11:15am and 1pm. Look for the blue tent by the picnic area off Homathko Rd. 11am-2pm drop-in. All ages.

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

FRIDAY

18

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Free-B Dirty Dancing at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Bring the family down to Beacon Hill Park for a free movie night under the stars. Bring your blanket, flashlight and snacks. Free. 9pm. freebfilmfest.com.

Friday

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TH TO Sunday

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22nd Annual Victoria Dragon Boat Festival in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Dragon boat races, entertainment, food, activities for kids and families. Friday 1pm: Eye-Dotting ceremony; Saturday: 8am-9pm; Sunday: 8am-1:30pm. victoriadragonboat.com.

SATURDAY

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Saanichton Family Festival at Saanichton Fairgrounds. Family-oriented event with lots of games, prizes, inflatable obstacle course and vendors from the Peninsula Country Market. Free. 9am-2pm.

250-656-7271.

Bountiful Berries at East Sooke Regional Park. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist on a walk to explore for blackberries, Oregon grape berries, salal berries and more. There will also be an opportunity to taste jams made from some of these natural delights. We will look at and taste berries, but will not be collecting them to take home. Meet at the kiosk in the Aylard Farm parking lot off Becher Bay Rd at 1pm. 5+ years.

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

Summer Reading Club Wrap-Up Party: Magician David Leif at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library.

You’re invited to the Summer Reading Club Wrap-Up Party. David Leif will entertain with magic, storytelling,

IslandParent.ca

comedy, music, and tons of audience participation as we celebrate a summer full of reading. Prizes, cake and lots of fun for everyone. All ages welcome. 2:304pm. Register at sidney@virl.bc.ca or 250-656-0944.

Summer Reading Club Extravaganza at Central Branch Library. Celebrate the end of Summer Reading Club with a puppet show, an easy obstacle course, and a cupcake. Dress up like your favourite book character to be entered into a draw for a gift certificate to a local bookstore. Activities provided

by Heroes, Inc and the Pacific Institute for Sports Excellence. Drop in: Puppet Show: 1-2pm; obstacle course: 2-3:30pm. For ages 12 and under. Visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875) for more info.

Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical Observatory. See SAT JULY 8 for details. Rain or shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket only. Tickets will be available at daostarparties. eventbrite.ca the week before.

Free-B Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Bring the family down to Beacon Hill Park for a free movie night under the stars. Bring your blanket, flashlight and snacks. Free. 9pm. freebfilmfest.com.

Canadian Cartoons under the Stars at East Point, area adjacent to the picnic shelter off Homathko Rd Saturna Island. Spend an evening outdoors and at 10am. All ages. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. watch award-winning animation from the National Film Board. Suitable for the whole family. Bring a WEDNESDAY RD chair or a blanket. 9-10pm.

Beach Seine at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park. Join CRD Regional Parks naturalists on a beach seine and SUNDAY TH see what creatures live in the underwater forest. Be Learn to Fish at Colliery Dam Park, Nanaimo. Join prepared to get your feet wet (bring sandals or beach the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC and learn shoes). Meet at the kiosk near the main beach off the basics of freshwater fishing at one of Nanaimo’s Metchosin Rd at 10am. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 or local lakes. Rapala fishing rods are provided, and #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. program runs rain or shine. Parent participation required. For 5-15 year olds. 10:30am-12:30pm. Wondrous Wetlands at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary. What makes a wetland such a Free. 250-756-5200. great place to enjoy and protect? Find out with Starlight Skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre. Come out hands-on exploration, pond dipping for live wetland and enjoy the soft “stars” and passive LED glow creatures, crafts, songs and games. Noon-3pm. lights. A great time for families before dinner. Regular Admission by donation. 3873 Swan Lake. Rd. 250479-0211. swanlake.bc.ca. admission rates. 3-4:30pm. 250-756-5200.

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TUESDAY

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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 you feet wet (bring sandals or beach shoes). Meet at the grassy

THURSDAY

24

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Evening Bat Exploration at Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park. As the day draws to a close, it is a magical time to be out in the park. The daytime creatures are preparing for a night of rest and the nighttime creatures are starting to stir. Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and Habitat Acquisition Trust staff

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July 2017 41

to explore the weird and wonderful world of bats and hopefully get a chance to see them in action as they swoop through the air feeding on flying insects that are found at this time of year. Meet at the grassy area adjacent to the picnic shelter at the Filter Beds parking lot off Beaver lake Rd at 7:30pm. 8+ years. BC Transit #70 or #72. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks.

SATURDAY

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the water course of Bilston Creek to the shoreline of Witty’s Lagoon. Learn about Sitting Lady Falls, Coast Salish Clam Garden Campfire at McDonald watch for herons feeding in the saltmarsh and learn Campground, Sidney. Curious about what a Clam a few edible summer plants. Meet at Nature Centre Garden is? Similar to caring for a vegetable garden off Metchosin Rd at 1pm. 5+ years. BC Transit #54 in your backyard, Coast Salish Nations tend beaches or #55. 250-478-3344. crd.bc.ca/parks. to make clams grow better. Come to the campfire to learn more about clam gardens, the local restoration MONDAY TH project, listen to Coast Salish traditional singing and FRIDAY TH taste clams. Please park at the adjacent Blue Heron Creatures of the Summer Night at Swan Lake ChristFamily Picnic and Play at Maple Lane Community Park and follow the signs to the campground. 7-8pm. mas Hill Nature Sanctuary. Check out the nightlife of Swan Lake. Sharpen your senses to look for owls, Park, San Pareil. Kids, bring your adults and your 1-866-944-1744. bats and other nighttime creatures. Using a grab bag dinner to the park. Games and activities provided

by RDN Recreation and Parks leader. Propane BBQ’s Summer Star Party at Dominion Astrophysical of tricks, discover how these animals are adapted are welcome. Free. 5-8pm. 1035 Maple Lane Dr, San Observatory. See SAT JULY 8 for details. Rain or to their nocturnal life. Suitable for families with shine. 7:30-11pm. Free, but admission is by ticket children over 6 years. 8-9:30pm. $4/members; $6/ Pareil. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. only. Tickets will be available at daostarparties. non-members. Pre-registration required by calling 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Christmas in July at Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature eventbrite.ca the week before.

Sanctuary. Come share the magic of Christmas Hill during an evening guided hike. Stretch your limbs Canadian Cartoons under the Stars at East Point, THURSDAY ST and listen to the chorus of birds while checking out Saturna Island. Spend an evening outdoors and the great view from a spectacular vantage point. watch award-winning animation from the National Family Fun Night at Mansfield Park, Nanaimo.

You may even discover the legends of Christmas Film Board. Suitable for the whole family. Bring a Games, crafts and much more. 4-7pm. 250-756Hill. Suitable for families and children over 7 years. chair or a blanket. 9-10pm.

5200.

Bring a water bottle. Free, but donations greatly appreciated. 7-9pm. 250-479-0211. 3873 Swan Lake SUNDAY TH Rd. swanlake.bc.ca.

Forest to Seashore at Witty’s Lagoon Regional Park.

Join a CRD Regional Parks naturalist and follow

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42 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Ongoing

card account. Ages 0-12 years. July 4-August 22.

Visit virl.bc.ca for more information.

BABIES, TODDLERS & PRESCHOOL Playground Programs in Nanaimo. Arts, crafts and

sports. Drop in for free family fun. Activities could inFamily Storytimes and Baby Times at the Greater clude games, arts & crafts, and spots. Monday-Friday, Victoria Public Library. Parents and caregivers are July 5-August 30, 10am-3:30pm at Harewood Cenwelcome and encouraged to participate with their tennial Park & Mansfield Park. Monday-Wednesday children. Drop in; space is limited. Admission is 10am-3:30pm: July 5-26, Coal Tyee School & Chase on a first-come, first-served basis. For a complete River School; August 2-30, Daynes Park & Country schedule of programs, visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940- Hills Park. Thursday and Friday, 10am-3:30pm: July 5-26, Daynes Park & Country Hills Park; August, Coal GVPL (4875) for more information.

Tyee School & Chase River School. For children 5 Summer Storytime at Sidney/North Saanich Branch to 12 years old. 250-756-5200.

Library. Bring your littlest ones to the library for stories, songs, rhymes and lots of movement. Ages Totally Tubular Tuesdays at Nanaimo Aquatic Cen0-5 years. Drop in. 10:30-11:15am, July 6-August 10. tre. Looking for a new way to have fun this summer?

Come out for fun games 1-3pm every Tuesday July Monday Munchkinland Drop In at Munchkinland 4-August 29. 250-756-5200.

Exploration Centre, Parksville. Bring your family and come play this summer. Free drop-in program Children’s Entertainment in the Park at Cameron for children 6 and under and a caregiver. Mondays Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Features a different 9:30-11:30am July 10, 17, 24, 31 and August 14 and children’s show, from juggling and story time, to music and princesses. Bring sunscreen, a picnic, 21. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation. and get ready to laugh. Wednesdays 11am-noon Babytime at Sidney/North Saanich Branch Library. July 12-August 16. For details, visit victoria.ca/ Bring your blanket and enjoy books, bounces, concertsinthepark. rhymes and songs. Siblings, grandparents and other guests are always welcome. Especially for babies 0-12 months. Drop in Fridays June 30-July FAMILIES 31, 10:30-11am.

Summer Challenge for Kids, Teens & Families at the Greater Victoria Public Library. Make the library part of your summer story. From July 6-August 31, CHILDREN choose from 18 library-related challenges, submit Summer Reading Club 2017 at the Greater Victoria your completed challenge on one of the GVPL’s Public Library. For every week of reading, receive an social media pages, and earn an entry into weekly incentive—temporary tattoos, a swim pass, a new prize draws. You can take part anywhere you find book and more. Program is self-paced, so is suitable yourself with a book this summer. For rules and a for readers of all levels, even babies and toddlers list of challenges, visit gvpl.ca/summerchallenge. are welcome to participate. For kids 12 and under.

For info about the club, or to register for programs, Open Air Library at Beacon Park, Sidney. Come enjoy the fresh ocean air and free books this summer. check out gvpl.ca, or call 250-940-GVPL (4875).

Everyone is welcome to select from a wide range of All that and a Bag of Chips at the Greater Victoria reading materials, and relax with a good book on Public Library. Visit any branch to sign up, and kick cozy blankets. Reading materials are available for all off the summer with a free book and a bag of chips. ages; there is no need to register. For information, inParticipants who write a short review of their book cluding special event dates, visit southislandliteracy. will receive an entry into a grand prize draw. They com. 10am-noon, weather permitting. can return to the library for free refills on books throughout the summer (chips with the first book Play in the Park in Sidney. Every weekday evening only). For tweens and teens 10-18. For more infor- in July and August, join Panorama staff for some mation, visit gvpl.ca or call 250-940-GVPL (4875). free summer fun for the whole family that includes interactive play, face painting, group games, and Read Down Your Fines at Sidney/North Saanich inflatable fun on the giant 50’ obstacle course.

Branch Library. Hey kids, join Summer Reading Featured activities will include bike maintenance Club for your chance to Read Down Your Fines. workshops, story walks, portable skate park, and For every reading record page you complete, the family yoga. 5:30-8:30pm. Call 250-656-7271 or library will waive up to $5 in fines from your library check panoramarecreation.ca for park locations.

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Community Board Making our Community a Better Place to Live

1Up Victoria Single Parent Resource Centre 1-up.ca Art Gallery of Greater Victoria aggv.ca Child Care Resource & Referral childcarevictoria.ca Kaleidoscope Theatre kaleidoscope.bc.ca Royal BC Museum royalbcmuseum.bc.ca Victoria Children’s Choir VictoriaChildrensChoir.ca Victoria Conservatory of Music vcm.bc.ca Enquire about non-profit brochure or magazine distribution in Greater Victoria:

publisher@islandparent.ca July 2017 43

Grooming • Food • Supplies

Year-round Getaway on Mayne Island with direct daily ferries from Swartz Bay

9 housekeeping cottages perfect for family getaways

Bowen Park Kin Outdoor Pool in Nanaimo. Open Monday-Friday noon-3pm until September 1, and Saturday & Sunday 1-3pm until August 27, for everyone welcome swims. nanaimowhiterapids.ca or 250-753-8176.

Afternoon Concerts in the Park Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. Spread out a picnic blanket on the lawn, or relax on bench seating while enjoying the performances. Whether you like jazz or blues, classical or swing, there’s something for everyone.

Friday-Monday, 1:30-3:20pm July 7-September 11.

Free. For schedule information, visit victoria.ca/ concertsinthepark.

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Folk Music Evening Series at Cameron Bandshell, Beacon Hill Park. A wide genre of folk music, from traditional to fusion and contemporary. Tuesdays 6-8pm. For schedule information, visit victoria.ca/ concertsinthepark.

Phone: 250-590-4460 Grooming: 250-590-5803 #106–751 Goldstream Avenue islandpetsource.com

Enter Our Online Contests

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Circles. A safe, supportive place to meet others in a similar situation and to share information and resources. For information about groups near you, please call 250-384-8042. Province-wide toll free information and support line at 1-855-474-9777 or email grgline@parentsupportbc.ca. parentsupportbc.ca.

Parent Support Circles. Parenting isn’t always easy.

Sometimes it helps to talk things through with other parents. At the Parent Support Services Society of BC, they believe that every parent is the expert of her/ his own family. For more information about groups near year, call 250-384-8042, or 1-877-345-9444, or visit parentsupportbc.ca.

Every month at IslandParent.ca you can enter to win great prizes!

Summer in the Square in Centennial Square.

Lunchtime concerts Tuesday-Thursday July 4 to September 14. Noon-1pm. Free.

Prizes include:

Beat the Heat Everyone Welcome Skate at Oceanside Arena, Parksville. Beat the heat and go for a refreshing skate. Everyone welcome. Wednesdays 6:45-8:15pm July 26-August 30. 250-248-3252. rdn.bc.ca/recreation.

• Family Getaways • Gift Certificates • IMAX Passes • Books, CDs & More One entry per family per week.

Check out the prizes and enter the contests by visiting

IslandParent.ca 44 Family Summer Guide

Oaklands Sunset Market at Oaklands Community Centre, Victoria. Local food growers and producers, artisans, crafters, food trucks, live music, and more. Wednesdays 4:30-8:30pm starting June 28. oaklandscommunitycentre.com/markets.

Geocaching on Sidney, Pender, Saturna, and Vancouver Island. Try a geocaching program and embark on a self-guided adventure to experience the park reserve’s cultural and natural hotspots.

Choose from two routes: a family-friendly treasure

IslandParent.ca

Synchronized Swimming FALL CLASSES

hunt or a more strenuous quest to see the top ten places in the park reserve. Free. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.

Sunset Wildlife Watch at East Point, Saturna Island.

Discover the wildlife of the Salish Sea and relax into the peacefulness of an East Point sunset. Dress warmly and bring blankets, chairs and flashlights.

Enjoy the talents of Island musicians and storytellers.

Fridays 8-9pm in July and August. Free. For more info 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.

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S’mores n’ More at McDonald Campground, Sidney.

Share the magic of a traditional Canadian campfire with your family. Join an interpreter and guest presenters for songs, park stories, s’mores and more.

Bring a flashlight and a mug for hot chocolate.

Saturdays 7-8pm in July and August. Call 1-866-9441744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf for more info.

Good-bye Granny! An Orca Tribute at East Point, Saturna Island. Join a park interpreter for a funny and warm-hearted look at the life of J2 Granny, the beloved matriarch of the endangered southern resident killer whales. Come early and fly giant kites shaped like marine animals. Bring a blanket or a chair. Saturdays 2:30-3pm July 8-August 26. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada. gc.ca/gulfislands.

Moss Street Market at Moss Street and Fairfield Rd. Farmer’s Market, over 75 craft and food vendors.

Local musicians, great coffee, special event days and more. Saturdays, 10am-2pm until October.

Water Ballet in the Victoria Inner Harbour. Performed with five ferry boats and is inspired by a combination of military marching and the RCMP Musical Ride. Every year, the “dance steps” become more complex. Meet the Ballet Captains at the Causeway Marine (Empress Dock) following the performance.

They’ll be wearing special red shirts. Saturdays and Sundays 10:45-11am.

Family Fun for Canada’s 150th at Winter Cove, Saturna Island. Celebrate Canada’s 150th Birthday with family fun. Blow giant bubbles. Roast solar oven s’mores. Make a nature craft. Bring a phone or camera and go off on a Nature Photography GPS Adventure. Sundays 10am-1pm in July and August.

Free. For more info, call 1-866-944-1744 or visit parkscanada.gc.ca/gulf.

Board Games in the Square in Centennial Square, Victoria. Drop by to play giant-sized chess and scrabble. Sundays 1-5pm until September 4.•

IslandParent.ca

July 2017 45

Side-of-the-Road Food Send Us Your I Stories!

Island Parent is looking for articles for upcoming issues. Some of our best content comes from people just like you—Vancouver

am about to head out on a month-long backpacking-style trip to Europe with my kids. The excitement of our upcoming freedom from routines is coupled with the realization that I am basically taking my job with me.

Remember when you were a kid and a vacation meant thinking about what toys you wanted to pack and wondering whether your parents were going to stop for takeout burgers along the way? Now I’m the one who’s in charge of keeping track of everyone else’s belongings—heaven forbid we accidentally leave teddy behind! I’ve made all the bookings so there’s no surprises other than the excitement of finding out whether my four-year-old will be able to sleep in her berth on our overnight ferry.

meals. Even so, we will have several nights where we will have to eat meals that I call side-of-the-road-food. By that I mean they can be prepared with nothing more than a Swiss army knife and the confidence required to ignore the inquiring looks of the locals as they walk past our impromptu picnic location.

Here is my advice for making the most out of a self-catering vacation: 1. Shop where the locals shop. You can usually tell which places are worth shopping at by how many other people are lining up for their groceries.

2. If you have a food allergy or a strong food preference learn how to read that word on every package. And use Google translate to practice saying that word so you can

However, it is the search for food that will keep me busy. Most of my family can’t eat gluten. A fact that means we won’t be able to indulge in street food, and even a trip to the grocery store could be problematic.

At home, even when we have the option to eat out, my kids seldom practice exemplary restaurant eating skills. Basic things like staying in their seats and using forks often eludes them.

For the most part we will be staying in places that have kitchens so we will be able to cook all of our favourite gluten-free

double check with shop clerks. People will usually understand if you mime the gutwrenching stomach cramps that will follow if you accidentally eat the wrong foods.

3. Experiment with local ingredients.

Even if your kids don’t normally like olives, they might like them if they get to help choose them from a market vendor. Even if you don’t know how to cook radicchio, buy it anyway, then look up a recipe for something new.

4. Make every restaurant meal worth it. Save your money to splurge on a decent

Island parents who are passionate about their families and are dealing with the day to day issues of raising children in our community. Share your experiences, your thoughts on a particular issue, your ideas on places to see or projects to do—anything related to parenting.

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

46 Family Summer Guide

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restaurant and eat where the locals eat. World- (or Vancouver Island-) Enjoy the best of the local cuisine.

Traveller Sandwiches 5. If you are traveling in a country Sandwiches are super easy to make while with uncertain water sources, be sure traveling. And they can be exciting too. Try to thoroughly wash everything in bottled out a new cheese, meat or spread, get some water before eating. interesting pickled vegetables and condiments, and experiment. Since mayonnaise is not a great item to carry around without refrigeration, try buying creamy salads to moisten your bread. Potato salad or coleslaw are both great sandwich fillers.

Bread (sliced loafs, buns, flat breads or tortillas) Filler (meat, cheese, salad or spread) Vegetables (tomato, lettuce, cucumber, peppers) Here are some picnic-friendly recipes that can be prepared in a public park, ho- Sauce (butter, mustard, chutney, relish, salad dressing) tel room or ferry berth. All you’ll need is 1. Take two pieces of bread and use some a Swiss army knife, some forks or spoons and something to eat off of (I often reuse sort of sauce to moisten them.

2. Fill with whatever toppings you like. the packaging from ingredients). The recipes 3. Enjoy right away or pack up to take are also purposefully vague, because you’ll inevitably have to use what you can find. with you.

These recipes are also designed to be made in individual-sized portions, so get A Big Salad your children to help shop and prepare It’s hard to make sure you’re getting your their own meals, then enjoy the adventure daily dose of vegetables while eating at resof eating something new. taurants. Making a big salad ensures that you’ll get plenty of vitamin-rich vegetables.

Emillie Parrish

The only trick is to make sure you include some protein so that you aren’t left feeling too hungry. If you can pair your salad with some bread or chips then you will have a complete meal.

Lettuce Protein (get creative with cooked meat, canned fish, cheese, cooked beans, nuts and seeds) Vegetables (anything works as long as you like eating it raw) Dressing (store bought or a mix of olive, fresh lemon juice and a pinch of salt) Excitement (add something exciting to your salad—you never know, you might find a new favourite) 1. Make individual salads. Either rip up lettuce on a plate, or use large lettuce leaves as a base for a hand-held lettuce wrap.

2. Dice all toppings into bite-sized pieces.

3. Decorate your salad with a mix of toppings. Make small salads so that you can try a variety of flavour combinations.

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250-391-1738 July 2017 47

15 Waterfall Hikes …on the central east coast of the Island

E

veryone loves waterfalls. Sparkling and magical from afar, deafening, and spectacular up close. They captivate us, stimulate our senses and are a highlight of many Vancouver Island hikes. Here in the Pacific Northwest, waterfalls are plentiful. Between Cowichan Valley north to Fanny Bay, a distance spanning 125km or so along the east coast of Vancouver Island, there are several waterfalls that are worth exploring.

Here are 15 possibilities, ranging from super easy to moderate/difficult, short hike/long hike, ropes/no ropes, thanks to Jill Collins and her blog, On the Beaten Path (getonthebeatenpath.blogspot.ca).

1. Millstone River Falls in Bowen Park

Boot Level: Super Easy Region: Nanaimo Location: Access off of Bowen Road on Millstream Parkway This is probably the most accessible waterfall in Nanaimo, and perfect for young families just getting into exploring the outdoors with their little ones. I loved taking my kids here when they were little. The trails gave me satisfaction of being in nature and the river, flora and outdoor setting provided great entertainment for my kids—one highlight being the duck pond. Bringing some duck feed with you to enhance the experience. There are some trails to explore, interpretive signs, a fish ladder, and a rhododendron grove.

Oh, and the waterfall is pretty cool too!

2. Waterfall at Colliery Dam

Boot Level: Super Easy Region: Nanaimo Location: Parking lots off of Nanaimo Lakes Road and corner of Wakesiah Avenue and 6th Street. Can also park on side of Harewood Mines Road.

Oddly enough, I have never actually seen the waterfall with my own eyes but have visited Colliery Dam many, many times. My usual time spent here is trail running with the kids as they prepare for the school cross country running events every fall. The trails are a mix of paved, groomed gravel, boardwalk, bridges, and single track. There are two lakes with trails around each which always seem to grab our attention. Usually our rock skipping championships take place here. Next time I am passing thru the area I will be sure to stop and check out the waterfall. Perfect way to sneak in a daily dose of nature with the family.

3. Ammonite Falls

Boot Level: Moderate Trail: 5km total Region: Nanaimo Location: Jameson Road with parking lot on Creekside Place.

Ammonite Falls are the best bang for your buck in the Nanaimo area. They are truly spectacular all year round. The hike in is a gentle descent along a mix of old gravel roads and trails through treed and logged forests. I graded this hike as moderate because of the ropes required to get down to the falls. You don’t have to go down but the ropes are handy and allow for more exploring along the creek. The falls are named Ammonite for a reason, pick up a rock and there is sure to be a fossil. The slope to get down can be muddy with all the waterfall mist so don’t be afraid to get a little dirty. Trail signage has improved over the years but on a few occasions I have met people on the trail who were unsure as to how to get back or tried going back a different way but were a bit confused. I find following the signs in works great and taking the more steep trail back 48 Family Summer Guide

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makes a nice 5km loop. Head back past the trail taken on the way in. Trail will begin to go uphill, keep left at the first trail intersection (will be heading away from Benson Creek) and the trail pops out at the end of the gravel road that you came in on.

Jill Collins 4. Waterfall on Mt. Benson

Boot Level: Moderate Region: Nanaimo Location: Parking area at Witchcraft Lake on Mt. Benson Road Before getting the kids up to the summit of Mt. Benson, way back when they were about five and three years old, we would play on the web of trails Mt. Benson has acquired. A favorite loop we would do was to hike up trail #1 to the waterfall, continue up to the logging road and then back down the more popular trail #2. Add in stopping at the viewpoint and checking out the old cabin remains making this an adventurous day for families or those wanting to give Mt. Benson a try before going all the way to the top! I have always liked this loop because it is challenging, offers a view overlooking Nanaimo and the Strait of Georgia, a beautiful forest to hike through with a waterfall thrown in for fun. I think of this loop as a break from the usual grind up and down Mt. Benson. Best to check out the waterfall during the winter months. It does tend to dry up later in the summer. I graded this as moderate but keep in mind it is a challenge not only due to the fact it is steep climbing right from the get go, but also because you have to be willing to navigate yourself around the trails with some confidence and know how.

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5. Little Qualicum Falls (Provincial Park)

Boot Level: Easy/Moderate Trail: 6km of trails within the park Region: Parksville/Qualicum Location: 19 km north of Parksville on Hwy 4.

Another waterfall I have not yet checked out, mostly due to the fact we are always en route to somewhere else when we pass the Provincial Park. That is not to say that the waterfalls are not worth your time.

They most certainly are. Now, because I IslandParent.ca

July 2017 49

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7. Rosewall Creek Falls

10. Stocking Creek Falls

9. Crystal Falls

Boot Level: Easy/Moderate Trail: 6km loop Region: Ladysmith 6. Englishman River Falls Location: Parking access on Dogwood (Provincial Park) Drive, Mackie Road or Methuen/6th Boot Level: Easy/Moderate Avenue entrance.

Trail: 3km of maintained trail in park Crystal Falls is just one of the features Region: Parksville/Qualicum/Errington Location: Errington Road off of Hwy 4. of the Holland Creek Trail in Ladysmith.

I mostly love trail running here, always Directional signage provided.

When it’s flowing, the waterfall is im- stopping to stretch at the falls, which are pressive and powerful! Provincial Parks best viewed from the south side trail. There are great for having well-maintained trails are a mix of groomed trail and single track and allowing access to view these beautiful with various elevation thrown in. It is a waterfalls, but if your looking for a full-day great place to start hiking or get out with hike or to escape people, this is not it. It is the family. Expand the hike by heading up a beautiful canyon amidst an old-growth to Heart Lake and/or hiking the Stocking forest, offering plenty of nature “Wow!” Creek Lake trail. So many options but most factor. Great for families or as a side trip important, there is a waterfall to entice you there. if in the area.

Boot Level: Easy/Moderate Trail: Aprox. 8 km total Region: Fanny Bay Location: From Hwy 19, Cook Creek Road to Hwy 19A, north to Berray Road. Directional signage posted.

Rosewall Creek is a provincial park but the falls are not within the parks boundary.

Trail to the falls follows along the south side of the creek and then over the creek via a bridge. Once on north side of creek, you will go under Hwy 19A and then under Hwy19. After that it is a beautiful single track trail through a dense forest and moss covered trees following the creek upstream.

At the falls there are opportunities to explore further and check out the larger falls.

Boot Level: Easy Trail: 2-3km Region: Ladysmith Location: Parking access at end of Finch Place or Thicke Road.

I love these falls. They are so close to civilization yet once you start getting close, hear the water running, and feel the waterfall spray, civilization seems to disappear. One of the best features of the waterfall here is you can get behind it! It is truly an amazing sound to stand behind and underneath the waterfall and feel the power. Ever stuck your head under a waterfall? Trails in the park are well maintained but you can find some single track trails to explore. Pack a lunch and enjoy an afternoon hanging out by the creek; picnic tables near Thick Road entrance. This has always been a 8. Nile Creek Falls favourite and special place to go with my Boot Level: Moderate Trail: 14km round trip or 5km round trip kids, letting them explore wild spaces in a safe environment. (approximate distances) Region: North of Qualicum Location: From Hyw 19A, head west to the 11. Christie Falls end of Charelton Road (14km trail) or park Boot level: Moderate off hwy 19, north side, at the Nile Creek Trail: 8km total (to falls and back) bridge (5km trail).

Region: Ladysmith If you are looking for waterfalls, this is Location: From Hwy 19, take Grouhel Road waterfall wonderland. The trail follows exit, right on Christie Road, and then left alongside Nile Creek the entire way. Trail on Arroyo Road. Just past yellow gate, is mostly single track and not much for on the right, is an old logging road to fish elevation until you reach the waterfalls. hatchery (gated) Park here and follow road Beautiful forest with a variety of trees, to fish hatchery. several cool bridges made from fallen trees,

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50 Family Summer Guide

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52 Family Summer Guide

Christie Falls are amazing. They sort of come out of nowhere and take your breath away, especially in the winter when the water flow is powerful. The hike to the falls involves walking 2.5km on a logging road, then a 500m or so hike up to the falls. We usually bring our bikes and ride to the fish hatchery and stash the bikes in the bush.

From here, the trail leads up Bush Creek and is easy to follow. Biking the road leaves more time to explore the falls. The trail is a single track with plenty of roots, elevation, and some ropes to help get you up above the large falls. Some other options while here are to hike/bike Cammus Ridge and/ or check out Thistle Mine (14km total for this route) A section of the Trans Canada Trail connects Bush Creek to Haslam Creek and can be a great all day bike trip for the whole family. Cross the creek and let the adventures begin. So many options.

12. Skutz Falls

Boot Level: Moderate (with hike) Trail: 7k Skutz Falls to Mile 66 Trestle Loop Region: Cowichan Valley Location: West on Hwy 18, left at Skutz Falls Road and right on Mayo Road. Parking at river.

Skutz Falls would be better described as steep rapids. An interesting feature is the man made fish ladders that help get the fish up the Cowichan River. May be fun to check that out at the right time. Viewing the falls takes no time so why not add in an afternoon hike along the banks of the Cowichan River. Hikes are best when combined with waterfalls.

13. Maple Mountain Falls

Boot Level: Moderate Trail: 6km total (short version) or 11km loop (Blue/Yellow Trail Loop) Region: Cowichan Valley Location: Near Crofton, park at end of Chilco Road.

This may not be an actual waterfall but everytime I run past, I stop and admire it. When I first starting exploring Maple Mountain, it was summer and never saw a speck of water dripping. So when I set off one mid-winter day and came upon the bridge, I was pleasantly surprised at the new view that was before me. There are likely many, many trails on Vancouver Island very similar to this but I like this trail and I like the waterfall so I am putting it on the list. Don’t go looking for it mid to late summer though. Go while the water is flowing! Maple Mountain has a few hiking IslandParent.ca

trail options and all are spectacular. When I go with the kids we start at Chilco Road and head down Blue to the Yellow Trail, pass the waterfall and end at about the 3km mark which is a nice flat spot along the Sansum Narrows. We never have time to do the full Yellow/Blue Loop due to exploring, eating, and just being lazy so back out the way we came it is. Hiking or trail running the entire loop is well worth the effort, one I have enjoyed doing many times, always stopping to admire the flowing water.

waterfall yourself. They are accessible via a new trail off of Wildebeest.

15. Banon Creek Falls (Chemainus River)

Boot Level: Easy Trail: 5 mins to river on well-used path.

Region: Chemainus Location: From Hwy 19 turn west on Sticker Mt Road. Then North onto Grace Road. Follow for 4km to parking area with locked gate.

Pack a picnic lunch and head on down to the river for the day. Banon Creek Falls are 14. Knarston Falls perfect for those sunny days with family or Boot Level: Moderate friends. There are some trails to check out Trail: Variety of distances or just walk along the creeks edge explorRegion: Lantzville Location: See map for parking trail access, ing on your own. The waterfall makes a great backdrop. one being at the end of Normarel Drive.

With any outdoor adventure, be prepared If you want to hike the trails and see the falls located in the Copely Ridge Forest, I and be safe around rivers, creeks, steep suggest taking a quick moment and read banks and waterfalls. Heavy rain can cause some info the Save Lanztville Forest has loose soil, erosion, and slippery surfaces. put together. Then, grab your family and Use common sense when navigating steep friends and go check out the trails and sections.

Jill Collins is an Vancouver Island Outdoor family blogger. Follow the adventures of Jill and her family on her blog, On the Beaten Path, at getonthebeatenpath.blogspot.ca, on Facebook, on Twitter @ Onthebeatenpath, or on Instagram @Getonthebeatenpath

Boot Levels: Super Easy—Short distance, easy access, well groomed paths, and elevation change minimal.

Easy—Short distance, easy access, groomed paths and some elevation change.

Easy/Moderate—Variety of trails (groomed and single track) with moderate elevation change.

Moderate—At least 5km, mostly single track trail, mixed elevation changes, steep banks with possible ropes to aid in access to falls.

Moderate/Difficult—More effort required to access trail, technical single track trails, greater distance with moderate elevation change.

Difficult—Less accessible, technical trail and moderate to high elevation change.

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

Yo u t h

Da n c

e C a m P reFs c h o o ps or 3-5 yearl D a n c olds eC Mus in ical Thea Ballet, J a mp s tre & a Tap zz, e v i s soer s te n m ber 2 h s n I a l e C rshe summerldf e D a n2c1 - Saerpstoeld & uopbawtiict s c n athrough t 3 years o D st rs 11 ye p & Acr e u l g t u A Li t nning nths to ance ip Ho

For d an Jazz cers 6-1 , Hip 2 Hop years o ld & Ac roba in tics

st

st

For d Ballet, H , Jazz

o ru Are se 18 m o h t

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

July 2017 53

Teaching Health Literacy to Children

Healthy Families, Happy Families

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

250-519-5311 250-539-3099

(toll-free number for office in Saanichton)

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

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

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

Port Alberni Tofino

250-731-1315 250-725-4020

250-947-8242

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

viha.ca/prevention_services/ 54 Family Summer Guide

O

h, no! Not something else for me to think about (?!) you say. Well…yes and no.

No, in the sense that as parents and caregivers of young children, we act as their role models every waking hour of every day (whether we think they are watching us or not). And yes, in the sense that we play an important role in helping our children learn skills that will keep them healthy and safe throughout their lives.

If you haven’t heard of health literacy or could use a refresher, health literacy is defined as the ability to access, understand, evaluate and communicate information as a way to promote, maintain and improve health in a variety of settings across one’s life.

Another way to think of it is by imagining a lunchbox we carry around with us in case we get hungry. In the box we carry our knowledge, experiences, examples and Jenny Redpath other useful skills for making choices for & Areli ourselves. If we load our lunchbox with Hermanson healthy choices, and habits that’s what we Happy Families, will reach for when we need help. DevelCh ild Youth & Family oping our children’s health literacy is like Healthy Families Public He alth filling their lunch box with healthy snacks.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), health literacy plays a bigger role in a person’s health than ethnic background, level of education, the country and city they live in and gender. That is partly because we develop habits and coping mechanisms based on our health literacy as young people, and those habits tend to stay with us through out our life span. Since health literacy and lifelong habits start in early childhood, parents and caregivers have an important role to play in teaching children to become health literate.

Increasing health literacy 1. Check your sources! Facebook is great for keeping in touch with friends and family but may contain misinformation, instead visit Health Link BC healthlinkbc.ca/ for all ages and many health concerns. If in doubt check it out!

2. Ask health professionals to use plain language. “Using this inhaler will open the alveoli in your lungs” or “Using this puffer each day will help you breathe.”

There are no silly questions when asking about your health or the health of your children.

3. Be informed before you make health-related decisions. The International Childbirth Association created BRAIN, a five-question tool to help people make decisions.

Let’s use immunizations as an example: Benefits—Why would immunizations/medicine be good for my body?

Risks—What are the common side effects?

Alternatives—Can I lie down to get the immunization so I don’t have to see the needle?

Intuition—What does my gut tell me?

Next Steps—Who would be able to hold my hand while I get my immunizations?

Sharing your health literacy (role modeling) 4. Use plain language when talking to children. Which is clearer: four centimeters or the size of a plum?

5. Provide choice. When there are two healthy options, such eating a snack of yogurt and fruit or apples and sunbutter, let your child decide. This lays the ground work for empowerment and encourages children to trust their decisions and learn from those choices.

IslandParent.ca

Family Start 2016 polled over 400 students about how they wanted parents and caregivers to ask about their mental health.

Here are a few of the suggested things that youth want parents/ adults and caregivers to:

Say—or Not Say Say:

International Montessori Academy Open for Summer School Preschool Kindergarten Elementary French/Academics/Art

IMAC Montessori Academy

2375 Koksilah Road, Duncan 250-737-1119 www.intmontessori.ca Nurturing young minds. Keeping the spirit free.

Thick and thin, I’ve gotcha.

ATTRACTIONS, ACTIVI

TIES & FAMILY FUN!

It’s okay to feel this way.

I love you so much. I believe in you.

Parks & Playgrounds

Kids’ Guide

Museums

Not Say:

to Vancouver Island!

Can you stop being in the pity party?

You could’ve done better.

There are people starving in Africa, your problem isn’t as big as theirs.

Pools & Recreation

201 7/2 018

Pick up Your Copy of the 2017/2018

tainment Historical Sites • Enter & Much More

at Your Neighbourhood Rec Centre

Don’t be a bully.

Just get over it.

6. Encourage children to be curious about their health. “Staying up too late makes me tired and grumpy the next day.”

OR “Not enough water, fruit or activity can make it hard to have a poop.”

Listen and engage your child. Ask questions, be curious about their health! Don’t shy away from talking about feelings: We all have literacy to one degree or another, as parents and care givers we have a wonderful opportunity to encourage our young people to understand, and communicate their health needs to be the healthiest they possibly can be.

Jenny Redpath, BScN, was born, raised and continues to reside on Salt Spring Island where she works as a Public Health Nurse and raises her two children, who are circus performers!

Areli Hermanson is a Registered Dietitian and has worked in Public Health since 2001. She is the mother of two very active and very sweet boys.

IslandParent.ca

27TH SEASON

JULY 6 — 29 & AUG 3 — 5

MACBETH LOVE’S Directed by Kate Rubin & Karen Lee Pickett

LABOUR’S LOST

Directed by Janet Munsil

JOIN US FOR SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK!

vicshakespeare.com July 2017

55

Captivating

N

Critters

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

56

Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

Victoria

Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is an inexpensive and fun way to spend an afternoon outdoors with the kids. The farm’s goats, sheep, bunnies, peacocks, potbellied pigs, miniature horses and other animals are perennial family favourites. Visit the goat petting area and take part in the renowned goat stampedes at 10:10am and 5:10pm. Open daily 10am-5pm, weather permitting. Admission by donation. Enter Beacon Hill Park from Douglas Street (turn left across from Simcoe Street). beaconhillchildrensfarm.ca.

Victoria Bug Zoo lets visitors get up close and personal with live giant walkingsticks, alien-eyed praying mantis, hairy tarantulas and glow-in-the-dark scorpions, to name a few. Discover roughly 50 fascinating species including Canada’s largest ant farm. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hold some of the residents, an array of arachnids and friends. 631 Courtney Street, one block north of the Empress Hotel. victoriabugzoo. ca or 250-384-BUGS(2847).

Saanich/Sidney

Dan’s Farm and Country Market at 2030 Bear Hill Road in Saanich is not just a source for local produce, baked goods, and poultry raised using organic principles, but also boasts a petting farm for the kids. Visit the ducks, chickens, goats, rabbits and more, then stock up on berries, figs and tomatoes. Bring along a picnic lunch and for dessert, treat yourself to an ice-cream cone. Open daily 8:30am-5pm. dansfarm.ca. 250-652-9100.

Although the Saanich Fair is not a farm, if your kids like to visit and pet farm animals, you’ll want to mark this event on your calendar. There are 4H displays and demos, and animals to ponder and pet such as horses, donkeys, llamas, alpacas, goats, pigs, cattle, rabbits and more. There’s also food, entertainment, a midway, exhibits such as quilts, needle arts, flowers, vegetables, photography, and more. Sept 2, 3 & 4 at the fairgrounds at 1528 Stellys Cross Road.

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

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

Spend some time with the Oceaneers as they

IslandParent.ca

introduce you to hands-on/hands-wet learning. 9811 Seaport Place. Open daily 10am5pm. salishseacentre.org or 250-665-7511.

Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Enjoy the beauty of thousands of exotic butterflies (up to 70 species) flying free in their own tropical rainforest environment. Wander through the orchid exhibit or carnivorous plant section. You’ll also see colourful fish and tropical birds. The on-site naturalists are full of fascinating facts and will answer your questions. 1461 Benvenuto Avenue in Brentwood Bay. Open daily 10am-4pm (explore until 5pm). butterflygardens.com or 250-652-3822.

Coombs

The Raptors, 10 minutes north of Duncan, invites you to meet some of the coolest birds in the world during one of the daily flying demonstrations (at 11:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm). You can see a variety of raptors— eagles, falcons, owls, vultures and hawks— showcase their incredible flight and hunting skills free and out in the open. Many other up-close learning experiences are available.

Open daily 10:30am-5pm. 1877 Herd Road. pnwraptors.com or 250-746-0372.

North Island Wildlife Recovery Association (NIWRA), off Highway 4A near Coombs, is a rehabilitation facility, especially for raptors and black bears. The goal is to care for these animals and eventually reintroduce them into their natural environment. See magnificent eagles through one-way glass in the largest flight cage of its kind in Canada.

Watch live raptor presentations (July and August, Mon/Wed/Fridays at 1:30pm). You can also view bears, owls, falcons, hawks, swans and ravens. NIWRA offers activities and educational programs for the whole family. 1240 Leffler Road. Open daily 9am4:30pm (gates close at 5pm). niwra.org or 250-248-8534.

Butterfly World & Gardens, just past Coombs on Highway 4A. Stroll among hundreds of free-flying exotic butterflies, tropical birds and hummingbirds in the indoor tropical jungle. You’ll also see hundreds of exotic living orchids landscaped in a beautiful indoor water garden, a turtle pond, the Big Bug Jungle and gift shop. Open Thursday, Friday and Monday from 11am-4pm, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm. nature-world.com or 250-248-7026.

Parksville

Comox/Courtenay

Duncan

Little Qualicum Cheeseworks is just north of Parksville. Wander LQC’s Morningstar Farm, meet the small herd of Holstein, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, and Canadienne dairy cows and see how yummy, artisanal local cheeses are made. Visit the calf pens, the pigsty, the store, picnic area and more.

Guided tours can be arranged for groups of 8 or more, or you can take your own self-guided tour around the 90 acres of beautiful working farm. Open daily 9am-5pm. Daily milking at 4pm. 403 Lowrys Road. morningstarfarm. ca or 250-954-3931.

Errington

Tiger Lily Farm is located in Errington between Parksville and Coombs. At the Barn Yard you can visit lovable, huggable rabbits, portly pigs, daffy ducks, and even shy sheep. At feeding time you can help hold the bottle for the calf. Or learn how to milk a goat (every hour on the half hour). Or count chicks. Go for a trail ride and enjoy the old-time experience of horseback riding (phone ahead to book). Admission prices include a pony ride for the kids. Open daily 10am-4pm. 1692 Errington Road. If you’re heading north from Nanaimo, turn left onto Errington Road and follow the signs. tigerlilyfarm.ca or 250-248-2408.

The Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park on nine acres of waterfront in Comox has gardens, a tearoom, and the Hands-On Farm which is open daily to the public, 10am-4pm until mid-August. Come talk, walk and squawk with the animals, including Peanut the miniature horse, a cow calf, pigs, sheep, ducks, rabbits and more. Admission of $5/ family helps to offset the cost of housing the animals. Note: Filberg Park, including the Hands on Farm, will be closed August 1-3 for Filberg Festival set up and closed August 8-11 for the Festival take down. filberg.com, 250-339-3276.

Seaview Game Farm in Black Creek (north of Courtenay) runs hour-long tours, running July and August, at 10:30am and 2pm, reservations required. Take the tractor cart to visit the animals on an interactive tour of the mini farm. Feed and pet the chickens, llamas, peacocks, pigs, alpaca, Highland cattle, goats and sheep. Walk through the greenhouses and gardens and see what’s sprouting. Visit the onsite market and coffee shop. A picnic and play area provide even more fun. If you’re not in a rush, rent the Yurt, (or “dwelling place”), and stay over night just a few metres from the ocean and public beach access. seaviewgamefarm.com or 250-337-5182.•

July 2017

57

Advertisers Directory Arbutus Grove............... IFC Oaklands Sunset Art Gallery....................... 19 Beacon Hill

Market......................... 12 Open Space.................... 21

Children’s Farm...........10 Parks Canada................... 9 Bear Mountain................ 15 Parksville Beach Blue Vista........................44

Festival......................IBC

Butchart Gardens........... 22 PISE................................. 51 Butterfly Gardens............. 6 Playful Pencil.................. 60 Byte Camp...................... 48 Pumpkin Pie................... 45 Camp Pringle.................. 17 Resthouse Sleep Cash Advantage............. 49

Solutions.................... 35

Chemainus Theatre....... 34 Rosemarie Colterman..... 61 City Centre Park..............47 Royal BC Museum........... 21 Coastal Adventures....... 36 Royal Victoria CRD................................ 52

Yacht Club.................. 49

Crystal Pool...................IBC Saanich Dr. Elizabeth Stimson..... 50 Dr. Joslin, Dr. Morin

Commonwealth........... 8

Summer Reading in the Park

I

t’s a warm, summer morning. A toddler clutching a small board book wanders among blankets scattered with books, periodically returning to join his mother and siblings who are cuddled together reading a picture book. Nearby a father shares a dinosaur book with his young son, who delightedly points at details in the illustrations. To one side of the gathering space, a volunteer and two women exchange the names of favourite mystery series. Another blanket holds three little girls each deeply immersed in a new book.

It’s all happening at the Open Air Library in Sidney’s Beacon Park (next to the outdoor

terials are available for all ages and reading levels. Suitcases spilling books onto colorful blankets provide an irresistible invitation.

Everyone is welcome, encouraged to relax in the sunshine and enjoy some reading time alone or with others, and to participate in some special activities. On leaving, each participant is encouraged to choose a free book for home.

This is the third summer for the Open Air Library. Not only does it bring people of various ages together, it also supports reading over the summer months. The reality of summer reading loss is well documented and can greatly impact a child’s reading

amphitheatre) on Tuesday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon, weather permitting. Starting July 4 and continuing until August 22, the Open Air Library is a free event sponsored by Saanich Peninsula Literacy and supported by a great group of volunteers.

Books, magazines, and other reading ma-

capacity by the time they head back to school in the fall. Having four to five books to read over the summer that are individually matched to their interest and reading level can go a long way. Summer reading programs, including those offered through the Greater Victoria Public Library

Saanich Dental.........22, 28

& Associates............. IFC Saanich Fair......................7 Emmanuel Preschool..... 59 Saanich Recreation......... 13 Flavour Trials................... 18 School House Teaching Fort Rodd Hill..................10

Supplies..................... 26

Four Seasons................. 34 Serious Coffee............... 29 Fun Society.................... 60 Shakespeare Festival.... 55 Galiano Conservancy.... IFC St. Joseph’s GNS Marine Adventure.. 59

Chemainus................. 59

Gorge Soccer................. 49 Stages......................20, 53 Harbour Cats....................11 Sylvan Learning.............. 17 Highland Pacific Golf..... 20 Terry Fox Run................. 36 Horne Lake Caves..........10 The Raptors...................... 9 IMAC Montessori

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

Academy.................... 55 Tiger Lily Farms............... 18 IMAX................................. 8 Tigh Na Mara..................27 Island Pet Source............44 TJ’s The Kiddie Store......27 Island Savings...................3 Tom Lee Music............... 45 Kaleidoscope....................4 UVic Vikes...................... 39 Kool & Child.................... 29 Vancouver Island Lifestyles........................ 38

Baby Fair.................... 62

Lizzy Lee & Me............... 28 Vancouver Island Mad Science.................. 26 Mary Rogers Piano Studio ........................ 50

University...................BC Victoria Academy of Ballet...................... 40

McDonald Realty............ 23 Victoria Bug Zoo.............. 9 Mineral World................. 52 Victoria Sport Synchro... 45 Momease...................... IFC VIHA............................... 54 Mothering Touch.............. 5 Welcome Wagon............ 40 Mums Tums & Babies

Westmont Montessori.... 36

Show.......................... 42 Westshore Motocross.....10 Nanaimo Museum.......... 23 Westshore Parks & NIDES.............................. 41

Recreation............... 9, 16

Oak & Orca..........19, 32, 38

58 Family Summer Guide

IslandParent.ca

(GVPL) and the Vancouver Island Regional Libraries (VIRL) encourage children and teens to retain and enhance their reading levels over the summer months. For more information on your local library Summer Reading Clubs visit gvpl.ca and virl.bc.ca.

Five easy ways to support summer reading:

Help your children find books they are interested in and learn about the story line or some of the characters so that you can talk about it later.

Provide incentives for reluctant readers. For example, head to the swimming pool after your child reads for 30 minutes.

Read together. Set out a basket of books and refresh it each week; agree on a time every day when you’ll gather together as a family to read.

Connect your reading to family outings. If you go to the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea in the morning, consider reading a book about ocean life together later that day.

Come to this year’s Open Air Library where you can relax in an accessible space and read by yourself or with your children.

This summer a number of special activities are planned to enhance the Open Air Library experience. These include StoryWalks, Graphic Novels and Granola Bars, an all ages Songs and Stories session and, as always, a great selection of books. Don’t miss the “Booksmack,” a joint partnership between the GVPL and the Sidney/North Saanich VIRL. Watch library staff and community members as they race against the clock to tell you about their favourite books.

For more information about the Open Air Library and the 2017 summer schedule visit southislandliteracy.com.

1

2

3

4

Emmanuel Preschool 2121 Cedar Hill Cross Road (by entrance to UVic) Children learn through play in our all inclusive, non-denominational Christian preschool.

Great facility; outdoor play area and a gym for rainy day play! Two teachers with ECE certification plus an assistant teacher to help with special needs children. A competent and caring teaching team!

Class Options for 2017–2018: Mon/Wed/Fri morning class Tues/Thurs morning class 5 mornings a week

Phone 250-598-0573 preschool@emmanuelvictoria.ca

www.emmanuelpreschool.ca

ST. JOSEPH’S ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

FOR 2017

5

St. Joseph’s TRADITIONAL VALUES Elementary School - CHEMAINUS

AFFORDABLE

250-246-3191 www.stjosephselem.ca

Glenlyon Norfolk School Marine Adventure Program Looking for a fantastic, adventurous and safe kayak program for your tween or teen? The GNS Marine Adventure Program is beginning its 22nd season offering five- to six-day sea kayak camps for teens and youth. To register, visit http://www.mygns.ca/marine-adventure.

Karin Macaulay was formerly an instructor in the Camosun College Early Learning and Care Program and is now involved in Early Years initiatives including PCEC, 1000X5 and OAL. Shantael Sleight is the Literacy Outreach Coordinator for the Saanich Peninsula, an artist, and a mom to two fantastic boys.

IslandParent.ca

dtyrrell@mygns.ca

|

250.370.6852 July 2017

59

Where we draw for the fun of it!

We offer drawing, cartooning and sketching classes for children and adults that help students improve their drawing skills while developing their own, unique style. · Daytime, after school and evening programs · Spring and Summer Camps · Weekend programs and workshops

The Gift of Parks

B

irthday parties, anniversaries, weddings and baby showers…finding the perfect gift for these celebrations can be puzzling and expensive. What if this time you are the one receiving an amazing gift?

In 2017, to mark the 150th anniversary of Confederation, Parks Canada is offering a Discovery Pass to all its visitors. The pass gives everyone free entry to experience nature and history in Canada’s national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas. Close to Victoria, Fort

memories is precious. Imagine spending an afternoon reacquainting yourself with Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites; maybe you went there once with several classmates or during a special day. Kids can run and play freely, spending hours in secret tunnels and underground rooms for a game of hide and seek. Visitors of all ages can sit in a 1942 Willys Jeep and even honk its horn during summer programs. Those staying overnight in an oTENTik, or taking part in Learn to

Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites and Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, are just a stones throw away.

On Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve offers its invigorating seasons.

And near Vancouver, Fort Langley and Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Sites, are great places to visit during a weekend getaway.

The beauty of receiving a gift is visualizing what you’ll do with it. As a parent, the chance to spend some quality time with your loved ones while making new

Camp or Star Gaze events, can wander to the lighthouse to admire this sight at night.

And the Garry Oak Learning Meadow, a beautiful oasis of colourful native flowers and relaxing fragrance, can be the perfect spot to take a minute and enjoy the day.

So take advantage of this gift that keeps on giving. Visit Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites and find out why it is a favourite among all generations of Vancouver Island residents; maybe it will become one of yours too.

2325 Central Avenue, Victoria

778-265-2261

info@playfulpencil.ca

www.playfulpencil.ca

F UN PS r naturere nitingfofor natu iendsuuniting frfriends

MPS AM CA C

Victoria I Saanich I Gorge - Tillicum

Eco-Adventure* Camps for 6-16 year olds outdoor adventure

green technologies

leadership

kayaking

solar energy

fine arts

Register online now!

*Activities vary by session. Visit us online for details

www.funcamps.ca

60 Family Summer Guide

Special events planned at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse NHS in Summer 2017: Canada Day Celebrations—Saturday, July 1, 10am to 4:30pm Vintage Cadillac Car Show—Sunday, July 9, 10am to 4:30pm Learn to Camp*—Saturday and Sunday, July 22 to 23. 1pm to 11am Star Gaze*—Saturday, August 19, 8pm to midnight with overnight option (advance booking required) Fab Forts—Saturday, August 19, 11am to 4:30pm Lantern Tour*—Saturday, September 23, 10 tours from at 7 to 9:30pm. * Reservation required.

For more information on daily programs and special events at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites, visit parkscanada.gc.ca/fortroddhill or call 250-478-5849.

IslandParent.ca

Family Getaways

is something for everyone—learn about the crystals, fossils and mysterious marble caverns on a fun and adventurous guided tour. Or self-explore the smaller but more Feel like packing up and getting away from it all? Here are some ideas to rugged caves with a map and rented helmet help you with your family holiday. Enjoy seeing new sites or visiting old with headlamp. For those that prefer their favourites as you leave the household chores behind. adventure above ground, check Canada’s only Cave Theatre, Cave Museum and InBring your family to Blue Vista Resort west coast. Surprise them with the idea of terpretive Centre, or try a 2-hour outdoor and start a new tradition. Located steps from staying overnight. Soldiers’ families used to rock rappel session. Nearby canoe rentals Bennett Bay and the Gulf Island National camp here in the early 1900s. Nowadays and lakefront camping make Horne Lake Reserve with its beaches and shoreline you can camp here too; the oTENTik cabins an outdoor-lover’s dream. walks on Mayne Island, this Tourism BC are equipped with everything you’ll need for Located in Parksville, Tigh-Na-Mara Approved Accommodation has been cater- a worry-free getaway. pc.gc.ca/fortroddhill Seaside Spa Resort is an all season destinaing to families for over three decades. With 250-478-5849. tion resort offering comfort and tranquilnine individualized housekeeping cottages ity, handcrafted log accommodation units to choose from and a quiet lawn with barthat are surrounded by 22 acres of forest becues, picnic tables and a children’s play nestled above 3km of sandy beach and area, this small family-run resort invites you the warmest swimming waters in Canada. to join a tradition many families have been With family accommodation, two unique enjoying for years. Cabins start at under restaurants, an award-winning spa, Free $100/night. Visit bluevistaresort.com for WIFI, indoor pool and fitness facilities rates and details. plus the most extensive seasonal children’s recreational resort program on Vancouver Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse Island, Tigh-Na-Mara is the natural choice NHS are no stodgy old museums! Let the kids explore this 100-year-old coast artillery Check out the best in Canada! Visit or your next family getaway. tigh-na-mara. fort and master the games inside Fisgard Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park and com. 1-800-663-7373• Lighthouse, the oldest one on Canada’s give your family a trip to remember. There

Rosemarie Colterman& Tom Oak Your Homeward Bound Real Estate Team!

With our daughters, Nicolia, Rhea & Alexis!

Providing exceptional residential real estate services since 2003: Professional Informative Client-customized Trustworthy & reassuring Celebratory!

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IslandParent.ca

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Details, Details

To find out more about travelling on Vancouver Island, visit the following websites, contact the organizations or drop by any of the Info Centres.

Capital Regional District Parks & Trails Website: crd.bc.ca/parks Find out about 33 regional parks and trails on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands: maps, activities, rules regarding pets, feature hikes, nature programs.

Tourist Information

BC Parks

Island Weather

Tourism Vancouver Island Website: vancouverisland.travel Request free Travel Guides, view them online, or sign up for the email newsletter. You’ll find maps and a distance chart, information about accommodations, camping, tours, attractions, festivals, events, entertainment, parks and outdoor activities in various communities.

Discover Camping Reservation Service Website: discovercamping.ca Toll free: 1-800-689-9025 You can use the Discover Camping website to view campsite availability, reserve a site (3 reservations per transaction) and manage your bookings. Most campsite reservations can be made up to 4 months in advance and no later than 2 days prior to your arrival date. You can also find out about service fees in the various parks and download a brochure for easy reference.

The Weather Network Website: weather.ca For weather forecasts, select “British Columbia” and click on a specific town or city, from Bamfield to Zeballos.

Parks Canada

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

Toll free 1-800-550-4997

Tourism Victoria Visitor Info Centre Website: tourismvictoria.com 812 Wharf Street, Victoria 250-953-2033; Toll Free: 1-800-663-3883 Find maps, a calendar of events, a vacation guide, things to do and see, accommodation info and more.

Visitor Info Centres You’ll find visitor info centres in most communities, often located along main routes. During July and August, most centres are open 9am-5pm. Also, most have websites with great information and links. To do some pre-trip planning, look online to find the location of specific centres (hellobc. com). Or just wait to pick up brochures and ideas when you’re on the road.

62 Family Summer Guide

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

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

Marine Weather Website: weatheroffice.ec.gc.ca/marine Click on the appropriate region for marine conditions and forecasts.

Road Conditions

Ferry Information BC Ferries Information Website: bcferries.com Toll free: 1-888-BC-FERRY For routes, rates or schedules, to make a reservation or check traffic conditions.

IslandParent.ca

Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre: Building a stronger, more inclusive community through recreation and wellness

victoria.ca/poolfuture

High School Education in a University Setting Why choose The High School at Vancouver Island University? › A British Columbia curriculum enhanced with intercultural perspectives › Flexibility of learning on a university campus › Small class sizes and personalized attention › Access to university courses in grade 12 › Family boarding for students from outside the Greater Nanaimo area

Now accepting applications for grades 10, 11 and 12. #StartYourJourneyHere

Contact:

highschool@viu.ca 250.740.6315 viu.ca/highschool

/The High School at VIU @highschoolviu

Catherine

The High School at VIU, Grade 11